Computers and Software - Guides & Reviews
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T-Mobile 5G Home Internet Offers Lots of Promise but Has Some Quirks
We found T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet to be a compelling alternative to traditional cable, but there are issues that doesn't make it right for everyone.
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Lenovo's Attractive Chromebook Duet 3 2-in-1 Delivers Excellent Value
The Duet 3 is a complete 2-in-1 package with a folio keyboard case in box and plenty of power for everyday tasks, but some corners were cut to save costs.
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Essential Desk Accessories to Boost Productivity
The right desk accessories can make or break your work environment. Here are the essential products that will boost your productivity and free up space.
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The Best Free YouTube Video Downloader Is Fast and Easy to Use
Our tests show which free YouTube downloader offers safe, high-speed downloads of up to 8K videos and the ability to easily download playlists and channels.
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The Best VPNs for Protecting Your Privacy
Many VPNs don't deliver on what they promise. Our tests show which VPNs offer the best combination of privacy, speed, features, and proven trustworthiness.
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The Best WiFi Extender for Xfinity Internet Service
The most convenient and cost-effective WiFi extender for Xfinity customers is a mesh WiFi system. Check out our top picks for most users and heavy users.
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Review of the Xfinity Gen 2 xFi Pods
The Gen 2 xFi Pods, which measured five times faster than the originals in our tests, are the best WiFi extender for most Xfinity customers. Here's why.
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The Best Note Taking Tablets
Whether you like to type or hand write your notes, we found the best tablets for taking notes.
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12 Essential Home Office Accessories
These are the home office accessories that will optimize your home workspace and kids' school space and make you all more productive.
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The Best Web Browsers
Our experts review the top web browsers to determine which provide the best online privacy, security, and productivity, with a speedy browsing experience.
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5 Affordable Laptops and Tablets for Back to School
Outfitting your child with a device for remote learning need not cost a fortune. We found five affordable options to fit each learner’s needs, starting at under $100.
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Review of the Zephyr Gaming Mouse
We tested the Zephyr Gaming Mouse for 2 weeks to see how well it keeps your sweaty palms cool. We found it to be a solid gaming mouse, with areas that need minor improvements.
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The Best Cloud Storage Services
We went through the cloud storage service options to find the services will keep your files safe and offer the best combination of features and price for most people.
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The Best News Aggregators
Our top picks for news aggregators make it easier to stay on top of our favorite newspapers, blogs, magazines, and other news sources.
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The Best Games to Play Online With Friends
Our top picks include online games you can play over video chat, collaborative games kids (and adults) can play together, and casual games for the whole family.
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The Best Password Managers
Apps that encrypt, store and create strong passwords are the only way to secure dozens of online accounts. Here are the best.
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The Best Free VPNs
These VPN providers are trustworthy, with gold-standard security and privacy practices, and are the best free VPN options available today.
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The Best Blue Light Glasses
We tested and found the best blue light glasses, whether you’re looking for readers, gaming glasses, or just basic blue light protection for yourself or the kids.
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Boost Your WiFi with a Range Extender
Increase your Wi-Fi coverage throughout your entire house with one of our recommended extenders.
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The Best Free Photoshop Alternatives
These three free programs offer just as good – if not better – features than Photoshop and will help you become a better photo editor.
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6 Great Chromebooks for Every Type of User
While Chromebooks may have started out as budget alternatives to traditional laptops, there's now a wide range of options. One of our picks will be perfect for you.
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Video Game Subscriptions are the Next Big Thing in Gaming
You may never need to buy another video game as new services from Apple, Google and Microsoft let you play as much as you want for one subscription price.
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Review of the Epson FastFoto FF-680W
The Epson FastFoto FF-680W makes the process of scanning old photos so quick and easy, you'll finally get your digital archiving done.
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Best External Hard Drives and SSD Drives for Backing Up Your Files
These external hard drives and SSD drives will keep your files safely backed up, whether you're at your desk or on the go.
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9 Most Useful Chrome Browser Extensions
Get more out of your browser with these 9 extensions that make your time online easier, safer and more efficient.
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The Best Laptops Under $500
These are our top picks for the 6 best laptops under $500 that offer portability and power for a reasonable price, including two under $250.
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4 Must-Have Tech Gadgets for Back to School
The right tech tools can make back to school easier for both you and your kids.
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Review of the Eero Gen 2 Router
Eero’s second-generation mesh Wi-Fi router system improves overall performance and comes with new tiny access points that make placement easy.
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Review of the Ubiquiti AmpliFi Teleport Router
Ubiquiti adds the Teleport to its AmpliFi mesh Wi-Fi router to allow you to access your connected devices and services back home from anywhere.
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14 Stocking Stuffers Under $25
You don’t have to spend a bundle to find a fun gift, even at the last minute.
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Holiday Gift Ideas to Delight Your Significant Other
There are plenty of options for your significant other that combine style and functionality and are sure to be appreciated. Check out our picks.
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The Best Wi-Fi Mesh Router Systems
Wi-Fi mesh router systems use multiple routers to cast a net that serves to improve signal strength throughout the home. Here are the best.
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4 Must-Have Gadgets for Back-to-School
From tablets to graphing calculators, give your child the best start on the school year with these tech products.
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The Best Laptops Under $500
While you won't be able to purchase a top-of-the-line laptop for under $500, there are plenty of machines that can do everything you need for a reasonable price.
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Coding for Girls: Classes, Games and Toys
It’s never too early to start teaching programming skills to help your kids succeed in a high-tech world.
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The Best Wi-Fi Router
The Linksys EA7500 router offers the best combination of performance, features and price, and has future-proof technology built-in that will make it get even better.
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Last Minute Mother's Day Gifts She'll Love
It's not too late to get a Mother's Day gift with our guide to wonderful and quick digital options.
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Our 11 Favorite Travel Gadgets
Before you head out on your next trip, consider these top travel gadgets including the best camera, luggage tracker, selfie stick and more.
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Review of the Eero Home Wi-Fi System
If your pockets are deep, the Eero Home Wi-Fi System is well worth the money.
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The Best Antivirus Software
We pick the best free and paid security software so you can use your Mac or Windows PC safely.
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The Best Student Laptop
The ThinkPad T450s combines powerful performance with road-warrior durability, a great keyboard and a design that makes upgrading easy, making it the perfect choice for students.
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Compared: Microsoft Office Online vs Apple iWork vs Google Apps
Looking for the best free office software? Compare features and file compatibility on Google Apps, iWork on iCloud and Microsoft Office Online.
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9 Cool Crowdfunding Projects
Some of the biggest tech successes in the last three years got their big break on crowdfunding sites. What's the next big thing? We found 9 projects worth checking out.
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The Best Music Streaming Services
There are many streaming music options but which one is best? We look at the major services and break down which one is right for you.
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The Best PC Security Software
Perfect anti-malware software might not exist yet, but these two products -- one paid, one free -- are the best of the best right now.
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The Best Mac Security Software
Despite what you may have heard, Macs aren't immune to infection. Here are our to picks -- free and paid -- for Mac security software.
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The Best Chromebook
The Tobshiba Chomebook 2 has all the qualities of a great Chromebook—light, slim, attractive design, speedy performance, beautiful screen and comfortable keyboard—at an affordable price.
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Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids
Kids these days are tech savvy. If you are looking for a gift they will love, check our favorite tech toys for kids of all ages this holiday season.
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Review of the Apple iPad Air 2
The iPad Air 2 has a faster processor, thinner body and better battery, but is it time for you to upgrade? Our tablet expert lays it out for you.
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The Best 8-inch Android Tablet
A beautiful display, blistering performance and comfortable design make the Nvidia Shield our best 8-inch Android tablet.
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Do You Need Antivirus Software for Your Mac?
The days of Macs being "immune" to malware and other online threats are long gone, security experts agree.
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5 Stylish Surge Protectors
Our favorites surge protectors include one designed to blend with hardwood floors and one with a built-in, portable battery for your gadgets.
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The Best Laptop Under $500 - Fall 2014
With a fourth-generation Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, 1TB hard drive and full-sized keyboard, the Aspire E15 has plenty of power to last many years.
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5 Cheap Must-Have Apps for Back to School
We've found outstanding (but cheap!) apps every student should have to excel in school.
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The Best 10-Inch Android Tablet - 2014
The speedy and long-lasting Samsung Galaxy Tab S has a brilliant display made for video and games, yet it also has impressive productivity features.
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The 6 Best Back-to-School Bags
From the waterproof to the oversized to the fashionably chic, we show you the best bags for back-to-school shoppers.
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7 Ways to Upgrade Mom for Mother's Day
Help make Mom's life easier throughout the year with these perfect tech gifts for Mother's Day!
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The Best Tech Gifts for Mother's Day
From stylish smartphone cases to the latest wearable fitness trackers to automated coffee machines, we have the Mother's Day gifts for you.
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The Best Multifunction Printer Under $200
Excellent print quality for documents and photos, above average scanning and copying speeds and easy operation make the HP Photosmart 7520 the best multifunction printer under $200.
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The Best Web Browser
The best browser is secure, streamlined, customizable and makes switching between computers and mobile devices easy. Check out our top pick.
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The Comprehensive Guide to Facebook Privacy Settings
Facebook privacy settings are constantly evolving, so check out our guide to the latest tools available to control how others see you on the social network.
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The Best Tax Software
Filing taxes can be easy with some preparation using the latest online tax services and programs. Find out which one is right for your needs.
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4 Fabulous Bags for Your Tech
Easily carry your tablet, laptop, smartphone and all the other essentials in one of these stylish bags.
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Must-Have Free Tablet Apps for Convertible Laptops
These 5 free Windows 8 apps make your convertible laptop/tablet even more useful.
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The Best Large Android Tablet
The Sony Xperia Tablet Z is our top pick for best large Android tablet with its quality display, a slim, comfortable design and robust performance.
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Best Laptop Under $500: Dell Inspiron 17
The Dell Inspiron 17 is as big on value as it is on screen size — surprisingly sleek for such a large display and delivering powerful performance despite the budget price.
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The Best eBook Reader: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
Performance, price, and support and features put the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite at the top of the eBook reader heap.
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The Best Small Tablet
The Google Nexus 7 is our top pick for the best small tablet on the market today.
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8 Reasons You Should Consider Switching to Android
Thinking about making the switch from iOS to Android? Here are 8 great reasons why you should.
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Comparing iWork for iCloud to Google Docs & Microsoft Office Web Apps
Now there are three great options for creating documents, spreadsheets and presentations for free.
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8 Cool Tech Gadgets for Back to School
From portable rechargers to new laptops to wireless speakers, we cover the gear every connected student needs this school year.
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5 Must-have Travel Gadgets for Your Next Vacation
Don't forget these five gadgets for a vacation to remember.
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6 Best Cooking Apps for Your Kitchen Tablet
Your tablet can make you a better cook with these recipe apps that help you with measuring, making and even grocery lists.
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The 3 Best Tools for Reading the Latest News Online
These tools will help you gather all the best news you care about in one place to read when you're ready.
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Apps to Keep Every Type of Family Organized
Coordinate calendars, events, photos, visits, medical records, emergency contacts and more among everyone in your family with these handy apps.
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5 Germ-Killing Products to Keep Your Gadgets Ick Free
These tools safely destroy the millions of microbes on your devices.
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Twitter 101: Understanding the Basics
Learn how to get started with the Twitter social network and how to avoid its pitfalls.
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Start Menu Reviver App Brings Back Start Button to Windows 8
Users who have bemoaned the missing Start Button since Microsoft introduced its new OS will find Start Menu Reviver to be a new and improved version.
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Moving from Hotmail to Outlook.com
Outlook.com offers huge advantages over the old Hotmail and even does a couple things better than the Gmail competition.
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Top Sites That Make Science Awesome
The Internet has made science entertaining and engaging. Here's our favorite sites, videos and Twitter feeds that turn science into pure awesome.
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Tablet Stands & Other Kitchen Accessories
Bring your tablet into the kitchen with these handy products that keep it clean and accessible.
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How to Buy a Tablet
There's a tablet for every budget and personality. Here's what you need to consider to make a smart buying decision.
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The Best Kid-Friendly Tablets
If you're looking to buy a tablet either for your little one or to share with them, these options will make both kids and parents happy.
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The Best 10-inch Tablets
Large-scale 10"-class tablets offer better visuals and increased performance over their more portable counterparts. Here are our favorite 10" tablets.
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The Best 7-inch Tablets
If you're on a tight budget—or just want a tablet that's light and portable, a smaller, 7" tablet is the way to go
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Evernote, One Note, Google Keep: Which Should You Use?
Note-taking services Evernote, OneNote & Google Keep let you organize things you need to remember. We help you figure out which one you should use.
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The Best Health Sites for Kids
Wrestling with an awkward health question from your child? These sites will help you with answers from medical professionals.
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The Best Places to Find Free Music Online
You'll be surprised where you can find free, legal music on the Internet.
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The Chromebook: A Great Second Computer
Low-cost Chromebooks are best for folks who have easy access to the Internet.
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How To Find Free eBooks and Audiobooks
We'll show you how to find free eBook for your device.
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Apps & Sites that Make Filing Taxes Easier
Track the status of your refund, get tax advice, file electronically and more.
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Review of the Sprint 4G LTE Tri-Fi Hotspot
While Sprint's Tri-Fi hotspot is an indispensable tool, there are a few things it could do better
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Get the Most Money When Selling Your Old Electronics
Finding the best trade-in price for your old electronics takes some shopping around. Here's how the top sites stack up.
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Laptop Buying Guide
Looking for a new laptop but overwhelmed by choices and terminology? This buying guide will help you pick the perfect computer.
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Four Ways to Keep Kids Safe Online
Cyberbullying, porn, oversharing–the web has many hazards for kids. Your operating system, security software and standalone apps can help.
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Apple Mountain Lion Review
OS X Mountain Lion lives up to the raves and is well worth the $20 cost of upgrading.
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Holiday 2012: Tech Gifts for Your Significant Other
Surprise your significant other with a thoughtful tech gift that combines style and functionality. Need ideas? We’ve rounded up a selection of sure hits.
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The Best Tablets for Kids
What type of tablet should you get for your child? We take you through the models and share our picks.
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The All-in-One: A Perfect Family Computer
The new crop of Windows 8 touchscreen all-in-one PCs offer a range of options for different budgets.
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What You Need to Know About Windows 8
To call Windows 8 a “redesign” would be a huge understatement because unlike Microsoft operating systems of the past, it's optimized for touchscreens.