How-To Geek

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We explain technology. Learn more with our articles, reviews, tips, and the best answers to your most pressing tech questions.
Updated: 47 min 23 sec ago

Why multifunction 3D printers aren't as good as they sound

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 18:00

The fact that we have 3D printers in our homes is already something that would blow my teenage sci-fi loving mind, but now you can buy systems that not only print in 3D, but can do laser cutting, engraving, and even milling. On paper, this sounds like the perfect solution for small home workshops, or anyone who wants to tinker.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Calibre eBook manager just got a big update

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 17:31

The popular eBook reader and manager app Calibre just got a big update. Calibre 9.0 is now rolling out with a new bookshelf view, more editing options, and much more.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Stop self-hosting your password manager—do this instead

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 17:30

I self-host almost every service I use in my homelab. If I can self-host it, chances are, I do—except for passwords. I refuse to self-host my password manager, and find that a hosted password manager gives me the peace of mind I need for my digital life.

Categories: IT General, Technology

These gaming Linux distros are teaming up to fix bigger problems [Updated]

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 17:16

The developers behind several Linux distributions and software that target gamers as their primary users have announced the creation of a coordinated development mission they're calling the Open Gaming Collective. The collective's aim is to unify efforts to avoid duplicating each other's work and to generally strengthen the Linux gaming ecosystem.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to turn your old Android phone into a portable Wi-Fi router

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 17:16

Travelers who are concerned about their network connectivity often think that they need a dedicated travel router, but in reality, an old Android phone can do the same job—and sometimes even better. Before spending money on extra hardware, you should consider putting your old phone to work as a portable hotspot instead.

Categories: IT General, Technology

No, Linux is not "more secure" than Windows

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 17:00

In Linux communities, especially among those new to the scene, I often see people hailing Linux as a security powerhouse in contrast to other operating systems. They imply that switching to Linux gives you some kind of shield of armor against common threats.

Categories: IT General, Technology

4 Windows habits that can wreck your Linux system

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 16:30

Linux isn't necessarily "harder" than Windows, it's just different. Just like visiting another country, you need to adapt to the laws of the land. While a lot of your experiences with Windows translate well into the world of Linux, if you don't shake these habits your data, and even your whole system, could end up in a very bad spot.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The world's first flush, recessed drop-down TV mount

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 16:25

Out of Sight Mounting Solutions was engineered to solve a problem traditional mantle mounts can’t: they force TVs to be mounted too high to clear the mantle, ruining sight lines and aesthetics. Our patented pivoting geometry allows the TV to mount dramatically lower, clear deeper mantels, and retract into a near-flush position, without motors, electronics, or maintenance-heavy components.

Categories: IT General, Technology

3 Prime Video documentaries to binge this weekend (January 30 - February 1)

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 16:15

Prime Video's documentaries can be a bit sneaky, especially when you're looking for a lineup with a bit of range. With a bit of digging, you can find some sweet spots to make for an interesting watch.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Home Assistant projects to try this weekend (January 30-Feb 1)

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 16:00

Some Home Assistant projects can make a big impact on your smart home without a huge amount of effort. Others take a little more time, but the end results can be equally impressive. However much free time you have this weekend, there's a project you can try.

Categories: IT General, Technology

3 great shows to watch on Netflix this weekend (January 30 - February 1)

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 13:00

Every weekend, I'm on the lookout for a solid binge that I can while away the hours with. Netflix is never at a loss for these, but at the end of each month (before the next month's titles take root), it takes a bit more digging to find a hit.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Stop right-clicking in Excel: 5 shortcuts that save me hours every week

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 12:30

Every time you reach for your mouse to right-click in Excel, you're paying a productivity tax. It feels like a shortcut, but it actually breaks your flow. These five essential keystrokes replaced my right-click habit and turned my sluggish spreadsheet sessions into a sprint.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 Keyboard review: An odd but fantastic layout

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 12:00

Corsair tried something new with their latest Vanguard Pro 96 keyboard, and I can’t say that I’m a fan. The built-in screen feels useless and like a value-add that doesn’t add any extra value. The rest of the keyboard though? I love it, and I think you will too.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How I made my basic robot vacuum smarter using Home Assistant

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 00:01

Robot vacuums are the perfect example of what a smart home device should be. They make your life easier by taking over a tedious task you would otherwise have to do yourself, and with automation, you can make it all happen without having to do a thing. My robot vacuum isn't very smart, but I used Home Assistant to make it smarter.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Stop buying Gen 3 SSDs: They are slower and actually cost more

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 23:30

Rapidly rising SSD prices are bringing back products that were starting to fade into obscurity. SATA SSDs, pretty much obsolete, are finding some uses again. Similarly, the ongoing RAM shortage makes older versions of consumer RAM, such as DDR3, somewhat usable.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Raspberry Pi projects to try this weekend (January 30 - February 1)

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 23:00

Are you ready for more Raspberry Pi projects to dive into? This weekend, I’m showing you how to track the ISS as it flys around the globe, modify a retro camera with new tech, and make plants scream at you with three more Raspberry Pi projects for you to do this weekend.

Categories: IT General, Technology

3 years later, Hulu's satirical comedy is a better streaming show than Bridgerton

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 22:57

Welcome back, dearest readers. After nearly a two-year hiatus, Bridgerton season 4 returns to Netflix with four episodes. With charming romances, beautiful costumes, and riveting drama, Bridgerton remains an entertaining and delightful television show. Season 4 will undoubtedly climb to the top of Netflix's weekly Top 10 charts. If you've already watched the new season or want another period piece, Hulu has a satirical comedy that's arguably better than Bridgerton.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How Subaru’s AWD system really stacks up against the competition

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 22:30

Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is seriously impressive. It delivers confident, full-time traction whether you’re in bad weather or pushing performance limits.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Everyone should understand these smart home terms

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 22:00

Most smart home terminology is pretty self-explanatory, but there are plenty of terms that can catch out newbies who aren’t clued in on the lingo. So here’s a glossary of the most common smart home terms you might encounter, and what they mean.

Categories: IT General, Technology

MAME can now emulate Apple's first graphical computer

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 21:53

The popular multi-system emulator MAME just received its first update for 2026. MAME 0.285 has arrived with better support for Apple's first graphical interface computer, the Lisa, along with more arcade emulation options and other changes.

Categories: IT General, Technology

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