Technology

Score $150 off the Shark Rocket vacuum with this early Prime Day deal

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:54

SAVE $150: As of July 4, Prime members can snag the Shark Rocket corded vacuum for just $99 at Amazon — that’s 60% off its usual $249.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum $99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $150.99 Get Deal

Amazon’s rolling out one of its best early Prime Day deals for neat freaks and pet parents alike. The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light cordless vacuum is now just $99 — a massive 60% off its usual $249.99 price. That’s a $150 saving on a vacuum that punches well above its weight class.

Weighing in at under 9 pounds, this corded stick vacuum is ultra-light and ultra-handy. It easily converts into a handheld, making for a perfect cleaning tool for everything from floors and stairs to curtains and car seats. Whether you're navigating tight corners in a small apartment or tackling dust bunnies in a multi-level home, the Rocket is built to move with you — literally. Its swivel steering lets you glide around furniture with ease, and the fingertip controls make switching from carpet to hard floors a total breeze.

SEE ALSO: These Prime Day deals landed early — save on Apple, Ninja, and Samsung gadgets

And despite its size, this thing is no lightweight when it comes to suction power. Shark’s “never loses suction” promise ensures powerful, consistent cleaning — even when you’re deep into a dust-filled marathon. Plus, the easy-empty dust cup means you can ditch the grime without a mess.

The Rocket comes with some handy extras, too: an Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool, and an Anti-Allergen Dust Brush for those hard-to-reach spots and allergy-prone areas. When you’re done, it hangs conveniently on the included storage hook — no bulky dock or closet gymnastics required.

At just $99 for a limited time, this is one of the most compelling early Prime Day home deals we’ve seen. Snag it now before this rocket blasts off the shelves.

To keep cool whilst you're cleaning, check out the best bladeless fan deals during early Prime Day. If you want to get cleaning done automatically without needing to vacuum yourself, take a look at the best early Prime Day deals on robot vacuums.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

This Echo Frames and Echo Show 8 bundle is one of the best early Prime Day steals — act fast to save over $200

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:39

SAVE $210: As of July 4, the Echo Frames and Echo Show 8 bundle is on sale for $239.98 at Amazon. That's a 47% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Frames + Echo Show 8 $239.98 at Amazon
$449.98 Save $210.00 Get Deal

Prime Day gets underway next week, but the deals are already flowing in. The Echo Frame and Echo Show 8 bundle is one of the best offers that's already live, now at its lowest-ever price for a limited time.

This bundle pairs Echo Frames and the Echo Show 8 to create an incredible hands-free experience. Echo Frames are Amazon’s smart glasses, designed for staying connected without needing to always look at your phone. You can use Alexa to play music, take calls, or listen to audiobooks while walking around, and still hear your surroundings; they really are a device of the future.

SEE ALSO: This Echo Frames bundle deal doesn't make sense — get a free Echo Spot ahead of Prime Day

The latest version comes in new styles made from handcrafted Italian acetate and metal finishes, with a battery that lasts up to six hours of continuous playback or around 14 hours with light use.

The Echo Show 8 is Amazon's known and loved smart home central hub. You can use it for video calls, watching your favorite shows, music, and so much more. It features an 8-inch HD touchscreen, spatial audio, and 13 MP camera. It also includes a built-in smart home hub, so you can control devices like lights and thermostats right from the screen.

Put these together and you've got yourself a seriously smart bundle. And as of July 4, it has never been cheaper. Get them both for just $239.98 and save yourself $210 ahead of Prime Day.

The deal is available at Amazon right now, so act fast to save big.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Did the best Prime Day fitness tracker deal just go live? Get the Garmin fēnix 7 Pro at a record-low price.

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:31

SAVE $350: As of July 4, the Garmin fēnix 7 Pro is on sale for $549.99 at Amazon. This deal saves you 39% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin fēnix 7 Pro $549.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $350 Get Deal

The early Prime Day discounts are rolling in, and we couldn't be more excited. Deals on everything from TVs to headphones are underway, and there are big discounts to be had. And as of July 4, you can buy the Garmin fēnix 7 Pro for its lowest-ever price, now $549.99. This record-low deal saves you $350 on list price.

The multisport GPS watch is designed with a durable 1.3-inch display in a 47 mm fiber-reinforced polymer case, topped with a scratch-resistant Power Sapphire solar charging lens for extended battery life, meaning with the help of the sun, you can enjoy weeks of battery life.

SEE ALSO: The best early Prime Day fitness tracker deals in 2025 — shop Apple, Garmin, Fitbit, and more

If you're an ultra or trail runner, you'll love the built-in LED flashlight, a must-have for late-night activities. It has variable intensities and strobe modes, so you have greater awareness while you train at night.

New hill and endurance score features are also able to track your performance on ascents and overall stamina across activities and you'll enjoy the same 24/7 health monitoring tools that are synonymous with Garmin, such as HRV status, Pulse Ox (for altitude acclimation), and advanced sleep tracking. Morning reports and training readiness help to encourage your training with advanced analysis and stats, while wrist-based running power, strength training metrics, and advanced pacing tools help fine-tune your performance.

Grab this early Prime Day deal from Amazon right now.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Deals on Ninja appliances are plentiful ahead of Prime Day 2025

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:12
Best early Prime Day Ninja deals Best Ninja deal Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven $229.99 (Save $120) Get Deal Best blender deal Ninja Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender $89.99 (Save $30) Get Deal Best outdoor cooking deal Ninja Artisan Outdoor Pizza Oven $199.95 (Save $100.04) Get Deal Best coffee maker deal Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso and Coffee Maker 509.99 (save $90 + get a free $50 Amazon credit) Get Deal

Prime Day is arriving in just a few days, but the early deals are already here. In the lead-up to the longest Prime Day ever, we're on the hunt for the best early deals so you don't have to wait until July 8 to start shopping. While some shopping categories are feeling a bit sparse, the deals on Ninja products are plentiful.

Having tested our way through Ninja's most popular kitchen appliances, we're certified fans of the brand. Ninja's appliances are for kitchen pros and novices alike, offering excellent performance along with ease of use.

Right now, Ninja is offering some of the best deals ahead of Prime Day. Here are the best deals to shop now.

Best Ninja deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer and Toaster Oven $229.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $120 Get Deal Why we like it

Air fryers are great any time of year, but they're especially key during the summer months when you don't want to turn on the oven, but still want perfectly crisp food. Ninja makes some great air fryers and while the Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer is our favorite, the Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven is currently $120 off.

This supersized air fryer and oven can fit a 12-pound turkey or up to 20 cookies at a time. Plus, it can fit two trays at once, so you can cook dinner for the whole family.

Right now, grab the Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer for $229.99, saving you $120 off its normal $349.99 for 34% in savings ahead of Prime Day.

More early Prime Day Ninja deals The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for July 4, 2025

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:07

Connections: Sports Edition is a new 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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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: NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for July 4, 2025 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: A winner's reward

  • Green: Southern ballers

  • Blue: Food kings

  • Purple: Same first word

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

  • Yellow: A monetary reward

  • Green: A Texas basketball player

  • Blue: Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest winners

  • Purple: Hot ____

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 #284 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

  • A monetary reward - PRIZE, PURSE, STAKES, WINNINGS

  • A Texas basketball player - MAVERICK, ROCKET, SPUR, WING

  • Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest winners - BERTOLETTI, CHESTNUT, KOBAYASHI, SUDO

  • Hot ____ - CORNER, DOG, HAND, STOVE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new 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 the latest Connections.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Chelsea vs. Palmeiras online for free

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Live stream Chelsea vs. Palmeiras in the 2025 Club World Cup for free on DAZN. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 Club World Cup quarter finals continue with Chelsea vs. Palmeiras. Both sides have improved throughout the tournament and will now be confident of progressing to the semi-final stage.

If you want to watch Chelsea vs. Palmeiras in the 2025 Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Chelsea vs. Palmeiras?

Chelsea vs. Palmeiras in the 2025 Club World Cup kicks off at 9 p.m. ET on July 4. This fixture takes place at the Lincoln Financial Field.

How to watch Chelsea vs. Palmeiras for free

Chelsea vs. Palmeiras in the 2025 Club World Cup is available to live stream for free on DAZN.

The Club World Cup is free to stream all around the world, but if you're having problems accessing this streaming platform on your network, you can consider using a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in another location. This simple process bypasses geo-restrictions so that you can secure access to free live streams from anywhere in the world.

Unblock free live streams of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with access to DAZN

  4. Visit DAZN

  5. Stream the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Chelsea vs. Palmeiras in the 2025 Club World Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the Club World Cup before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for DAZN?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on DAZN, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Chelsea vs. Palmeiras in the 2025 Club World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Fluminense vs. Al Hilal online for free

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Live stream Fluminense vs. Al Hilal in the 2025 Club World Cup for free on DAZN. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 Club World Cup quarter finals are really interesting, bringing together some of the best teams from all over the globe. The first game from the round sees Fluminense take on Al Hilal. Both sides knocked out European opposition in the last round.

If you want to watch Fluminense vs. Al Hilal in the 2025 Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Fluminense vs. Al Hilal?

Fluminense vs. Al Hilal in the 2025 Club World Cup kicks off at 3 p.m. ET on July 4. This fixture takes place at the Camping World Stadium.

How to watch Fluminense vs. Al Hilal for free

Fluminense vs. Al Hilal in the 2025 Club World Cup is available to live stream for free on DAZN.

The Club World Cup is free to stream all around the world, but if you're having problems accessing this streaming platform on your network, you can consider using a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in another location. This simple process bypasses geo-restrictions so that you can secure access to free live streams from anywhere in the world.

Unblock free live streams of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with access to DAZN

  4. Visit DAZN

  5. Stream the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Fluminense vs. Al Hilal in the 2025 Club World Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the Club World Cup before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for DAZN?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on DAZN, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Fluminense vs. Al Hilal in the 2025 Club World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup online for free

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Live stream the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup for free on YouTube. Access these free live streams from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

With no World Cup, European Championships, or Copa America this summer, we were starting to panic at the prospect of no top-quality football until the start of domestic seasons. But there was no need to worry, because there is a lot to watch right now.

If you can find time between watching all 63 games from the FIFA Club World Cup, the Concacaf Gold Cup should provide plenty of big moments this summer. If you want to watch the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Concacaf Gold Cup?

The Concacaf Gold Cup is a tournament for national football teams from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The tournament is held every two years. The only national teams to have won the tournament are Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The defending champions are Mexico.

Canada and the United States are hosting the tournament in 2025.

When is the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup?

The 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup is the 18th edition of the competition. This year's tournament takes place from June 14 to July 6.

How to watch the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup for free

The 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

These free live streams are not available all around the world, but fans in excluded territories can still watch the tournament for free with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in a location with access (like Italy), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Gold Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup for free by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Italy

  4. Visit YouTube

  5. Live stream the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the tournament before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to the best free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on YouTube, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Italy

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best gaming laptops of 2025: Check out our top picks ahead of Amazon Prime Day

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:00

Let's be real: PC gaming offers the best possible experience for gamers. We love consoles, too, but you just can't deny it.

High-end gaming computers pack more graphical and processing power than any home console, and they offer a level of freedom in terms of customization and game choice that you’re just not going to find anywhere else. Unfortunately, a desktop PC does force you to keep your gaming sessions tied to your desk.

While desktops deliver elite performance, the best gaming laptops fit into the modern lifestyle more smoothly thanks to their portability. It’s more convenient to take your gaming rig with you on the go, whether that’s to a friend’s place or just to another room. Whether you're looking for a powerhouse that supports eye-popping visuals, a lightweight notebook to fit snugly in your backpack, or hoping to find the best budget gaming laptop, we promise there's a machine for you.

SEE ALSO: Gaming starter kit: All the gear you need to play like a real gamer What are the best gaming laptops?

Finding the best laptop for your needs and budget can be tricky. They may be easier to parse than their desktop counterparts, but gaming laptops still require a fair bit of careful spec scrutiny. These are no consoles — you can’t just pick the latest generation system off the shelf and get playing. Choosing between the many graphics cards, processors, storage sizes, and screen types can be a real head-scratcher. Thankfully, you've got us to guide you through the process.

Read on to find our recommendations for the best gaming laptops of 2025, including the best inexpensive gaming laptops on the market right now. Before you buy, though, you may want to just add them to your wishlist and shop during Amazon Prime Day 2025 from July 8 to July 11 — a few of them will likely go on sale during the event.

What's the best cheap gaming laptop, and is it worth it?

When it comes to gaming laptops, it's totally fine not to immediately spring for the top-of-the-line, $3,000-plus powerhouse. Plenty of gaming laptops fall below the $1,000 mark and are well worth the money. But, we would advise you against going too cheap. You really do get what you pay for, and if you settle for a bottom-of-the-barrel machine, you're not going to be able to run the games you want to play anyway.

The Razer Blade 14 is a fantastic compact gaming laptop. Credit: Dylan Haas / Mashable

However, if you're looking to keep a tight budget and don't mind playing via cloud streaming, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is a great option (more details on that laptop below). And if you're looking to spend even less, the Lenovo Gaming Chromebook 16 is another solid cloud gaming laptop, which you can read about in our guide to the best laptops under $500.

Categories: IT General, Technology

These are the best cheap laptops weve tested — and they could get even cheaper on Prime Day

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 11:00

When it comes to shopping for the best budget laptops, you can do a lot for less than $1,000. (Heck, even $500 cuts some mustard nowadays.) But you'll probably have to make some compromises along the way to stay below that price point.

That doesn't mean you have to settle for a total clunker that doesn't tick any of the boxes on your must-have specs list. It just means you have to shop a little smarter than someone with unlimited funds.

SEE ALSO: The best laptops for 2025: Tested for performance, battery life, design, and value

That's where we come in. The Mashable team is constantly reviewing new laptops with different operating systems and use cases, and we recommend several budget-friendly options that meet most, if not all of our performance, battery life, and build quality standards.

Our top picks

As of July 2025, we believe the 13-inch Apple MacBook Air powered by the M4 chip is the best cheap MacBook for most people. It's seriously speedy, super quiet, equipped with a nice new camera, and priced at an almost unfathomable $999 to start.

Among Windows PCs, the Lenovo Yoga 7i 14 (Gen 9) is the best budget pick we've tried. It has a peppy processor and a good battery life, it doubles as a tablet, and it starts at just $899.99.

Where to find cheap laptops this Prime Day

Amazon's flagship Prime Day sale is slated for July 8 to 11 this year. Having covered the festivities since 2019, I expect Amazon to use it as an excuse to offer some year-round lows on MacBooks, Microsoft Surface devices, and entry-level gaming laptops from Asus and Acer. (I've already seen one variant of our beloved M4 MacBook Air fall to just $829 in the past few weeks — a $170 savings. At the time of writing, it's hanging out at $849.)

SEE ALSO: Help, I can't stop recommending Amazon's $849 M4 MacBook Air deal

Prime Day is also noteworthy because it prompts competing sales at other retailers. Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale from July 7 to 13 will give Amazon the biggest run for its money simply because the store stocks way more laptop brands and configurations. It's also known to match or one-up Amazon's pricing where their inventories overlap, so cross-checking deals between the two is key. Bookmark my guide to the best Prime Day laptop deals if you don't want to scour the myriad listings yourself.

Read on for Mashable's in-depth guide to the best budget laptops of 2025. FYI: We've listed the pricing and specs of our testing units, which may not apply to each laptop's base model.

A note about tariffs

President Donald Trump's tariffs on imported Chinese goods have made a mess of the tech market, causing several manufacturers to raise their laptop prices over the past few weeks. (The Trump administration recently moved to exempt laptops from some of its tariff plans, but that will probably change soon.) This is bad news for budget shoppers, according to our sister site PCMag, which reports that cheap laptops stand to see the most dramatic impact from tariffs.

None of the laptops that are currently featured in this guide have been affected by tariffs, but one model we have in hand for testing, the Asus ZenBook A14, has gotten $100 more expensive since launch because of them. We'll take this into account as we decide whether it's a new top pick: "Value" is one of our four big testing metrics.

Other cheap laptops on our radar

We're currently testing the Intel-powered Framework Laptop 13. While it comes in just over our "budget" threshold of $1,000 when purchased prebuilt (the DIY Edition starts at $899), the fact that it's upgradable and repairable makes it seem like a solid long-term value. We were big fans of an older version.

SEE ALSO: Laptop specs explained: A jargon-free guide to what's inside your computer

We'll soon review two sub-$1,000 Asus laptops. One is the aforementioned Asus ZenBook A14, which features an OLED display, a neutral-toned chassis made out of a durable yet lightweight material called "Ceraluminum," and an advertised battery life of up to 32 hours. (We briefly tried it in Asus' private showroom at CES 2025, and it left us extremely impressed.) The other is the Asus ZenBook S 15, a second-gen Copilot+ PC with a Snapdragon X Plus processor, a 3K OLED display, and an RGB keyboard. They start at $999.99 and $899.99, respectively.

What no longer makes the cut

We removed the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 from this list in May 2025, as it feels too overpriced and outdated to recommend for 2025 buyers. Plus, a (seemingly) better option just hit the market: Microsoft's new 13-inch Surface Laptop starts at $899.99.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for July 4, 2025

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 10:59

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, July 4, 2025:

AcrossUncle ___

  • The answer is Sam.

It's full of stars

  • The answer is Space.

It's full of stripes

  • The answer is Zebra.

Month when the American Revolutionary War began

  • The answer is April.

4th of July sales promotions, e.g.

  • The answer is Ads.

DownBig brand of hummus

  • The answer is Sabra.

Foul-smelling

  • The answer is Acrid.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

  • The answer is Meals.

Singer who performed "All the Stars" at Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show

  • The answer is SZA.

Lively energy

  • The answer is Pep.

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

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

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 the latest Mini Crossword.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple Watch deals are heating up ahead of Prime Day — get the lowest-ever price on the Series 10

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 10:54

Best early Prime Day Apple Watch deals Best Series 10 deal Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm, GPS) $299 (save $100) Get Deal Best Ultra deal Apple Watch Ultra 2 (49mm, GPS + Cellular) $741.89 (save $57.11) Get Deal Best SE deal Apple Watch SE (44mm, GPS) $219 (save $60) Get Deal

You don't need a smartwatch to tell you that Prime Day is a great time to pick up an Apple Watch.

This year, the Prime member-exclusive sale runs a whopping four days, from July 8 to July 11. But if you want to score some savings Apple Watches (and Apple in general, for that matter), you don't have to wait. In fact, just days ahead of the sale, you can score some serious discounts on a range of Apple Watch models.

Typically, Apple deals aren't officially affiliated with the sale, which means that non-Prime members can enjoy the savings, too. While Prime Day proper does tend to bring a higher volume of record low prices, the weeks leading up to the sale have deals ranging from decent to great. Case in point: each model of the Apple Watch is available at a discounted price, with markdowns ranging from $60 to $150.

SEE ALSO: Walmart's anti-Prime Day sale is extra competitive this year

With Apple Watches, you'll tend to score the best savings if you're not picky about colorways. While none of the deals below are rare (in other words, necessary to jump on ASAP), it's a solid lineup for folks who don't want to wait for July 8.

Best Apple Watch deals Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Apple Watch Series 10 $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Apple Watch Series 10.

Ready to take the plunge and get a new Apple Watch? This is your best bet ahead of Prime Day. The Apple Watch Series 10 is well worth investing in, especially at a 25% discount. At $100 off, this is a better deal than average, especially considering it's Mashable's top pick for a smartwatch fitness tracker.

We like the Series 10 thanks to its suite of health tracking capabilities, including a heart rate monitor, sleep tracker, menstrual cycle tracker, and pedometer (the blood oxygen sensor is the main feature that's missing). It also has an ultra bright and lightweight display.

Apple Watch Series 10 dealsApple Watch Ultra dealsApple Watch SE deals The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch England vs. India (Test 2) online for free

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 10:38

TL;DR: Live stream England vs. India (Test 2) for free on ICC.TV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The first test match between England and India was absolutely incredible. It looked like India were in a dominant position until the fifth day when England chased down a huge score to seal an impressive victory.

India are looking to bounce back and tie the series at 1-1, and they've started very strongly. England have it all to do.

If you want to watch England vs. India (Test 2) for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is India's tour of England?

India's tour of England consists of five Test matches:

  • England vs. India (Test 1) — June 20-24

  • England vs. India (Test 2) — July 2-6

  • England vs. India (Test 3) — July 10-14

  • England vs. India (Test 4) — July 23-27

  • England vs. India (Test 5) — July 31 to Aug. 4

It is possible to live stream every Test match from India's tour of England without spending anything.

How to watch England vs. India (Test 2) for free

England vs. India (Test 2) is available to live stream for free on ICC.TV.

This free live stream on ICC.TV is only available in select regions (see full list of territories here), but anyone can live stream India's tour of England for free with a VPN. These helpful tools can hide your IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in a location with free access (like Italy). This simple process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can live stream on ICC.TV from anywhere in the world.

Live stream England vs. India (Test 2) by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with access (like Italy)

  4. Visit ICC.TV

  5. Live stream England vs. India (Test 2) for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming aren't free, but leading VPN providers do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you'll be able access free live streams without actually spending anything. This is a temporary fix, but it gives you enough time to stream England vs. India (Test 2) before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free live streams from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live streaming sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for ICC.TV?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to live stream England vs. India (Test 2), for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months of coverage for free — 61% off list price. This deal includes a year of unlimited data backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream England vs. India (Test 2) for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 power station is $350 off ahead of Prime Day — its lowest price this year

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 10:28

SAVE $350: As of July 4, the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 is on sale for $448.98 at Amazon. That's a 44% saving on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Jackery Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 $448.98 at Amazon
$799 Save $350.02 Get Deal

Prime Day kicks off next week, but deals are already starting to ramp up. TV deals, Apple deals, and headphone deals are all underway — and so are portable power station deals (if that's your thing). As of July 4, the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 is heavily reduced, now priced at $448.98. That's a saving of $350 on list price.

Stay prepared for any power cuts or issues, and stay connected when road-tripping or camping.

SEE ALSO: Get the best-ever price on this Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED TV ahead of Prime Day

This particular model provides a 1,500W AC output (with a 3,000W surge), so it can run things like fridges, electric pots, and even AC units. It weighs just 23.8 lbs and features a foldable handle, so it’s perfect for camping trips. It charges up quickly, too. You'll only need one hour to go from 0 to 100%, with emergency charging enabled in the Jackery App (or 1.7 hours on the standard mode). It also benefits from a huge range of charging ports. This model benefits from USB-C, USB-A, AC outlets, a car port, and LED lights, and supports fast USB-C PD 100W charging.

It also has an incredible lifespan, equipped with a durable LFP battery, maintaining over 70% of its original capacity after 4,000 charge cycles, offering a lifespan of 10 years and more.

Grab this great deal at Amazon before Prime Day.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Get the best-ever price on this Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED TV ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 10:19

SAVE $120: As of July 4, the Amazon Fire TV 55-inch Omni Mini-LED Series is on sale for $699.99 at Amazon. That's a 15% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 55-Inch Omni Mini-LED Series $699.99 at Amazon
$819.99 Save $120 Get Deal

TV deals are already kicking off ahead of Prime Day. As of July 4, you can find a fantastic early deal on the Amazon Fire TV 55-inch Omni Mini-LED Series, saving you $120 on list price. The new price of $699.99 is its lowest-ever price.

You can't go wrong with an Amazon TV, and this one really knocks it out of the park. This TV combines 4K QLED mini-LED display with Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ Adaptive, and over a billion vibrant colors. It also benefits from the Fire TV Intelligent Picture feature, which adapts what you’re watching in real time to both the scene and your room’s lighting. And for sound quality, enjoy crisp audio with Dolby Atmos in a 2.1 setup.

SEE ALSO: The best early Prime Day steals for your kitchen — save on air fryers, blenders, and more

And as expected with all Amazon TVs, enjoy a smart display of art, widgets, and voice control to search through your streaming service libraries all at once.

If you're a gamer, it’s built for speed with 144Hz refresh, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and fluid, tear-free visuals during fast-paced play. Interactive Art adds a layer of movement-based engagement, and there are built-in privacy protections too, including a mic-off switch for peace of mind.

Head to Amazon to score this early Prime Day deal.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Slates $20K electric truck jumps in price after Trump eliminates EV tax credits

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 09:51

U.S. EV manufacturer Slate has quietly revised previous claims that its made-in-America pickup truck will cost "under $20,000," increasing the upcoming vehicle's pricing. It seems like auto companies are already reacting to the elimination of EV tax credits under President Donald Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill."

SEE ALSO: Slate's $20K made-in-America electric truck is the opposite of a Cybertruck

As spotted by TechCrunch, Jeff Bezos-backed EV start-up Slate has updated language from its website concerning the cost of its Blank Slate truck.

"Great cars got too pricey," Slate's website declared when it was first unveiled in April. "We fixed that."

This phrase still remains on Slate's website, which also still claims that the Blank Slate will be "[m]ade in the USA at a price that’s actually affordable (no really, for real)." However, it was previously accompanied by an image of the Blank Slate truck with a badge stating its "expected price" to be "under $20,000 after federal incentives."

As of writing, the truck's anticipated pricing has now been tweaked to be in the "mid-twenties." Further disclaimers have also been added, stating that this price is "for U.S. market only."

Left: Slate's website as of April 25, stating that the truck's expected price will be "under $20,000 after federal incentives." Right: Slate's website on July 3, stating the truck's expected price will now be in the "mid-twenties." Credit: Slate

Considering both the timing and Slate's previous mention of federal incentives, the Blank Slate's pricing change appears to be linked to Trump's controversial spending bill passing on Thursday afternoon. This bill eliminates a $7,500 tax credit the U.S. government granted to drivers who purchased a new EV, which had encouraged drivers to adopt cleaner, more environmentally friendly vehicles. 

The tax break will now end on September 30, which will likely cause several EVs in the U.S. to jump in price. Even if drivers rush to buy an EV now while the tax credits are still available, they won't be able to get their hands on a Blank Slate. The automaker is only scheduled to begin delivery of its vehicles in late 2026, well after the U.S. government will stop offering the tax credit.

Slate's electric truck gained significant attention earlier this year, the start-up claiming that they'd received over 100,000 reservations within mere weeks of it being unveiled. This doesn't guarantee Slate has secured 100,000 sales, as a reservation is merely a $50 deposit in exchange for a place in the queue to buy a truck. Even so, those numbers do indicate some interest in the EV, particularly as drivers increasingly seek alternatives to Elon Musk's Tesla.

Whether such interest can be sustained in light of the Blank Slate's revised pricing remains to be seen. Whatever the case, the U.S. start-up's work just got much more difficult.

Trump has actively worked to dismantle incentives to adopt electric vehicles, repeatedly and incorrectly characterising them as part of an alleged "EV mandate." While there have been policies encouraging EV adoption, there has never been any law in the U.S. which made using an electric car mandatory.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch July 4 fireworks livestreams

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 09:00

Looking up at the sky is probably option No. 1 for viewing fireworks. But if, for some reason, you can't watch them in person, you're still in luck.

After all, the year is 2025, and everything is livestreamed. That's right: You can watch fireworks from the comfort of your couch. You won't even need to put down your hot dog.

Your best bet for streaming fireworks on July 4 is the iconic Macy's 4th of July Fireworks special. The special will air from 8 p.m. ET through 10 p.m. ET. You can stream the show on Peacock, NBC's streaming service, or tune in to your local NBC station, which will also televise the fireworks.

SEE ALSO: Hubble celebrates the Fourth of July with a gorgeous cosmic fireworks show

Broadway's Ariana DeBose is set to host the NBC program, which will feature musical guests Keke Palmer, Eric Church, Ava Max, the Jonas Brothers, Trisha Yearwood, and Lenny Kravitz.

If that isn't your cup of tea — or if you don't have access to NBC or Peacock — you can livestream PBS's fireworks program free on YouTube. The show will start at 8 p.m. ET and will be hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro, famous for playing Carlton on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

So this July 4, you can enjoy fireworks for free — and never leave your living room.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Germany vs. Poland online for free

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 06:00

TL;DR: Watch Germany vs. Poland in Women's Euro 2025 for free on ITVX. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Every group in Women's Euro 2025 is tough, but Group C might be the toughest. Denmark face off against Sweden in the first group-stage fixture from this group, and then Germany meet Poland. Germany are probably favorites to progress into the knockout rounds, but it's not going to be easy.

If you want to watch Germany vs. Poland in Women's Euro 2025 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Germany vs. Poland?

Germany vs. Poland in Women's Euro 2025 kicks off at 3 p.m. ET on July 4. This fixture takes place at the AFG Arena.

How to watch Germany vs. Poland for free

Germany vs. Poland in Women's Euro 2025 is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can unblock free live streams on sites like ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Germany vs. Poland in Women's Euro 2025 by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit ITVX

  5. Stream Germany vs. Poland in Women's Euro 2025 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch Germany vs. Poland (plus the rest of the tournament) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Watch Germany vs. Poland in Women's Euro 2025 for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Denmark vs. Sweden online for free

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 06:00

TL;DR: Watch Denmark vs. Sweden in Women's Euro 2025 for free on ITVX. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Women's Euro 2025 is kicking off with a number of high-profile fixtures, including Denmark vs. Sweden. This Scandinavian matchup is one of the most interesting group stage fixtures, as both teams will be looking to progress into the knockout rounds. Group C also includes Germany, so that's not going to be an easy task.

If you want to watch Denmark vs. Sweden in Women's Euro 2025 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Denmark vs. Sweden?

Denmark vs. Sweden in Women's Euro 2025 kicks off at 12 p.m. ET on July 4. This fixture takes place at the Stade de Genève.

How to watch Denmark vs. Sweden for free

Denmark vs. Sweden in Women's Euro 2025 is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can unblock free live streams on sites like ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Denmark vs. Sweden in Women's Euro 2025 by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit ITVX

  5. Stream Denmark vs. Sweden in Women's Euro 2025 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch Denmark vs. Sweden (plus the rest of the tournament) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Watch Denmark vs. Sweden in Women's Euro 2025 for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on July 4, 2025

Mashable - Fri, 07/04/2025 - 06:00

We're moving closer and closer to the Full Moon, and tonight the moon is more than half lit. This is due to where we are in the current lunar cycle.

The lunar cycle is a recurring series of eight unique phases of the moon's visibility. The whole cycle takes about 29.5 days (according to NASA), and these different phases happen as the Sun lights up different parts of the moon whilst it orbits Earth. The moon is always there, but what we see on Earth changes depending on how much is lit up.

See what's happening with the moon tonight, July 4.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Friday, July 4, the moon phase is Waxing Gibbous. According to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, 66% of the moon will be lit up and visible to us on Earth. This is also day nine of the lunar cycle.

Tonight, there is plenty to see with the naked eye, the most notable being the Mare Vaporum, Mare Fecunditatis, and the Tycho crater.

If you have binoculars, you'll also spot the Endymion Crater, the Clavius Craters, and the Alps Mountains/Alpine Valley

With a telescope, you'll see even more tonight, with the Apollo 17 and Apollo 11 landing spots becoming visible. You'll also be able to spot the Rupes Altai.

When is the next full moon?

This month's full moon will take place on July 10. The last full moon was on June 11.

What are moon phases?

Moon phases are caused by the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side.

Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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