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    I replaced my ThinkPad with a dual-screen Windows laptop – here’s my verdict after a month

    Asus Zenbook Duo 14 <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Asus Zenbook Duo is on sale now starting at around $1,499, with pricier configurations available. This laptop is a creator’s dream machine, with dual-OLED touchscreens, a highly configurable form factor, and a great battery. It takes time and effort to get the most out of this […] More

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    Why solar-powered portable batteries are not as reliable as you think (and the best alternative)

    Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeawaysSolar-powered power banks can be unreliable and potentially unsafe.They are ineffective at charging devices, even after prolonged sun exposure.Safer and more reliable alternatives, like a solar power station, are recommended.Solar-powered power banks seem like a fantastic idea; attach some solar panels to a power bank, and you have a free power source whenever the sun is shining.However, the reality is different from this idyllic vision of limitless energy.Also: I jump-started a bus from the 1930s with this power bank – here’s the verdictI’ve tested nearly two dozen solar-powered power banks, ranging from devices purchased online to ones bought from camping and outdoor supply stores. Unfortunately, every single device has been disappointingly ineffective — and some have even been potentially dangerous.Using such a device means placing a power bank, a box filled with lithium-ion batteries, in direct sunlight. And that’s a big problem. I’ve found that a power bank left in the sun on a modestly hot day can hit temperatures as high as 80°C/176°F, which is incredibly hot for lithium batteries.  More

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    Why I recommend the Google TV Streamer over competing Roku and Amazon Fire models

    Google TV Streamer <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Google TV Streamer is a streaming device that typically sells for $100. The Google TV Streamer offers beautiful image, fast performance, and the best smart home integrations of any Google streaming device. It’s built for Android users but can work with iOS, with some compromise, and there […] More

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    Changing these 4 Android phone settings made the system feel like new again

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETAs a person who covers consumer tech for a living, I get to use a few dozen smartphones every year. While I almost always advise on which is the new best smartphone, the majority of consumers don’t upgrade every year. I have friends and family who tell me they don’t want to upgrade and ask, “How can I make my current phone faster?” I finally have an answer.Also: I test dozens of Android phones every year: Here’s how Google, Samsung, and more stack upI don’t get to use review devices for long, but I have picked up tips and tricks from years of experience that can help boost the speed of your old Android phone. Before you ask, it doesn’t involve rooting your device. These tips are easy to implement for both tech-savvy consumers and the average Joe. If your Android phone has started feeling slow, you should primarily focus on clearing its storage. And if you’re unsure about where to begin, here are a few things you can do to make your old Android phone faster.1. Delete unused apps More

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    Why I recommend this Garmin watch over competing Apple, Samsung, and Google models

    Garmin Vivoactive 6 <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Garmin Vivoactive 6 is available in four colors for $300. The AMOLED display is brilliant, the available activity functions are comprehensive, and the battery lasts 5-11 days. There is no altimeter, the 30 minute smart alarm interval is a bit long, and it’s a bit small for […] More

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    I pried open a cheap 600W charger to test its build, and found ‘goo’ inside

    It’s easy to silkscreen 600W on the product, but can the product live up to the hype? Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETI test dozens of chargers every year. Some are excellent, while others fall short. Here on ZDNET, I only feature the cream of the crop — the best of the best. However, I occasionally receive requests from readers asking for my thoughts or opinions on specific products. Lately, one product that’s been generating a lot of buzz is this 600W GaN charger. Also: This wall charger replaced all of my Bluetooth trackers – and why I’ll never travel without itSo, I bought a couple for testing. At $99, they’re not exactly cheap, but compared to the Ugreen Nexode 300W More

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    These cheap AirPods accessories solved my biggest problem with Apple’s earbuds

    Jada Jones/ZDNETYour AirPods can be your best friend, small enough to stay in your pocket or bag until you need them. But if you like to work out with your AirPods, pushing your slippery earbuds back into your ear can become a particularly intense workout. I’ve found three products to help with this problem — a few dollars spent can revitalize your AirPods experience.Also: Best AirPods 2025: I’ve tested every pair of Apple headphones and earbudsUnfortunately, some people’s ear anatomy simply isn’t compatible with certain earbuds, and the best option may be purchasing from another brand. But if you’re determined to make your AirPods stay in your ear, try these tips first.1. Detachable ear hooks More