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Your TV's USB port has 5 hidden superpowers: Here's how I take advantage of mine

Kerry Wan/ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. After the initial setup, most people rarely engage directly with their smart TV. With wireless connectivity, phone apps, and remote controls, there's little need to. Tucked next to the essential HDMI ports, a USB 2.0 port -- likely sitting unnoticed on the back or side panel -- offers more potential than you might expect. Also: Samsung is giving away free 65-inch TVs right now - here's how to get one USB ports are easy to

Topics: drive port ports tv usb

25 Best Power Banks (2025), I've Tested Countless to Find Them

What Features Should I Look for in Power Banks? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron There are a few things worth thinking about when you’re shopping for a portable charger. The capacity of a power bank is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), but this can be a little misleading because the amount of power you get out depends on the cable you use, the device you're charging, and the charging method (Qi wireless charging is less efficient). You will never get the maximum capacity. We try to p

What Is USB-C, and What Do All Those Numbers Mean?

From laptops to phones to wireless Bluetooth speakers, earbuds and more, USB-C connections have become the de facto standard for charging and data transfer of devices. While USB-C is just about everywhere now, including longstanding holdout Apple since the iPhone 15, not all ports or cables are the same. They look identical, sure, and have some interoperability, but there are ratings for different charging and data speeds. That can make choosing a USB-C cable more complicated than it should be.

5 of the best Pixel 10 chargers you should buy instead of Google’s 67W brick

Google has a new charger for the Pixel 10 series, offering 67W of peak power spread across two USB-C ports. As an official product, this is the safe bet for guaranteed fast charging, but it’s also more power than you might need, and it’s not exactly the most affordable plug on the market either. Likewise, perhaps you’re after just a single-port plug or maybe want something that can power your laptop and tablet as well as your new Pixel? To help, I’ve dug out some of the best chargers money can b

The best portable monitors in 2025

Whether you're working on the go, gaming away from your desk or just want a second screen to boost your productivity, a portable monitor can be a handy solution. These lightweight displays are perfect for adding more screen space to your setup without taking up much room — especially useful if you're using a compact laptop or traveling often. Many of the best portable monitors now support USB Type-C connections for easy plug-and-play setups, and some even run entirely on USB power, so you don

This is the coolest charger I’ve seen, and it’s 25% off!

See that little robot in the image above? It’s actually a multi-port charger! It will definitely spark plenty of conversations, but it’s also a pretty capable charger, and right now, it’s 25% off! Buy the GravaStar Alpha65 GaN 65W Wall Charger for just $37.46 ($12.49 off) This offer is available from Amazon, but the deal isn’t applied automatically. You must manually apply an on-page coupon before adding it to your cart. By the way, the maximum savings only work with the Gray and White models.

Best Surge Protectors of 2025: I Tested 16 Surge Protectors to Find the Best

Accell D080B-051B (Out of stock): It looks like a squid or maybe a six-legged octopus. (Hexapus?) I feel like this is enough reason to buy it, but it may not be for everyone. Its main benefit is that, instead of rigid outlets on a flat frame like most surge protectors, it has five short cables with the outlets at the end. The Accell is rated at a claimed 1,080 joules. Most surge protectors will continue to pass power when they've passed their joule rating, but the D080B-051B has a fail safe, cut

My new favorite universal adapter for traveling has a hidden superpower (and on sale)

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET Get more in-depth ZDNET tech coverage: Add us as a preferred Google source on Chrome and Chromium browsers. Wherever I go -- whether I'm traveling in the UK or abroad -- I bring a universal travel adapter with me. They're the perfect companion to keep my gadgets charged up with their compact form and selection of ports. Over the past few weeks, I've been testing the Baseus EnerCore CG11 6-in-1 universal travel adapter, and it's turned out to be the best-engineered

My internet went down - but this TV USB port trick made the outage more bearable

Adam Breeden/ZDNET ZDNET's key takeaways Most smart TVs have USB ports that are greatly underutilized. The outputs can be used to broadcast local media files, troubleshoot bugs, download updates, and more. I've been using my USB port to play older media files, especially when the internet is down. Get more in-depth ZDNET tech coverage: Add us as a preferred Google source on Chrome and Chromium browsers. These days, the internet and Wi-Fi connectivity seem to be virtually ubiquitous. In the

Topics: drive file files tv usb

This universal adapter's hidden superpower earned it a spot in my travel bag

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET Wherever I go -- whether I'm traveling in the UK or abroad -- I bring a universal travel adapter with me. They're the perfect companion to keep my gadgets charged up with their compact form and selection of ports. Over the past few weeks, I've been testing the Baseus EnerCore CG11 6-in-1 universal travel adapter, and it's turned out to be the best-engineered travel adapter I've used so far. Also: I replaced my MacBook charger with this compact wall unit - and wish

The best gadgets and apps in August (so far)

is a reviews editor who manages how-tos and various projects. She’s worked as an editor and writer (and occasional sci-fi author) for more years than she cares to admit to. During the last half month, we’ve covered a lot of interesting gadgets and apps and thought we’d highlight a few that caught our attention the most. For example, we have a robovac that can mop the edges of your walls (something that my manual mop usually fails at), a charging cable that with any luck will last a good long ti

Topics: ai deals dia smart usb

I tested the best laptop docking stations -- here's what I recommend for your office setup

For students heading back to school or professionals looking to upgrade, a good docking station can make all the difference. These devices, sometimes called Thunderbolt docks, consolidate your connectivity needs into one compact hub. With the right one, you can plug in all sorts of accessories like external drives, keyboards, and even monitors. The best docks are fully loaded with a wide array of ports, support multiple high-res displays, and offer fast data transfer speeds. There are many grea

Finally, I found a portable charger that checks all of my boxes for traveling

Voltme Hypercore 10K power bank ZDNET's key takeaways Voltme's Hypercore 10K power bank is available on Amazon for $23. It's very compact and easy to carry, with both USB-C and USB-A ports to charge two devices simultaneously. Its small but chunky, as some might prefer a flatter charger. $22.99 at Amazon Power banks are a tradeoff: too big and they're heavy and awkward to carry, too small and they're pretty useless because there's not enough charge power. I've found that the 10,000mAh mark is

Fairphone’s new chargers are as fast as they are eco-friendly

TL;DR Fairphone has launched a new range of USB-C cables and chargers. The new cables support 240W power output and can withstand at least 70,000 bends. The three-port 65W charger is set to launch before the end of September. Fairphone is best known for its ethically made handsets, like the recently launched Fairphone 6. But it makes more than just phones; you’ll also find earbuds and headphones. Now the company has expanded its product line even further with the launch of new cables and char

This magnetic charger brings the conveniences of wireless charging to the iPad

is a senior reporter who’s been covering and reviewing the latest gadgets and tech since 2006, but has loved all things electronic since he was a kid. Posts from this author will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed. Apple still hasn’t brought wireless charging to the iPad, but Kuxiu’s new charger brings similar functionality and convenience to the iPad Pro and iPad Air. Like wireless chargers for the iPhone, the M30 magnetically attaches to the back of supported iPad mod

Topics: charger inch ipad m30 usb

Fairphone’s new cables and chargers are both faster and tougher

Posts from this author will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed. Repairable phone manufacturer Fairphone has announced a new range of USB cables and chargers. While they’re not user-repairable, the company says that they’re more durable and sustainably manufactured than its previous peripherals. And even for people without a Fairphone device, they should make for a more affordable entry point to its more ethical take on tech. The new USB cables are all C-to-C, but includ

I bought a £16 smartwatch just because it used USB-C

Look, I'm an idiot. I know that, you know that, and the man on the moon knows that. Let's not get into why I'm an idiot; let's just accept that I have my peculiarities and you have yours. My idiocy is a quest to make sure all my portable electronics can recharge using USB-C. Modern smartwatches are tiny and they do a lot. As a consequence, their battery life is generally poor. The industry's attempts to fix this are either to replace the charging standard every year hoping to find something mag

Topics: app screen usb use watch

Why I no longer travel without this portable battery - and it's not made by Anker or Ugreen

Voltme Hypercore 10K power bank ZDNET's key takeaways Voltme's Hypercore 10K power bank is available on Amazon for $23. It's very compact and easy to carry, with both USB-C and USB-A ports to charge two devices simultaneously. Its small but chunky, as some might prefer a flatter charger. $22.99 at Amazon Power banks are a tradeoff: too big and they're heavy and awkward to carry, too small and they're pretty useless because there's not enough charge power. I've found that the 10,000mAh mark is

Satisfy your charging needs with these two deals!

Is your phone charging slowly? Chances are the charger is to blame. Here’s an awesome deal on a fast charger with multiple ports that will untether you from the outlet. Also, we have a deal that will help if you are lacking outlets! Let’s go into the details. Buy the UGREEN 100W 4 in 1 GaN USB-C Charger with Retractable Cable for $44.99 ($15 off) Buy the Anker Surge Protector Power Strip 2100J for $22.79 ($7.20 off) These offers are available from Amazon, but they are slightly different. The UG

Android really needs a better definition of fast charging, here’s how I’d fix it

Rita El Khoury / Android Authority Maybe it’s just the sheer number of phones that cross my desk, but I have a love-hate relationship with USB-C. It’s great that I can charge my headphones, laptop, and latest Android smartphones with the same plug, but figuring out whether my gadgets are actually charging optimally is often just a matter of shrugging and hoping for the best. As I’ve whined about countless times, USB-C still has too many different flavors for fast charging. Whether that’s propr

This new Android security feature could interfere with fast charging, and here’s why

Rita El Khoury / Android Authority TL;DR Android 16’s upcoming USB Protection feature enhances security by defaulting new USB connections to charging-only when the device is locked. This security measure may interfere with fast charging, as many protocols require data negotiation between the phone and the charger to work. If your phone isn’t fast charging, a simple workaround is to unlock the device and then reconnect the USB cable. Of all the new features in Android 16, Advanced Protection

This palm-sized power bank can charge multiple devices at once - and I'm all for the price

Voltme Hypercore 10K power bank ZDNET's key takeaways Voltme's Hypercore 10K power bank is available on Amazon for $23. It's very compact and easy to carry, with both USB-C and USB-A ports to charge two devices simultaneously. Its small but chunky, as some might prefer a flatter charger. $22.99 at Amazon Power banks are a tradeoff: too big and they're heavy and awkward to carry, too small and they're pretty useless because there's not enough charge power. I've found that the 10,000mAh mark is

The best USB-C hub for 2025

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . It’s impressive what tablets and ultraportable laptops can do. But to get the most functionality out of them, you may want a few more ports at your disposal, which is where a USB-C hub comes into play. By connecting to just one port, these handy devices give you extra USB connections,

Topics: hub hubs port ports usb

I found a tiny power bank that charges two devices at once - for under $25

Voltme Hypercore 10K power bank ZDNET's key takeaways Voltme's Hypercore 10K power bank is available on Amazon for $23. It's very compact and easy to carry, with both USB-C and USB-A ports to charge two devices simultaneously. Its small but chunky, as some might prefer a flatter charger. View now at Amazon Power banks are a tradeoff: too big and they're heavy and awkward to carry, too small and they're pretty useless because there's not enough charge power. I've found that the 10,000mAh mark

This dock transforms the Mac mini into a retro classic Mac

It’s becoming increasingly rare to find a tech accessory in 2025 that’s both functional and fun to use. As so many of these accessories become more commoditized, they begin to function and look the same, making them fade into the background. So when I saw the Wokyis Retro Docking Station for the M4 Mac mini, I was immediately intrigued. It transforms the Mac mini into something straight out of 1984. On paper, it had all the functions I needed out of a dock, but it was also such a cool-looking pr

Sony officially unveils FlexStrike wireless fight stick for PlayStation and PC

Highly anticipated: The FlexStrike wireless fight stick includes round, octagonal, and square interchangeable restrictor gates. So if you want to pause Street Fighter 6 for some Pac-Man, you can easily snap in the square gate without tools. For portability, the base's bottom pops off to reveal storage for the gates, USB cable (included), and the new PS Link USB adapter. It also comes with a nice sling carrying case for travel or storage. During last month's State of Play, Sony unveiled Project

Sony reveals more about its first-party PC-compatible PS5 fight stick, "FlexStrike"

Highly anticipated: During last month's State of Play, Sony unveiled Project Defiant – a custom-designed fight stick featuring toolless interchangeable restrictor gates, mechanical switches, and a touchpad. At the time, details were scant, but today Sony revealed a few more tidbits about the product, including its official name. The FlexStrike wireless fight stick includes round, octagonal, and square interchangeable restrictor gates. So if you want to pause Street Fighter 6 for some Pac-Man, y

Pick up this Anker power bank that can charge a laptop while it's 30 percent off

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Get 25,000mAh of power and three USB-C ports for less than $100. Prime Day has come and gone, but power bank stalwart Anker still has some compelling deals to keep your devices charged while on the go. Among these is the Anker Laptop Power Bank, which carries 25,000mAh of portable pow

Hands-on with Anker’s latest three products: Impressively thin MagSafe battery, more

Today, Anker announced three new products for its Anker Nano lineup of charging gear. It announced a new power bank, a new 7-in-1 charging station, and a new MagSafe/Qi2 battery – the last of which is certainly impressive. I’ve had the products for a couple days now, and I’ll be providing some quick impressions. Nano Power Bank (10K) First things first: a new compact power bank. It packs 10,000mAh of capacity in a very small form factor, and it’s one of the most impressive 10K power banks I’ve

Topics: bank new port power usb

Why this SSD docking station is one of the best investments I've made for my PC

Sabrent USB SSD Docking Station ZDNET's key takeaways The Sabrent USB SSD 4-bay docking station is available now on Amazon for $72. This docking station makes adding external drives to your system a total plug-and-play affair. The case is plastic, so it feels a bit cheap but that doesn't get in the way of performance. View now at Amazon At Amazon, the Sabrent USB SSD docking station is currently on sale for $72, a savings of $18. It seems I'm always running out of room on my iMac drives. Why