Know It All Nev

On Demand Reviews – 2021

Category: Tier 4

The 6 greatest TVs underneath $1,000 for 2021

Nifty Nev
4K TV, Best TVs, Buying Guides, Home Theater, Televisions, Tier 4 |

While premium picture features, high-quality sound, and cutting-edge smart features are typical highlights of many flagship TVs, you don’t necessarily need to spend flagship prices to get a top-tier set. Even if you’re on a budget, you don’t need to sacrifice quality. In fact, some of our favorite TVs are actually under $1,000. One of these top budget options has to be the 65-inch Hisense H9G Quantum HDR TV.
The H9G is going to be a great choice for most people, but it’s not the only TV that provides quality at an affordable price. If you’re looking to save even more, take a look at our picks for the best 4K TV deals and the best TVs under $500.
Best TVs under $1,000 at a glance

65-inch Hisense H9G Quantum HDR TV

Why you should buy this: You won’t find darker darks or brighter brights without spending a lot more money

Who it’s for: Those who want to place their TV anywhere and still get top-notch picture quality.
Why we picked the 65-inch Hisense H9G Quantum HDR TV:
One of the keys to good picture quality, especially when watching HDR content, is brightness. If your TV can’t get bright enough, you won’t see as many colors, and it won’t produce sufficient contrast. In a darkened room, this is less of an issue, but if you want to watch TV in a room that gets lots of natural light or in a room that’s brightly lit most of the time, a bright TV is critical.
That’s where the 65-inch Hisense H9G Quantum HDR TV shines (literally). It’s one of the brightest TVs we’ve ever tested — at any price — which is why it has earned a spot on this list as well as our Best TVs list.
That extra brightness (and impressive dark performance, too) really comes in handy when watching content in Dolby Vision or HDR10, which the H9G supports. It’s also key to enjoying good ol’ SDR movies and shows, too.
Better yet, Hisense makes getting the most out of the H9G very easy: Instead of tweaking both SDR and HDR settings separately, you can adjust one and the other will adapt to your preferences automatically. As our reviewer said, “just sit, click, watch, and know you are getting the best picture performance.”
The H9G uses the Google-created Android TV operating system, which means it has Google Assistant built-in (you can access it via the included voice remote) as well as Chromecast — perfect for shifting your favorite content from your phone or tablet to the big screen.
The only thing you should be aware of before buying the Hisense H9G is that it’s not ideal if you want to be future-proofed for gaming. It doesn’t have any HDMI 2.1 ports, and no gaming features like variable refresh rate (VRR) or automatic low-latency mode (ALLM).
Read our in-depth Hisense H9G Quantum review
55-inch TCL 6-Series
TCL
Why you should buy this: It’s as close as you can get to OLED picture quality for on or near $1,000.

Who it’s for: Anyone looking for the best possible picture quality and features for the lowest possible price.
Why we picked the 55-inch TCL 6-Series 4K TV (2020):
There are hundreds of TVs available for less than $1,000, but none stand out as much as TCL’s 55-inch 6-Series (R635).
Previous 6-Series models were already so good, they completely changed our perception of the TCL brand, elevating it from so-so budget territory to the status of a genuine competitor to brands such as LG, Samsung, and Sony.
This 6-Series solidifies that reputation, largely thanks to TCL’s pioneering efforts with Mini-LED backlighting. It effectively swapped hundreds of large LED bulbs for many thousands of smaller LEDs, which gives the 6-Series the ability to control local dimming at granularity we’ve only seen once before (in TCL’s own 8-Series). To say that it improves picture quality is an understatement. It brings QLED displays closer to OLED performance for black levels and contrast than they’ve ever been before.
There’s also plenty of format support to love: Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, HDR10, and, of course, the excellent Roku OS running the show — they’re all here. (If you’re more of a Google TV OS person, you may want to check out the latest TCL 5- and 6-Series TVs, too) New for this model is a THX-certified gaming mode, AMD’s FreeSync variable refresh rate (VRR) technology, and auto game mode. Gaming at 120Hz is possible, but it caps at 1440p. Still, with the Mini-LED backlighting, shadow details is so good, and the motion so smooth, you might not mind the lower resolution.
The Roku OS offers a ton of great features, from an intuitive interface to thousands of streaming apps. As such, it should come as no surprise to hear that it’s a one-stop-shop for live and on-demand content, providing an instant portal to the likes of Amazon Prime Video, HBO Go, Hulu, Sling TV, and Netflix, along with a wide array of lesser-known services, so you can stream to your heart’s content.
It’s compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant should you wish to control the TV via one of these smart speakers, or you can simply use the remote’s built-in voice control. Just hit a button on the remote and you’ll be able to throw all sorts of vocal instructions its way, from commanding it to search a particular movie or show across all your preferred content providers to adjust the volume level.
Here’s a quick look at some of the commands the TCL 6-Series understands:

“Find The Big Bang Theory.“
“Switch over to HDMI 3.”
“Play Designated Survivor on Netflix.”
“Switch off after this episode of Friends.”

Read our in-depth TCL 6-Series (2020) review
75-inch LG UHD 70 Series 4K HDR TV
LG
Why you should buy this: It’s a massive TV that doesn’t require a conversation with your financial adviser.

Who it’s for: Dedicated gamers who are looking to breathe fresh life into their gaming station.
Why we picked the 75-inch LG UHD 70 Series 4K HDR TV:
Sometimes, there’s simply no substitute for size. If a big TV is what you want, this LG UHD 70 Series is your biggest bang for the buck, with a monstrous, Super Bowl-ready 75 inches of screen real estate, for well under $1,000.
But there’s more to this TV than a big screen; it’s also a great choice for gamers. That’s partly because of the size but also because of its low input-lag and its automatic low-latency mode (ALLM). It’s also one of the few TVs that supports the HGiG recommendations for HDR gaming — in other words, it will be able to communicate with next-gen game consoles to maximize the image quality of HDR games.
Apple device owners will like the fact that this TV has Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit onboard, making it a cinch to share phone and tablet content onto the big screen, and control the TV via Apple’s Siri.
But if you’re not a big Siri fan, that’s OK: The 70 Series is also compatible with Alex and Google Assistant smart speakers.
The LG 70 Series all runs on LG’s WebOS, a very easy-to-use smart TV system that has hundreds of popular streaming apps such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and many more.
55-inch TCL 5-Series (2020)
TCL
Why you should buy this: Great picture quality, leading-edge features, and an incredibly affordable price.

Who it’s for: Anyone who needs a new TV and doesn’t want to spend a lot of money.
Why we picked the 55-inch TCL 5-Series (2020):
TCL has proven over and over again that it makes the most affordable high-quality TVs on the planet. Right now, the best example of that is the TCL 5-Series (2020). TCL basically took all of the qualities of last year’s 6-Series (one of our favorite TVs) and repackaged them into an even more affordable model.
What you get is a bright, colorful image thanks to its quantum dot-enhanced backlight, deep blacks, and screen size that will find a home anywhere from the bedroom to the basement.
It supports Dolby Vision and HDR10, the two most common flavors of HDR, it as an excellent 4K upscaler so that your non-4K content looks as good as possible, and it’s gamer-friendly with an auto game mode that provides low input-lag and fast response times.
Four HDMI ports give you plenty of connection options, including HDMI ARC, which lets you connect an A/V receiver or soundbar with just a single cable. There’s no Dolby Atmos support, but as long as your receiver or soundbar supports it, you’re good to go.
Because it’s a Roku TV, the whole experience is powered by Roku’s incredibly simple yet powerful software, with thousands of streaming apps available.
The 5-Series is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant-powered smart speakers. The included Roku remote doesn’t have a microphone, but if you download the free Roku app on your smartphone you can use it for voice searches and for private listening.
All in all, the TCL 5-Series is an exceptional value in a 55-inch 4K HDR smart TV.
Samsung 65-inch TU-8000 Series UN65TU8000FXZA

Why you should buy this: Those who want to save without skipping on resolution upgrades.

Who it’s for: Gamers on a budget and those with old home theaters in need of an upgrade.
Why we picked the Samsung 65-inch TU-8000 Series UN65TU8000FXZA:
Samsung’s affordable TV doesn’t skimp on resolution with a Crystal processor-powered 4K display with automatic upscaling for content. The “Crystal” label also extends to the TV’s color range and color tuning, giving you superior, accurate colors so you can enjoy visuals as they were meant to be seen. Speaking of — this model also comes with HDR support, so content that offers HDR optimization will look even better with no need to change any settings on your own.
The TV comes with Samsung’s OneRemote, which can be programmed to control multiple smart devices … but if you prefer to avoid using remotes as much as possible, it also supports both Alexa and Samsung’s Bixby voice assistants for quick commands. Plus you have settings like Auto Game Mode, which makes automatic changes to minimize input lag, will pair perfectly with consoles.
We’re also big fans of the Samsung UN65TU8000FXZA’s design, which includes a slim, bezel-less design, sturdy support, and a nifty track to hide cables so they won’t dangle behind the TV.
Vizio 65-inch M-Series M65Q7-H1

Why you should buy this: It has console-friendly features and excellent HDR support.

Who it’s for: Gamers who want the best results for under $1,000.
Why we picked the Vizio 65-inch M-Series M65Q7-H1:
One problem that many “smart” TVs have is that their smart features really aren’t that useful. Basic access to apps over Wi-Fi is something that we already get from our consoles, receivers, and set-top boxes, so there’s not really much for the TV to do. One way to fix that is to add voice assistants for easier control, which many of our picks have. This 65-inch Vizio model takes another popular track and adds built-in support for Airplay and Chromecast, making it easier to switch streaming from your favorite mobile devices to your TV whenever you need to.
The TV also sports a 4K resolution and excellent support for both Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+, which will optimize the latest content so it looks better than ever. Meanwhile, Vizio reports that its Quantum Color technology offers a 75% greater color range from a standard 4K TV — a significant claim, although the color on this model does look excellent, especially for the price.
Finally, the izio 65-inch M-Series M65Q7-H1 Vis a great pick for gamers. It includes automatic optimization for both the Xbox and PlayStation and matches refresh rates to help reduce game stuttering. It even supports AMD FreeSync for more advanced screen tear prevention.

Research and buying tips

What size TV can I afford for $1,000?
You’ll be able to find a TV as large as 75 inches for under $1,000.
Can I get an OLED for less than $1,000?
Not yet — or very rarely for special deals. OLED technology still is primarily available on high-end models that soar beyond the $1,000 mark. But that may not be the case for long. Vizio is selling its first OLED models, with a 55-inch size, that sells for $1,300.
Can I use an HDTV or 4K TV with a PC?
Yes, as long as your computer has an HDMI output. If not, you can try using an adapter, but adapters usually don’t transmit audio.
Do TVs under $1,000 work with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri?
Using either Google Home, Fire TV, or an Amazon Echo, you can pair many modern TVs with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Many newer TVs have these options built-in, so you can use them without buying a separate appliance.
Unfortunately, no current models of TVs have Siri built-in, so you’ll have to try a workaround. For example, TVs that support AirPlay 2 and HomeKit let you control them by using Siri on an iOS device, such as an iPad, iPhone, iPod, and Mac.
What outputs should TVs under $1,000 have?
The No. 1 thing to consider is HDMI in terms of outputs and inputs. We recommend purchasing a TV with HDMI ARC, which means your TV audio can stream to an A/V receiver or a soundbar. Every TV we’ve included on this list has at least one HDMI ARC post, and most have three total HDMI posts. This means you’ll have plenty of image and audio channels available to connect gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and set-top boxes into your system. Getting the latest generation of HDMI is also important for enabling the latest visual/audio options.
What is the best month to buy a TV?
Let’s get the obvious out of the way — Black Friday and the surrounding holidays tend to have the best deals for things like TVs, so November and December are clear choices. But if you missed a deal or it ran out of stock, these can also be annoying months to buy. We suggest also looking for deals in January, where brands discount in preparation for the Super Bowl, as April and May, when many TVs go on sale.
Which TV brands last the longest?
With proper care, TVs can last for many years. But Samsung and LG have particularly good reputations for durable TVs that can handle long-term use without developing annoying issues like damaged pixels, while still offering top-notch quality.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

The best OLED laptops for 2021

Nifty Nev
best gaming laptops, Buying Guides, Computing, Gaming, laptop buying, Laptops, OLED, Tier 4 |

Organic LED (OLED) screens deliver outstanding image quality, brightness, and contrast by using organic compounds to emit visible light. These displays are light and thin and allow for extremely wide and accurate colors, incredible brightness, and the contrast ratios available. OLED technology has been around for a few years and has rapidly taken over the TV market.
You can find these screens on laptops, too, making for an interesting choice if you want stunning visuals on the go. Here, we selected some of the best OLED laptops with outstanding displays now on the market. The Dell XPS 15 tops the list because of its display of bright, bold colors, but it’s not the only great option. If display quality is indeed important, one of these laptops should be ideal.
Since OLED laptops can be a little pricey, you may also want to look for discount periods like Amazon Prime Day when you can find significant deals.
The best OLED laptops at a glance

Dell XPS 15 (2020)

Why you should pick this: The XPS 15 is already an awesome laptop, but the OLED display takes it to a whole new level.
Who’s it for: Video editors, photographers, and content creators.

Why we picked the Dell XPS 15:
The Dell XPS 15 has been our favorite 15-inch laptop for quite some time, and it might be our top favorite laptop if it wasn’t eclipsed by its slightly more portable and attractive cousin, the XPS 13. The latest version of this laptop upgrades everything, 16:10 screen included. You have options now for up to an Intel eight-core, 11th-generation Core-i9, up to 32GB of memory, and up to 1TB of PCIe NVMe solid-state storage. There’s also an optional Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics chip for impressive midrange gaming capabilities.
But the screen is why we’re here. The 4K OLED panel is simply stunning. Made by Samsung, it’s a gorgeous display with fantastic contrast and bright, popping colors. Most importantly, the Dell XPS 15 features excellent color accuracy, which some of the other options on this list lack. That makes it a great option for photographers and video editors.
The 4K OLED screen is no more expensive than the LED 4K option offered by Dell, though it does lose the touch functionality. However, the battery life on the Dell XPS 15 may be worse with the OLED option.
ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 3
Mark Coppock/Digital Trends
Why you should pick this: It’s a gorgeous machine for work and play, with the typical ThinkPad build quality and understated aesthetics.
Who’s it for: Workers who like to play during the off-hours.

Why we picked the ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 3:
Laptops based on Lenovo’s iconic ThinkPad brand typically lack the features and look of your average gaming system, but they give just about every laptop a run for their money on the hardware front. The latest ThinkPad X1 Extreme is no different, with monstrous component options like a 10th-gen Intel Core i7 CPU (easily upgradeable to i9 chips), a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics chip, options from 8GB to 64GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage.
The OLED panel has 4K resolution, along with fantastic brightness and contrast. Lenovo also did a great job of implementing Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR) for awesome Netflix bingeing.
Overall, the ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 3 doesn’t look much different from its predecessors in appearance. It’s understated, functional, and sturdy. It’s likely the most durable OLED laptop on the market, but we’d still caution against long usage at full brightness to avoid any potential burn-in problems.
HP Spectre x360 14

Why you should pick this: It offers everything you want in an OLED laptop but with a fully functioning tablet mode, too.
Who’s it for: Those who want OLED brilliance in a laptop and tablet — in one device.

Why we picked the HP Spectre x360 14:
If you want a more compact laptop without sacrificing the best screen quality possible, the HP Spectre x360 14 is the laptop for you. It equips an 11th-gen Intel Core processor starting with the four-core i5-1135G7, 8GB of memory, and 256GB of SSD storage. It can be configured with up to a Core i7-1165G7, 16GB of RAM, and a 2TB SSD.
The 13.5-inch OLED screen is in the taller productivity-friendly 3:2 aspect ratio, offering a 3,000 x 2,000 resolution and the typical OLED infinite contrast. The excellent keyboard is backlit, and (as HP does often) there’s an included fingerprint reader and infrared camera for easy biometric security.
This 2-in-1 ships with its own stylus for sketching, though the touchscreen is easy to use however you prefer. The HP Spectre x360 14 ports include two updated Thunderbolt 4/USB-C with USB 4 connections, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A, and more. It’s also Wi-Fi 6 ready! Just make sure you get the AMOLED version of the laptop when you purchase.
Razer Blade 15 (2021)

Why you should pick this: Not only is it a stunning laptop, but the highly-fluid graphics are even more breathtaking.
Who’s it for: Gamers to its core.

Why we picked the Razer Blade 15 (2021): The Razer Blade 15 has a long-standing spot at the top of our list, and with continued advancements, we still consider it our favorite gaming notebook to date. A continuously smaller framework exemplifies these improvements.
This Razer Blade 15’s 2021 model features — in addition to the spacious UHD OLED display — a powerful eight-core Intel 10th-gen i7-10875H processor, a GeForce RTX 3080 GPU, and 32GB of RAM, enough to tackle more demanding games. And, of course, that OLED screen will be excellent for color, contrast, and clarity no matter what game you’re playing; it’s also great for movies and video editing.
The Razer Blade 15 (2021) also includes Razer’s RGB lighting and Chroma software for managing it. The laptop is Wi-Fi 6 ready and includes 1TB of local SSD storage. Ports include Thunderbolt 3/USB-C, HDMI, and USB-A 3.0.
Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED

Why you should pick this: This sturdy computer combines virtues from several laptop genres.

Who’s it for: Busy professionals who need a bit of both worlds for laptop performance.
Why we picked the Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED:
For this laptop, Gigabyte treads carefully between a highly portable design and a powerhouse for visual professionals. The result is something in between, a versatile 15-inch laptop with a durable design under five pounds and Samsung’s UHD AMOLED display (with 100% coverage of the DCI-P3) for top-notch quality when working on projects — or playing games during the off hours.
Inside, you’ll find a 9th-gen Intel Core i7-9750H processor, not quite the newest chip available but enough to get the job done, along with a dedicated GeForce GTX 1660 Ti GPU, which is helpful when it comes to video editing and playback. There’s also 16GB of RAM for better multitasking, and a 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD for storage.
The Aero 15 OLED also includes HDMI, Mini-DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports for a variety of connections or video output if necessary, along with an SD card reader. Wi-Fi 6 is also supported, helping buyers get the most out of their wireless internet connection. And if multitasking gets intense, the dual cooling systems will help keep things cool.
Asus ZenBook Flip S OLED

Why you should pick this: This 2-in-1 comes with impressive power and storage for its size.

Who’s it for: Professionals who work a lot on their feet and need a laptop that can keep up.
Why we picked the Asus ZenBook Flip S OLED:
The ZenBook Flip S manages to combine 2-in-1 portability and tablet functions with a truly excellent touchscreen display, both 4K and OLED for maximum visual or color detail when you need it the most. That makes this laptop a quick recommendation for artists, designers, and others who do a lot of their jobs on their feet or like to make quick sketches and edits in tablet mode as they work.
Internal specs also impress with this updated model, which includes a potent 11th-gen quad-core Intel i7-1165G7 processor and 16GB of RAM. The spacious 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD is useful for internal storage, while the battery handles all this and is still rated for up to 15 hours, enough for a good work day.
We also were pleased to see the flexible ZenBook Flip S comes with all the latest port options, including Thunderbolt 4/UBS-C, USB-A 3.2, and HDMI 2. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 are also supported. Oh, and you don’t need to worry about a stylus — the laptop comes with the Asus Pen and Windows Ink to help you get started.
Asus ZenBook Pro Duo UX582
Mark Coppock/Digital Trends
Why you should pick this: The secondary display on this laptop is great for multitasking, and the OLED display is used to great effect.

Who’s it for: Artists, designers, and mulitaskers.
Why we picked the Asus ZenBook Pro Duo UX582:
It’s hard to miss the large second screen on the base of the 15-inch Pro Duo, called “ScreenPad Plus.” Yes, it does take away some space for the compact keyboard, but it adds a second screen that you can drag apps into, essentially turning into a second display that you can use to multitask, refer back to information, or compare things like color and contrast. It’s not quite Apple’s iPad Sidecar technology, but it’s still very designer-friendly and opens up plenty of new possibilities for this ZenBook.
In addition to the top-shelf UHD OLED display, the laptop offers a 10th-gen Intel Core i9-10980HK processor that pairs well with the discrete GeForce RTX 3070 GPU. It also includes 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD for your storage needs. The laptop is bundled with a detachable palm rest for longer sessions and an Asus stylus for the touchscreen, so you’re ready to get to work right out of the box!
While the Asus ZenBook Pro Duo UX582 may fill a niche need, it does it very well with a portable model that allows for more complex work that you couldn’t have otherwise tackled on a laptop — and a display that’s as good for design as it is for entertainment.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

The most effective earbuds for 2021

Nifty Nev
1More Triple Driver, Audio, Best of, best of everything, best of tier 1, Bose QC20i, Buying Guides, earbuds, Erato Apollo 7, headphone buying, Home Theater, music, Tier 4 |

Whether you go wired for an old-school experience or wireless for cordless freedom, picking the right earbuds can be tricky — there are so many choices out there. But we’ve tried hundreds of models from a wide variety of manufacturers, so you don’t have to.
In our opinion, the best wired earbuds you can buy are the 1More Triple Drivers, which offer a sweet mix of style and performance at a reasonable price, while Sony’s WF-1000XM4 offer the best overall feature set in a pair of true wireless earbuds.
But there are tons of great models out there, some of which really excel in specific areas. So if the 1More and Sony models aren’t quite what you’re looking for, we’ve got several awesome alternatives.
Don’t forget, we also keep updated lists of the best true wireless earbuds, the best cheap true wireless earbuds, and the best noise-canceling true wireless earbuds, in case you’re looking for something specific.
The best earbuds at a glance

The best wired earbuds: 1More Triple Driver

Why you should buy them: They’re a sweet mix of style, performance, and shocking affordability.

Who they’re for: The discerning listener who craves quality but hasn’t yet landed that corner office.
Why we picked the 1More Triple Driver:
We could have gone many ways for this pick, but 1More’s unassuming Triple Driver just wouldn’t stop popping up into the picture. The 1More in-ear headphones aren’t at the top of the class in performance, but what they do have going for them is unrivaled quality and value at their (very reasonable) price point. The company has created plenty of iterations since, including the recent Dual Driver ANC Pro Wireless, the Quad Driver, and even an over-ear version, creatively called the Triple Driver Over-Ears. But when it comes to value for the money, we always come back to the original wired earbuds.
China-based upstart 1More blew our minds when we discovered how little the company wanted for the Triple Driver headphones, the first pair we’d ever heard from the brand. For this kind of build quality and performance, we’d expect to pay at least double. And while these aren’t wireless earbuds, if you don’t mind some strings attached, they more than make up for their wired constraints with sweet sound for the dough.
So what specifically do the Triple Driver offer your ears? A gorgeous aesthetic, solid construction, and — you guessed it — three drivers within each earbud for excellent sound. That includes one dynamic driver for warm and full bass and a balanced armature driver for both the midrange and treble to create clear and articulate sound. It’s an intriguing design that one might think is a gimmick, but we can assure you that when it comes to the results, it’s anything but.
Along with the earbuds, you get a carry case, an airplane travel adapter, a cable clip, and a huge assortment of silicone and foam eartips to help you find the perfect fit.
The 1More Triple Driver’s sound signature provides sparkling clarity, smooth and powerful bass, and balanced sound that outdoes everything we’ve heard at a similar price point. These headphones provide exceptional sound for anything you listen to, from electronica to acoustic folk. Unlike many dedicated wired earbuds, the Triple Drivers include an inline mic and playback controls. Oh, and if you’re rocking a new iPhone and you using Apple’s headphone adapter, there’s a Lightning version, too.
If the 1More Triple Driver appeal to you, but you want to spend less, check out the Strauss & Wagner EM205. They sound almost as good but cost half the price. They’re also tiny and very lightweight — perfect for tossing in a backpack. If, on the other hand, you want to level up your wired listening, both the $159 Final Audio A4000 and $199 Campfire Audio Satsuma will deliver gorgeously detailed audio. The only caveat: As true in-ear monitors (IEMs), they do not have a mic for calls or buttons for music control.
Read our in-depth 1More Triple Driver review
The best true wireless earbuds: Sony WF-1000XM4
Sony
Why you should buy them: They’ve got brilliant sound quality, battery life, noise-canceling, and tons of extra features.

Who they’re for: Those who want one set of earbuds that do it all and do it really well.
Why we picked the Sony WF-1000XM4:
Sony’s previous flagship earbuds, the WF-1000XM3 were already some of our favorites, so when the company released the follow-up WF-1000XM4, we knew they’d be pretty hard to beat. We were right.
With the XM4, Sony has essentially improved on every aspect of the XM3. The design, battery life, ANC, and transparency are all better than before. Meanwhile, Sony kept the price the same, while dropping the price of the XM3, giving buyers two fantastic choices.
At the top of the improvement list is the new, compact shape. Though only 10% smaller than the XM3, the XM4 fit almost entirely inside your outer ear, making them appear way smaller. The new shape makes the touch controls easier to use, but some with especially small ear openings may actually find them to be less comfortable.
The earbuds are more robust too, with an official IPX4 rating for water resistance. Don’t swim with them, but you need not fear sweat, rain, or the occasional splash.
The charging case was put on a diet too. At 40% smaller, it also packs wireless charging, something the XM3’s case didn’t offer.
Total battery life is the same at 24 hours with ANC on and 36 hours with it off, but the earbuds can now go longer between charges: Eight hours with ANC on, and a huge 12 hours when it’s off.
Sound quality is generally better as well, but not across the board. The low-end bass response has been improved, with an uncanny ability to render tiny details from the lowest frequencies. However, there’s been a little loss of energy at the high end of the spectrum as compared to the XM3. We attribute this to Sony’s decision to ship the XM4 with foam eartips only, which can affect the sound.
As with the XM3, ANC and transparency are excellent and even moderately improved. A big bonus is Sony’s speech-sensing tech, which switches transparency on and mutes your music when the earbuds detect that you’ve started talking.
Add to this a slew of features like being able to use wake words with Alexa and Google Assistant on Android phones, and Sony clearly has another winner in the WF-1000XM4.
Read our in-depth Sony WF-1000XM4 review
The best earbuds for running: Sony WF-SP800N
Simon Cohen / Digital Trends
Why you should buy them: With astonishing battery life, sound quality, and noise cancellation, they’re great workout companions.

Who they’re for: People who want total wireless autonomy for demanding workouts.
Why we picked the Sony WF-SP800N:
Sony has a reputation for making stellar audio products, and the WF-SP800N take all of Sony’s know-how and squeeze it into a compact set of workout-friendly earbuds. Their IP55 water- and dust-resistant rating means they can take pretty much whatever you can throw at them, and their battery life is enormous: Nine hours if you leave their active noise cancellation on and 13 hours if you turn it off.
Though bulkier than some other workout buds like the Elite Active 75t, the SP800N won’t budge once they’re sitting in your ear thanks to their silicone wingtips that provide a secure three-point anchor in your concha.
Sound quality, as you would expect, is excellent, and the Sony Headphones app lets you tweak the equalization to your heart’s content, including turning on and off the ExtraBass feature. If you’re curious about Sony’s 360 Reality Audio format, which can give you the feeling of being at a live performance, the WF-SP800N are compatible with the streaming services that offer it, like Deezer and Amazon Music HD.
The adjustable ANC is also a high point, though this feature tends to work best in non-windy environments. You can engage a transparency mode any time you need it or simply use the quick-attention mode, which automatically switches to transparency and lowers your music volume temporarily while you press the left earbud.
Call quality is very good, whether indoors or outside. Our only real complaint about the WF-SP800N is their charging case. It’s definitely on the bulky side and doesn’t offer wireless charging.
Looking for alternatives to the WF-SP800N? These models are all excellent options:

Jabra Elite Active 75t
Powerbeats Pro
JBL Reflect Mini NC
Jaybird Vista 2

Read our in-depth Sony WF-SP800N review
Best earbuds for bass: JVC HA-XC90T
Simon Cohen / Digital Trends
Why you should buy them: Their enormous bass is matched with the longest battery life we’ve ever seen.

Who they’re for: Those who want big bass, clear sound, and a battery that will outlast anything else out there.
Why we picked the JVC HA-XC90T:
While some true wireless earbuds attempt to offer something for everyone, JVC’s HA-XC90T (also known as JVC XX) are unapologetic about their mission to provide the biggest bass you’ve ever heard.
The black earbuds with the red rings deliver what can only be described as a subwoofer-grade bass response, and that’s before you engage their bass boost mode, which makes them downright thunderous.
Amazingly, this powerful low end doesn’t prevent the mids and highs from taking their place on the soundstage, though make no mistake: If you’re not a fan of deep notes, the JVC XX are not the buds for you.
Along with that incredible boosted bass is a boosted battery. The JVC XX can go a whopping 15 hours on a single charge, making these earbuds the stamina kings of the true wireless world. The charging case holds another two full charges, which means you can use the JVC XX for almost 48 hours before needing to plug the case into a power cord.
Speaking of the charging case, it’s a big, solid affair made of aluminum. The slide-out tray feels sturdy and locks into place with a satisfying click. There’s no wireless charging option, but given how infrequently you’ll need to grab a USB-C cable, that’s not such a bad thing.
Other caveats include no app for customizing the equalizer or button controls, no active noise cancellation, and no auto-pause when you remove an earbud.
Those are a lot of missing features on a set of earbuds at this price, but they have IP55 protection from dust and water and a “touch and talk” feature, which gives you a temporary transparency mode when you need it.
When you consider that, plus the JVC XX‘s two big benefits (bass and battery), these earbuds still manage to justify their asking price for those who value what they offer.
Read our hands-on impressions of the JVC HA-XC90T
Best earbuds for swimming: Sony Walkman NW-WS413

Why you should buy them: You want a water-safe device so you can listen to your favorite tracks while hitting the lap lanes.

Who they’re for: Swimmers and athletes who prefer to leave their phones at home.
Why we picked the Sony WS413 Walkman W-Series:
It doesn’t matter how waterproof you make them, true wireless earbuds won’t be able to play your tunes when you dip below the surface. It’s simple physics: Bluetooth can’t travel through the water like it can through the air. And should an earbud become dislodged while you’re swimming, your odds of retrieving it are slim to none.
That’s why the Sony W-Series Walkman Sports MP3 player wins this category, even though they don’t possess any wireless capabilities at all. Not only can they be completely submerged and continue to play music, but they can operate in salt or fresh water at depths of up to 2 meters — so go ahead and jump in the deep end.
They’ll even stay on after that cannonball, kept in place by both around-the-ear hooks and a tiny band that snugly stretches around the back of your head. The headphones also feature unique earbuds that are designed to keep water from entering the driver casing — which would otherwise ruin the headphones for good.
The Sony WS413 Walkman WS Series is an all-in-one device that doesn’t need to be connected to a phone or other playback source; instead, it has 4GB of storage to hold your music, and you can load up songs and playlists on your PC via the included USB cable.
Sure, 4GB might not sound like much space, but that adds up to about 1,000 to 2,000 tracks, depending on their file size. All playback is controlled with tiny buttons on the sides of each earbud. Speaking of charge, the W-Series Walkman will last up to 12 hours per charge, and Sony claims you’ll be able to charge them in no time via their quick-charge feature.
The WS413 is perfect for swimmers who want total immersion in both the water and their tunes, but sometimes we need to be more aware of our surroundings. Whether it’s being able to hear a swim coach’s instructions, a lifeguard’s warnings, or just other swimmers, earbuds that block out the outside world aren’t always the best tool for the job.
In these circumstances, the $150 Aftershokz Xtrainerz are the way to go. They offer the same 4GB capacity as the Sonys, but they use bone conduction to transmit sound to your ears, which leaves your ear canals open. That means you can hear everything going on around you and your music, plus you can insert your favorite swimming earplugs if you want — and they won’t interfere with the audio.
The best earbuds for iPhone: Apple AirPods Pro
Digital Trends
Why you should buy them: As long as they’re synced to an iPhone, the AirPods Pro have features few other devices can match.

Who they’re for: Apple die-hards who want a fully wireless option.
Why we picked the Apple AirPods Pro:
The truth is, there are better-sounding earbuds out there that can work with iPhones, but even so, we still think the AirPods Pro are the best iOS-specific choice thanks to how Apple they are.
For better or for worse, AirPods Pro have all the hallmarks of an Apple product: They’re sleek, feature-rich, and extremely easy to use. The design includes simple controls and no-fuss compatibility with other Apple products. That last point is probably the most important reason why the AirPods Pro are our pick for the best wireless headphones to use with iPhones. Unlike other Bluetooth devices, AirPods Pro are designed to automatically sync with your device.
Perhaps most importantly for Apple users (apart from the iconic style), these earbuds couldn’t be easier to pair and set up. Just open the case, hold the new AirPods next to your iPhone, and you’re ready to listen. Once the AirPods Pro are paired, they’ll also show up automatically on any of your iCloud-connected Apple devices, including a companion iPad or MacBook. Switching can be done with a single click, but if you’re on the latest versions of iOS and macOS, that switching can even happen automatically.
The main difference between the AirPods Pro and the AirPods 2 with Wireless Charging Case, which used to hold this spot, is the addition of noise-canceling. They also offer a more discreet, fitted design that makes use of silicone tips to, A) keep the Pods firmly fixed to your ears during intense exercise, B) make them more pleasant to wear for extended periods, and C) create the seal that’s required for noise-canceling to function as intended.
They’re also IPX4 sweat-resistant and offer much better sound quality. Earlier in 2020, Apple added spatial audio to the AirPods Pro, making them an intriguing companion for watching movies on Apple’s devices. When iOS 15 launches in the fall of 2021, the AirPods Pro will also be able to offer hearing enhancement in situations where conversations may be more difficult due to competing sounds.
For all these reasons, the Apple AirPods Pro are a solid choice for Apple’s products, especially the iPhone.  But we’d be remiss if we didn’t point out that every other pair of fully wireless earbuds work great with iPhones too. And you can find a pair that sound just as good as the AirPods Pro for a bit less money. It’s a big world out there, so before you just jump into the most obvious Apple pairing, we suggest shopping around a bit.
Read our in-depth AirPods Pro review
The best earbuds for Android: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2
Samsung
Why you should buy them: They’re chock-full of the latest features like ANC and wireless charging, but cost way less than the AirPods Pro.

Who they’re for: Android fans looking for comfortable, great-sounding buds with noise cancellation.
Why we picked the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2:
Our previous pick for this category was the Google Pixel Buds A-Series. With their $99 price and virtually all of the features from the $179 Pixel Buds, they were an obvious choice.
But Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 2 have forced us to change things up. For an extra $50, they offer ANC, transparency mode, and wireless charging — three very desirable features you won’t find on the Pixel Buds A-Series. What’s more, the Galaxy Buds 2 are even comfortable and secure than the A-Series, making them a welcome change for folks who have traditionally struggled to find a good fit.
Sound quality is very good if not quite up to the standard set by the Sony WF-1000XM4 or the Master & Dynamic MW08, and you get several EQ presets within the Samsung Wearables app. That app also provides a fit test to make sure you’ve got the right size of eartips installed, and a find my buds feature for when they inevitably go missing.
Battery life is solid: Five hours per charge and 20 hours total with the charging case if you keep ANC on, and that rises to 7.5/29 hours if you turn the feature off. An IPX2 rating means you probably shouldn’t expose them to much water, but they’ll at least be able to handle a bit of rain and sweat without incurring any damage.
Our only real caveat with the Galaxy Buds 2 is their touch controls. They’re a bit too easy to accidentally trigger when inserting or adjusting the earbuds, but we do appreciate that you can customize these controls or even turn them off entirely within Samsung’s app. Why do we only recommend these buds for Android users? That awesome app just isn’t available for iOS, which drastically reduces the Buds 2’s value to iPhone owners.
Read our in-depth Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 review
The best earbuds for listening to music: Master & Dynamic MW08
Simon Cohen / Digital Trends
Why you should buy them: They have huge battery life, sound incredible, and have a unique, stylish design.

Who they’re for: Anyone who wants a no-compromises listening experience in a set of true wireless earbuds.
Why we picked the Master & Dynamic MW08:
When it comes to true wireless earbuds that deliver audiophile-grade sound quality, it’s a small crowd. Leading that pack are the Master & Dynamic (M&D) MW08, a beautifully crafted set of buds that sound as good as they look.
M&D is no stranger to the true wireless space. Its MW07 and MW07 Plus models were both very well received for their top-notch sound, and the MW08 take the design even further. They’re smaller and more comfortable than the previous models and their battery life is incredible, with up to 12 hours between charges when you turn off active noise cancellation (ANC) and keep the volume level under 50%.
Their stainless steel charging case provides another 30 hours of capacity, for a total of 42 hours before you need to plug them back in using a USB-C cable.
But the real story here is the MW08‘s sultry sound. Across the frequencies, from the lowest lows to the highest highs, these earbuds deliver a crisp and precise response, letting you appreciate each element of a song. Whether it’s the booming bass of hip-hop or the delicate resonances of jazz and classical, the MW08 sacrifice nothing.
M&D has used some pretty exotic materials on the MW08 including ceramics and aluminum, which give them a sophisticated, high-end look and feel that stands apart from the all-plastic designs from Sony, Bose, Apple, and Sennheiser. They also feature physical control buttons instead of the touch controls that are becoming ubiquitous. These controls give you access to every feature, from volume to voice assistants, and have a very precise operation.
Our only real critique of the MW08 is that their ANC isn’t as good as what you’ll find on the AirPods Pro, WF-1000XM3, or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds. However, when you consider just how good the MW08 sound, we think it’s worth the tradeoff.
If wireless charging is a big feature for you, the Master & Dynamic MW08 Sport edition adds that capability in a much lighter weight Kevlar-wrapped charging case.
Read our in-depth Master & Dynamic MW08 review
The best earbuds for Amazon Alexa fans: Amazon Echo Buds 2
Simon Cohen / Digital Trends
Why you should buy them: They’re very affordable, sound great, and let you summon Alexa whenever and wherever you like.

Who they’re for: Folks who love Amazon’s virtual assistant and want an affordable set of true wireless earbuds.
Why we picked the Amazon Echo Buds 2:
We were already big fans of the original Amazon Echo Buds, so when Amazon released the next version (technically named Echo Buds 2nd Gen) for the same price, but with some nice upgrades, we knew they’d be a solid pick.
What sets the Echo Buds 2 apart from other earbuds (other than Alexa, which we’ll get to) is the sheer value they offer. For $120 ($140 for the version with wireless charging), you get a small and comfortable set of buds, with an equally small charging case. They have active noise cancellation (ANC) and a transparency mode, they auto-pause the music when you pull an earbud out, they can be used independently, and they even have a basic workout tracking feature.
Using the Alexa app (which you pretty much need for all of the advanced features) you can adjust their EQ settings, fine-tune the side-tone (how much of your own voice you hear during calls), and even locate your earbuds if they go missing.
To put that in perspective: A feature set like this would normally cost $180 — the price of the Jabra Elite 75t — so $120 feels like a bargain.
The sound quality is very good. Not quite what you’d get from pricier earbuds, but close enough for folks who just want great tunes or podcasts for their daily commutes.
Being able to simply say “Alexa,” followed by hundreds of different commands (including all of the earbud and playback functions like ANC and call answer) is a major convenience, and the Echo Buds 2 are the only earbuds (other than the original Echo Buds) that let you do this.
Battery life on the buds themselves, at five hours with ANC and Alexa turned on, and 6.5 hours with these features off, is a little better than Apple’s AirPods Pro, but nothing stellar when compared to other earbuds at this price. Unfortunately, the case only holds two full charges, so you may have to adjust your habits accordingly.
We didn’t think that Amazon’s ANC was a big improvement over the previous generation’s Bose tech but given how much more comfortable the new design is, it’s not a deal-breaker by any means and we definitely recommend the Echo Buds 2.
Read our in-depth Amazon Echo Buds 2 review

Research and buying tips

Can earbuds damage your ears?
Yes, because of their isolation and because the drivers are closer to your eardrums, it is not recommended to listen at higher volumes for extended periods of time. Check out our helpful noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) explainer for how to avoid this from happening.
Are earbuds waterproof?
Many are water-resistant, few can be fully submerged. We recommend checking for an IP rating if you want to make sure you are treating them properly.
Can earbuds sound as good as over-ear headphones?
Yes, at the high end, in-ear monitors can sound as good as virtually any headphones on the market. That said, you’ll have to pay a hefty premium to get top-tier sound.
How should earbuds fit?
Comfortably and securely. You may want to find a pair with earfins or earclips if you are planning on working out.
Should I use earbuds when driving?
No. It is dangerous and illegal in many regions.
Glossary

Driver: The unit that produces sound in a headphone, made up of magnets, voice coils, and other materials. Typically, the larger the driver, the more power a headphone has, and bigger drivers inside in-ear headphones generally indicate that a better range of frequencies can be reproduced.
Dynamic driver: A single driver capable of covering the entire frequency range. The diaphragm is connected directly to a voice coil in the headphone, with the voice coil moving between magnets to produce sound.
Balance armature driver: In a balanced armature driver, the headphone’s diaphragm is connected to the armature, with micro-vibrations producing the sound. Most balanced armature drivers are best within a specific frequency range, which is why many headphones contain multiple balanced drivers, with certain frequencies divided between drivers for full-spectrum sound.
Soundstage: The perceived size and depth of the sound coming through the headphones.
Passive noise isolation: Noise that is blocked out by the headphone or earbud based on its physical shape and size in your ear.
Frequency response: The spectrum of frequencies that a headphone can reliably reproduce. Typically, this is 20Hz-20kHz — a spectrum that is widely regarded as the limits of human hearing. However, some models claim a frequency response as high as 40kHz, which some regard as necessary to reproduce hi-res audio.

How we test
We test headphones and earbuds the way normal people live.
We run every pair of earbuds through a rigorous process over several days. That includes playing them in all sorts of scenarios — be it on a bus, in the listening room, or at the office — and playing back from a wide array of sources. We know most people use their headphones with a smartphone, often with lower quality MP3 resolution tracks, so we test that, too.
We also move up to high-resolution audio files, as well as a wide variety of sources, including plugging in directly to a PC or Mac, using USB DACs (digital-to-analog converters), and employing high-quality dedicated portable players and amplifiers. Finally, we compare the earbuds to some of our go-to models, both in their class and price point, as well as a level or two above, to find out if they can punch above their weight.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Finest low cost house heater offers for August 2021

Nifty Nev
Best of, commerce-best-of, Deals, Smart Home, Tier 4 |

It’s hot outside, but there are inevitably chilly times and chilly spaces in your home. You don’t have to be cold indoors as long as you have electricity. If there chilly spots in your home, have you considered buying a space heater? A new energy-efficient space heater could be the best solution for an unusually cold space in an otherwise comfortable building. Even if your smart thermostat was the head of the class, you can remedy cold spots quickly with an energy-efficient space heater. If you remember cold days last winter when you could have used a space heater, now’s also an excellent time to take advantage of off-season sales when manufacturers’ inventory is full.
Here are our top picks for energy-efficient space heaters:

How to Choose a Space Heater
Electric heaters are less efficient but typically safer and more versatile than petroleum-fueled models. Electric heaters can be further subdivided into convection heaters, radiant or infrared heaters, ceramic heaters, and panel heaters (also called mica thermic heaters).
Convection heaters are generally the most energy-efficient electric heaters, especially for large, enclosed spaces. Convection heat works by warming the surrounding air. And though it can take a little while for a room to heat up, the warmth will linger even after you turn off the device.
Radiant or infrared heaters direct heat at specific people (or objects). They warm up rather quickly, but the hot air dissipates just as fast the minute you turn off the heater.
Ceramic heaters circulate air while focusing the heat where it’s most needed. And they can remain cool to the touch.
Finally, you can also purchase panel (or mica thermic) heaters which combine both radiant and convection technology. These appliances often heat up rapidly and distribute warm air throughout the room.
Other factors to consider
Heat distribution — The best energy-efficient heaters distribute hot air around the room quickly and evenly. This means that they don’t just provide warmth to whichever people or objects are directly in front of them. They are designed to have a wider distribution and push air farther away. Space heaters made with oscillation systems are especially adept at even heat distribution, and since they are relatively fast at heating rooms, you don’t have to use them for as long a time.
Timers — Timers are a great way to conserve energy. You can set specific times/parameters for when your heater turns on and off to prevent running the heater unnecessarily.
Thermostats — Most energy-efficient space heaters have easy-to-use thermostats, so you don’t expend additional energy.
Programming capabilities — Some of the more high-tech heaters on the market are programmable so you can set temperatures for different times of the day. A handful of space heaters are smart devices you can control them via your phone.
Automatic shutoff — You don’t want a space heater to run indefinitely. Aside from being a safety risk, that is simply not efficient or cost-effective. The best heaters shut off automatically once they’ve been running for a while.
Overheating safety/kill switch — Overheating protection features cut power if your heater gets too hot. That way, you don’t have to worry about damaging electric circuits or starting a fire.
Portability — Portable space heaters, like patio heaters and garage heaters, can reduce the number of appliances you need. Many people only need one good device that’s capable of being moved from room to room. Be on the lookout for lightweight heaters equipped with handles or casters.
Room size — Select a space heater with power appropriate for the size of the room in which you will use it. The higher the heat output, the more energy used. A small space may require only 750 watts of power, while a larger area might need 1,500 watts. Choose a heater that provides enough warmth for the square footage and nothing more.
Fan-only option — Space heaters with fan-only options can be used as fans in warmer weather.
Size of heater — Size matters. Many people want relatively compact space heaters so they are easier to move and store and relatively unobtrusive whenever you use them.
Noise — Noise is another factor to consider. While most space heaters are relatively quiet, there is a range. Some might whir or click or hum. Make sure you find a heater that’s as quiet as possible or emits a white noise that you know you’ll be able to tolerate.
Intuitive Controls — As with any piece of technology, look for a space heater with simple controls. You don’t want to accidentally set your heater to the highest temperature possible and then not know how to adjust accordingly.
Safety matters, too
We want to mention safety issues. There are risks involved when space heaters are misused; they can lead to everything from burns to house fires.

Avoid leaving the heater running in unattended rooms.
Don’t leave a space heater running overnight while you’re sleeping.
Don’t place space heaters on a rug or near any object that’s combustible or flammable.
Space heaters should not be used with extension cords or power strips and avoid using your heater near anything wet.
Look for space heaters with a kill switch; these machines automatically turn off should they ever accidentally tip over.
Look for a space heater with a protective housing that remains relatively cool to the touch, even after the device has been on for a while.

We strive to help our readers find the best deals on quality products and services, and we choose what we cover carefully and independently. The prices, details, and availability of the products and deals in this post may be subject to change at anytime. Be sure to check that they are still in effect before making a purchase.Digital Trends may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

The very best surge protectors you may get in 2021

Nifty Nev
Best of, Computing, office tools, power outlets, power strips, Smart Home, surge protectors, Tier 4 |

Smart plugs are great and all, but if you really want to protect your electronics and have even more outlets at your disposal, a surge protector would be a better investment. A surge protector is vital if you want to keep your electronics safe from electrical power spikes. They also come in handy if the two outlets on your wall are just not enough to accommodate all of your gadgets. The latest models have more than just a few outlets, as well as smart connectivity and energy-monitoring features.
In addition to the ability to control a surge protector from your smartphone, some of the top-rated protectors have added safety features, coaxial connectors, and adjustable cords for added convenience. Check out our list for a top-of-the-line surge protector for every home, office, and budget.
At a glance:

TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Strip

Today’s best surge protectors don’t just protect electrical devices, they also enable all kinds of useful connections. This excellent TP-Link strip, for example, has six smart outlets that can be individually controlled with an app, giving protection while allowing you to customize devices, set schedules, and automatically turn them on or off. It’s also compatible with voice commands via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Cortana. Three USB ports provide alternative connections for charging other devices, too.
If all this wasn’t enough, this power strip also has energy monitoring features, measuring how much power everything is consuming so you can decrease power use, if necessary. You can also check out our larger list of the best smart surge protectors for more like this.

APC Desk Mount Power Station

This professional U-shaped protector is designed to hook onto the edge of a desk, for much easier access than trying to position a strip on the floor (you can also put it over a cubical wall, etc.) It provides 18 joules of surge protection. This model is also one of the few available with a USB-C charging port, as well as two USB-A ports for other connections, making it a great fit for many offices.

Teckin Smart Power Strip

Teckin has a competitive smart power strip that you can control via app, perfect for larger entertainment systems or complex computer layouts. You can set timers and other settings for each individual outlet, as well as setting shut-off times to fully power down/up the power strip and save energy. In addition to compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, the strip also works with IFTTT, ideal for those who prefer the customizable platform for their smart gadgets.

Belkin BE112230-08 12-Outlet

With many years of experience working with outlets and plug-in solutions, Belkin has experience making durable surge protectors. This 12-outlet model is a great professional piece with multiple options for cord length, sliding safety covers, and a 3,940-joule energy rating that’s high enough to protect even the largest office equipment. There are also detachable cord clips to route all your cords through for better organization.

Tripp Lite 10-Outlet

Tripp’s contribution is a “home and office” surge protector suitable for various electronic setups. Its handy LED diagnostic lights keep you posted about outlet status, and a built-in splitter can turn one RJ11 jack into two for a modem, fax (hey, some people still use them), or telephone/DSL line. We especially liked that four of the outlets provide enough space to fit more awkwardly-shaped adapter plugs.
This cord measures a standard eight feet long. You can also choose a version with coaxial connectors to protect your coaxial TV connections.

Belkin 3-Outlet Wall Mount Surge Protector

This Belkin version has a wall mount option for setups that aim to raise the surge protector off the floor. Belkin put a lot of thought into the design of the 3-Outlet Wall Mount Surge Protector. Not only does it turn a single outlet into three, but there are two USB-A ports on it as well — while a small cutout on the top allows it to cradle a smartphone while it’s charging. Details like this go to show there’s a lot of utility packed into it. 

Globe Electric 7732001 6-Outlet

Most surge protectors don’t give you any positioning choices, but the Globe Electric outlet has a vertical swivel that lets you adjust your outlets’ direction. This impressive feature helps you optimize your space by simultaneously organizing several cords. Despite its small size, the Globe Electric is compatible with hefty electronics, which is another perk. You can choose between six- or eight-outlet models.

Anker 12-Outlet Power Strip

This power strip from Anker has plenty of safety features, a sizable number of outlets, and a lengthy 6-foot cord that allows you to power devices no matter where they are in the room. This surge protector has 12 AC outlets, which is more than enough for most people to connect all their devices. It also comes with three USB-A ports that are perfect for plugging in your phone and other mobile devices. Anker claims its surge protector can charge your phone faster than the original brick, cutting the time you need to connect your phone in half.
Aside from that, it has the standard safety features you would want in a surge protector. There is an LED indicator to let you know when your devices are protected, as well as an automatic shutoff to help protect them from overload. For $30, it’s a solid deal too.

360 Electrical Revolve

Sometimes it is difficult to wrestle all your cables into the proper position to hook into a surge protector, and that’s when something like the 360 Electrical Revolve comes in extra handy. This surge protector has four AC outlets that fully rotate clockwise and counter-clockwise, allowing you to position the outlet where it is most convenient to connect your device.
It comes in a compact form factor and includes an LED light to indicate it is receiving power. The only downside to the Revolve is it only has four ports. However, if you have a lean office setup that still requires fiddling with cables, the 360 Electrical Revolve is an excellent solution.

Peace by Hampton Smart Surge Protector

If you’re looking for a fast and straightforward way to upgrade some of your devices to smart home material, this smart surge protector from Peace by Hampton may be an excellent choice for you. With this smart surge protector, you can control lights and small appliances. With the app, it’s easy to check the status of your devices, whether you’re home or away, turn them on or off, and even create a schedule for them.
The smart surge protector also works with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to include devices in your existing smart home setup seamlessly. This power strip comes with 4 AC outlets and 2 USB ports. The surge protector also has built-in Wi-Fi, and it doesn’t require a hub to connect.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

Apple AirPods 2 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2

Nifty Nev
AirPods, Apple, Home Theater, Samsung Galaxy Buds 2, Tier 4, true wireless headphones |

When it comes to premium earbuds, Apple and Samsung are two dominant names in the wireless marketplace. While both brands offer supreme performance and comfortable designs, which set of flagship buds is the best overall? Is it Apple’s second-generation Apple AirPods 2 or the all-new Samsung Galaxy Buds 2? We’ve taken a look at each set of buds based on specific criteria, including design, control, and sound and call quality. Our final verdict is below.
For those looking for more wireless earbud options, check out our roundup of the best true wireless earbuds you can buy right now.
Design

With hard, plastic eartips and long white stems, the AirPods 2 boast the same aesthetic as the previous model of AirPods. In fact, besides now offering wireless charging, little has changed between AirPods and AirPods 2. While the eye-catching design has caught on for some, many still think they look odd protruding from people’s ears, and the lack of silicone eartips or any kind of earfin means that they don’t stay super snug in your ears.
Samsung, on the other hand, offers a smaller, more ergonomic in-ear design with its Galaxy Buds 2 that were recently launched at their Galaxy Unpacked Event in August. The headphones come with small, medium, and large eartips, fit snugly inside your ears and even come with silicone earfins to ensure they don’t fall out during strenuous exercise. In our full hands-on review, the Galaxy Buds 2 stayed in our ears for long periods of time without any kind of discomfort or sweating, even staying put while we took a long snooze. After waking, the Buds still hadn’t fallen out of our ears.
In this category, there is no competition. The Galaxy Buds 2 are better-looking, more comfortable, and snug in all the right ways.
Winner: Galaxy Buds 2
Control options

Both Apple and Samsung wireless buds use fairly seamless tap-based controls for a number of functions, including play/pause, call answering, and digital assistants.
In Apple’s case, the actual taps are delivered to the bud stems. Default tapping of your stems will let you either play audio or skip a track. By logging into your AirPods settings (only available through iOS), users are able to re-assign each bud’s double-tap commands, with options for play/pause, track skipping, previous track, and Siri. Speaking of Siri, fans of Apple’s voice assistant will be glad to know you can now wake Siri by just saying “Hey Siri” instead of tapping to wake. This is a nice function to have for those looking to assign other non-assistant commands to the stems. In terms of responsiveness, the stems themselves work pretty reliably as command triggers, but we recommend tapping lightly — too firm and the bud can come loose from your ear.
Out of the box, the Galaxy Buds 2 offer a bit more in terms of control, but a stem-less design means you’ll be tapping the outside of the buds that are in your ears. Normally, this wouldn’t be such a big deal, but when it comes to sensitivity, the Buds 2 are a bit too sensitive. Even the lightest of touches when trying to adjust will set off an unintended play/pause command or ANC (active noise canceling) change. Luckily, you can turn off the touch sensor with the Galaxy Wear app, but you’ll lose those touch features altogether, and yoou’ll need to launch the app to turn them back on.
Getting into the actual tap commands, single, double, and triple taps all perform different functions, including play/pause, call answering, and voice assistant cueing. A hidden gem for Samsung is the inclusion of an assignable “fourth” command (only available through Android). Instead of sequential taps, users can long tap to access either voice commands, quick ambient sound (which reduces music volume so you can hear outside sounds), as well as volume down.
Overall, we found Samsung’s controls a bit easier to use and customize, and the additional fourth command was just enough to edge the Galaxy Buds 2 over the less option-filled AirPods in the control category.
Winner: Galaxy Buds 2
Listening experience
Apple’s AirPods will let you listen to your favorite music for five hours between charges, which is still fairly good in the world of true wireless headphones. In addition to quick pairing and low video latency, they are also some of the loudest true wireless headphones out there. Thick bass and bright highs are joined by a relatively flat midrange, with a sound signature that lacks the transparency you might expect from over-ear headphones in this price range, but that is easily satisfactory from compact headphones.
But even though the AirPods aren’t a slouch, the Galaxy Buds 2 slightly outperform the AirPods in virtually every way when it comes to the listening experience. First, and perhaps most significantly, the Galaxy Buds 2 come with active noise cancellation. And while they’re not quite at the same level of ANC as the AirPods Pro, for $50 cheaper than the non-ANC AirPods 2, you can’t go wrong. And to be clear, Digital Trends reviewer Caleb Denison said the Buds 2 had “the best noise-canceling buds I’ve heard from Samsung yet,” so combining that with punchy low-end, a boost in upper-treble for shining vocals, and decent mid-range that brings everything home, the Galaxy Buds 2 may not quite reach premium performance, but considering Samsung’s mass-market appeal, they’re not far away. Plus, with the expanded EQ app (for Android devices only), you can dial in your audio just the way you like it.
Caleb Denison/Digital Trends
Another thing to consider when it comes to listening experience is just how life-proof headphones are. In this case, the Buds 2 slightly nudge out the AirPods 2 with an IPX7 rating, which means they can withstand workout sweat and dripping water (though they’re not fit for the pool). The AirPods 2, on the other hand, boast no such water resistance.
Winner: Galaxy Buds 2
Charging case and battery life
TheBetterDay/Flickr
Perhaps the thing we love most about the Apple AirPods 2 is their charging case. A small, rounded case with a flip-top lid, the case boasts 19 hours of reserve battery (in addition to the AirPods’ 5 hours of listening time and 3 hours talk time per charge), and can even be upgraded to include wireless charging. We love the way this case feels in our pocket, and the addition of wireless charging on the latest model (for $40 extra) is a welcome one.
The Galaxy Buds 2 case doesn’t offer the same kind of longevity, but the pillbox-style case does come with wireless charging at no extra cost. With ANC enabled, users can expect up to 5 hours of playtime and 3.5 hours of talk time. With the charging case, and with ANC enabled, you can expect 20 hours of playtime and 13 hours of talk time total. With ANC disabled, you’re looking at up to 7.5 hours of playtime and 3.5 hours talk time — 29- and 14-hours with the case, respectively.
Additionally, you should be able to get about one extra hour of playtime off a quick five-minute charge and about 2.5 extra hours off a 10-minute charge, getting the charging and overall battery performance of the Galaxy Buds 2 right in line with the AirPods 2.
Winner: Tie
Call quality
The AirPods and Galaxy Buds 2 are more than adequate when it comes to call quality, both for the bud-wearer and the person they’re talking to. But there are a few subtle differences. The AirPods 2 are equipped with individual mics in each bud that do a very good job of zeroing in on voices while isolating unwanted background noise. This makes for easy and natural-sounding conversation. The default call-EQ can be a bit flat, but we prefer a safe and reliable mid-range sound over phone calls with boomy bass or sharp treble.
On paper, it would seem that the Galaxy Buds 2 should deliver better call quality than the AirPods, due mostly in part to Samsung’s triple mic system that adapts each bud to the noise environment. But generally speaking, we found that while phone calls came in adequately on the Galaxy Buds 2, our call recipients claimed we sounded a bit tinny and digitized. The default call-EQ was also a little boomier than the AirPods.
Winner: AirPods 2
Pricing
Apple offers three different AirPods packages. For $159, you’ll get the AirPods with a standard charging case. For just a little more, you can net yourself the earbuds with a wireless charging case for $199. Apple also offers standalone wireless charging cases for $79. For those that opt to purchase AppleCare+, the replacement fee for damaged AirPods and both the standard and wireless charging case are only $29. If you didn’t purchase AppleCare and need to replace parts, the price for a single replacement AirPod is $69, standard charging case for $59, and wireless charging for $79.
Galaxy Buds 2 pricing is a bit more streamlined than the AirPods. You can currently pre-order a set of Galaxy Buds 2 with included wireless charging case for $150. The one caveat is that for lost or damaged buds or chargers, you’ll need to reach out to Samsung Support for any replacements. A number of third-party Galaxy Buds charging cases are also available online, but we recommend contacting Samsung instead of purchasing an off-brand charge case.
While it’s always nice to have options, we’re giving this category to the Galaxy Buds for having the overall best price. And in cases where something goes wrong, you can still reach out to Samsung for additional support.
Winner: Galaxy Buds 2
Verdict
While there is a lot to like about both pairs of these true wireless earbuds, there is no question that the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2, which will retail for $150 compared to $159 for the AirPods ($199 with wireless charging case), are the better value.
With an awesome listening experience, better fit, and better control, the Galaxy Buds 2 beat out Apple’s second-generation true wireless AirPods, making them our winner in this head-to-head contest.

Want a little more insight? Check out our full reviews of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 and the Apple AirPods 2.

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More

What’s new on Hulu in September and what’s leaving quickly

Nifty Nev
Home Theater, Hulu, Movies & TV, streaming, Tier 4, what to watch |

The collection of movies and shows on Hulu has only been getting better over the years, with plenty of original films and series available to subscribers along with a large library of new and classic movies, shows, and specials. The streaming service gets more new arrivals in September, and you can read on for all of the highlights, as well as everything else coming to Hulu — and leaving — throughout the month.
Read below for our top picks, and scroll down further for the full list, with our recommendations in bold. (Note: Series with “FX” will have episodes available on Hulu the day after they air on TV, while series with “FX on Hulu” will be available on Hulu immediately.)
Need more suggestions?

Our top pick for September
Y: The Last Man

In development for more than half a decade now, the adaptation of Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra’s comic book series of the same name follows a man and his pet monkey who become the last mammals with a Y chromosome left on Earth after a mysterious, apocalyptic event. The Book Thief actor Ben Schnetzer stars in the series as Yorick Brown, who must deal with the ramifications of being the last man alive while the rest of the world attempts to rebuild society in one form or another. Diane Lane, Olivia Thirlby, and Ashley Romans fill out the series’ cast.
Everything new on Hulu in September
September 1

50/50 (2011)
A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
Anaconda (1997)
Angel Unchained (1970)
The Apparition (2012)
At the Earth’s Core (1976)
Blue City (1986)
Bull Durham (1988)
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Cannon for Cordoba (1970)
Cellar Dweller (1988)
Cold Creek Manor (2003)
Count Yorga, Vampire (1970)
Crazy Heart (2009)
The Dunwich Horror (1970)
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
El Dorado (1967)
Election (1999)
Exterminator 2 (1984)
Free Willy (1993)
Free Willy 2: The Adventure Home (1995)
Free Willy 3: The Rescue (1997)
Free Willy: Escape from Pirate’s Cove (2010)
Friday the 13th – Part III (1982)
Friday the 13th – Part IV: The Final Chapter (1984)
Fright Night (1985)
Gattaca (1997)
Girls! Girls! Girls! (1962)
The Glass House (2001)
Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)
Hitman: Agent 47 (2015)
Hoosiers (1986)
I Spit on Your Grave (2010)
I Spit on Your Grave 2 (2013)
I Spit on Your Grave 3 (2015)
Internal Affairs (1990)
The Interview (2014)
Jacob’s Ladder (1990)
Just Between Friends (1986)
The Killer Elite (1975)
Kiss the Girls (1997)
The Last Castle (2001)
Magic Mike (2012)
The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
The Mexican (2001)
McLintock! (Producer’s Cut) (1963)
Miss You Already (2015)
Mommy (2015)
Mosquito Squadron (1970)
Mr. North (1988)
Much Ado About Nothing (2013)
New Year’s Eve (2011)
Nixon (1995)
Office Space (1999)
The Omen (1976)
The Patsy (1964)
Phase IV (1974)
The Possession (2012)
Priest (2011)
Raising Arizona (1987)
The Ring (2002)
Road to Perdition (2002)
Salvador (1986)
Secret Admirer (1985)
Shaun The Sheep Movie (2015)
Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
Solace (2016)
Stephen King’s It (1990)
Sucker Punch (2011)
Tears of the Sun (2003)
The Tenant (1976)
Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride (2005)
Tyler Perry’s The Family That Preys (2008)
Under Fire (1983)
Vantage Point (2008)
Volcano (1997)
The Wedding Plan (2016)
The Wrestler (2008)
The X-Files (1998)

September 2

Trolls: TrollsTopia: Complete Season 4 (Hulu Original)
Death in Texas (2021)
The Unthinkable (2021)

September 3

The D’Amelio Show: Complete Season 1 (Hulu Original)
What We Do in the Shadows: Season 3 Premiere (FX)
Bolden (2019)
Undine (2021)

September 4

Flower (2017)

September 8

Wu-Tang: An American Saga: Season 2 Premiere (Hulu Original)
La La Land (2016)

September 10

The Killing of Two Lovers (2020)
Transporter 3 (2008)

September 11

High Ground (2021)

September 13

Y: The Last Man: Three-Episode Series Premiere (FX on Hulu)
Colette (2018)

September 15

Joseph: King of Dreams (2000)
Love, Simon (2018)
Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2018)

September 16

The Premise: Series Premiere (FX on Hulu)
Stalker (2021)
On Chesil Beach (2018)
Riders of Justice (2021)

September 20

Grown Ups (2010)

September 23

Funhouse (2021)

September 24

An American Haunting (2006)

September 25

Gemini (2018)

September 28

Felix and the Hidden Treasure (2021)
Home Run (2013)

September 29

Minor Premise (2021)

September 30

New Order (2021)

Leaving Hulu in September
September 1

The Iron Lady (2011)
Our Family Wedding (2009)
Young Adult (2011)

September 2

Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life (2016)

September 23

An American Haunting (2006)

September 29

Destination Wedding (2018)
Larry The Cable Guy: Health Inspector (2006)
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
One for the Money (2012)

September 30

2012 (2009)
50/50 (2011)
A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
A Hard Day (2014)
A Perfect Day (2006)
The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
Anaconda (1997)
Anaconda 3: Offspring (2008)
Anacondas: Trail of Blood (2009)
Angel Unchained (1970)
The Assassin (2015)
At the Earth’s Core (1976)
Australia (2008)
Bad Teacher (2011)
Beasts Clawing at Straws (2020)
Better Living Through Chemistry (2014)
Big Fish (2003)
Black And White (2000)
BOY (2010)
Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
Breakdown (1997)
Bruno (2009)
Bull Durham (1988)
Burning (2018)
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Caddyshack (1980)
Caddyshack II (1988)
Cannon For Cordoba (1970)
Cellar Dweller (1988)
Charles and Diana: 1983 (2020)
Charlotte’s Web (1973)
The Chumscrubber (2005)
The Condemned (2007)
Contagion (2011)
Count Yorga, Vampire (1970)
Coyote Ugly (2000)
Dangerous Minds (1995)
Daredevil (2003)
Desperate Measures (1998)
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings (2018)
Don’T Think Twice (2016)
Dumb & Dumber (1994)
Dumb And Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd (2003)
The Dunwich Horror (1970)
Eliminators (2016)
Exterminator 2 (1984)
Fired Up! (2009)
Foxfire (1996)
Fred Claus (2007)
Fright Night (1985)
From Paris with Love (2010)
Galaxy Quest (1999)
Grandma (2015)
Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)
The Grudge (2004)
Gundala (2019)
Hard Romanticker (2011)
Hideaway (1995)
Himalaya (1991)
House of the Dead (2003)
House of the Dead 2 (2006)
Housesitter (1992)
I Do … Until I Don’t (2017)
I Wish I Knew (2010)
Ice Age (2002)
In The Cut (2003)
Indignation (2016)
Intolerable Cruelty (2003)
It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)
Jacob’s Ladder (1990)
Johnny English (2003)
Just Between Friends (1986)
The Killer Elite (1975)
Knowing (2009)
Lady Vengeance (2005)
Long Day’s Journey Into Night (2018)
Lost in Hong Kong (2015)
Machines (2016)
The Man from Nowhere (2010)
Maximum Risk (1996)
Mercury Rising (1998)
Mosquito Squadron (1970)
Mountains May Depart (2015)
Mr. North (1988)
The Nightingale (2013)
Nixon (1995)
Old Stone (2016)
The Omen (1976)
Once Upon a Time in the West (1969)
Open Water (2004)
Open Water 2: Adrift (2006)
Places in the Heart (1984)
The Polar Express (2004)
Pop Aye (2017)
R.L. Stine: Mostly Ghostly (2008)
R.L. Stine’s Monsterville: The Cabinet of Souls (2015)
R.L. Stine’s Mostly Ghostly: Have You Met My Ghoulfriend? (2014)
R.L. Stine’s Mostly Ghostly: One Night in Doom House (2016)
R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour: Don’t Think About It (2007)
Raising Arizona (1987)
Reno 911!: Miami: The Movie (2007)
The Ring (2002)
Rookie of the Year (1993)
Salvador (1986)
Scent of Green Papayas (1993)
Secret Admirer (1985)
Sk8 Dawg (2018)
Sleeping With The Enemy (1991)
Sleepwalkers (1992)
The Soloist (2009)
Somewhere (2010)
Sorority Row (2009)
Space Jam (1996)
The Stepfather (2009)
Sunshine (2005)
Super Troopers (2002)
Sweet Bean (2015)
Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002)
Take Shelter (2011)
Taken (2009)
This Means War (2010)
Thunderheart (1992)
Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride (2005)
Tokyo Rising (2020)
Tooth Fairy (2008)
Train to Busan (2016)
Tyler Perry’S The Family That Preys (2008)
Under Fire (1983)
Universal Soldier (1992)
Virtuosity (1995)
The Wailing (2016)
Whip It (2009)
Wilde (1998)
Wings of Courage (1995)
The Woman Who Left (2016)
Young Sherlock Holmes (1985)

In case you missed August’s list, here are all of the new arrivals and projects leaving Hulu throughout the month.
Everything new on Hulu in August
August 1

10 to Midnight (1983)
21 (2008)
30 Days of Night (2007)
30 Minutes or Less (2011)
All About E (2015)
Alpha & Omega (2010)
Are We There Yet? (2005)
As Good as It Gets (1997)
Attack the Block (2011)
The Baby-Sitters Club (1995)
Bagdad Cafe (1988)
The Beast Within (1982)
Black Swan (2009)
Blood Games (1991)
Blood on Satan’s Claw (1970)
Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
Cherry Pop (2017)
Christina’s House (2001)
Contagion (2011)
Every Breath You Take (2021)
The Final Girls (2015)
First Knight (1995)
Fish Don’t Blink (2002)
Fred Claus (2007)
Freelancers (2012)
French Postcards (1979)
From Prada to Nada (2011)
Garbo Talks (1984)
Getting Go: The Go Doc Project (2013)
The Girl King (2015)
The Grudge (2004)
Gulliver’s Travels (2009)
Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957)
The Hawaiians (1970)
Heart of Midnight (1989)
Heartbreakers (2001)
Henry Gamble’s Birthday Party (2015)
Henry V (1989)
Hondo (1953)
The Hot Chick (2002)
The Hunter (1980)
I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)
I Love You, Don’t Touch Me! (1998)
It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010)
Jack And Jill (2011)
The Killing Streets (1991)
King Arthur (2004)
Kingpin (1996)
The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
Liz in September (2014)
Mad Max (1980)
Miami Blues (1990)
Mirror Mirror (2012)
Mud (2013)
My Bloody Valentine (1981)
Naz & Maalik (2015)
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
Plaza Suite (1971)
Roadhouse 66 (1984)
Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)
Rudy (1993)
Shane (1953)
Shark Tale (2002)
Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
The Sons of Katie Elder (1965)
Special Effects (1984)
Spellbinder (1988)
Thelma & Louise (1991)
The Thin Red Line (1998)
Those People (2015)
Toy Soldiers (1991)
Transcendence (2014)
Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)
The Vatican Tapes (2015)
Watchmen (2009)

August 5

Princess Cyd (2017)

August 6

Madagascar: A Little Wild: Complete Season 4 (Hulu Original)

August 8

The Party (2018)

August 9

Reservation Dogs: Series Premiere (FX on Hulu)

August 10

Together Together (2021)

August 11

AWOL (2016)

August 12

Homeroom (2021) (Hulu Original)
The Force (2017)
Held (2021)
The Virtuoso (2021)
The Waiting Room (2012)

August 15

The Hate U Give (2018)
Silo (2019)

August 17

The Skeleton Twins (2014)

August 18

Nine Perfect Strangers: Series Premiere (Hulu Original)
The Marijuana Conspiracy (2021)
Unsane (2018)

August 19

Blast Beat (2020)
Jungleland (2021)

August 21

We Broke Up (2021)

August 24

Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor (2013)

August 26

Disobedience (2017)
Feral State (2021)
Love and Monsters (2021)

August 27

Vacation Friends (2021) (Hulu Original)
Chaos Walking (2020)

August 28

Four Good Days (2021)

August 29

Horizon Line (2021)

August 30

9/11: One Day in America: Series Premiere (National Geographic)
Spell (2020)

August 31

Only Murders in the Building: Series Premiere (Hulu Original)

Leaving Hulu in August
August 14

Life Like (2019)
The Shape of Water (2017)

August 24

The Grapes of Wrath (1940)
How Green Was My Valley (1941)
The November Man (2014)

August 30

The Chaser (2008)
Kindergarten Cop 2 (2016)
Like Father, Like Son (2013)
Nobody Knows (2004)
The One I Love (2014)
Still Walking (2008)

August 31

10 to Midnight (1983)
50/50 (2011)
A Most Wanted Man (2014)
Across The Universe (2007)
Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid (2004)
Arachnophobia (1990)
As Good as It Gets (1997)
The A-Team (2010)
Bagdad Cafe (1988)
The Beast Within (1982)
Beetlejuice (1988)
The Best Man (1999)
The Big Chill (1983)
The Blair Witch Project (1999)
The Blair Witch Project: Book of Shadows (2000)
Blood Games (1991)
Blood on Satan’s Claw (1970)
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day (2009)
Bucky Larson Born to Be a Star (2011)
Christina’s House (2001)
Cliffhanger (1993)
The Company You Keep (2013)
Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)
Conviction (2010)
The Cookout (2004)
Date Night (2010)
The Dead Zone (1983)
Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo (2005)
Dragonfly (2002)
Dragonheart (1996)
Dragonheart 3: The Sorcerer’S Curse (2014)
Dragonheart: A New Beginning (2000)
Dragonheart: Battle For The Heartfire (2017)
Driven (2001)
Fish Don’t Blink (2002)
The Forbidden Kingdom (2008)
Garbo Talks (1984)
Hancock (2008)
The Haunting (1999)
The Hawaiians (1970)
Heart of Midnight (1989)
Heartbreakers (2001)
Henry V (1989)
The Hustler (1961)
I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)
I Love You, Don’t Touch Me! (1998)
Jennifer 8 (1992)
Jennifer’s Body (2009)
Just Wright (2009)
Kick-Ass (2010)
The Killing Streets (1991)
King Arthur (2004)
Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2000)
Lady in a Cage (1964)
The Last House on the Left (2009)
The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
Mad Max (1980)
The Mask (1994)
Miami Blues (1990)
Open Range (2003)
Ordinary People (1980)
The Outsider (1980)
Phat Girlz (2006)
Predators (2009)
Primary Colors (1998)
Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010)
Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004)
Resident Evil: Extinction (2007)
Richie Rich (1994)
Roadhouse 66 (1984)
Rudy (1993)
Scrooged (1988)
The Sitter (2011)
The Skull (1965)
Shine a Light (2008)
Soul Survivors (2001)
Special Effects (1984)
Spellbinder (1988)
Stephen King’s Graveyard Shift (1990)
Still Waiting (2009)
Thelma & Louise (1991)
Vanity Fair (2004)
The Virgin Suicides (2000)
Waiting… (2005)
Weekend at Bernie’s (1989)
William Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet (1996)
Witless Protection (2008)

Editors’ Recommendations

Read More