Author: Eternity Lab

Netflix / Static Media

The big red N of Netflix continues to cast a shadow of streaming service supremacy, and it’s not hard to see why. With some award-winning hits and shows that have become pop culture phenomena like “Stranger Things,” “You,” and “Bridgerton,” we’re almost spoilt for choice. But where does that leave some of the underdogs hiding among the streamer’s recommendations? What about the ones that are hits with niche audiences, or the classics that were canceled too soon? 

Not only have we put together a list of egregiously underrated shows on Netflix, but also ones that you could probably binge in a day and still have time to relax, or whatever it is you do after binging a show. From animated swordmasters to super-secret spies, this collection of shows is all worth your attention, and in some cases, provides a taster for more of what’s to come. So what are you waiting for? Fire up the TV and start adding these to your watch list after you’re done with your usual comfort show. You could be about to add one that you didn’t even know about.

Blue Eye Samurai

Netflix

Netflix has certainly shown a knack for delivering incredible animated shows like “Arcane” and the “Castlevania” series. One show that absolutely deserves the same level of praise is “Blue Eye Samurai,” which should satisfy those looking for an epic, fight-fueled tale of revenge. Created by a couple of married creative geniuses, Amber Noizumi and Michael Green, the show follows the blood-soaked story of Mizu (Maya Erksine), a female half-white, half-Japanese warrior on a mission to kill four white men, one of whom she knows is her own father (Kenneth Branagh). This villain, who shares a bloodline with her, is bent on making his mark on the country he’s infiltrating through modern engineering and firepower, setting Mizu on a path to play a major role in a new era of Japan, which is in the process of closing its borders to outside forces.

With an incredible voice cast that includes “Star Trek’s” George Takei, as well as Brenda Song, Randall Park, Masi Oka, and the late, great Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, “Blue Eye Samurai” plays like “Kill Bill” from a different time and moves with the same vibrancy as “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” Notable episodes include Mizu outnumbered and fighting for her life in a brothel, and set pieces that have you hanging on for dear life as our hero dispatches numerous foes with stunning expertise. A second season is set to arrive in 2026, so draw your sword and get the practice in before Mizu returns.

Black Doves

Netflix

If you like your spy dramas led by British agents with stiff upper lips and very mean demeanors, then make some time for the Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw-starring thriller series, “Black Doves.” Debuting in 2024 and from the “The Lazarus Project” showrunner, Joe Barton, the show stars Knightley in an Emmy-nominated performance as Helen Webb, the wife of the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Defense, who is caught in an affair. To make matters worse, it turns out that Helen isn’t just an unfaithful wife but a deep undercover spy who uses her husband’s position to gain intel from the inside. Now, with her cover at risk of being blown, her employers — the Black Doves — send her former mentor and friend, Sam (Whishaw), to keep tabs on her and find out who was responsible for the death of her lover.

With conspiracy thrillers on the rise and seasoned spies with attitude problems becoming favorite small-screen heroes, “Black Doves” features two guns-for-hire firing on all cylinders. While obvious comparisons to “Slow Horses,” there are also elements of “Atomic Blonde” and even “John Wick,” with Knightley getting her hands excessively dirty to bring down bad guys, with a fight in a jewellery shop being a particular highlight. There’s also Sarah Lancashire as her steely-eyed boss, who is okay with dishing out kill orders and barbed one-liners. Watch the first season now before the Black Doves return to Netflix later this year.

Love, Death & Robots

Netflix

If there’s one show you can power through on this list, it’s “Love, Death & Robots,” executive produced by David Fincher and created by “Deadpool” director Tim Miller. Originally appearing on the streaming service in 2019, the animated anthology series tells a variety of stories that have taken viewers across time, space, and even the bottom of a swimming pool, resulting in some mind-blowing mini-movies.

From comedy to space-age horror to thought-provoking stories steeped in science fiction, there really is a tale for anyone and everyone who loves things to get a bit futuristic and breathtakingly animated. A personal favorite in the first season is “Shape-Shifters,” set in a world where werewolves are used as military assets to fight in Afghanistan. There’s also live-action shorts starring the likes of Topher Grace and “Sinners” star Michael B. Jordan. One critically acclaimed short in the series, however, is “Zima Blue,” which follows a world-renowned ethereal artist as he chronicles his origins as a robotic swimming pool cleaner.

The fourth season of the show was released in 2025, but since then, there have been no new reports of a fifth season making its way to screens this year. Thankfully, given the short runtime of all these episodes, there’s enough time to get them all watched when and if it returns. If you’re really left wanting more, you can check out Prime Video’s “Secret Level,” which is produced by Miller’s Blur Studios, who were also behind this as well.

The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance

Netflix

In 1982, Jim Henson and Frank Oz got their heads together and built a tripped-out universe in a movie where everyone and everything was obsessed with the giant McGuffin known as “The Dark Crystal.” The film became a cult classic in the same hemisphere as “Labyrinth,” and 37 years later, Netflix decided to take a gamble and commission one of the most expensive and demanding prequel television shows to tack on to it. Set decades before the original film, “Age of Resistance” serves as a perfect stepping stone for those who don’t know their Gelflings from their Fizzgigs, while also giving die-hard fans a dose of the world they’ve loved for almost four decades.

Capturing the puppet-fuelled magic that Henson and Oz thrived on back in the day, “Age of Resistance” gets some extra help from the vocal talents of Simon Pegg, Anya Taylor-Joy, Taron Egerton, and Jason Isaacs, to name a few. Unfortunately, the outcry from fans and immense praise from critics wasn’t enough to keep “Age of Resistance” in Netflix’s good books, and the show was canned after one season, reportedly due to budget issues. Nevertheless, as far as fantasy shows go, this is a great one to add to the watchlist and get through in a single day. And don’t forget, you’ve at least got a film to follow things up with once you’re done and dusted with it.

Santa Clarita Diet

Netflix

It’s one of the best zombie television shows ever made; it got a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, and we still can’t for the life of us understand why it suffered the Netflix curse of being canceled after three seasons. Nevertheless, if there’s a chance to suggest the grossly underrated “Santa Clarita Diet” to anyone who hasn’t seen it, we’re going to do it, even if it leaves them just as confused as we are about why this show got the axe. The consistently lovable and charismatic Drew Barrymore is cursed with a hunger for human flesh after she accidentally eats an unholy artifact, turning her into a member of the undead who still looks far more fresh-faced. Thankfully, her loving husband (played by Timothy Olyphant) goes above and beyond to keep her secret safe and her stomach full, even if it means burying body parts out in the desert or buying large refrigerators to store her necessary dietary requirements.

While it might’ve been given the boot after three seasons, there’s still something brilliantly entertaining about “Santa Clarita Diet” that tickles the funny bone in the same way as some of the great sitcoms from recent years. Barrymore is on top form, bringing the same warm, welcoming attitude you see on her talk show, only far more carnivorous. While you might be a tad annoyed by the cliffhanger you’re left with in the third and final season, just be glad you had a taste of “Santa Clarita Diet”, which tastes better than most.

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Printers are one of those devices you can live without, until you can’t. The good news is that most consumer-grade printers, even high-quality ones, are fairly inexpensive. But that’s how they get you — how they rope you in. The printer is affordable, but then you realize after setting it up that the ink is not so cheap. While that’s not always the case, and you can still find some cheap printers that don’t make you spend a fortune on ink, the problem is prevalent enough to be a concern. When you’re seeking out a new device, you’ll likely review and reference those ink costs before making a purchase, and if you weren’t already planning to do so, you certainly should.

Consumer Reports has named Brother as the most reliable printer brand in the past, but it has also named Canon and Epson as reliable alternatives. You may be wondering why that’s relevant here? Because CR also called out a printer with an incredibly low ink cost compared to other options on the market, and it’s an Epson. The Epson EcoTank ET-3850, to be precise. The ink is refilled in tanks (hence the name) stored across four different compartments. But it doesn’t use traditional cartridges. Instead, you buy the ink refills in bottles and fill up the tanks in the printer individually. Ultimately, that reduces the long-term cost of ink by up to 90% versus cartridge-style refills.

There’s a catch, though: The EcoTank ET-3850 has a high upfront cost for a mid-grade printer. The price tag is nearly $400 on Amazon, and although it bills itself as an all-in-one, it forgoes advanced features like a touchscreen and USB host port. On the plus side, the EcoTank scans, copies, prints in color and black and white, and functions as an automatic document feeder.

Why isn’t the Epson EcoTank EP-3850 all-in-one printer for everyone?

Simply put, the high upfront cost is why this printer is not for everybody. You can find a lot of cheap or budget-friendly printers out there that will save you quite a bit to start. But that’s the rub. Those printers may be cheap, but the ink cartridges work out to be pretty expensive over time, especially when you’re printing a lot. The Epson EP-3850 has a higher upfront cost, but the ink bottles are cheaper, and the tanks hold quite a lot of ink and tend to last longer. You’ll get thousands of pages from each refill bottle, according to Epson. Moreover, the printer comes bundled with everything you need, including a generous supply of ink to get you started.

The four-pack of refills with black ink is $76 from Epson directly, while the three-pack without black ink, just color, is $51. Consumer Reports estimates the two-year ownership cost to be about $409, which factors in the printer, the cost of ink and refills, and average usage. Subtract the cost of the printer, which is currently $394, and divide the remaining $15 by 2, and you get $7.50. That’s a $5 to $7.50 annual cost if you don’t end up needing another ink refill in that timeframe, and since Epson sends a bunch with the printer, that’s likely an accurate estimate (CR pegs it at $5).

If you want an alternative, Consumer Reports named a Canon the best printer for the average home office. That model, the Canon imageClass LBP247dw, has a cost around $380 to $400, and ink is a bit pricier. It makes models with cheaper ink supplies look all the better.

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The Edge Display from Samsung was one of the defining features of its flagship phones during the mid-2010s. A small slope off to the side gave this illusion of the content on the phone running (literally) edge-to-edge. However, the design and added risk for damage, along with the cost of the Galaxy Edge line, have driven buyers away.

By October 2025, the fad seemed to have run its course, with South Korean outlet NewsPim reporting that Samsung was planning to discontinue the line. The move appears to be due to low sales of its latest Edge-branded phone, the S25 Edge, which was also said to have had its production cut. With that news, it’s expected that Samsung will completely do away with its rounded screens altogether, which some users may have already noticed were being phased out.

In fact, the last phone that Samsung produced with an edge (curved) screen was the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Even then, it wasn’t as pronounced, with it looking flatter than others in the roster. When the brand returned with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, it no longer featured the rounded screen whatsoever. Instead, it was an iPhone 17 Air competitor, with the Edge in the name denoting its thinness.

Samsung Edge displays get sunsetted

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Samsung’s Edge displays were cool in concept. Having additional space on the screen for widgets or other icons to easily access apps was super handy. The issue with them mostly came down to the fact that it was a sticking point for those with butterfingers or those who wanted extra protection for their phone.

With the rounded screen sloping down, normal cases couldn’t be used. Official and unofficial cases or slipcovers featured a much thinner holster for the phone, so that users could access the full screen, including the edges. It also became even more apparent with each iteration of the concept that the Edge display wasn’t as popular as Samsung had hoped.

The idea of a rounded screen hasn’t completely died off, though. Motorola has begun using its own version of the edge concept on some of its phones. The Motorola Edge 60 Pro, which was released in April, 2025, features that original Samsung edge-to-edge concept, but at a lower price point, much like the Moto G Power from 2026. The follow-up model, the Motorola Edge 70 Pro, launched in April 2026, retaining the edge display for anyone still pining for a couple of millimeters of extra screen real estate.

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There are plenty of bathroom gadgets that can be surprisingly useful. For instance, water leak sensors help you detect unwanted drips that drive up your water bill, while smart mirrors help ensure you look good and stay on top of your daily agenda at the same time. But for a “life-changing” bathroom gadget that brings a touch of luxury to your shower routine, there is the Keenray Towel Warmer Bucket. 

From the outside, it just looks like a fancy container, but on the inside, it works to warm up your clothing and linens in six minutes or so. This should be more than enough time to get your towel toasty and ready for when you get out of the shower. It has earned 4.5 stars from over 6,000 reviewers on Amazon, many of whom are saying that the device looks great and improves their showers, especially in the winter. As of this writing, Keenray’s warmer bucket is on sale for $90.

Give your bathroom a warm, spa-like vibe

Towel warmers are a great little luxury gadget to buy on Amazon, and the Keenray unit is designed to add spa-like vibes to your home by warming your clothing and linens. It has a 20-liter capacity, making it large enough to accommodate oversized towels, blankets, and bathrobes. If you’d like some warm pajamas before bed, you can throw those in there too. Once turned on via the push button, it heats your items for up to an hour before automatically shutting off. 

Keenray notes to only use cotton or cotton blend fabrics and avoid chemical fiber materials or dropping in wet items. The container has a white finish with wood-tone accents, so it should fit nicely into most home aesthetics. It also features a fragrance disc within the lid to help with odors. 

Amazon users praise the Keenray towel warmer for its practicality and nearly 80% have rated it five stars. One user said that it was a “life-changer” at home as it makes wearing a robe after a shower and curling up in bed with a blanket feel more luxurious with warm pieces. Another user mentioned that the large capacity easily handles towels for their family of five. 

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Modern computers are so power efficient and effective at handling tasks in the background that there’s no need to shut down your MacBook when you stop using it. This is not just a tip for MacBook users, but also for Windows laptop owners. While it’s been more than a decade since I last used a Windows laptop, I was surprised to discover from long-time Windows users that the same applies to these computers. If you’re away from your MacBook for a few hours or even overnight, there’s no need to shut down the computer.

For example, whenever I finish working, I just close my MacBook lid, so it’s ready to go the next morning. By Friday afternoon, I actively shut down the computer because I’ll stay the weekend away from the computer. It’s not recommended for Intel MacBook owners to leave their Macs switched on for extended periods, as apps can clog up RAM and worsen performance. Fortunately, this is not an issue present on Apple silicon Macs. It is important to reboot your computer every now and again to install updates for new macOS features, and to give it a fresh start after a little break.

Putting your Mac into sleep mode is usually the best option

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Have you ever questioned why the M4 Mac mini has the power button on the bottom, making it harder to keep switch it on and off? Senior Vice President of Marketing Greg Joswiak says he can’t recall the last time he shut down his Mac, which indicates that they are made to keep running nonstop. Apple relocated the power button on the Mac mini because putting the computer in sleep mode is more than enough, and the same is true for MacBooks. These machines are very power-efficient; they don’t consume a lot of battery in idle mode, and Apple silicon machines can instantly power on whenever you open the lid.

Turning your Mac off is also not an issue. But as these newer processors can boot instantly, the debate between shutting down and sleep mode is largely a matter of user preference. Shutting down your MacBook makes the system reboot everything, while just putting the laptop to sleep will let you catch up from where you last stopped. That said, there’s no correct way to use your MacBook, you can do whatever is more convenient. Apple suggests that keeping your device on all the time is not an issue.

How to put your MacBook in sleep mode or shut it down

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Putting your MacBook to sleep is as simple as closing the lid. Or if you leave your Mac a while without using it, the machine automatically enters sleep mode. Users can tweak the amount of time for the Mac to enter sleep mode by going through Settings > Lock Screen > Turn display off on battery when inactive, and select the period. Another option to instantly put your Mac into sleep is pressing the Apple logo on the left upper corner, and selecting Sleep.

To shut down your Mac, you need to click on the Apple logo in the upper left corner, and select Shut Down. MacBooks automatically turn on when you open the lid or if you press the Touch ID button in the upper-right corner of your keyboard. For desktop Macs, you need to press the power button, or the Touch ID button on an Apple keyboard.

If you keep your Mac into sleep mode overnight or less than a day, you can also instantly unlock it with your Apple Watch or Touch ID. If you shut your Mac down, then you need to type once again the password to activate the Touch ID button on your keyboard.

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The Nintendo Switch 2 improves on the original in numerous ways. It’s more powerful, its screen is bigger and more vibrant, and it supports mouse controls. However, these advancements come at a high cost, and that doesn’t just mean a reduced battery life. The Switch 2 costs almost $500, whereas additional Joy-Cons and Pro Controller require close to an additional $100 each. To be blunt, the Switch 2’s official accessories are overpriced, but they are quality products.

However, if you know where to look, you can purchase third-party alternatives that match (and occasionally surpass) Nintendo-branded gadgets. Sure, third-party controllers don’t have NFC readers, so if you want to scan your amiibo, you will have to break out the Joy-Cons that came with the console. But that sacrifice is often worthwhile thanks to significantly lower price points and arguably superior thumbstick precision.

And that’s to say nothing of the accessories that fill niches Nintendo ignores to its detriment — if you own more than two Joy-Cons, you can only charge them one pair at a time unless you buy a third-party accessory. So you have to keep an eye out for quality third-party brands that can hold their own against products that bear Nintendo’s Quality Seal of Approval.

8BitDo

Third-party controllers for the Switch 2 make a ton of compromises. They don’t include features such as HD rumble or NFC scanning, but these peripherals make up for it in other departments. While plenty of companies sell controllers for the Switch, one of the best is 8BitDo. 8BitDo manufactures third-party controllers for all modern gaming platforms, including the Switch and Switch 2. The majority of its products are compatible with most consoles thanks to their reliance on a wired connection and 2.4 GHz dongles, though some can switch to Bluetooth connections.

However, you can tell a controller was made with the Switch/Switch 2 in mind because its face buttons follow the Switch’s layout (the A and B buttons are reversed). Many of 8BitDo’s offerings offer smoother controls when compared to Switch 2 peripherals. While Switch 2 thumbsticks use potentiometers, modern 8BitDo controllers utilize Hall Effect and Tunneling Magneto Resistance (TMR) technology – Hall Effect and TMR thumbsticks are more precise and less prone to stick drift.

Also, many 8BitDo controllers use polling rates that shoot past those of stock controllers, which is perfect for games where twitch-based reaction speed can mean the difference between victory and defeat. You might have to spend around $60 or $70 through retailers such as Amazon, but that is still cheaper than a Switch 2 Pro controller, and according to users, you will probably love its solid, ergonomic grip and smooth TMR joysticks.

PowerA

Wired and wireless controllers make up the meat and potatoes of PowerA’s library. Like 8BitDo’s offerings, PowerA’s Switch 2 controllers include Hall Effect joysticks for superior precision, but they also pack in a feature that most third-party accessories lack: a dedicated GameChat button. Plus, unlike Switch 2 Pro controllers, you have plenty of styles to choose from, including classic Nintendo characters like Kirby and Mario.

Amazon users praise PowerA controllers for their responsive and mappable buttons, and the battery life is a selling point for the wireless variant. While the wireless controllers are often $70, you can save some money by purchasing a wired version for only $40. PowerA also sells plenty of non-controller accessories that cater to audiences who prefer to take their Switch 2s on the go. These include products such as game card cases and protection cases.

While the former works with both Switch and Switch 2 cartridges, the latter is only compatible with Switch 2 consoles because of the vast difference in size. Buyers generally praise the cartridge cases for their durable construction and soft inner silicone – and they come in a variety of sizes. Owners on Amazon also heap similar praises on the Switch 2 protection cases, stating they are solid and hold cartridges reliably. However, due to their size, you can’t store the charging brick in PowerA travel cases, but that’s a minor complaint.

DBrand

While some companies produce third-party peripherals that are on par with, if not superior to, Nintendo’s own controllers, others take a different approach. If the Joy-Cons aren’t broke, why fix them? Why not just make them more comfortable? DBrand specializes in skins and protective cases for countless electronic devices, from smartphones to AirPods. And yes, that includes the Switch 2. DBrand’s Killswitch line of shells is designed for gaming on the go and has been redesigned for the Switch 2.

Users can seamlessly detach the Joy-Cons while protecting the console, making it more comfortable to hold. One of the Killswitch’s main draws is its enlarged gripping handles, which are designed to be more ergonomic and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. The Switch 2 Killswitch is available for $59.95 through the DBrand store, and users through BestBuy claim the case makes playing the Switch 2 in handheld mode much more comfortable. Then again, that’s exactly what you should expect from the company that created one of the best Steam Deck cases out there.

DBrand also sells plenty of other peripherals, including the Joy-Lock Controller Holder. This accessory serves the same purpose as the Joy-Con Grip (Joy-Cons attach to form one controller) but has the added advantage of an adjustable hinge that lets you change the button angles to make them more comfortable. And, the holder is compatible with the DBrand’s Joy-Con grips. The Joy-Lock controller is $20 through the DBrand store ($5 less than a Joy-Con Grip).

Hori

Hori sells plenty of accessories that you won’t find through other manufacturers, some of which can be considered the best accessories for the PlayStation 5. Arguably, the most noteworthy Switch 2 accessory from Hori is the Piranha Plant Camera. It works like the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, but it resembles the iconic Piranha Plant from the Mario games, so it adds personality to your set up. Its built-in privacy shutter works as a charming articulated mouth.

Not only is Hori’s camera cheaper, it has a clip that can attach to the top of most TVs, and you can pull out the camera’s “stalk” and plug it into the Switch 2 to chat in handheld mode. Nintendo’s own camera lacks such features. Hori also offers a wide range of carrying cases. Some of these are slim and only have enough room for a console and several cartridges, but others, such as the Puff Pouch and Adventure Pack, can also fit in the charging cable.

And then there is Hori’s answer to Nintendo’s All-In-One Carrying Case: the Compact Carry All. It’s not as rigid as the All-In-One, but it is way more affordable and can fit everything the All-In-One case can — plus a bit more. And yet the Compact Carry All remains very portable, making it a must-own for anyone who wants to take a Switch 2 on a trip.

Belkin

When you hear the name “Belkin,” you probably think about power banks, wireless phone chargers, and USB cables. In the spirit of fairness, some of these items are compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2, but it’s Belkin’s cases that deserve the spotlight here, as it sells several varieties of travel cases for the Switch 2. One is your standard shell that can carry a console and several games, but Belkin also offers two versions of the much more novel “charging case.”

Each comes with a power bank with a cable designed to charge the Switch 2 while it’s in storage; the only difference is that the Charging Case Pro has a built-in stand. Sure, so does the Switch 2, but the case’s stand lets you rest the console on a table while plugged into the battery. Even when a carrying case has enough room for a power bank (e.g., Nintendo’s All-In-One Case), it isn’t designed for charging on the go because of how all the compartments are laid out. This design flaw gives Belkin the leg up on most Switch 2 travel solutions.

Admittedly, Belkin cases run a tad on the expensive side, starting at $29.99 for the standard case and cap out at $99.99 for the Charging Case Pro. However, many buyers are willing to put up with that since they associate the Belkin name with premium quality. According to Amazon users, the charting case’s battery is perfect for long flights and trips, but it can get a tad hot when in use. If you keep the battery off your lap, it shouldn’t be a problem.

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Almost every browser these days comes with an incognito mode, although it’s often named differently. Google Chrome calls it Incognito Mode, Microsoft Edge dubs it InPrivate Browsing, and Mozilla Firefox refers to it as Private Mode. They all do the same basic job, adding a level of privacy to your browsing. But is it the same as using a VPN, or even close? The answer is a plain “No.”

Keep in mind that VPNs and incognito mode serve very different purposes, although both are marketed around privacy. Incognito mode hides your browsing history, cache, and cookies locally (i.e., from other people using the same PC), while a VPN masks your internet traffic by encrypting and routing it through servers based in another location. Myths about incognito mode being completely safe likely stem from the “Private” label it uses. But with Incognito mode, your activity is still visible to the ISP and the website. All it does is clear cookies, cache, and browsing history after the session ends.

For improved privacy and anonymity on the web, VPNs remain a popular choice. For this reason, VPN adoption has witnessed a massive rise in the last decade, especially in regions with heavy censorship. At the same time, setting up and using a VPN has become much easier. With a single click, you can quickly route your traffic through a server based in another country or continent.

VPNs offer better protection than incognito mode

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A VPN does more than simply offer a higher level of privacy. First, it encrypts your traffic. That makes it nearly impossible for anyone, whether it be your ISP or a hacker trying to intercept your connection, to actually monitor your web activity. That’s why it’s recommended to use VPNs on public Wi-Fi for enhanced security. By encrypting traffic and masking the IP address, a VPN also helps you remain anonymous on the web. Your activity can’t be easily traced by websites. In an ad-driven world, a VPN also makes it harder for advertisers to serve targeted ads. For privacy-conscious users, this is another reason to use a VPN. Incognito mode, on the other hand, doesn’t offer any of these features.

Remember, while VPNs deliver a more private browsing experience, there are still some risks. Most importantly, it doesn’t protect you against browser fingerprinting, a technique that allows websites to build a profile of you using data collected from the browser. This includes information about your device, operating system, browser, and audio and media settings. And VPNs are largely ineffective against this script-based data collection. Apart from that, your choice of VPN plays a major role too. While VPNs from reputed providers are generally safe, some collect logs and even sell data to third parties. That’s why it’s recommended that you stick with top-rated VPNs. Lastly, your browsing history is still stored locally even while using a VPN, allowing anyone with system access to view it.

Using a VPN and incognito mode together is the smart approach

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As we’ve established, VPNs and incognito mode serve different purposes. And for maximum privacy, it’s best to use both. This way, others using the same PC won’t see your browsing history, and the ISP and network administrators will have a harder time monitoring your traffic. For example, if you are using a shared computer in a public space, incognito mode clears your local tracks, while a VPN offers network-based privacy. Even on home computers shared between family members, this combination makes sense.

To do this, launch the VPN app, enable the connection, and then open your browser in incognito mode. If you are using a VPN extension within your browser, things get a little tricky because extensions are disabled by default in incognito mode. But you can easily enable one. To do that, simply head to your browser’s extensions page, click on “Details” under the VPN, then enable the “Allow in Incognito” option (or similar).

All that said, the smartest approach for maximum privacy is to practice cyber hygiene. This includes keeping your system and software up-to-date, avoiding sharing personal information online, securing the router and network, and not downloading files from unknown sources. By doing all of this, your web experience will be far more private and secure.

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Gadget prices are rising in 2026, all thanks to the AI-fueled memory shortage that’s driving up the price of key components used in consumer electronics. Fortunately, even in challenging times like these, there are still some gadgets that sell at attractive prices and fit the bill for anyone shopping on a tight budget. The only problem is that finding such well-priced products that are worth buying is typically challenging. However, Consumer Reports has a panel of experts who review products and rate them to help you make the best purchasing decisions when you’re in the market for a new gadget. The site’s experts have ratings for over 180 laptops so far, and roughly 20 Chromebooks, so when they recommend a model as worth buying, you should definitely check it out. 

If you’re shopping for a laptop on a budget, CR recommends the Acer Aspire 16 AI laptop. This model has been put through CR’s rigorous tests, and it emerged as a standout option with the highest overall score among budget laptops, earning the site’s CR Recommended label. That label indicates that it has met CR’s “high evaluation standards,” which the site says might include testing for “performance, safety, predicted reliability, and owner satisfaction.” The Acer Aspire 16 AI typically sells for $800, but it’s currently discounted to $700 on Amazon, making it even more affordable for anyone looking for a top-rated budget laptop that also has CR’s approval.

Why CR recommends the Acer Aspire 16 AI

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CR praises the Acer Aspire 16 AI as “proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a capable everyday laptop.” This is because of the large 16-inch display, good-enough performance that can handle regular tasks easily (like web browsing and working on documents), good battery life, and balanced ergonomics that the laptop offers. It’s also a Copilot+ PC, and with Windows 11 Home onboard, you’ll get to enjoy Microsoft’s Windows AI features on this laptop. Specs-wise, the laptop features a 16-inch WUXGA display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, 1,920 x 1,200 resolution, 100 percent sRGB coverage, and up to 350 nits of brightness. CR says the display is generous enough for its price, although you shouldn’t expect sharp visuals that rival more expensive options. 

Under the hood, this laptop is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X ARM-based processor with 8 CPU cores, paired with 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 512 GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD. It has a 1440p webcam and comes with a backlit keyboard that includes a dedicated numpad. The laptop offers a wide selection of ports, some of which are hard to come by these days, like a microSD card slot. In addition to the microSD card slot, you get two USB-C and two USB-A ports as well as a single HDMI 2.1 port, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

What do Amazon reviewers say about the Acer Aspire 16 AI?

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Although this laptop is highly recommended by CR for reasons we’ve already covered above, you might still have some doubts about it. If that’s the case, Amazon reviewers who have bought the laptop should give you peace of mind about what to expect. Being a recent laptop on the market, the Acer Aspire 16 AI hasn’t received a lot of reviews. It currently has a total of 37 reviews with an aggregate rating of 3.9 out of 5. Amazon reviewers say it’s a “great laptop,” and it impressed one user by being better than their previous model on both performance and battery life. 

One Amazon reviewer even goes so far as to say that “if you can’t decide if this laptop is worth it, it is!” Others praise the laptop for being lightweight for a 16-inch laptop and a good value for the money. That said, the laptop’s weight of 3.4 pounds might not feel particularly light to many users. Moreover, not all the reviews are positive, though. One reviewer notes that it’s not powerful enough, and another claims their unit didn’t come with a valid Windows license.

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Be it fireside film nights while camping, backyard barbecue wrestling streams, or slumber party video mixtapes — a compact and portable mini projector can turn any dark space into a mini theater. If you’re looking for one, you’re in luck. The CiBest W13 Mini Projector normally costs $39.97, but is on sale now from a third-party seller on Amazon for $29.99. Some of the 10,000 ratings suggest the projector isn’t perfect, but you’re getting a quality casual movie night on the go for cheap. Others are more impressed, with one reviewer saying the ease of use and durability make it “unbeatable.”

If you’re looking for a high-end viewing experience, there are other major projector brands to consider. But the CiBest W13 has a 4.3-star rating, with about two-thirds giving it five stars. Reviewers say the picture quality is surprisingly clear for the price. The projector connects via wired inputs (HDMI, USB) to phones, tablets, computers, and external storage devices –- which means you can finally show off those exciting Fourth of July fireworks you record every year.

The best feature of the portable mini projector isn’t listed as a tech spec. The W13 weighs about 1.15 pounds and measures 5.5 x 2.4 x 4.3 inches –- perfect for a backpack. Portability is key. Reviewers mention taking it on road trips. One reviewer said they hook up their old game consoles. Imagine playing rounds of “Star Fox 64” on the tent wall with your family while it’s pouring outside. Camping trip saved.

What to know before buying the CiBest W13 on Amazon

The biggest difference between expensive projectors and a budget option like the CiBest W13 is brightness. Reviewers say you need low light to see the image clearly. One reviewer said the image quality was sharp in the middle but fuzzy on the edges. The Amazon listing notes the best screen size is 60 to 130 inches. It also says the W13 supports 1080p Full HD. For many lower-priced projectors, the spec essentially means that they accept 1080p input but may downscale it to a lower resolution. The seller, Reefer Technology, doesn’t offer a manual to confirm the exact stats.

To stream major apps, you’ll need to plug in a Roku Stick, Amazon Fire Stick, or similar streaming device. You can also connect an iPhone with a Lightning-to-HDMI adapter, but digital licensing restrictions mean you may not be able to mirror Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, or similar apps directly from a phone or computer. The W13 comes with built-in stereo speakers, which receive mixed opinions from reviewers. Some say the audio is fine, while others recommend an external speaker because it doesn’t get loud enough. Again, the projector doesn’t have Bluetooth. You can connect speakers or headphones via an audio jack or through your streaming device, but the projector doesn’t support Dolby. Some streaming devices may need to be set to PCM — a basic stereo format. Despite some limitations, many reviewers say they’re happy with the CiBest W13, especially for the price.

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When not reminding users that paper jams are an inescapable aspect of existence we all must accept, a home printer can be a very useful device. It can also be more versatile than many users realize. On top of supplying hard copies of important documents, a home printer can be used for a variety of purposes and projects you may not have considered.

Of course, not all home printers are created equal. If you’re looking for the ideal home office printer, it’s important to do research to confirm you’re investing in a unit worth your money. If you’re on a budget, but still want something reliable, you can look into inexpensive home printers that help you save money on ink. With the right unit and a little creative inspiration, you’ll find that a home printer can be much more than a practical office tool. On the contrary, a home printer might just unleash the artist inside you.

A home printer can help you keep the kids entertained

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Are there any particularly young members of your household in need of some creative stimulation? If so, don’t neglect the ways a printer can turn a mundane afternoon into a fun-filled activity day. Depending on your kids’ tastes, there are various ways to leverage your home printer to show the kids a good time while letting them flex their artistic muscles.

For example, you could teach the kiddos the basics of Canva or a similar program and let them design their own stickers. Print the designs out on a printer-friendly sticker paper and let your kids cut them out with scissors. Or, they could design characters and print them out into masks. Along with giving your children something to do that doesn’t involve mindlessly consuming content via a screen, this could be an inexpensive way to let them experiment with different ideas for Halloween costumes. A potential added benefit: Finding out your kid is an artistic genius with a flair for design.

With a home printer and temporary tattoo paper, you can be an ink master

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This is another example of a clever use for a home printer that kids might find appealing. However, it’s by no means a kids-only project. Anyone who likes the idea of applying a tattoo they don’t have to cope with forever can have fun with this activity.

All you have to do is buy temporary tattoo home printer paper, which is widely available online and at office supply stores. Create designs using Canva, digital illustration apps like Procreate, or even analog paper-and-pencil methods (although you’ll have to upload your designs to a digital format first). Naturally, someone who wants to sport a tattoo that will eventually wash away might want to give this home printer activity a try. However, it’s worth noting that this could also be a smart way to test out different tattoo designs before committing to a permanent one. You’ll be less likely to regret that ink if you had the opportunity to try it out temporarily first.

Design your own apparel with a home printer

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Just as temporary tattoo printer paper lets you unleash your inner body ink artist, iron-on transfer paper for home printers allows you to create designs that you can apply to otherwise blank shirts (and, theoretically, other garments) to create your own apparel. There are many reasons you might want to give this a try, ranging from creating custom shirts for a family event to experimenting with fashion design to see if it’s a hobby you’d like to pursue in earnest. That said, it’s important to carefully read the instructions for this type of paper to confirm that you’re using it with compatible clothing.

Again, this is another potentially kid-friendly home printer activity. Does one of your little ones have an idea for a shirt they’d love to rock? Have you struggled to find a garment that matches their vision? If you can’t find it in a store, you could let them create their dream apparel at home. Of course, you don’t have to be a kid to like the idea of creating a T-shirt or other such item of clothing that’s uniquely you.

Print out a comic book at home with your printer

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Do you think you just might be the next Alan Moore? Or, once again, do you have creative kids whose artistic tendencies you can’t help but indulge? In either case, with your favorite design program, you can create your very own comic book and print it out via your home printer. Give yourself bonus points if you can find some glossy, comic book-style paper to print it on, but that’s certainly not a requirement. As Pam from “The Office” knows, this project could also be a smart way to create a truly personalized gift.

Just remember, the strength of your printer will determine how fun and easy these projects are. If your unit is a few years old, consider researching how long a typical home printer lasts. If you’re due for an upgrade, before spending any money, look into your options to confirm you’re getting a device that can handle these activities.

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