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    Why your solar-powered power bank isn’t as reliable as you think (and what to use instead)

    Solar-powered power banks are common, but are they any good? In a word, no.  Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETSolar-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: This Windows 11 tablet survived my torture tests – and business users will love itI’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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    The best free tax software of 2025

    This year, tax filings and respective payments are due on April 15, though the IRS began accepting filings starting on Jan. 27. If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, now is the chance to check filing off your to-do list early. Tax filing takes preparation, time, and careful attention, so understanding the tools available is key to completing your taxes with ease.Using a tax preparation service or hiring a professional tax specialist is a great strategy if it’s within your budget and time frame. However, many people don’t know that there are free tax filing software options available online if you’re looking to complete a simple tax file. Also: The best VPNs for added security online: Tested and reviewedWhat is the best free tax software right now?ZDNET rounded up some of the best free tax software options for simple filing that can aid you this season. Our pick for best free tax software overall is Cash App Taxes More

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    How I used this portable, ink-free printer to declutter my workstation (and it’s 60% off)

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways This battery-powered printer is perfect for taking on the road, and it connects to devices using Bluetooth or USB Thermal printing means there are no ink cartridges to replace, but the downside is the printer cannot use regular paper Installing the Windows and Mac drivers is a bit painful and unintuitive. […] More

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    This Windows 11 tablet survived my torture tests – and business users will love it

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The DT Research tablet is built as rugged as it gets, with IP65, MIL-STD-810H, and MIL-STD-461G certifications. The choice of Intel Core i5 and i7 processors offers flexibility when buying the system. The tablet is big and rather chunky, far larger than a traditional iPad. –> Let’s face it: Your average […] More

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    I tested Oppo’s Find N5 for a week – here’s why it’s a near-perfect foldable phone

    Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe world’s thinnest book-style foldable, the Oppo Find N5, is finally here. I’ve had it for a week, and it has surprised me in more ways than one — both positively and negatively. At 8.93mm thick when folded, it’s closer to slab phones than any other foldable has ever been. But that slimness didn’t come without compromises. Judging by the on-paper camera specifications, I expected it to be underwhelming, but it’s better than other foldable phones in almost every regard. Also: The best phones to buy in 2025Here’s what it’s like to use the thinnest book-style foldable phone in the world — from someone who has used the previous world’s thinnest foldable phones.I love the new, refined design More