How-To Geek
5 open-source projects I’ll happily open my wallet for
Much of the world runs on open-source software that is free to deploy, adapt, and incorporate into other projects. Even though this software is offered at no charge (or has a significant free option), that doesn’t mean that the projects don’t have costs associated with them.
The hidden costs of whole-column references in Excel: Learn 3 alternatives to optimize your workbook's performance
Whole-column references in Excel are silent performance killers, often forcing the program to manage a range of over a million rows. As a result, they can significantly slow your workbook's performance. So, stop using A:A references and, instead, create dynamic ranges.
Corsair Sabre v2 Pro gaming mouse review: How is it this light?
When it comes to ultralight gaming mice, aesthetics and feel are normally left in the dust in favor of cutting that extra half a gram. Somehow, with the Sabre v2 Pro, Corsair managed to create what is essentially a near-perfect ultralight gaming mouse that’s the lightest I’ve ever used—and it even has a full shell.
Synology's BeeStation is still the easiest Google Photos replacement
Cloud storage services like Google Photos and Dropbox force you to overpay for storage. And can you really trust these corporations to respect your privacy? For those who want to escape from cloud storage, Synology's BeeStation is the easiest, most user-friendly solution.
Everything coming to Paramount+ in January 2026
The gifts don’t stop coming once December ends—at least not in the streaming world. Paramount+ has revealed its January 2026 lineup, and in addition to new seasons of popular shows and the premieres of several new original series—scripted and unscripted, we’re also getting a captivating docuseries and a slew of classic movies.
What makes a 3D printer open source (and why it matters)
If you’re shopping for a 3D printer, you might have considered opting for an open-source model from a company that heavily leans into this philosophy. While it’s understandable that open-source printers might seem like the best choice, it’s not always a black-and-white decision.
5 Android articles you should read this weekend (December 19-21)
'Twas the last weekend before Christmas, when all through the...okay, I'm not doing that. No one would blame you if you didn't read every single Android article published this week. Lucky for you, I've hand-picked five for you to check out—along with a cheat sheet of top headlines.
This new retro-inspired MP3 player is also a USB DAC
FiiO just announced the Snowsky Disc, a brand-new digital audio player that blends throwback CD style with serious modern audio guts. This device follows the success of the Snowsky Echo Mini and Nano players, but it offers a unique aesthetic twist that adds nostalgia.
Raspberry Pi projects to try this weekend (December 19 - 21)
Are you ready to take your Raspberry Pi out of the house for some outdoor adventures? This weekend, I’m taking a look at three fun Raspberry Pi projects that can track wildlife in your yard, capture star trails in the sky, and even let you know when a lightning storm is nearby.
The default Android tool you never thought to replace
You’ve probably customized your Android phone with a new launcher, swapped out the keyboard, and maybe even installed an icon pack. But you might be missing out on a tiny, powerful secret that could fundamentally change how you use your phone.
Instacart will refund some customers after FTC alleged false advertising
Instacart is set to pay $60 million in refunds to consumers after settling claims brought by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC claimed the company used deceptive tactics regarding advertised delivery prices and automatic subscription enrollment.
The secret to a smudge-proof phone is a matte screen protector
Modern phones are beautiful feats of engineering. Many are also smudge magnets. It’s difficult to appreciate high-end industrial design through a thick coating of fingerprints and smears. Fortunately, a change in screen protector might be the only solution you need.
You don't need wires to enjoy fantastic sound
I'm not in a situation where I can really build a big home theater setup. I have limited space, and I don't think my neighbor would enjoy the sound of a bass beating against their wall at one in the morning.
Assistant isn’t dead yet: Google backtracks on its Gemini timeline
2025 was supposed to be the end for Google Assistant on Android devices. Nine months ago, Google said Assistant would be fully replaced by Gemini “later this year.” The number of days left on the calendar is dwindling fast, but Assistant isn’t going anywhere just yet.
3 Netflix documentaries to watch this weekend—holiday edition (December 19 - 21)
It's peak holiday season, and while you may or may not have already had your fill of the classic theatrical movies (Die Hard, anyone?), I thought you might be keen on a little Christmas cheer, documentary-style.
Matter 1.5 is arriving in Samsung SmartThings
The Samsung SmartThings platform now supports Matter 1.5, bringing it up to the latest version of the smart home industry standard. That means you can now connect cameras over Matter.
7 tools that make working with JSON a joy
JSON is everywhere nowadays: config files, web APIs, date formats, and more. It’s also proved popular with toolmakers, who have created many different programs to read, modify, and process JSON for a wide range of purposes.
3 detective shows on Netflix to solve this weekend (December 19 - 21)
For some reason, I've really been immersing myself in detective and mystery series lately. I think it's because the experience is less passive—you have to pay attention, or else you might miss a key piece of the puzzle as you try to get to the bottom of the crime yourself, making the watch more fun.
Get your hands on this Rolls-Royce-smooth, reliable SUV for $15K
If you want one vehicle that can juggle daily life, road trips, and a little ego-boosting comfort, a luxury SUV is usually the move. Big cabin, big cargo space, and the kind of cushy ride that makes you feel at least adjacent to royalty.
Please stop using Cat5 cables (do this instead)
Ethernet has been around for a long time. Invented in the '70s, commercialized in the early '80s, and it's still the fastest and most reliable network technology you can have in your home.


