Technology

Even if you have 16GB of RAM, this one "compressed swap" trick makes Linux significantly smoother

How-To Geek - 1 hour 20 min ago

Regardless of how much RAM you have, if you don't take care and do proper management of your resources, you might still find the occasional memory hog that bogs down your entire system.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I test laptops for a living — these are my favorite MacBook deals from Amazons Big Spring Sale.

Mashable - 1 hour 35 min ago
A quick look at the best MacBook deals from Amazon's Big Spring Sale: Best MacBook Air deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $949 (save $250) Get Deal Best MacBook Neo deal (that's barely a deal) Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $689.99 (save $9.01) Get Deal Best MacBook Pro deal Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,549 (save $50) Get Deal

Amazon's third consecutive Big Spring Sale is running through March 31. And while the sale event mainly revolves around seasonal essentials like cleaning supplies and outdoor gear, it's also hosting some very attractive deals on must-have tech — including flagship Apple products like MacBooks. As Mashable's resident laptop expert, I'm on the case.

Apple actually just refreshed its MacBook lineup earlier this month, announcing updated MacBook Airs and Pros in addition to an all-new budget MacBook Neo. Most configurations of these new releases are seeing their very first (tiny) discounts during the Big Spring Sale, while their predecessors are priced to move at up to $300 off.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's Big Spring Sale is surprisingly good: We found 111+ deals on Apple, DJI, Sony, and Dyson

Keep in mind that Apple has discontinued its last-gen MacBooks, which means they'll only be available on the refurbished market once third-party retailers' inventories dry up. So, if you see a good deal on an M4 MacBook Air or Pro on Amazon this week, don't wait too long to add it to your cart. I think they'll sell out there long before this summer's Prime Day sale. We're already seeing some listings disappear and some sale prices creep back up, so it's best to keep on your toes and snag those bargains while they're available.

I'll continue to monitor Amazon's Big Spring Sale MacBook deals as the sale continues into next week, so check back if nothing catches your eye just yet. Note: Deals marked with a 🔥 have dropped to a record-low price.

Best MacBook Air deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) 🔥 $949 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $250   Get Deal Why I like it

The M4 MacBook Air may be a last-gen laptop, but it's still an incredibly capable ultraportable. (In our testing, it proved much faster than much pricier Windows laptops.) It has the same 12MP Center Stage webcam, Liquid Retina display, and 18-hour battery life as its new M5 counterpart, which just offers slightly faster performance and newer wireless connectivity. This 13-inch configuration has 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage just like the M5 base model, which is going for $100 more.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple MacBook Air (M4).

More MacBook Air dealsBest MacBook Neo deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $689.99 at Amazon
$699 Save $9.01   Get Deal Why I like it

Nine bucks off barely counts as a discount, but this is the best MacBook Neo deal I've seen outside of the Apple Store itself. (You can get $100 off there, but only if you're a college student, a parent of one, or school faculty.) This colorful little laptop has the same premium aluminum build as any other MacBook, and it boasts incredibly impressive single-core performance; in basic everyday tasks like web browsing, it's just as fast as an M4 MacBook Air. This particular model comes with Touch ID. It's worth noting, however, that the more desirable yellow and pink editions are back at full price today, so you can only get that $9 discount on the silver and indigo versions.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple MacBook Neo.

Best MacBook Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,549 at Amazon
$1,599 Save $50   Get Deal Why I like it

A MacBook Pro has more ports and a brighter, smoother display than a MacBook Air. It's also better at handling heavier workloads (like video editing) over a long period of time since it has fans. I recommend it as an upgrade pick for power users like content creators and developers. The base configuration of the M5 MacBook Pro has a bumped-up storage of 1TB, though that version has also bumped back up in price today after being marked down to $1,580. Now it's up to $1,649, which is still $50 the list price. But if you can sacrifice some storage, the 512GB version is at $1,549.

Read Mashable's full review of the 14-inch Apple MacBook Pro (M5).

More MacBook Pro deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple kills the Mac Pro and its fancy $700 wheels, too

Mashable - 1 hour 39 min ago

Talk about the end of an era: Apple has officially discontinued the Mac Pro.

9to5Mac was the first to notice that the Mac Pro has been removed from Apple's website, and Apple confirmed that the pro-grade desktop machine has been discontinued.

The old Mac Pro page now simply redirects to Apple's Mac homepage, which only offers the Mac mini, Mac Studio, and iMac desktop computers.

The Mac Pro was introduced in 2019 as an incredibly powerful and pricy desktop computer. It was praised for improved thermal management compared to the old, "trash can" Mac Pro, but also ridiculed for its "cheese grater" design.

Besides being a pricy machine in its own right, the Mac Pro also raised eyebrows due to its wheels, which cost $400 as an option and a whopping $699 if you bought them separately. For those of you who were eager to dish out seven hundred bucks for these beauties, we regret to report that the wheels, too, are no longer available for purchase.

No! Not the wheeeeels! Credit: Apple

Joking aside, this is a serious moment for Mac-loving professionals, as Apple confirmed to 9to5Mac it had no plans to offer any Mac Pro hardware in the future.

SEE ALSO: Here's how the MacBook Neo compares to older MacBook Airs

If you need a pro-grade Mac, it'll have to be the Mac Studio, which fortunately is quite a powerful machine, with either an M4 Max or M3 Ultra chip, up to 256GB of memory, and up to 16TB of storage. According to recent reports, Apple plans to upgrade the Mac Studio sometime in mid-2026.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best deals in Home Depots Spring Sale — score free power tools from DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Ryobi

Mashable - 1 hour 40 min ago
A quick look at the best Home Depot Spring Sale deals: Best cordless power tool deal DeWalt 20V Max Cordless 9 Tool Combo Kit $649 at Home Depot (save $350) Get Deal Best Amazon device deal Amazon Echo Spot $49.99 at Home Depot (save $30) Get Deal Best BOGO tool deal RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless String Trimmer $299 plus free gift at Home Depot Get Deal Best camping deal Ryobi One+ 18V Cordless 3-Tool Campers Kit $69 at Home Depot (save $64.79) Get Deal Best backyard deal Napoleon Rogue PRO-S 625 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill $1,601 at Home Depot (save $178) Get Deal

Home Depot doesn't hold competition sales for any of Amazon's seasonal sales as reliably as Target or Walmart do. That doesn't mean that there aren't any good spring deals to be found at Home Depot during Amazon's Big Spring Sale. You just have to scroll a little bit.

So far, Home Depot is once again giving away some free power tools with select purchases — reminiscent of the BOGO cordless tool promo we saw during Black Friday. (But hurry, some of the free DeWalt deals have sold out already.) Home Depot is also quietly competing with Wayfair's Big Outdoor Sale with discounts on outdoor furniture, as well as up to 40% off in other home categories, from mattresses to wallpaper to area rugs from big brands like Safavieh.

SEE ALSO: I test new vacuums every month. Here are the robot vacuum deals I think are worth it at Amazon's spring sale. Best Home Depot cordless power tools deal Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt 20V Max Cordless 9 Tool Combo Kit $649 at Home Depot
$799 Save $150   Get Deal Why we like it

Spring home improvement projects just got a major upgrade. The nine-piece DeWalt 20V Max Combo Kit is loaded with essentials to tackle home projects this spring and summer, and it comes with two 20V 2.0Ah batteries and charger. A well-trusted brand in the industry, the DeWalt cordless power tool kit includes a compact drill driver, impact driver, reciprocal saw, circular saw, and even more. Plus, it has a few extra accessories like an LED work light, durable Bluetooth speaker, and two contractor bags for all your new tools.

More cordless power tool dealsBest Home Depot BOGO dealsBest Home Depot Amazon device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Spot $49.99 at Home Depot
$79.99 Save $30.00   Get Deal Why we like it

The Home Depot might not seem like a retailer that would stock your favorite Amazon devices, but here we are. Matching the sale price at Amazon during the Amazon Big Spring Sale, you can snag the new Amazon Echo Spot from Home Depot for $49.99, down from the list price of $79.99. This compact bed-side device can server as your alarm clock, Bluetooth speaker, personal weather expert, schedule keeper, and more. Plus, it's a great clock which means you won't reach for your phone in the middle in the night to check on the time and then accidentally scroll Instagram for an hour.

More Amazon device dealsBest Home Depot backyard deal Opens in a new window Credit: Napoleon Napoleon Rogue PRO-S 625 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill $1,601 at Home Depot
$1,779 Save $178   Get Deal Why we like it

With summer coming up quickly, it's time to consider the backyard barbecue. If the sad grill you used last year it's gonna make the cut this year, Home Depot's Spring Sale is here to offer some upgrades. One of the best deals is on the Napoleon Rogue PRO-S 625 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill which comes with a massive cooking area of 625 square inches. You'll be able to flip 39 burgers on the surface and it can heat to 400 degrees in just six minutes. Plus, it comes with a 15 year warranty.

More backyard dealsOther Home Depot spring deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Dirty Laundrys Lily Du and Grant OBrien on the Dropout shows secrets

Mashable - 1 hour 45 min ago

There's nothing better than a good drink, a great circle of friends, and some piping hot tea.

It's little wonder then that Dropout's Dirty Laundry has been enticing fans for five seasons and counting. Each episode, dazzling host Lily Du and bantering bartender Grant O'Brien gather together four guest stars to share their wildest stories. For added fun, there's a game element: Can you guess whose dirty laundry is being aired?

Following the fifth season, Dirty Laundry's stars brought their gossipy game to SXSW for a live audience to enjoy. But before their big show, Du and O'Brien came by Mashable's SXSW Say More studio for some conversation about cocktails, mocktails, soap opera acting, and much, much more.

The video above features the first chunk of our interview. For more — including Du's thoughts on her Game Changer breast milk taste test and O'Brien's proud representation of chaotic bisexuals — be sure to check out the full episode on YouTube.

And for more Dirty Laundry, check out Dropout.

Categories: IT General, Technology

4 fantastic Netflix shows you should watch this weekend (March 27 - 29)

How-To Geek - 1 hour 50 min ago

Looking for some great TV to watch this weekend on Netflix? If you're not currently wrapped up in season two of One Piece like I am, or still have the Peaky Blinders movie on your watch list, I've got a handful of shows you can nestle into this weekend.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Our favorite DJI deals from the Amazon Big Spring Sale: Drones, mics, and power stations at record-low prices

Mashable - 1 hour 56 min ago
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI deals at a glance: Best DJI Drone deal DJI Mavic 4 Pro Triple Camera Flagship Drone $4,399 (save $829) Get Deal Best DJI Mic Deal DJI Mic Mini (2TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) $79 (save $20) Get Deal Best DJI portable power station deal DJI Power 1000 V2 $364 (save $335) Get Deal Best DJI Gimbal Deal DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal $98.98 (save $30.02) Get Deal Best for Creators DJI Osmo Pocket 3 $439 (save $60) Get Deal

The Amazon Big Spring Sale has entered day three, bringing a slew of deals across tons of categories. Until March 31, you'll find major savings from the retailer on everything from robot vacuums to Apple Watches and outdoor deals. And we're on the case, highlighting the best deals across the most sought-after categories.

If you're looking to save on DJI products, now's the time to do so. It isn't just a drone company. DJI produces the viral DJI Mic Mini and a number of other content creation tools, including portable power stations, action cameras, and smartphone gimbals.

DJI has emerged as a Mashable reader and editor favorite, and our reporters use DJI products like the Mic Mini in our everyday work. You'll also see DJI products all over TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, where the company's products are popular with creators.

Please note: Due to the DJI drone ban and ongoing import problems, DJI products at Amazon are usually sold through third-party sellers. We recommend checking the seller's reviews and shopping accordingly (check the "Ships from" and "Sold by" information.)

Best Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI drone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Mavic 4 Pro Triple Camera Flagship Drone $4,399 at Amazon
$5,228 Save $829   Get Deal Why we like it

This DJI drone is in stock right now, so if you've been thinking of a reason to pick one up, it's time to lock in. It's a tri-camera unit with a 100MP 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad camera with a max flight time of 51 minutes. It also comes with three batteries, spare propellers, a charging hub, shoulder bag, and other goodies. Plus, its new gimbal gives you 360-degree rotation with Dutch angles and a 41km range for timelapse and panoramic images.

More DJI drone dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI mic deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Mic Mini (2TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) $79 at Amazon
$99 Save $20   Get Deal Why we like it

This TikTok-famous DJI Mic Mini set is well-loved for a reason. It sounds great, offers up to 48 hours of recording time, and it's perfect for users both new and old thanks to its accessibility and simple setup. It comes with a receiver, two transmitters, a charging cable, phone adapter, four windscreens, two magnetic clips, and a case, so you're all set to start using it immediately.

More DJI mic dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Smartphone Gimbal $98.98 at Amazon
$129 Save $30.02   Get Deal Why we like it

This is the smartphone gimbal our tech editor personally uses and recommends for shooting social video at home and at events. DJI recently replaced the 7P with a new model, the DJI Osmo Mobile 8, which is also on sale. However, it's hard to argue with an under-$100 price tag. This handy gimbal lets you shoot steady video and track your face, and it pairs well with DJI wireless microphones.

More DJI camera dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI power station deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Power 1000 V2 $364 at Amazon
$699 Save $335   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the DJI Power 1000 V2.

It's easy to forget that DJI sells power stations, too. But the brand recently revamped its portable power lineup, and the upgraded DJI Power 1000 V2 is practically tailor-made for anyone shooting video. In her recent review, Mashable's Lauren Allain writes: "After testing the upgraded DJI Power 1000 V2, I'm convinced this is a great model for content creators, those who prioritize a super-quiet power station, or anyone looking for exceptional value in portable power."

It has a 1,024Wh capacity and features dedicated SDC ports that can super-fast-charge your DJI drone batteries, so you can get back in the air in about 30 minutes. Plus, when the station itself finally runs out of juice, you can plug it into a standard wall outlet and hit a full 100 percent charge in just 56 minutes.

More DJI power station deals

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Daily Shows Josh Johnson reacts to Melania Trumps robot

Mashable - 2 hours 3 min ago

There are some political moments that just lend themselves to comedy, and – as Jimmy Kimmel demonstrated yesterday – Melania Trump's robot-assisted tech summit entrance was difficult to overlook.

In the clip above, Daily Show host Josh Johnson reacts to Melania entering day two of her "Fostering the Future Together" summit alongside a humanoid robot.

"Look, I know this was supposed to be for some kind of technology event, but look at this video," says Johnson. "She's walking out with that robot like they just got married. 'Ladies and gentlemen, for the first time, Mr and Mrs WALL-E'!

"By the way, I like how Melania is flexing on that robot with her walk. She's got a whole runway walk going while that robot is just doing the Biden shuffle."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Were tracking the best Apple deals in Amazons Spring Sale — new lows on AirPods, iPads, and MacBooks

Mashable - 2 hours 5 min ago
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale Apple deals at a glance: Best AirPods deal AirPods Pro 3 $199 (save $50) Get Deal Best AirTag deal Apple AirTag (1st Gen, 4-Pack) $59.99 (save $39.01) Get Deal Best iPad deal Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $749 (save $50) Get Deal Best MacBook deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $949 (save $250) Get Deal Best Apple Watch deal Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) $299 (save $100) Get Deal

Amazon's Big Spring Sale is back for its third consecutive year, with deals running across the site through March 31. The retailer began rolling out wide-ranging discounts earlier this week, with more to come as prices drop on such items as robot vacuums, TVs, and your daily essentials. And if there's one thing we can always guarantee, it's that this sale features a raft of much-welcome Apple deals.

Apple has kept us very busy so far in 2026. We've been hard at work testing the first-ever budget Neo MacBook, as well as the upgraded MacBook Airs and MacBook Pros, a new iPad Air, and the iPhone 17e. Next on our Apple to-do list: the upcoming AirPods Max 2.

With so many new Apple products, we're seeing a bunch of first-time discounts during the Amazon spring sale, as well as new record-low prices on last-gen models like the Apple Watch SE 2. What more could you want from a major sale event?

We'll be tracking prices on AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads between now and March 31, so keep checking back on this page for info on the lowest-possible prices across Apple products.

Best AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199 at Amazon
$249 Save $50   Get Deal Why we like it

We've always been fans of the AirPods Pro, but the third generation really takes them to new heights. Mashable's reviewer called them, "without a doubt, one of the best products of the year" in 2025.

The latest premium buds feature outstanding noise cancellation (twice as good as the Pro 2), a solid eight hours of battery life with ANC on, and new foam-infused tips that come in five sizes to find the perfect fit. Apple also brought the heart rate monitoring tech from the Powerbeats Pro 2 (our favorite earbuds for working out) and Fitness app compatibility to the new AirPods Pro 3, and introduced a live translation feature.

While we've seen the buds drop as low as $184 in the past, this Amazon spring sale discount is still worth grabbing.

More AirPods dealsBest AirTag deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTag (1st Gen, 4-Pack) $59.99 at Amazon
$99 Save $39.01   Get Deal Why we like it

This four-pack of Apple's Bluetooth trackers keeps going in and out of stock on Amazon, which is hardly surprising: It's never been cheaper there. (It dipped to $62.99 on Black Friday, but the $59.99 sale price is a new record-low price.) You wind up paying just $15 per AirTag. If it sells out, Walmart and Best Buy are both offering the same deal.

Best iPad deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $749 at Amazon
$799 Save $50   Get Deal Why we like it

Just launched earlier this month, the 13-inch M4 iPad Air is already on sale for $84.50 off. The base configuration with WiFi connectivity and 128GB of storage is now just $714.50 (normally $799). Mashable's tech editor took the M4 iPad Air for a spin and found it pretty impressive — too impressive for the average user, even. "It delivers iterative updates that improve an already stellar tablet," he writes in his review.

More iPad dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale MacBook deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $949 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $250   Get Deal Why we like it

Apple released its new MacBook Air with the M5 chip this month, but honestly, they're not a whole lot different than the M4 Airs. The main differences are the upgraded processor and a new wireless chip. You can save some money by grabbing the M4 model with 16GB RAM and 512GB of storage, which is currently down to just $949 at Amazon. We're keeping our eyes on this laptop, as we expect to see it drop further as the sale nears. But make note that since it is now an older model, it could sell out fast.

More MacBook Air dealsMacBook Neo dealsMacBook Pro dealsBest Apple Watch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

The Apple Watch Series 11 offers significant battery improvements over its predecessor. For that reason alone, it's worth the upgrade. It also features a tougher build with durable glass that's twice as resistant to scratches, 5G capability for quicker connectivity, and a Sleep Score and hypertension tool that can flag chronic high blood pressure. It's not a major upgrade (is anything in 2026?), but as Mashable's reviewer put it: "Buy it for the battery life." Now $100 cheaper, it's an even better value.

More Apple Watch dealsApple Pencil deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

I tested 3 Windows Task Manager alternatives, but this is the one that stuck

How-To Geek - 2 hours 20 min ago

The Windows Task Manager is a fairly powerful resource monitoring tool that's more than enough for most people, but it's a bit too limiting for power users. While you can use it in combination with Process Explorer, a component of Microsoft's Sysinternals suite, you can also opt for a third-party alternative that offers both basic and advanced features in one package.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The LG UltraGear OLED gaming monitor has hit a new low price in Amazons Big Spring Sale — save $400

Mashable - 2 hours 29 min ago

TL;DR: Amazon has the LG 27-inch UltraGear OLED gaming monitor (27GS93QE model) on sale for $499.99 in the Big Spring Sale, knocking $400 off its $899.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 27-inch UltraGear OLED Gaming Monitor (27GS93QE) $499.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $400 Get Deal

The Amazon Big Spring Sale is dropping major deals on gaming, Apple tech, Samsung products, and much more — and LG is very much still in the mix with all-time low prices going live.

As of March 27, Amazon has the LG 27-inch UltraGear OLED gaming monitor (27GS93QE) marked down to $499.99 in its Big Spring Sale. Against the product’s $899.99 list price, that works out at a saving of $400. That's the lowest price this model has ever been at Amazon — confirmed with price tracker camelcamelcamel.

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This is a 27-inch QHD 1440p display with a 240Hz refresh rate and a nearly instantaneous 0.03ms response time. In gamer terms, this is exactly the sort of setup that makes sense for fast-paced shooters like Marathon, competitive multiplayer games such as Fortnite, and anyone who wants motion to stay smooth and clean when matches get visually chaotic. It also supports both NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, so it is built to play nicely with a wide range of gaming setups.

Beyond speed, LG has leaned into prioritzing picture-quality with this UltraGear model. The panel is VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certified, offers a 1.5M:1 contrast ratio, and covers up to 98.5% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum, which should translate to richer color and much deeper blacks than the average LCD gaming monitor — which is great for when playing immersive single-player titles like Resident Evil Requiem. 

For gamers keen on something bigger, the OLED Samsung Odyssey G9 gaming monitor is down to its lowest-ever price in the Spring Sale. The 32-inch 4K LG UltraGear gaming monitor is also $500 off at Amazon. 

Categories: IT General, Technology

Nothing (4a) Pro review: a stylish competitor to the Google Pixel

Mashable - 2 hours 31 min ago

This March, design-centric British company Nothing launched what is arguably its strongest lineup of devices yet. Alongside the budget Nothing Phone (4a) and the Nothing Headphones (a) came a midrange offering — the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro.

This phone is also the closest you'll get to a flagship offering from Nothing in 2026; the company says it'll release no official flagship phone this year. But that's OK. The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro still brings a premium experience to a midrange price point.

The design of the phone backtracks on the haphazard look of the Nothing Phone (3). Phone design is subjective, of course, but I'm definitely picking up what Nothing is putting down here. There is a lot to like about this phone, including the $499 price. 

SEE ALSO: Every major MWC 2026 announcement, including Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Honor Robot phone

As with all midrange phones, there are a few compromises — and some might be tough to swallow. At $499, you will not have a perfect phone.

I've been using a Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, provided by Nothing, as my main phone for 10 days, running the company's Android software and using T-Mobile's network in the Chicagoland area. Here's what I thought.

The whole Nothing package Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

Alongside the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, the company launched two other devices. The Nothing Phone (4a) is a budget offering with a slower processor, slightly slower memory, and fewer cameras than its bigger sibling. It's also not available in the U.S.

The other device was the Nothing Headphone (a) — a budget version of Nothing's first over-ear headphones launched last July, the Nothing Headphone (1). For a lower price point, you get a simpler design, but in more colors. But by all reports, they sound just as good and have the same controls as the flagship headphones, making a compelling offering at $199.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.”

As for the Phone (4a) Pro, it too is the whole package. Tech specs ahead: It runs on a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, which is decidedly midrange, but it falls squarely in line with the phone's price range. There's also 8GB or 12GB of RAM along with 128GB or 256GB of storage, all powered with a 5,000 mAh battery. India SKUs add another 400mAh to that. The 6.83-inch AMOLED screen is gorgeous with excellent color reproduction. It refreshes at up to 144 Hz, so everything is quite smooth.

TL;DR on the specs: this phone punches above its weight.

Software is great with some trade-offs Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

Design is at the forefront of Nothing's ethos, and all of the design choices built into its Android skin are intentional.

For example, Nothing has a grayscale icon pack for apps that turns your home screen into a black-and-white version of its former self. I can get behind this in theory — the "digital minimalism" of grayscale apps supposedly helps us have healthier relationships with our phones. Your mileage may vary, but my brain focuses on color much more than shape, so I haven't often switched to the icon pack.

One confounding choice: the inability to turn off the app drawer. I prefer to have all my apps on my home screen, organized into folders. Nothing doesn't allow the easy creation of folders either. Every time I wanted to file an app, I had to go to the app drawer, then drag the app into an appropriate folder. Not a fan of that.

Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

Then there's Essential Space, a kind of digital notebook activated by the Essential Key on the left side of the phone. This is meant to be a repository of your thoughts and reminders. When you need to remember something, the Essential key lets you grab a screenshot and allows you to add a voice note as well. AI then organizes your thoughts and notes.

I might not be a typical use case here, but generally, I don't remember things with screenshots; it's just not how my brain is wired. There is another design choice I love, however.

Enter the Matrix Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

The Glyph Matrix, which we saw on the Nothing Phone (3), is back on the back of this phone. I adore it. However, Nothing has cut down its functionality.

First of all, the dot matrix itself has larger "pixels" which means lower resolution inside that matrix. That's fine for things like letters and numbers, but it's bad for anything else. The Glyph Matrix has a neat trick where you can use it as a mirror to take a selfie with the main camera, and on the Nothing Phone (3), it worked really well.

On the Nothing Phone (4a), however, the resolution is so low that you can't tell what's in the window when trying to shoot. It's very disappointing.

It's also disappointing that you can only activate the Glyph Matrix when the phone is flipped over on its face. This is likely a cost-saving measure, since there is no capacitive button to press this time. Still, it's a little off-putting.

Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

You can have a persistent display of the time, or battery level, or a few other options, but the whimsical toys from the Nothing Phone (3) version, like the Magic 8-ball, are nowhere to be found.

Nothing says you can get more toys from the community, but that has real "we can't wait to see what the developers do with it" energy. To borrow a nerdy reference, the Glyph Matrix feels nerfed.

Performance and Battery

The Nothing Phone comes with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor — a very midrange choice. On Geekbench, the phone yields 1,287/3,906 single/multi-core scores. That means it's fine with most tasks you'll throw at it — opening apps, playing simple games, watching videos.

It will start to get bogged down when playing serious titles like "Genshin Impact," or trying to edit videos. For most people shopping in this price range, that's perfectly fine. 

That also means the phone sips battery like a champ. I regularly got just under two days of light-medium use on a single charge. That's the kind of endurance I like to see out of a phone. If you're a heavy user, you'll easily get through a full day and probably a little more without plugging it in.

Cameras are the main trade-off Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

It doesn't seem, on the surface, like Nothing cut corners with the cameras here. The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro has two 50-megapixel sensors on the back for its main and 3.5x telephoto lens, an 8-megapixel shooter for ultrawide, and a 32-megapixel camera on the front.

But when you look at the results, it's fairly obvious that these are midrange cameras.

During the day, in good lighting, the phone is a very capable shooter, though the ultrawide leaves something to be desired. Details such as brickwork are lost. That's not surprising considering the small sensor size — but if you're looking for consistency between lenses, you won't find it here. 

Macro shots are similarly blotchy, though the phone uses the main sensor for those macros. Most phones switch to the ultrawide lens for macro shots. Nothing bucks that trend — but as a result, you can't get as close to your subject as you may want.

Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

At night, things fall apart pretty quickly. Light sources are way overblown and darkness is very grainy. Video is not bad — as long as you're not moving. Start walking, and the video quality degrades significantly, with lots of judder following your footfalls. 

Quality photos are possible at night, and they can be fine for social media sharing. But when you try to make photos larger, the flaws are a lot easier to spot.

Nothing Phone (4a) Pro Price and final verdict

Overall, there's a lot to like about the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro. This is a very good midrange offering with the usual corners cut — the camera being the main one. It's not that the camera setup is bad; it's just very midrange. If this phone lived in a vacuum, that would be a good trade.

It's priced at $499, the same as the recently-released Google Pixel 10a. I bring that up because the Pixel 10a is not compromised in camera quality; far from it. The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro has a telephoto that the Pixel 10a lacks, so there's that to consider.

The camera array on Google Pixel 10a. Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro camera array. Credit: Adam Doud / Mashable

If you value good shots of far-away subjects, the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is the better buy. But if you value overall camera quality, get the Pixel 10a.

The two phones are also polar opposites when it comes to design. The Pixel 10a is about as boring as it gets with a flat back and no camera bump. Meanwhile, on the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, you get Nothing's signature transparent design and a sizable camera island.

Your preference will vary, of course, but I much prefer the boldness of the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, and Nothing hardware in general. If you like flair, it doesn't get more flair-y than this. If you want excellent software, Nothing delivers that as well.

If you want something different, that's the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro in a nutshell. This phone is for people who love to stand out and carry a conversation starter in their pocket. It's also for design fans who want a phone that makes a statement. It's a true midrange phone, and it's a pretty good value at $499.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nothing Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, Unlocked $499 at Amazon
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Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 27, 2026

Mashable - 2 hours 32 min ago

Today's Connections: Sports Edition is for people who know their Simpsons.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier — so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections: Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake — players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

  • Yellow: Sports clubs

  • Green: Net game lingo

  • Blue: Places to go for gold

  • Purple: Simpsons guest stars

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

  • Yellow: Pro teams whose names start with S

  • Green: Volleyball terms

  • Blue: Olympic host cities

  • Purple: MLB players in "Homer at the Bat"

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #550 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

  • Pro teams whose names start with S - SEAHAWKS, SENATORS, SHARKS, SPURS

  • Volleyball terms - SERVE, SETTER, SIDE OUT, SPIKE

  • Olympics host cities - SAPPORO, SARAJEVO, STOCKHOLM, SYDNEY

  • MLB players in "Homer at the Bat" - SAX, SCIOSCIA, SMITH, STRAWBERRY

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How Im streaming for less in 2026: Score Spring Sale streaming deals on Paramount+, Spotify, Dropout TV, and more

Mashable - 2 hours 42 min ago
The best Big Spring Sale streaming deals at a glance: Best streaming deal Paramount+ Premium $2.99/month for 2 months (save $22) Get Deal Best music streaming deal Spotify Premium free for 3 months (save $38.97) Get Deal Best deal for readers Kindle Unlimited $0.99 for three months (save $34.98) Get Deal Best streaming device deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $22) Get Deal Best Free Streaming Offer New Walmart+ members get Peacock or Paramount+ free $98/year for your first year of Walmart+ (12 months of Peacock or Paramount+) Learn More

The biggest story in the streaming world over the past 12 months (besides the confusing Warner Bros. situation)? Price hikes. So many price hikes. So, we could all benefit from some streaming deals right about now.

Black Friday is the best time of year to score discounts on streaming apps, but any major sale or shopping holiday tends to deliver a few discounts. And Amazon's Big Spring Sale (officially running until March 31) is holding true to that trend. While the overall number of deals is no match for Black Friday, we'll certainly take any discounts we can get.

As Mashable's go-to streaming expert, I'll be keeping a close eye out for streaming deals throughout the Big Spring Sale. For now, here are the best streaming offers live during the sale. I've also included deals on streaming devices like Fire TV Sticks, as well as some evergreen streaming deals I think are worth grabbing.

Best streaming deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Premium $2.99/month for 2 months (save $22) Get Deal Why we like it

On the surface, this is the same offer as the streamer's Black Friday deal. However, because Paramount Plus hiked its prices in January, this Big Spring Sale discount actually saves you more money. It now costs $13.99 per month for the ad-free Premium plan and $8.99 per month for the ad-supported Essential plan.

Through March 31, you can lock in two months of either plan for only $2.99 per month. That saves you $22 if you choose the Premium plan (why wouldn't you?). Both new and ex-subscribers are eligible for this deal, and it's valid on Paramount+ as a standalone service or on the Prime Video add-on.

Psst. It's also worth mentioning that an extra discount code is floating around that could potentially knock the price down to just 99 cents per month for two months. However, it appears to work for some folks and not others. Try adding the additional promo code BG2L7M at checkout to see if you're one of the lucky ones.

Best music streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Spotify Spotify Premium free for 3 months (save $38.97) Get Deal Why we like it

If you've never tried Spotify Premium before, you can snag three free months of the music streaming service through March 31. Typically, it costs $12.99 per month, so you'll keep nearly $40 in your pocket with this deal. A Premium account unlocks ad-free listening, the ability to download music for offline listening and collaborate with friends in real time, 15 hours of audiobook time, and lossless audio. Plus, you'll get weekly listening stats and, should you choose to keep your subscription, access to the famous Wrapped stats.

Already tried Spotify Premium? Amazon Music Unlimited is also offering three free months of its streaming service through March 31. It regularly goes for $11.99/month for Prime members and $12.99/month for non-Prime members, so you can save up to $38.97 with this streaming deal. Besides unlimited music streaming, you'll also get access to one audiobook per month.

Best streaming device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $14.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $25 Redeem the code FTVSELECT Get Deal Why we like it

The newest Fire TV Stick, the 4K Select, is the first streaming device in Amazon's lineup to shake things up in awhile. While it still offers the same plug-and-play design you know and love, it features a brand-new operating system called Vega. Given how laggy the previous operating system could be on Fire TV Sticks, we're pretty excited about this change. It also offers support for Alexa+, Amazon Kids+, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and NordVPN, and delivers 4K quality with HDR10+ support.

As part of the Big Spring Sale, it's now down to just $14.99 instead of $39.99. Redeem the code FTVSELECT to access this discount.

More Amazon Big Spring Sale streaming dealsMore Amazon Big Spring Sale streaming device dealsEvergreen streaming deals worth grabbing
Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Pips hints, answers for March 27, 2026

Mashable - 2 hours 44 min ago

Welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

Released in August 2025, the Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 27, 2026

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

  • Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

  • Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

  • Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

  • Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

  • Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for March 27, 2026 Easy difficulty hints, answers for March 27 Pips

Less than (6): Everything in this space must be less than 6. The answer is 2-2, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-3, placed horizontally.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 6-5, placed horizontally; 6-0, placed horizontally.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 6-0, placed horizontally.

Less than (4): Everything in this space must be less than 4. The answer is 4-3, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for March 27 Pips

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 1-5, placed horizontally; 3-2, placed vertically.

Number (20): Everything in this space must add up to 20. The answer is 1-5 placed horizontally; 5-4, placed horizontally; 5-5, placed horizontally.

Equal (4): Everything in this space must be equal to 4. The answer is 5-4, placed horizontally; 4-2, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 4-2, placed horizontally.

Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 1-1, placed vertically; 2-1, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 3-2, placed vertically.

Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 6-4, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 1-1, placed vertically; 2-1, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for March 27 Pips

Equal (2): Everything in this space must be equal to 2. The answer is 2-1, placed vertically; 2-5, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 2-5, placed horizontally; 3-2, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 3-2, placed horizontally; 6-0, placed vertically.

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 2-1, placed vertically; 1-1, placed vertically; 1-5, placed vertically.

Equal (0): Everything in this space must be equal to 0. The answer is 6-0, placed vertically; 0-4, placed vertically.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 6-6, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must be equal to 8. The answer is 4-4, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 0-4, placed vertically; 4-6, placed vertically.

Equal (5): Everything in this space must be equal to 5. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically; 5-5, placed horizontally; 5-3, placed horizontally.

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 5-3, placed horizontally; 3-3, placed horizontally.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Need a new TV? The TCL 98-inch Class QM8K Series is over $1,000 off in Amazons Big Spring Sale.

Mashable - 2 hours 52 min ago

SAVE OVER $1,000: As of March 27, the TCL 98-inch Class QM8K Series is on sale for $2,997.97 at Amazon. That's a 25% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 98-inch Class QM8K Series $2,997.97 at Amazon
$3,999.99 Save $1,002.02   Get Deal

Looking for a new TV? There couldn't be a better time to buy.

Amazon's Big Spring Sale is well underway, and TVs are just one of many products getting heavy discounts right now. And if you're looking for something really impressive for less, the TCL 98-inch Class QM8K Series is over $1,000 off heading into the weekend.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

As of March 27, you can take home this TV for $2,997.96 — that's $1,002.02 off the list price. This price is for the huge 98-inch model. The 65-inch and 75-inch TVs are also on sale for around $500 off.

With this TV you'll get a combination of advanced Mini LED technology and the new Halo Control System to give you the perfect, well-rounded viewing experience. It also has a CrystalGlow WHVA panel that gives you vibrant colors and detail. Combine this with the anti-reflective ZeroBorder design and you've got a great TV for any occasion.

Gamers are also covered thanks to the built-in Game Accelerator 288. This supports up to 288Hz variable refresh rate for lag-free gaming. And for streaming, you'll get access to Google TV, meaning it's easy to browse content and your favorite apps will be on one handy home page.

This TV deal is available online in Amazon's Big Spring Sale right now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Creators obsess over the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vlogging camera, and its finally on sale

Mashable - 2 hours 57 min ago

SAVE $98: As of March 27, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera is down to $439 in the Amazon Spring Sale, a record-low price. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo is also on sale for $569.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Gimbal Camera $439 at Amazon
$499 Save $60 Lowest-ever price Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo $569 at Amazon
$629 Save $60   Get Deal

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, which runs through March 31, has plenty of deals for creators looking for a bargain. None are better than the offers on the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, a 4K gimbal camera. Mashable’s tech editor hailed this camera as “close to perfect” in his review.

All content creators reach a point where they need to stop using their phone and start investing in pro gear — microphones, video cameras, portable lights, everything. And the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Gimbal Camera has emerged as a popular all-in-one solution, which is why it has a cult following among vloggers, creators, and videographers.

Why we love the DJI Osmo Pocket 3

Every time our reporters attend a conference or event with a lot of creators, this camera is everywhere. It's often hard to find in stock, let alone at a record price.

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo, which includes a DJI microphone, is currently marked down to $569. (Just a few hours ago, this camera was marked down to $531, so prices are changing fast.) That’s a $60 saving on the regular list price of $629. You can also buy the camera on its own for $439, a new record low price for this popular gimbal camera, according to camelcamelcamel.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

DJI is best known for awesome drones, but the tech brand makes premium devices in the content creation category. This camera is small but hugely impressive, with a 3-axis gimbal for steady video and face tracking. Other helpful features include face detection, vertical video mode, 180-degree Spinshot motion, and wireless connectivity to DJI microphones (which are also on sale).

Mashable tech editor Timothy Beck Werth reviewed the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 back in 2023 and said, “It really is hard for me to imagine a better camera for video content creators. Because it can connect wirelessly to your devices, you can use this for both recording video and livestreaming.” Three years later, it's still the best in its category.

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 rarely goes on sale, so grab the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo for $569 in the Amazon Big Spring Sale. You can also grab the camera on its own for $439.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best deals this week, according to Mashables team of shopping experts

Mashable - 3 hours 1 min ago

We're always looking for new and inventive ways to hit you with big savings on popular items. We cover hundreds of deals every month. You can find these deals on site, on socials, and on our newsletter. We've also launched a Mashable Deals text group. The daily deals that we send to this group are researched and assessed by the team with the same level of care that we dedicate to the rest of our shopping content.

You can find a live hub for those deals right here.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ive tested dozens of portable power stations — heres what Id buy during Amazons Big Spring Sale

Mashable - 3 hours 4 min ago
Best Amazon Big Spring Sale portable power stations deals at a glance: Best Bluetti deal Bluetti Elite 200 V2 $749 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal Best Anker Solix bundle deal Anker Soloix F3800 Portable Power Station, BP3800 Expansion Battery, and 400W Solar Panel $3,498.99 at Amazon (save $3,898.01) Get Deal Best Jackery deal Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 $429 at Amazon (save $370) Get Deal Best DJI deal DJI Power 1000 V2 $364 at Amazon (save $65) Get Deal Best deal for camping Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 $428.99 at Amazon (save $370.01) Get Deal

I'll let you in on a little secret about portable power stations — they're almost always on some type of discount. It's rare that I see any of my favorite models listed at full price, which is not a bad thing. But it makes it harder to discern a good deal from a meh deal. To help out, I've scrolled the pages of the Amazon Big Spring Sale to find the deals I think are actually worth buying.

A portable power station has become a must-have tech item. It's like your favorite noise-cancelling earbuds — no idea how we survived without them. They've been my savior during power outages to keep the refrigerator running, my phone charged up, and the WiFi router connected. They're also well worth packing along on upcoming camping trips. Think of movie nights under the stars with a powered-up portable projector and fresh popcorn.

The one snag here is that batteries aren't cheap, and that's especially true of high-tech and long-lasting batteries found in portable power stations. Because of this, I recommend shopping for a power station during major sales like the Amazon Big Spring Sale is a wise move. Here are some of my favorite models seeing steep discounts during the sale. I'll keep this page updated as the sale rolls in and we see new deals pop up.

Best Bluetti deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Bluetti Elite 200 V2 $749 at Amazon
$949 Save $200   Get Deal Why we like it

If you need a large and in charge power solution, whether in an emergency or going off-grid, the Bluetti Elite 200 V2 is a fantastic option. It comes with 2,600Wh of battery power, which is more than enough to charge larger items like laptops and small appliances. It's also capable of recharging your phones and keeping the WiFi router on for an extended period of time. If you find that you routinely lose power, this unit is something you'll want to keep on hand to make sure you can charge things up when you need them.

More Bluetti dealsBest Anker deal Anker Solix F3800 $3,498.99 at Amazon
$7,397 Save $3,898.01   See It at Amazon

The massive Anker Solix F3800 is ideal for home backup should the power cut out. On its own, the Solix F3800 comes with 3,8400 Wh of battery capacity to keep your tech running without grid power, but Anker made this deal even better during Amazon's Big Spring Sale. The Solix F3800 comes bundled with a BP3800 Expansion Battery and a 400W solar panel. The extra battery brings the total capacity up to 7,680Wh while the addition of a solar panel puts you in line for recharging off-grid.

More Anker Solix dealsBest Jackery deal Opens in a new window Credit: Jackery Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 $429 at Amazon
$799 Save $370   Get Deal Why we like it

If you're looking for a portable power station to take along to the campground this summer, the Jackery Explorer 100 V2 is an ideal model. It's a mix of portability, durability, solid port options, and it's on sale for under $430. This Jackery model comes with 1,070Wh for recharging your phones while camping, keeping the speaker ready to go, and powering up the projector for movie nights. Plus, it weighs under 24 pounds, so you won't have to struggle lugging it around camp.

More Jackery dealsBest deal for camping Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Solix Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 $428.99 at Amazon
$799 Save $370.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2.

After testing dozens of portable power stations, one of my go-to models for taking along on a weekend of camping is the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2. Sure, you can go lighter and even more portable models, but I love the Solix C1000's combination of 1,024Wh, three USB-C ports, and the excellent Anker Solix app. It's also incredibly easy to carry around the campground, weighing under 25 pounds. Plus, Anker won a Guinness World Record for the power station's ability to recharge in just 49 minutes.

More portable power stations on sale at Amazon
Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for March 27, 2026

Mashable - 3 hours 17 min ago

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, March 27, 2026:

AcrossBad place to spend time on your phone, it's said

  • The answer is In bed.

Bridge-crossing fees

  • The answer is tolls.

"Yeah, but even so ..."

  • The answer is Still.

Internet joke

  • The answer is Meme.

"SportsCenter" channel

  • The answer is ESPN.

DownWords after a knock on the door

  • The answer is It's Me.

Material for a lecture

  • The answer is Notes.

Goodyear vehicle

  • The answer is Blimp.

Comedian DeGeneres

  • The answer is Ellen.

Broadband connection, for short

  • The answer is DSL.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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