Who says you have to wait until Black Friday to grab a deal? A few early discounts for Black Friday 2025 are already available, and we’ve picked some of the best for you. Keep an eye out as more are coming soon!
Nothing beats the smell of coffee at the start of your day, morning or night shift alike. Coffee remains one of the most popular ways to kick things off, and the Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ makes it even easier. With just a pod and water, you get a rich, aromatic cup with minimal effort.
Even if you enjoy cleaning, some areas like under heavy sofas and cabinets are simply hard to reach. Moving furniture every time isn’t always practical. The Shark Robot Vacuum takes care of this with precision home mapping, powerful suction, and a self-cleaning brush roll that effectively removes pet hair.
As colder months approach, the Pioneer Camp Men’s Long Winter Coat is a practical and thoughtful gift option. It features graphene heat-tech lining for superior warmth and heat retention, along with a hood that zips up to cover most of the head while keeping the face unobstructed. The 90% duck down filling offers excellent insulation for cold weather conditions.
Tablets and small computers have become pretty common among kids these days. What makes the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet stand out is its strong parental controls, which allow parents to manage screen time and control which apps and content their children can access.
While we have a robot vacuum on the list, that mostly takes care of the floors. For everything else, you’ll still need a good upright vacuum. This Shark model has powerful suction for deep carpet cleaning and a fully sealed system that traps dust and allergens, great for anyone with allergies. And as a fun bonus, it even looks a bit like R2-D2 from Star Wars.
The Bose QuietComfort headphones offer a real sense of peace and tranquility, thanks to their excellent noise-cancelling performance. They work seamlessly with various devices, including the Nintendo Switch, Android phones, iPhones, and laptops, and provide up to 24 hours of battery life. One downside, like most over-ear headphones, is that the ear cushions can wear out over time depending on usage. On the plus side, they’re easy to replace.
One of the best value smartwatches on the market, the Fitbit Versa 4 comes with built-in GPS, quick charging, and a 6-month Fitbit Premium membership. Its battery can last up to 6 days or 12 hours if GPS is enabled. While there are smartwatches with more advanced features, the Versa 4 is an excellent choice if affordability and reliability are your main priorities. If you’re considering other options, we’ve also reviewed several alternatives worth checking out.
As someone who knows how much allergies can be a pain, having an air purifier makes a big difference in reducing their occurrence. The LEVOIT Air Purifier covers up to 1,787 square feet, making it ideal for both living rooms and bedrooms. It also comes with mobile app control, allowing you to set a timer and check filter status remotely.
The Ninja Professional Plus Kitchen System is similar to the Ninja Mega Kitchen System, but with a few key differences. It has a slightly lower 1,400-watt motor, the same 8-cup capacity, and can still crush ice easily. One notable upgrade is its Auto-IQ technology, which offers intelligent preset programs for smoothies, frozen drinks, chopping, and dough making.
Student life is busy enough without hassles like paying for shipping. That’s why Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for you. For just $14.99 $7.49/month, Prime Student gets you free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals, and more. Better still, it comes with a six-month free trial so you can make sure Prime Student fits your lifestyle. Join today to take advantage of membership benefits and perks tailored specifically for students! Click here to sign up now.
Early Black Friday deals are here! These include home theater systems, smartphones, computer monitors, and smartwatches. If you’re planning to shop early to avoid the usual rush, you might want to check these out.
Student life is busy enough without hassles like paying for shipping. That’s why Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for you. For just $14.99 $7.49/month, Prime Student gets you free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals, and more. Better still, it comes with a six-month free trial so you can make sure Prime Student fits your lifestyle. Join today to take advantage of membership benefits and perks tailored specifically for students! Click here to sign up now.
Happy Halloween! Don’t miss these deals as they’re definitely worth checking out!
Air fryer
Air fryers are a great alternative to deep frying since they use much less oil. They’re an excellent addition to any kitchen. Some people even have two to maximize cooking time, as each unit usually has a relatively small cooking area.
You’ll love food processors and mixers if you’ve ever prepared ingredients by hand. They save so much time and effort. For a detailed review of food processors, check here — and for knives, we’ve got one as well.
A laptop is a necessity in this day and age. From entertainment to work, it’s become part of our daily lives. We also have some recommended laptops here.
If you have a PC, then you certainly need a monitor. But even if you’re using a laptop, an extra screen can make multitasking and productivity much easier.
From tracking your health to celebrating your daily steps, a smartwatch is a powerful little gadget you’ll love, or love to gift. They’re also easy to shop for, since you can quickly tell if your recipient already wears one.
Nothing beats relaxing at home watching Netflix or your favorite streaming service. And when you’re not watching, it’s perfect for gaming on a massive screen.
Student life is busy enough without hassles like paying for shipping. That’s why Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for you. For just $14.99 $7.49/month, Prime Student gets you free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals, and more. Better still, it comes with a six-month free trial so you can make sure Prime Student fits your lifestyle. Join today to take advantage of membership benefits and perks tailored specifically for students! Click here to sign up now.
While many of these laptops are models from 2023 and 2024, they’re still capable of handling a wide range of tasks from everyday browsing and document editing to more demanding activities like gaming or creative work.
Choosing a laptop can be tricky, so here are a few things to consider. The first is your intended workload. Will you be using it mainly for casual activities such as browsing the web, writing documents, and managing spreadsheets? Or will it be for more demanding tasks like programming or video editing, which can put heavy strain on a system’s hardware? Video encoding, for instance, can consume a lot of resources, and even if your laptop can handle it, it might take a long time to process if the specs are only just enough.
Once you’ve identified your primary use, you’re already off to a good start. Next, think about longevity. It might come as a surprise, but with how quickly technology improves, following Moore’s Law, a laptop can start to feel outdated in just a few years. If you’re planning to upgrade down the line, consider whether your chosen model will still be practical after a few years of use.
If you simply want the best of the best, we could easily recommend the Alienware M18 R2, since it’s the most powerful and expensive among them. But that may not be everyone’s goal. If you’d like to find the model that best fits your needs and budget, read on our reviews that will help you decide.
SPECIFICATIONS: Brand: Acer, Price: $349.99, CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core processor, CPU Max Speed: 4.1 GHz, Memory: 8 GB LPDDR5, Memory Clock Speed: 3200 MHz, Memory Type: DDR5 LPDDR5, Storage: 128 GB SSD, Graphics: Integrated, Screen Size: 15.6 Inches, Resolution (Max): 1920 x 1080 pixels, OS: Windows 11 S, Battery Life: 11 Hours, Battery Content: 48 Watt Hours, HDMI: 1, USB Ports: 1 USB Type-C port (USB 3.2 Gen 2, up to 10 Gbps) and 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, Warranty: One-year International Travelers Limited Warranty (ITW)
STRENGTHS: + Good for basic productivity and office work + Budget friendly
DRAWBACKS: – Lower specifications compared to others (CPU, memory, and storage)
Yes, we know this isn’t the most powerful laptop on the list. It’s also the oldest model, released in 2023. But if your goal isn’t heavy usage like gaming or building AI models, the Acer Aspire 3 (2023) can still be a practical choice.
It has just enough resources for everyday productivity tasks like word processing, basic spreadsheet work, and creating slide presentations. Web browsing is also smooth enough, though you’ll want to avoid keeping too many tabs or YouTube videos open at once, as the browser can easily eat up the available memory.
With only 128 GB of storage, the Windows operating system may already occupy about a third of the space. However, switching to a lightweight Linux distribution could help you free up more room and improve performance slightly.
Overall, this laptop is best suited for students and casual users who need a device for note-taking, writing papers, and other basic assignments. For anything more demanding, you’ll likely want to consider one of the higher-end options.
DRAWBACKS: – The plastic body construction may not appeal to everyone
Consider this an upgrade in specifications compared to our previous entry. The HP 255 G10 offers a noticeable boost in computing power, more memory, and a significantly larger storage capacity.
While it’s still not intended for heavy workloads like gaming or video rendering, you’ll immediately notice smoother performance during web browsing and productivity tasks such as word processing, spreadsheet work, and presentations.
SPECIFICATIONS: Brand: Microsoft, Price: 1,199.99, CPU: Snapdragon X Plus (10 core), Memory: 16 GB, Memory Type: DDR5 LPDDR5x, Storage: 512 GB SSD, Graphics: Integrated, Screen Size: 13.9 Inches (Touchscreen), Resolution (Max): 2304 x 1536, OS: Windows 11 Home, Battery Life: 20 hours, Battery Content: 54.12 Watt Hours, HDMI: None, USB Ports: 2 USB-C, 1 USB-A, Warranty: 1 year manufacturer warranty
STRENGTHS: + Touchscreen
DRAWBACKS: – No HDMI port – Small screen size (though some may prefer it for portability)
The Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024) sits comfortably in the middle ground, offering decent overall specifications. Its standout feature is the built-in AI assistant, Copilot, which allows users to tinker and explore AI-powered functions directly on the device.
It’s also lightweight and compact, making it a great choice for users who value portability and a sleek design. The build quality is comparable to the Galaxy Book4, though it’s smaller in both screen size and storage capacity.
The only real downside is the lack of an HDMI port. However, it does include a USB-C port that can connect to external monitors, provided they’re compatible.
SPECIFICATIONS: Brand: Alienware, Price: $ 2,784.29, CPU: Intel Core i9-14900HX, CPU Max Speed: 5.8 GHz, Memory: 32 GB, Memory Clock Speed: 5600 MHz, Memory Type: DDR5 SDRAM , Storage: 1 TB SSD, Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080, Screen Size: 18 Inches , Resolution (Max): 2560 x 1600 pixels, OS: Windows 11 Home, Battery Life: 7 Hours, Battery Content: 97 Watt Hours, HDMI: 1x HDMI 2.1 output and 1x Mini Display Port 1.4, USB Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4 (Type-C with USB 4, DisplayPort 1.4, and power delivery) 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-C) 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A, one with PowerShare), Warranty: 1 Year Hardware Service with Onsite/In-Home Service After Remote Diagnosis
STRENGTHS: + Highest specs for CPU, memory, and graphics + Dedicated graphics card + Largest screen size + Most ports available
DRAWBACKS: – Most expensive option – Heavy and bulky
In terms of power, this is the real deal. The Alienware M18 R2 Gaming Laptop boasts top-tier specifications in computing performance, memory, and graphics. It’s built for serious gaming and is more of a portable desktop than a lightweight laptop.
We recommend this model for gamers and users who regularly handle intensive workloads such as video rendering, 3D modeling, or software development. However, keep in mind that even with its cutting-edge hardware, some games that aren’t optimized for high-end systems may still experience issues.
If your primary goal is gaming, a desktop setup will generally offer better performance at a lower price, with more room for upgrades. But if you need a powerhouse that you can carry around, this laptop is one of the best options available.
STRENGTHS: + Significant price drop compared to launch + Touchscreen display
DRAWBACKS: – Not ideal for intensive workloads or high-end gaming
This is our recommended laptop, offering great balance in price and performance. It sits comfortably in the middle of the pack, costing about half as much as the previous entry while still delivering a high-performing CPU and strong overall specs.
Although its memory capacity is lower, the newer generation components provide excellent real-world performance. It also comes equipped with multiple USB ports and an HDMI port, giving it solid connectivity options for everyday and professional use.
The Galaxy Book4 Pro is an excellent choice for students, especially those working with computer-aided design (CAD) in engineering or architecture. It’s also suitable for programmers and software developers, though it may struggle with more demanding machine learning or GPU-heavy tasks.
We don’t want to assume the worst, but it’s always possible that something could go wrong. If the laptop breaks while it’s still under warranty, you can request a replacement.
Now, let’s look at this from another angle, as an investment for one year. Suppose you’ll be using the laptop for a full year: how much would that cost you if you spread the price evenly per month? The table below will help you visualize that.
Some final thoughts on choosing the right laptop. The Acer Aspire 3 is the least powerful of the group, making it a good fit for basic productivity tasks such as word processing and simple spreadsheet work. The HP 255 G10 shares similar strengths and limitations, offering decent performance at a great value.
At the top end, the Alienware M18 R2 stands out as the powerhouse for gaming and heavy workloads. Meanwhile, the Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024) and Galaxy Book4 Pro (2024) sit comfortably in the middle, both providing a solid balance of portability, modern features, and everyday performance.
It goes without saying that your choice should depend on your intended use and budget. But don’t forget to trust your instincts too, as sometimes the right laptop is the one that simply feels right to you.
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Astronomers from the Geneva Observatory and the National Centre of Competence in Research PlanetS have discovered an unusual planetary system orbiting a small star – a red dwarf called TOI-756, located not far from our solar system.
The 3.6-metre telescope, located at the La Silla Observatory, is truly ESO’s golden oldie. Having achieved first light in 1976, it is one of the oldest ESO telescopes still in use, and it is continuously upgraded to match the latest technology. This Picture of the Week shows a fish-eye view of the dome where the telescope sits, as stars rotate above it around the Southern celestial pole. ESO’s 3.6-metre telescope is located in the larger dome to the left of the above photograph and, today, astronomers use it to search for exoplanets. Since 2008, the telescope has been home to the High Accuracy Radial Velocity Planet Searcher instrument (HARPS) which was joined by the Near InfraRed Planet Searcher (NIRPS) in June this year. As the world’s foremost exoplanet specialists, HARPS, NIRPS and the 3.6-metre make a splendid team for making exciting new discoveries about distant worlds. The smaller dome used to house the Coudé Auxiliary Telescope (CAT). One of the goals of CAT, which was decommissioned in 1998, was to determine ages of stars in the Milky Way, one of the trickier questions in stellar astronomy. Through the bridge, light from CAT could be fed to one of the instruments placed in the larger dome whenever the 3.6-m telescope was observing with a different instrument. That way both telescopes could work in tandem and benefit from the 3.6-metre telescope’s instruments.
ESO’s 3.6-metre telescope is located in the large dome to the left of the photo above, and today astronomers use it to search for exoplanets. Since 2008, the telescope has housed the High Accuracy Radial Velocity Planet Searcher (HARPS) instrument, which was joined by the Near InfraRed Planet Searcher (NIRPS) in June 2022. Credit: ESO/M. Zamani
By combining two spectrographs developed by the Geneva Observatory, NIRPS and HARPS, with the TESS space telescope, the researchers discovered two very different planets orbiting the same star.
The inner planet, TOI-756 b, is a “sub-Neptune”—larger than Earth but smaller than Neptune, and enveloped in thick layers of gas- or water-rich material. It orbits its star in just 1.24 days, meaning its “year” lasts just under a weekend. Meanwhile, far away, the team discovered a massive, icy giant planet in an elongated, eccentric orbit, taking nearly 150 days to complete one orbit. This strange duo—a small, hot world right next to the star and a massive, cold planet much further away—is the first confirmed example of such planetary architecture around a red dwarf.
Red dwarfs are the most common stars in our galaxy, and understanding how planets form around them is therefore essential. Yet, until now, we had never observed this arrangement around this type of star. This suggests that planetary systems around red dwarfs could be far more diverse and complex than previously thought.
More interestingly, TOI-756 b lies at the edge of the “Hot Neptune Desert,” a region in the planet distribution where no planets exist. TOI-756 b could therefore be an ideal target for the James Webb Space Telescope to probe its atmosphere and help scientists better understand the mechanisms responsible for this peculiarity.
This is just the beginning: NIRPS is now revealing planetary systems that previous instruments could not detect—and TOI-756 could be one of the first surprises to come.
New instrument will provide numerous high-resolution spectra, complementing existing data
The 4MOST instrument installed at ESO’s VISTA telescope
AIP/A. Saviauk under license CC BY 4.0
First light for the 4MOST spectrograph at ESO’s VISTA telescope
Key hardware contributions by the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy
4MOST will obtain spectra for over 25 million stars, galaxies, and quasars
Science applications include stellar astrophysics and properties of the Milky Way galaxy
The previous weekend, the 4-metre Multi-Object Spectroscopic Telescope, “4MOST” for short, successfully made its first test observations. 4MOST is an instrument installed on ESO’s 4 meter survey telescope VISTA, which can simultaneously observe ~ 2400 objects within its large field-of-view of 4.2 square degrees. Over the next five years, 4MOST is set to record detailed spectra for more than 25 million astronomical objects, from stars and galaxies to distant quasars. Like most large astronomical instruments, 4MOST is built by a consortium, which in this case is led by AIP Potsdam, and which includes the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA).
MPIA has been responsible for instrument control hardware, and also contributed to the high-resolution spectrograph. As is usual when a consortium builds an instrument, MPIA as one of the core consortium members also receives a certain contingent of observing time on 4MOST. MPIA’s Maria Bergemann is one of the leaders (Principal Investigator, PI) of the 4MIDABLE-HR spectroscopic survey that will provide high-resolution optical spectra for over 3.6 million stars in the Milky Way galaxy. These stars had already been observed by European and US space-based missions, Gaia, eROSITA, K2 and TESS. 4MIDABLE-HR will also provide the first nearly complete spectroscopy of the southern field to be observed by PLATO exoplanet mission.
Bergemann is an expert on analysing stellar spectra, and she and her group will use these spectra to deduce the chemical abundances of over 20 elements, which represent all the different nucleosynthesis pathways by which stars convert lighter nuclei into heavier ones. The result is bound to have an impact on a whole spread of astrophysical questions: from stellar structure to the evolution of binary stars, the connection between stars and their planets, and the structure and chemical evolution of our home galaxy, the Milky Way.
Contact Image of Dr. Maria Bergemann Dr. Maria Bergemann Lise Meitner Group Leader +49 6221 528-401 bergemann@… Dr. Markus Pössel Head of press relations and outreach +49 6221 528-261 pr@… Max Planck Institute for Astronomy, Heidelberg Externe Pressemitteilung ESO press release on 4MOST first light
By: Dr. Maria Bergemann Originally published at: Max Planck Institute
Why buy a Bluetooth speaker when full-sized sound systems easily outperform these little gadgets? Home theater setups are indeed more powerful and deliver richer sound quality compared to compact speakers.
But the key advantage of Bluetooth speakers lies in portability, that’s their bread and butter. They’re designed to be taken anywhere, offering a balance between mobility and playback duration. So, don’t expect your handy-dandy speaker to match a full home sound system, as they serve different purposes.
When choosing a Bluetooth speaker, a few things matter most: power (both range and loudness), battery life, and of course, price – which often becomes the deciding factor in the end.
SPECIFICATIONS: Brand: JBL Output Power (in watts): 30 Size: 10″D x 6″W x 4″H Weight: 1.5 kilos (3.31 Pounds) Battery Life: 20 Hours Charging Speed: 5.5 Hours Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 80 dB Bluetooth range: 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) Protection Rating: IPX7 (Waterproof)
PROS: + Budget-friendly + High battery capacity + Waterproof
CONS: – Lower speaker output power compared to others
This budget-friendly portable audio deck might be one of the cheapest on the list, but don’t sell it short. It delivers decent output power with surprisingly good sound quality. Compared to the first generation, there’s a sixfold improvement in output power, which is impressive for its price range. On typical use, it can last up to 20 hours on a full charge, perfect for long listening sessions.
SPECIFICATIONS: Brand: Soundcore Output Power (in watts): 80 Size: 11.65″D x 7.28″W x 3.98″H Weight: 1.66 Kilograms Battery Life: 24 Hours Charging Speed: 5.5 Hours Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 90 dB Bluetooth range: 100m (approximately 328ft) Protection Rating: IPX7 (Waterproof)
PROS: + Waterproof + Longest Bluetooth range + Longest warranty
CONS: – Slightly heavier than the Bose SoundLink Flex
The Anker Soundcore Boom 2 is our recommended pick. It offers an excellent Bluetooth range, opening up plenty of possibilities, from freely moving around the house to enjoying music at the beach without worrying about disconnections due to obstacles. It also comes with an 18-month manufacturer warranty, giving you extra peace of mind and great value for your money.
In terms of audio performance, it delivers strong output power and impressive sound fidelity, boasting a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) comparable to the W-KING model featured on this list.
SPECIFICATIONS: Brand: Bose Output Power (in watts): 20 Size: 3.56″D x 7.93″W x 2.06″H Weight: 0.59 Kilograms (approximately 2.2 pounds) Battery Life: 12 Hours Charging Speed: 4 Hours Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Unspecified Bluetooth range: 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) Protection Rating: IP67 (Waterproof and dustproof )
PROS: + Slim and compact design + Lightest + Waterproof and dustproof
CONS: – Lowest battery capacity – Lowest speaker output power
One of the most common praises from our reviewers is its impressive sound design. Despite its size, the speaker delivers deep, rich bass, making it ideal for listeners who enjoy bass-heavy music.
It’s the smallest and most portable option on this list, though that comes with trade-offs, it has the lowest volume output and shorter battery life, lasting up to 12 hours of continuous play on a full charge.
SPECIFICATIONS: Brand: W-KING Output Power (in watts): 120 Size: 6.02″D x 14.53″W x 7.52″H Weight: 3 Kilograms Battery Life: 42 Hours Charging Speed: 7.5 Hours Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 90 dB Bluetooth range: 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) Protection Rating: IPX6 (Water protection but not submersible)
PROS: + Budget-friendly + Doubles as a power bank + Longest playtime (when LED light is off)
CONS: – Long charging time despite similar battery capacity to the JBL – Bulky design
Priced similarly to the JBL Charge 4, this little powerhouse delivers the highest output power in its range, giving it excellent overall value. What impressed us even more is its exceptionally high Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), ensuring clear and detailed sound even at higher volumes.
It also boasts up to 42 hours of playtime, though this may decrease when the LED lights are turned on. And yes, it even functions as a power bank, making it perfect for long trips or outdoor use.
Now for the less exciting part, money-saving tips. Let’s be honest: Bluetooth speakers don’t always last forever. At the very least, they should come with insurance or a warranty that covers common issues like defects.
We know returning broken items can be a hassle as it costs not just money, but time as well. The following table compares each model’s warranty duration, price, and an estimated value-per-month to help you decide which offers the best long-term deal.
A larger battery capacity doesn’t always mean longer playtime, actual battery life depends on factors such as volume level and additional features like LED lighting.
A high Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) is also an important quality indicator. A higher SNR means the audio is cleaner and clearer, with less interference from background electronic noise produced by the speaker’s internal components.
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NASA integrated the Artemis II Orion stage adapter with the rest of the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket on Wednesday in the Vehicle Assembly Building at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The Orion stage adapter connects the upper stage to the Orion spacecraft, isolates the spacecraft from hazardous gases, deploys small science satellites, and will be used in a maneuvering test during the Artemis II mission.
NASA
Built by NASA engineers at the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, the adapter connects the rocket’s interim cryogenic propulsion stage to the Orion spacecraft. A composite diaphragm within the ring protects the Orion spacecraft from hazardous gases generated during launch.
Four CubeSats containing science and technology experiments will be deployed from the adapter into high Earth orbit after Orion is a safe distance away . The 12U CubeSats aboard Artemis II were developed by international partners South Korea, Germany, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia. One “U”, or unit, is defined as 10 centimeters by 10 centimeters by 10 centimeters.
NASA will integrate the Orion spacecraft with the rocket in the coming weeks ahead of the mission, scheduled for no later than April 2026. Testing and simulations in preparation for the upcoming launch taking place no later than April 2026.
As the Artemis II rocket is nearing completion at NASA Kennedy, work continues on flight hardware for Artemis III. NASA Marshall engineers have flipped the Artemis III Orion stage adapter to begin bracket, avionics, and cable instillation. Later this fall, its diaphragm will be installed.
Through Artemis, NASA will send astronauts to explore the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and build the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars.
But how do you pick the right smartwatch? The answer depends on how you plan to use it. Let’s start with the most common features these devices provide.
At the most basic level, a smartwatch is still a watch, it tells the time. Beyond that, the real value comes from the extras. Smartwatches serve as a window into your smartphone, giving you quick access to notifications, schedules, messages, calendar reminders, and other important updates without needing to reach for your phone.
Next are the health benefits. While some may dismiss heart rate monitoring as a minor feature, it can be far more significant. For instance, if your heart rate is unusually high while you’re resting at home, not exercising, that may be an early warning sign of an underlying issue. These insights can be crucial for spotting concerns before they become problems.
Finally, many smartwatches offer GPS and location tracking, which are especially useful for activities like running, cycling, and hiking. Some models also include safety features, such as SOS alerts and fall detection, an invaluable tool for older adults or anyone at risk of falls.
SPECIFICATIONS: OS: Wear OS by Google Compatibility: Android and iPhone Display: Digital, 480 x 272 pixels Storage: 32 GB Battery: 37 days with solar charging (atleast 3 hours of direct sunlight), varied usage when GPS is enabled Charging time: Unspecified IP rating: 100 Meters Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, Wi-Fi GPS: Yes, built-in
PROS: + Built-in GPS. If always enabled, battery can last up 37 hours + Supports both Android and iPhone + Solar charging
CONS: – Most expensive of them all
The solar charging alone is already a standout reason to buy this smartwatch. Under regular use without constant GPS, you’ll barely need to charge it manually during the day. With GPS turned on, it can still last around 60-70 hours, depending on solar exposure.
This feature really shines for outdoor activities over long durations, such as hiking, trail running, or endurance workouts under the sun. The built-in flashlight, rugged durability, and fitness tracking features make it especially appealing for adventure seekers.
Our main concern is the price. At around $1,000, this is a serious investment. Even if you only count its minimum 1-year warranty, that works out to roughly $80 per month or about $3 per day. If you value solar charging, toughness, and performance for demanding activities, however, the fēnix 7X Pro proves itself to be worth the cost.
SPECIFICATIONS: OS: ios Compatibility: Android and iPhone Display: OLED, LCD, or AMOLED | 1.58-inch screen size and 348 x 442 resolution Storage: 4GB Battery: 6 days, or 12 hours if GPS is enabled Charging time: 12 minutes IP rating: IP67, Water resistant up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi GPS: Yes, built-in
PROS: + Built-in GPS. If always enabled, battery can last up 12 hours + Support Android and iPhone + Cheapest option from the list
CONS: – Low memory/storage – Low battery capacity
The Fitbit Versa 4, owned by Google, is one of the best entry-level smartwatches on the market. Priced at around $200, it offers solid value. Even if you only keep it for a year, which is backed by Fitbit’s warranty, that works out to roughly $15 per month. Considering the productivity features and health monitoring it provides, that’s a worthwhile investment.
The watch also includes a 6-month Fitbit Premium membership. This subscription unlocks additional reports, insights, and personalized wellness plans. While not essential for the watch to function, it’s a nice bonus for those who want deeper health tracking.
The Fitbit Versa 4 is a great budget-friendly smartwatch, perfect for beginners who want a reliable introduction to wearable tech. While you may find more advanced options at higher price points, its cost-to-feature balance is impressive. The main drawback is its battery life, with a weekly charging may feel inconvenient for some users.
SPECIFICATIONS: OS: Samsung’s Wear OS (Based from Google’s Wear OS) Compatibility: Android Display: AMOLED with 432 x 432 resolution Storage: 32 GB Battery: up to 30 Hours Charging time: Unspecified. Approximately 1-2 hours IP rating: IP68, water resistant up to 6 feet Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi GPS: No
PROS: + Has LTE + Great compatibility with Samsung phones
CONS: – No built-in GPS – Low battery capacity, needs to be charged every other day
The Galaxy Watch 7 is a solid companion if you’re already using a Samsung Galaxy phone. While it can connect to an iPhone, functionality is limited to basic features like step counting and heart rate monitoring. For the best experience, full compatibility is really only available with Samsung’s own devices.
Build quality is decent, and although its price is slightly higher than the Fitbit Versa 4, it’s still relatively affordable compared to premium smartwatches. The biggest drawback is its battery life, lasting only about two days on a charge. Another downside is the lack of built-in GPS, which puts it behind some competitors in this price range.
Overall, the Galaxy Watch 7 is not the strongest option in terms of features or endurance, but if you’re a Samsung Galaxy phone user looking for seamless integration, it remains a worthy option to consider.
SPECIFICATIONS: OS: Apple Compatibility: iPhone only Display: 42 millimeters OLED, (resolution unspecified) Storage: 64GB Battery: up to 18 hours Charging time: 80% battery in approximately 30 minutes, magnetic wireless charging IP rating: IP6X-certified dust resistant, 50 maters water resistance Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi GPS: Yes, built-in
PROS: + Highest storage + Built-in fall detection and crash detection + Emergency SOS lets you call for help with the press of a button + Works seamlessly with your Apple devices and services
CONS: – Only supports iPhone. – Lowest battery life, needs to be charged almost daily
For iPhone users, the Apple Watch Series 10 is the obvious choice. While some third-party smartwatches work with iPhones, compatibility issues and Apple’s famously closed ecosystem means that Apple Watch remains the most seamless option. This model also offers the largest display yet, with a slightly bigger screen than its predecessors.
One of its strongest appeals is the comprehensive health monitoring suite. The built-in ECG can help detect irregular heart rhythms, while fall detection provides peace of mind for older adults, people with mobility challenges, or anyone at higher risk of falls. While false positives can happen, the feature has been credited with saving lives in real emergencies.
The main limitation is its restricted compatibility. As with all Apple products, it works best within the Apple ecosystem, and support for non-Apple devices is minimal. For those already invested in iPhones and other Apple products, however, the Apple Watch Series 10 is a top-tier smartwatch that blends design, health tracking, and usability.
SPECIFICATIONS: OS: Zepp OS 4.0 Compatibility: Android 7.0 and above, iOS 14.0 and above Display: 1.5 Inches Storage: 26 GB Battery: Up to 27 days on a single charge. GPS mode : Up to 180 hours (7.5 days) Charging time: Unspecified. IP rating: IPX7 water resistance rating Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi GPS: Yes, built-in
PROS: + Supports Android and iOS devices + Long battery duration
CONS: – Bulky appearance
The Amazfit T-Rex 3 stands out as the most well-balanced option in terms of features, battery life, and price, making it our recommended pick. With a rugged, professional, sporty look, it includes essentials such as a heart rate monitor and blood oxygen tracking, similar to the higher-priced models on this list.
Battery performance is a key highlight: it can last up to 27 days on a single charge with typical use (without GPS), putting it in the same league as the Garmin in terms of endurance. This makes it a strong choice for those who don’t want the hassle of frequent charging.
The design, however, may not appeal to everyone. The body of the watch, excluding the round display, features a hexagonal casing, which sets it apart from the usual circular or square designs. While distinctive, the larger build may feel bulky on smaller wrists.
For comparison’s sake, let’s assume each of these smartwatches lasts at least one year—the period generally covered by warranty. Of course, most will last much longer, but this gives us a baseline to measure monthly cost of ownership:
At a minimum, every smartwatch on this list offers a productivity boost through notifications and basic health monitoring. But in the end, the decision often comes down to something more personal: how it looks and feels on your wrist.
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This NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope image released on Sept. 12, 2025, features a cloudy starscape from an impressive star cluster. This scene is in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy situated about 160,000 light-years away in the constellations Dorado and Mensa. With a mass equal to 10–20% of the mass of the Milky Way, the Large Magellanic Cloud is the largest of the dozens of small galaxies that orbit our galaxy.
The Large Magellanic Cloud is home to several massive stellar nurseries where gas clouds, like those strewn across this image, coalesce into new stars. Today’s image depicts a portion of the galaxy’s second-largest star-forming region, which is called N11. (The most massive and prolific star-forming region in the Large Magellanic Cloud, the Tarantula Nebula, is a frequent target for Hubble.) We see bright, young stars lighting up the gas clouds and sculpting clumps of dust with powerful ultraviolet radiation.
This image marries observations made roughly 20 years apart, a testament to Hubble’s longevity. The first set of observations, which were carried out in 2002–2003, capitalized on the exquisite sensitivity and resolution of the then-newly-installed Advanced Camera for Surveys. Astronomers turned Hubble toward the N11 star cluster to do something that had never been done before at the time: catalog all the stars in a young cluster with masses between 10% of the Sun’s mass and 100 times the Sun’s mass.
The second set of observations came from Hubble’s newest camera, the Wide Field Camera 3. These images focused on the dusty clouds that permeate the cluster, providing us with a new perspective on cosmic dust.
@NASAHubble
By: NASA Hubble Mission Team Originally published at: NASA
