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    The best rechargeable batteries of 2024

    If you’re still stuck in the disposable battery era, it’s high time to shake things up and make the switch. Not only will this change save you some serious cash, but it will also make a significant impact on reducing e-waste and protecting our precious planet. Say goodbye to the hassle of constantly running to the store for replacements and hello to a more sustainable and convenient power solution.But bear in mind that not all rechargeable batteries are created equal. The market is flooded with a dizzying array of options, and it can be a real challenge to separate the gems from the duds. But fear not, because ZDNET’s got your back. I’ve scoured the depths of the battery universe to bring you the crème de la crème of rechargeable batteries, allowing you to make an informed choice and ensure that you get the best performance and value for your hard-earned money.So, let’s dive into the world of rechargeable batteries and unleash the power of sustainability and long-lasting performance!Also: The best portable power stations you can buy: Expert testedWhat is the best rechargeable battery right now? So, when you need to stock up on batteries, we recommend getting one of our top picks. Our best overall rechargeable battery choice is the Panasonic Pro rechargeable battery More

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    Can’t hear TV dialogue? 3 fixes to dramatically improve your television’s audio – and 2 are free

    Jason Hiner/ZDNETSay you’re watching an edgy new streaming series and find yourself turning up the volume for every scene where two actors are engaged in a dramatic dialogue. It seems like both characters are whispering — until an explosion happens on screen, and the sound is the opposite, almost deafening.Also: I changed these 5 TV settings to cut down my electricity bill (and why they work)What’s up with that? It’s not just the imbalanced proportion of sound that bothers you, and it’s not that your hearing is going bad. Keep reading, and you might find an easy fix for improving (and balancing) your TV’s audio quality.In the scenario above, my first recommendation would be to turn on your closed captions. However, while enabling video subtitles is an obvious solution for understanding the dialogue, some people find on-screen text to be clunky and distracting. If you can’t stand reading scripts on your screen, try the following solutions. More

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    Get a Babbel subscription for 76% off right now

    Get a Babbel lifetime language subscription at a big discount right now.  StackSocial Learning a new language can be daunting. But right now, you can buy a lifetime subscription to Babbel Language Learning from Stack Social that lets you choose from 14 languages and access more than 10,000 hours of online language education for just $140 […] More

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    The best satellite phones of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

    This mobile satellite router connects to the Iridium satellite constellation, and you get enough data bandwidth to check emails, use Twitter, pull up weather forecasts, and limited web browsing. You can connect up to five devices to the Iridium Go! hotspot. And this is what I like about this setup — you unbox it, power it up, let it see the sky, and then it acts much like a Wi-Fi router that would might have at your office.This is not a cheap kit, and it’s designed for those who truly want to go off-grid. It includes not only the Iridium Go! base station and AC travel charger with an international adapter but also comes with a solar charger and a desktop charger. Additionally, the unit offers up to 15.5 hours of standby battery life and up to 5.5 hours of talk time. It boasts various features that make it ideal for those looking to stay connected while exploring remote areas. Its compact design measures 114 x 82 x 32 mm and weighs only 305g, making it easy to carry around.Review: Iridium GO! Turn any smartphone into a satellite phoneWhen it comes to communication, the router offers both satellite calls and satellite SMS, allowing users to communicate with others even in areas without cellular coverage. The Iridium Go! operates within a temperature range of 10 to 50 ℃ and meets MIL-STD 810F standards, meaning it can withstand harsh environments and extreme weather conditions thanks to an IP65 rating, making it dust-tight and able to withstand water jets from any direction.Reviews and comments are divided — those who have bought one are over the moon with the capabilities of this system, its ease of use, and the power it offers. Other reviewers have lamented the price, but it’s worth noting it doesn’t cost any more than a premium smartphone. Iridium GO! tech specs:  Dimensions: 114 x 82 x 32 mm | Weight: 305g | Services: Satellite calls and satellite SMS | Battery life: Talk time: 5.5 hours, standby time: 15.5 hours | Operating temperatures: 50°F to 122°F | Durability: MIL-STD 810F | IP Rating: IP65 More

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    The best GaN chargers of 2024: Expert tested

    Gone are the days of bulky wall chargers that ran hot and offered only a single USB port. Today’s market offers sleek, compact, and highly efficient chargers equipped with multiple ports that remain cool even under heavy use. There’s truly never been a better time to upgrade your charging gear.Navigating the vast array of available chargers — from the most reputable brands to those you should steer clear of — can indeed be overwhelming. However, over the past year, I have undertaken an extensive testing, evaluating more than 150 GaN chargers of varying sizes, power outputs, and manufacturers. This meticulous testing and analysis have culminated in a carefully curated list of the very best chargers available today.Also: This portable power station has a standout feature that makes camping safer than everWhether you’re looking for the ultimate travel charger, a powerhouse for multiple devices, or the most efficient charger for your high-demand gadgets, this list has you covered. Say goodbye to the days of slow, overheating chargers and step into the future with these top-notch options.What is the best GaN charger right now?Based on my extensive testing, my top pick for the best GaN charger overall is the Ugreen Nexode 300W GaN 5-Ports Desktop Charging Station More

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    The best M.2 SSDs of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed

    No doubt about it, SSDs (solid-state drives) are the speed demons and rock-solid champions of reliability, leaving HDDs (hard disk drives) in the dust. However, not all SSDs are cut from the same cloth.When it comes to connecting to a PC, traditional SSDs and HDDs rely on the tried-and-true SATA (Serial AT Attachment) port. But hold on tight, because modern motherboards are bringing massive upgrades with a lightning-fast M.2 port, right there on the motherboard itself. This turbocharged connection sets the stage for mind-blowing performance that will leave tech enthusiasts weak at the knees. Say goodbye to sluggish loading times and hello to a whole new level of speed and efficiency. Buckle up, because the future is here, and it’s fast, furious, and absolutely electrifying.Also: The best network-attached storage devices you can buyWhat’s the best M.2 SSD right now?When you visit your favorite online retailer, you’ll find numerous brands offering a wide variety of M.2 storage drives. So, which one should you choose? Don’t worry: I’ve simplified the process by selecting the best M.2 SSDs for you. My top recommendation is still the Crucial P2 1TB 3D M.2 SSD More