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Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
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Updated: 3 hours 48 min ago

Save $90 on the TCL 4K smart TV in early Cyber Monday sales

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:41

SAVE $90: As of Dec. 1, the TCL S5 55-inch smart TV is available for $239.99 in Amazon's early Cyber Monday sale. That's a 27% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL S5 55-inch smart TV $239.99 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal

There's no need to fight off other shoppers for cheap TVs on Black Friday and Cyber Monday these days — you can safely order them from Amazon. And there are plenty of discounted smart TVs available in Amazon's early Cyber Monday deals. Whether you're buying for yourself while prices are low, or picking up a Christmas gift for a loved one, the TCL S5 55-inch smart TV is one of the best TV deals we've seen.

Indeed, it's a behemoth of a TV with voice assistant and solid spec — an incredible model for the discounted price. As of Dec. 1, the TCL S5 55-inch smart TV is priced at $239.99, which is a saving of 27% on the regular list price.

SEE ALSO: We track Apple deals year-round — Black Friday 2024 has the lowest prices we’ve seen

The TV runs on the Fire TV operating system, which gives you access to over a million movies and TV shows. And while it's not OLED, the best display technology, you'll hardly notice the difference with its 4K resolution, motion enhancing technology, and HDR PRO+. That includes support for Dolby Vision.

If you're a gamer, it also offers an Auto Game mode, which automatically optimises the TV for the lowest input lag and latency to give you a game-changing experience.

SEE ALSO: The best early gaming laptop deals you can snag ahead of Black Friday

Amazon's Cyber Monday sale runs until Dec. 2, so there's limited time to snap up your bargains. And if you're in the market for a new TV, the TCL S5 55-inch smart TV is one not to miss.

Bag These Black Friday Deals Before They Go
Categories: IT General, Technology

Save over $100 on the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 for Cyber Monday

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:35

SAVE $170: As of Dec. 1, the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is available for $159.99 in Amazon's early Cyber Monday sale. That's a 57% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch6 $159.99 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $170.00 Get Deal

Black Friday may be in the rear view mirror, but Cyber Monday is on the horizon. And Amazon already has an excellent selection of early Cyber Monday deals to get you started. And if you're one of the many shoppers who prioritises great tech deals, there are plenty of bargains to find, including a great price on one of Samsung's best ever smartwatches — the Samsung Galaxy Watch6.

The Android-powered watch is packed with competitive features and is now down to a seriously competitive price, too. As of Dec. 1, the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is priced at $159.99, which saves you 52% off the regular list price. That's an incredible discount of $170.

SEE ALSO: We track Apple deals year-round — Black Friday 2024 has the lowest prices we’ve seen

If you want value for money — and of course you do — the Samsung Watch6 is stacked. It has health and fitness features, Bluetooth connectivity, advanced sleep coaching, and the ability to take calls and texts.

It's especially strong when it comes to fitness, with custom workouts, heart monitoring, body composition analysis, heart rate zone alerts, and more. If you're working towards specific goals, this watch can act as a mini personal trainer. It will get you on track and give you rolling feedback with its always-on monitoring.

SEE ALSO: The best early gaming laptop deals you can snag ahead of Black Friday

There's also a discount on the next gen model, the Samsung Galaxy Watch7, though it's a fairly light upgrade and you'll save more money with the Samsung Galaxy Watch6.

Amazon's Cyber Monday celebrations run until Dec. 2, which means there isn't much time to grab the bargains. And at this price, the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is one of the best smartwatch deals you'll find.

Bag These Black Friday Deals Before They Go
Categories: IT General, Technology

The Amazon Echo Dot Kids is over $50 off in early Cyber Monday sales

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:30

SAVE OVER $50: As of Dec. 1, the Echo Dot Kids with Echo Glow is available for $37.99 in Amazon's early Cyber Monday sale. That's a 57% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Dot Kids with Echo Glow $37.99 at Amazon
$89.98 Save $51.99 Get Deal

Black Friday may be done and dusted, but the Cyber Monday deals are just getting started at Amazon. Which is great news for the bargain hunters among us. An here's a deal that's caught our eye — particularly for any shoppers who are looking to stock up on kids' gifts ahead of Christmas.

As of Dec. 1, the Echo Dot Kids with Echo Glow is down to just $37.99, which is an incredible saving of over $50 on list price. That's a massive 57% off the regular list price.

SEE ALSO: We track Apple deals year-round — Black Friday 2024 has the lowest prices we’ve seen

If you're not already acquainted with the Echo Dot Kids, it's the kid-friendly version of Amazon's excellent smart speaker, with a kid-friendly dragon design and a free year's subscription to Amazon Kids. That means access to almost countless games, audiobooks, and learning tools — all with assistance from Alexa.

And trust us, kids love playing and learning with Alexa.

As an added bonus, this one comes with the Echo Glow, a smart lamp that syncs with the Echo Dot or other Alexa-enabled devices you might already have around the home. Using voice commands, you can control the color and brightness and set lighting timers and routines. In other words, it's an incredible smart night light that can also remind kids when it's time to do their homework or brush their teeth.

SEE ALSO: The best early gaming laptop deals you can snag ahead of Black Friday

There are just two days to go, with the Amazon Cyber Monday celebrations ending on Dec. 2, so now's the time to grab these deals.

And at this price, the Echo Dot Kids and Echo Glow is perfect for the Christmas stocking. Make sure you get it — just in case Santa forgets.

Bag These Black Friday Deals Before They Go
Categories: IT General, Technology

How is this Black Friday deal on the TCL Q6 Smart TV still live?

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:26

Save $400: As of Dec. 1, the TCL Q6 Smart TV is $799.99 at Best Buy (down from $1,199.99) for Black Friday. Packed with QLED, Dolby Vision, and Game Accelerator 240, it’s a must-buy for home entertainment fans.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL Q6 Smart TV $799.99 at Best Buy
$1,199.99 Save $400.00 Get Deal

How is this Black Friday deal on the TCL Q6 Smart TV still live? With QLED technology, Dolby Vision, and a 120Hz refresh rate, this TV offers premium features that rival sets costing twice as much. Yet here we are, with a massive $400 discount to just $799.99 from $1,199.99.

The TCL Q6 Q-Class Smart TV is all about giving you more bang for your buck. It features Quantum Dot Technology for vibrant, lifelike color alongside HDR PRO+ and Dolby Vision. Anything put through this TV will have some nice inky blacks and look super sharp.

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

It's a solid gaming TV. TCL Q6 comes loaded with Game Accelerator 240, which means 240 Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for ultra-responsive gameplay without lag. Auto Game Mode backs up VRR to smash the last bits of lag out of the gaming arena. Need to get into gaming? The Motion Rate 480 with MEMC keeps fast-moving sports and action scenes crisp and blur-free.

TCL Q6 takes sound seriously, too. Its Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X, and built-in subwoofer deliver rich, immersive audio straight from the TV speakers. There's also built-in Bluetooth, meaning syncing up your favorite headphones or earbuds is a breeze.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

Google TV OS brings all your favorite streaming apps without the need for a streaming stick, while Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2 make sharing content from your devices a breeze. Voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit makes TCL Q6 a perfect fit for your smart home setup, too.

Seriously, how has this deal yet to be sold out? If you're looking to upgrade your home entertainment setup, the TCL Q6 is the perfect choice. Don't let this one slip through your fingers!

These Black Friday Deals Are Still Live. Get Them Before They're Gone.
Categories: IT General, Technology

Somehow, this Black Friday ASUS ProArt 4K monitor deal is still available

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:25

Save $70: As of Dec. 1, the ASUS ProArt 27-inch 4K HDR Professional Monitor is $379 at Amazon (down from $449) for Black Friday.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ProArt 27-Inch 4K HDR Professional Monitor $379.00 at Amazon
$449.00 Save $70.00 Get Deal

We're not sure how this Black Friday deal on the ASUS ProArt 27-inch 4K HDR Professional Monitor is still available. With pro-grade specs, a tidy design, and a price tag of just $379 (down from $449), this deal should've sold out ages ago. Creators, photographers, and video editors should jump on this one.

The ASUS ProArt PA279CRV is a dream for anyone who demands impeccable visuals. Its 27-inch 4K HDR IPS display puts out razor-sharp detail, vibrant colors, and a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees. Covering 99% of both DCI-P3 and Adobe RGB color gamuts, this monitor ensures that your projects look precisely how they're supposed to. In other words, video editors and digital artists get to represent the work they envisioned. Add to that the Delta E

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

The USB-C port offers 96W Power Delivery, making it perfect for powering up your laptop or other devices while you work. Regarding inputs, DisplayPort, HDMI, and a built-in USB hub make this a solid hub for your editing setup. The daisy-chaining feature lets you connect multiple monitors for a massive workspace to play in, too—very handy.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

ASUS ProArt 27-inch is solid for tweaking fine details in Adobe Creative Cloud (a three-month subscription is included with purchase) and winding down after a long day on YouTube. This monitor is built to keep up with a matte screen surface to reduce glare, and the height-adjustable stand ensures solid ergonomics that many monitors in this price bracket leave on the cutting room floor.

Seriously, at $70 off, this Black Friday deal feels too good to last. If you're a creative professional or love top-tier visuals, now's the time to level up your desk setup.

These Black Friday Deals Are Still Live. Get Them Before They're Gone.
Categories: IT General, Technology

This stunning Black Friday TV deal is still live. This is your last chance to save over $200 on the Hisense U6 55-inch TV.

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:25

Save $248: As of Dec. 1, the Hisense U6 55-inch ULED 4K Smart TV is $299.99 (was $547.99) at Amazon. We're wondering how this deal is still in stock?

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense U6 Series 55U6N $299.99 at Amazon
$547.99 Save $248.00 Get Deal

How is this Hisense U6 55-inch ULED 4K Smart TV deal still live after Black Friday? At just $299.99 (down from $547.99), this 45% discount feels like an Amazon pricing error. Seeing this many solid specifications in a budget price tag is brilliant, so let's get straight into it.

The Hisense U6 Series panel features Mini-LED backlighting with a Full Array of Local Dimming. That means deep blacks, bright whites, and stellar contrast. Every detail pops in this TV, which is excellent for anything from streaming to gaming.

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

The QLED Quantum Dot Technology takes colors to the next level, delivering over a billion shades for a vibrant, lifelike picture. With stunning clarity, you'll notice every team jersey on game day and every moment from your favorite film/TV series. Backed by the Hi-View Engine AI chipset, this TV continuously optimizes your picture with features like Dynamic Tone Mapping and AI HDR Enhancement.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

The Game Mode Plus includes a Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Low Latency Mode, and AMD FreeSync compatibility. This means smooth frame rates and zero lag from controller inputs. It's perfect for every game console or PC if you want something bigger than a high-performance monitor.

The sound isn't an afterthought, either. With Dolby Atmos audio and Dolby Vision HDR, you'll be fully immersed in every movie, show, and game. The built-in Google TV operating system provides access to all your favorite streaming apps and organizes content based on your preferences. The remote features voice control, too, so it's simple to search for your favorite shows with Google Assistant.

At $299.99, this 55-inch Hisense U6 Smart TV is the bargain of the year. It's hard to find a budget, large-screen TV that does it all, and now is the perfect time to upgrade. Snap this unbelievable Black Friday bargain up ASAP.

These Black Friday Deals Are Still Live. Get Them Before They're Gone.
Categories: IT General, Technology

The Google Pixel 8 Pro has $250 off as Cyber Monday comes calling

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:21

SAVE $250: As of Dec. 1, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is available for $649 in the Amazon early Cyber Monday sale. That's a 35% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 8 Pro $649.00 at Amazon
$999.00 Save $350.00 Get Deal

Please don't mourn Black Friday, because Amazon has launched its early Cyber Monday deals. All of which means there's still time to pick up big tech at small(er) prices. Which is all part of the fun of the pre-Christmas shopping extravaganza. And if, like many other shoppers, you're on the hunt for a cut price cell phone, there's a great price on Google Pixel 8 Pro, which reviewers have called Google's best ever phone.

The Google Pixel 8 Pro is an AI-assisted phone with excellent cameras and an immense 6.7-inch display. As of Dec. 1, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is down to $649, which gives you 35% off the list price.

SEE ALSO: We track Apple deals year-round — Black Friday 2024 has the lowest prices we’ve seen

This Android-powered phone is an upgrade of an already-excellent model, so in terms of Google hardware it's pretty much the best of the best. Its big selling point is the phone's cameras, which come packed with advanced features and AI-enabled editing tools. All of which is enhanced by a gorgeous display.

And if kooky AI features is your thing, this phone has plenty to shout about. It's a phone designed to get the point fast when you're searching up information — a phone that prioritises speed and convenience.

SEE ALSO: The best early gaming laptop deals you can snag ahead of Black Friday

The only real issue with the Google Pixel 8 Pro is the price, but that's not as much of a problem thanks to Amazon's early Cyber Monday deals. The Amazon event only runs until Cyber Monday on Dec. 2 so there's limited time to grab this Google device.

Bag These Black Friday Deals Before They Go
Categories: IT General, Technology

Own the whole Microsoft Office suite for life for just $33

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more with a Microsoft Office 2019 license for Windows at $32.97 until the end of today.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows $32.97
$229.00 Save $196.03 Get Deal

Your credit card is exhausted from all of today’s subscription fees. While you probably don’t want to cancel Peacock and never see the ending of Yellowstone or say goodbye to two-day shipping with Prime, you could swap your Microsoft 365 subscription for a Microsoft Office lifetime license.

Instead of spending $7 monthly (or $70 yearly), you can pay once and use the apps as much as you’d like. For a little while longer, the Windows software suite is on sale for $32.97 (reg. $229) until tonight at 11:59 p.m. PT.

What apps are included?

Microsoft Office 2019 isn’t the newest version available, but it’s the cheaper one for people who just need to use the apps and don’t care about what they look like inside. However, it does have a classic, timeless design.

Here's a list of the apps you get:

  • Word

  • Excel

  • PowerPoint

  • Outlook

  • OneNote

  • Publisher

  • Access

Differences between Microsoft 365 and a lifetime license

This purchase is a no-brainer if you aren’t taking full advantage of Microsoft 365’s OneDrive storage, mobile app access, and cloud-based backups. Those just wanting the apps should be more than comfortable with a Microsoft Office download.

You might actually like this license more than the subscription. The apps are downloaded directly onto your PC instead of hosted on the cloud. While this does mean there are no built-in cloud backups, you don’t have to worry about the hassle of trying to work offline.

Plus, now that Microsoft added Copilot’s AI features to Microsoft 365, you might be looking for a way to escape them. Not everyone is crazy about having a virtual robot interfere with their work, and these classic apps won’t ever bug you about it.

The price drop on this Microsoft Office 2019 for Windows ends soon, so get your download for $32.97 (reg. $229) through December 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a Japanese knife set to tackle everything in the kitchen for 74% off

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Upgrade your prep with the Seido Japanese Master Chef's 8-Piece Knife Set for just $109.97 (reg. $429) — precision, elegance, and value in one sleek package.

Opens in a new window Credit: Seido Seido Japanese Master Chef's 8-Piece Knife Set $109.97
$429.00 Save $319.03 with gift box Get Deal

Are you ready to bring professional-grade tools into your kitchen without the jaw-dropping price tag? The Seido Japanese Master Chef's 8-Piece Knife Set is now just $109.97 (reg. $429) — a limited-time Black Friday week price.

Whether you're prepping a festive feast or upgrading your everyday meals, this knife set delivers sharpness, durability, and elegance. Plus, it comes in an easy-to-wrap gift box — ideal for the home chef on your holiday list!

This set, crafted by expert Japanese blacksmiths, is designed for effortless, precise cutting. Each blade is forged with high-carbon stainless steel for razor-sharp edges and long-lasting performance. 

With blades honed to a 15-degree edge angle, they’re sharper than traditional Western knives, which typically sit at 25 degrees. What does that mean? Smoother slices, finer cuts, and better results every time. Whether carving a roast with the slicing knife or prepping delicate sushi with the Santoku knife, each blade in the Seido set is engineered for versatility and precision.

But it’s not just about performance — comfort matters too. The ergonomic Pakka wood handles ensure a firm, comfortable grip for hours of cooking. Say goodbye to kitchen fatigue and hello to culinary mastery.

Here's what you get:

  • Chef’s knife: The everyday workhorse for slicing, chopping, and dicing.

  • Bread knife: Serrated for clean slices without crushing.

  • Santoku knives (7-inch and 5-inch): Ideal for fine cuts and delicate prep work.

  • Cleaver: Perfect for tougher tasks like breaking down meat.

  • Paring knife: Precision for smaller, detail-oriented tasks.

  • Boning knife: Seamlessly separates meat from the bone.

  • Slicing knife: For thin, even slices of meat, fruits, or vegetables.

  • An easy-to-wrap gift box.

Order through December 15 to get on-time holiday delivery of this pro-level knife set. The Seido Japanese Master Chef's 8-Piece Knife Set is just $109.97 (reg. $429) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a refurbished MacBook Air for just $230 during Black Friday weekend

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Upgrade your tech with a grade-A Refurbished 2017 Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) for just $229.97 (reg. $348.99) — lightweight, reliable, and ready to work wherever you are.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished 2017 Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) $229.97
$999.00 Save $769.03 Get Deal

If you've been hunting for a budget-friendly computer to handle your daily tasks, you should take a closer look at this one.

This grade-A refurbished 2017 Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) is now available for just $229.97 (reg. $348.99) with free shipping during this Black Friday week sale.

Whether you're working, streaming, or staying connected, this lightweight, efficient laptop is an ideal companion for all your needs. At this price, it’s an easy choice for a secondary device — or a great gift for the tech lover in your life.

This sleek and functional laptop features a 1.8GHz Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, delivering solid performance for everyday tasks like browsing, emailing, or managing spreadsheets. The 128GB SSD allows you to store your files locally, and its 12-hour battery life will enable you to work or play uninterrupted all day.

The 13.3-inch Retina display delivers crisp visuals, making it a terrific option for video calls, Netflix binges, or photo editing. Built for portability, this lightweight laptop is a dream for those needing a device to grab and go. Whether it’s for travel, your side hustle, or the kids, this MacBook Air is proof you don’t need to spend big to get big performance.

Rest easy knowing this laptop comes with a grade-A refurbished rating. That means it’s in near-mint condition, with minimal to no visible wear. Thoroughly inspected and cleaned, you’ll get the performance and polish of a MacBook without the hefty price tag.

Pick up this grade-A refurbished MacBook Air for just $229.97 (reg. $348.99) with free shipping during this Black Friday week sale.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save 46% on an HD Bluetooth dash screen

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: For Black Friday week, you can get a 7-inch wireless dash display, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, for just $74.97 (reg. $139), with free shipping.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart 7-inch Wireless Car Display $74.97
$139.99 Save $65.02 with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Compatibility & Phone Mirroring Get Deal

Car tech evolves fast, and not all of us can drop thousands of dollars on a new ride just to get a better dashboard. That's why we're excited about this 7-inch Wireless Car Display. It can be a total game-changer for upgrading your vehicle without breaking the bank—or breaking out the toolbox.

For just $74.97 (reg. $139) during this Black Friday week sale (plus free shipping), you can bring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and phone mirroring into your car on this dash screen. No coupon, no headaches, just a smoother, smarter driving experience.

This display was made to make hands-free driving happen for almost everyone. You'll be cruising down the highway, your favorite playlist blasting through the speakers, GPS guiding you seamlessly to your destination — all without fumbling with your phone.

With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, it syncs your smartphone to the HD touchscreen. Navigation, calls, and music control are now at your fingertips or voice command. Ask Google Assistant or Siri to handle the tasks while you keep your eyes on the road and your hands where they belong.

The display delivers crisp, vibrant visuals and supports HD video playback, so you can even keep passengers entertained during long road trips. The wide compatibility means it works with most car models, so whether you’re rocking a sporty coupe or a practical minivan, this device fits right in.

Setting it up is made to be ridiculously easy. Just attach it to your dashboard or windshield with the included suction mount, plug it into your car’s power source, and you’re good to go. No fancy installation or tech expertise needed.

Don't miss this Black Friday week sale that gets you this 7-inch wireless dash display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for just $74.97 (reg. $139) with free shipping.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best video games of 2024

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 11:00

I had a great time playing video games in 2024 — and I hope you did too. Let's talk about it.

This past year was challenging for some, including myself, but the silver lining is that 2024 produced a bunch of excellent games to play. The RPG genre, in particular, saw a modern renaissance, with an overwhelming number of releases from studios big and small.

Of course, there were plenty of other games, ranging from big-budget productions to ones created by a single developer.

However, unlike most years, there isn't a single standout on this list that I consider to be better than all the rest. Why introduce competition when it's not needed? That's why this list is unranked. You should play all of these games if you can.

Here are the best games of 2024, in no particular order.

The best video games of 2024

Again, fair warning: There are a lot of RPGs on this list, but at least they're all really good.

Metaphor: ReFantazio

In a year that was comically bursting at the seams with RPGs to play, Metaphor: ReFantazio has a real case as the best one.

This game looks so awesome. Credit: Sega/Atlus/Steam

At the very least, it’s the most striking and unique of the big ones, thanks to a dazzling art style full of funky fantasy designs and a soundtrack overflowing with operatic rapping. 

It also has a neat hybrid real-time/turn-based combat system and a compelling calendar-based gameplay structure that keeps things moving forward at all times. Metaphor’s main story may be overly simplistic at times with its "fiction can change the world" message, but strong character work and worldbuilding in the margins help this game become one of the very best of 2024.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the only game of 2024 — and probably of all time up to this point — that made me emotional during a karaoke cutscene.

The boys! Credit: Sega/RGG Studio/Steam

Sure, it’s a great turn-based RPG with a fun, real-world setting, a party full of unemployed 40-somethings, and fully fleshed-out Animal Crossing- and Pokemon-inspired side games. But Infinite Wealth’s real strength lies in its ability to bring you in touch with the inner lives of its characters.

It opens strong, with protagonist Ichiban Kasuga going on the (heartbreaking) first date of his adult life, and continues with longtime series hero Kazuma Kiryu suffering from a terminal illness. All along the way, you’ll meet a bunch of quirky freaks with shockingly relatable problems. One of the most touching moments in the entire game involves a bunch of guys who wear diapers and act like adult babies. If any of that sounds good to you, go play Infinite Wealth with haste.

Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth

If you had asked me just a few hours after finishing Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, I would have confidently called it the best game of 2024. 

Junon looks great all redone. Credit: Square Enix

However, with some time to reflect, my enthusiasm has cooled due to its admittedly bloated length and a story that shines most when it’s not focused on the new elements added to it. But for dozens of hours, Rebirth is an incredibly fun and visually stunning JRPG, featuring some of the best combat of the year, a beloved cast of characters who each get their moment to shine, and one of the most diverse and impressive soundtracks in recent memory.

I still can’t believe there’s an original song about a dog that was written just for one optional side quest.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Although it’s a big-budget, full-priced game published by industry giant Capcom, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is arguably the most "for true sickos" title on this entire list.

It's brutal, but it's worth it. Credit: Capcom

I mean that in the most complimentary way possible. This quirky open-world action RPG makes even the simple act of walking from one town to the next feel treacherous, no matter how powered-up your character might be. Sometimes, you’ll be strolling through the countryside, and a dragon and a giant ogre will start fighting you (and each other) all at once. 

Fast travel is limited by items. Entire optional quests and storylines can be easily missed. There’s an in-game disease that can eradicate entire villages while you aren’t playing — and it’s not easy to spot ahead of time. These things sound punishing and unfair, but thanks to brilliant game design and balancing, it’s all nearly flawlessly tuned to be more funny than aggravating.

Astro Bot

Astro Bot is, if nothing else, one of the best PlayStation commercials ever.

What's up, Ratchet? Credit: PlayStation

That may sound more derisive than intended, but it’s a factual analysis of Astro Bot: an incredibly tight, clever, and wonderfully designed 3D platformer that’s also a firehose of PlayStation nostalgia that doesn’t always hit right. Sometimes, you see references to Vib-Ribbon and Jumping Flash and smile, while other times, you see Detroit: Become Human and Fall Guys and feel a little weird about it because those are very recent games that don't have decades of fondness built around them. In the case of Detroit, it's not even a good game.

Astro Bot is such an incredible experience to play, watch, and listen to — especially in a genre that’s underrepresented these days — that I’m willing to overlook the fact that the nostalgia-driven elements don’t always land as intended.

Balatro

Balatro has the unique distinction of being the only game on this list that I’ve gone out of my way to avoid for most of this year because I like doing other things with my life on occasion.

It's getting its hooks in me just through this screenshot alone. Credit: LocalThunk/Steam

Everyone I know who likes Balatro comes off as a cautionary tale, especially since it became available on phones. 

The point is, as soon as you start playing this poker-based roguelike from a one-person development studio, you may not want to play anything else for a while. Be careful, folks.

UFO 50

If there’s any game from 2024 that stands above the rest in terms of ambition, it’s probably UFO 50.

There's a lot to see and do in UFO 50. Credit: Mossmouth

The result of a collaborative effort between several indie game developers, UFO 50 is a collection of 50 original games from a fictional company spanning several real eras of game design. Obtuse adventure games, classic-style RPGs, beat-'em-ups, tower defense games, and others are all represented here with endearing, era-specific accuracy. 

If you’ve ever liked a video game that came out in the '80s or '90s, UFO 50 might be your jam.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II

I have a group of friends I like to play multiplayer games with. Anything where we can team up is right up our alley. My favorites are the ones that don't require much tactical communication, so we can chat about whatever while playing. 2024 provided two nearly perfect examples of that, and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II was one of them.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II comes from a fictional universe/board game I don’t care about at all, and that’s fine. It’s an incredible co-op experience for three players where you can use a chainsaw sword to mow through giant bugs. Every player is a 10-foot-tall monstrosity in power armor, and the only way for enemies to stand a chance against you is to swarm you by the dozen. It kicks ass.

Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 is also a co-op game about satirically fascist soldiers shooting bugs — but with an entirely different feel. Your character is weaker and more expendable here, and dying is often more funny than maddening. Managing supplies and finishing optional side objectives are also bigger deals in Helldivers II. But both of these games hold the same special spot in my heart as something I could play with friends while being able to have real conversations with them.

Silent Hill 2 remake

Blurb written by Mashable's Chance Townsend

Too creepy for me, personally. Credit: Konami/Steam

Silent Hill 2’s remake is a harrowing masterpiece of atmosphere and storytelling that strikes the perfect balance between reverence for its roots and modern sensibilities. Bloober Team has managed to take the haunting essence of the PS2 classic and reforge it into an experience that feels both nostalgic and groundbreaking.

From the moment you step into the fog world of Silent Hill, you’re plunged into a world of psychological dread where every shadow whispers untold horrors. The game’s sound design is a revelation, using eerie silences and dissonant crescendos to keep players on edge, while Akira Yamaoka’s haunting score wraps around the narrative like a suffocating mist.

James Sunderland’s journey through his fractured psyche is conveyed with visceral combat, chilling environmental storytelling, and unforgettable character encounters. Plus, it helps that the stunning visuals breathe new life into Silent Hill’s grotesque beauty, making it a sensory feast.

Despite some minor technical hiccups, Silent Hill 2's gripping narrative, terrifying atmosphere, and polished mechanics make it a shining example of how remakes should be done. It’s an experience that lingers long after the credits roll, earning its place as one of our best games of 2024.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink

I did not think I would ever become hopelessly absorbed by a spin-off to a Japanese phone game, but 2024 was full of surprises.

These boss fights are so, so good. Credit: Cygames/Steam

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a strangely named but undeniably excellent action RPG with a huge cast of a few dozen playable characters, each with their own elemental strengths and totally unique combat mechanics. Mastering a character in Relink is like a simpler version of mastering a character in a fighting game. The only difference is that you take them into co-op battles against giant monsters instead of using them to compete with strangers.

It doesn’t hurt that Relink’s fantasy sky pirate setting regularly produces gorgeous vistas, including the best-looking clouds I’ve ever seen in a video game. The music’s great, too. You should play this game.

Honorable MentionEA Sports College Football 25 SEE ALSO: Why 'College Football '25' means so much to its long-suffering fans

EA Sports College Football 25 has problems. The simulation is weird; it doesn’t have every feature that every player wants, like in-depth offseason player development or deep-in-the-weeds roster management features. I don’t really care, though, because this game’s release was a genuine event in a way that sports game launches rarely are. 

Travis Hunter can do amazing things in the real world and the virtual world. Credit: Electronic Arts

The first official college football video game in a decade was also the first to have real player names and faces. It also has a stunning amount of lovingly and accurately rendered pregame rituals, obscure campus landmarks, and everything else that college football fans could possibly want. The part where you play football is fun, too, but as a celebration of its subject matter, CFB 25 is premium-grade stuff.

Want more of the best of 2024? Join Mashable as we look back at all the internet slang, TikTok songs, movies, memes, dating trends, hyped-up hardware, scientific discoveries, social media apps, and more that have delighted and amazed us this year.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save on the ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock before Cyber Monday

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:59

SAVE $45: Upgrade your ROG Ally setup thanks to Best Buy's Black Friday event: The ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock supports 4K HDMI output, fast charging, and peripheral connectivity, making it the ultimate accessory for gamers.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock $19.99 at Best Buy
$64.99 Save $45.00 Get Deal

Did you snag that awesome ASUS ROG Ally Black Friday deal? Now you'll need a solid travel charger that doubles as a dock for when you want to hook up to a TV or desktop setup, right? The ASUS ROG 65W Charger Dock is available in the Best Buy Black Friday sale for just $19.99. That's $45 off the best charging and docking solution for the ASUS ROG Ally.

Why pay $19.99 for a wall plug? This thing is packed with tech that knocks all third-party competition on its backside at this price point. The first socket has a HDMI 2.0 output, which means 4K at 60Hz or 1080p at 120Hz support. While ROG Ally isn't going to put out 4K, there's room for other tech to dock in this thing. ROG Ally plugs in via the USB-C input, and then the Charger Dock converts that signal and sends it out of the HDMI 2.0 port to your chosen screen. Imagine being on holiday and being able to chill out to some Diablo IV on your room TV with no issues?

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

This thing keeps your ROG Ally charged, too. It has a USB 2.0 socket to plug in memory card adaptors, controllers, keyboards, and mice (although a USB extender would be needed for multiple USB accessories to be used simultaneously). The USB-A socket supports data transfer speeds of up to 480 MB/s, so it's fast enough for most uses without banging your head against the wall for load and copy times.

The heart of this piece of tech is the 65W USB Type-C charger, which means you can run on Turbo mode while plugged in on the go. It also supports dual charging, splitting power between 60W via USB Type-C and 5W via USB Type-A, so you can charge a second device simultaneously. Is the phone running low on battery while gaming? Problem solved.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

Compact and sleek, the dock makes it easy to set up your gear. Keep your peripherals and accessories pre-connected, plug the dock into the wall, and connect your ROG Ally with a straightforward cable whenever you're reayou'regame. It's a seaIt'ss way to transition from handheld to full-screen gaming.

Another big selling point for this Black Friday deal is its low profile and small size for a charging dock. Of course, it's nice that it's a stand with more inputs for ROG Ally, but it's not physical when commuting to work or on holiday. It's the best sidekick for your ROG Ally. It is usually a lot more expensive, so it's crazy that this deal is still available.

These Black Friday Deals Are Still Live. Get Them Before They're Gone.
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Cyber Monday Amazon Echo deals still live in 2024

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:36

SAVE UP TO 55%: Amazon's Black Friday sale is still live, and so are the deals on Amazon Echo devices. While single devices are up to 55% off, save even more when purchasing two Echo devices together.

Best Echo Device Deals Best Echo deal Amazon Echo Pop 🔥 $17.99 at Amazon (Save $22) Get Deal Best Echo Show deal Amazon Echo Show 5 $44.99 at Amazon (Save $45) Get Deal Best Echo alarm clock deal Amazon Echo Spot 🔥 $44.99 at Amazon (Save $35) Get Deal Best Echo Kids deal Amazon Echo Pop Kids 🔥 $22.99 at Amazon (Save $27) Get Deal

If you're looking to make your home a little smarter, now's the time to shop Amazon's Echo devices. Black Friday brought a flurry of deals that are still here as we get ready for Cyber Monday.

Echos are some of the easiest (and most affordable) ways to upgrade your smart home. They help you do everything from playing music to setting daily lighting routines. Just one month ago, we were tracking deals during Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days and saw the lowest price ever on Echo Devices.

Plus, if you need to stock up on Echos, Amazon is offering extra savings on select Echo devices. When you purchase two of the same device, you'll receive $5 off your purchase. Just hit the 'Redeem' button on the product page before adding the items to your cart, and the discount will be automatically applied. This deal is available on the Amazon Echo Pop, Spot, and Show 5.

Here are the best deals on Amazon Echo Devices to shop this Black Friday.

Note: All newly added or updated deals have been marked with a ✨, while struck-through deals were either sold out or expired at the time of writing. Any deal marked with a 🔥has dropped to a record-low price. 

Best Echo device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Pop 🔥 $17.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $22.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Amazon Echo device line-up is sprawling. You can find everything from a multitasking smart speaker to a touchscreen smart home hub. The absolute best deal on Echo devices right now is the Amazon Echo Pop. This small but mighty device has a quality speaker and built-in assistant, so you can play music just by calling out to Alexa.

Currently, it's down to $17.99 — its lowest price ever. That knocks 55% off the regular price for $22 in savings. While we expect this price to hang around through Black Friday weekend, you can rest assured you're getting it at a great deal when you buy now.

More Amazon Echo deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Cyber Monday soundbar deals still live in 2024

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:36

SAVE UP TO $500: Ahead of Black Friday, shop big markdowns on soundbars at Amazon and Best Buy. Shop the Samsung HW-Q850D/ZA Soundbar for $599.99, saving $500 for 45% off.

Best soundbar deals Best soundbar deal Samsung HW-Q850D/ZA Soundbar $599.99 (Save $500) Get Deal Best budget soundbar deal Insignia 2.0 Mini Soundbar $34.99 (Save $15) Get Deal Roku Streambar SE $79.99 (Save $20) Get Deal Best Bose Speaker Bose Smart Soundbar $399 (Save $100) Get Deal

Getting ready for the holiday season means pulling out the string lights, stocking the pantry full of cozy treats, and turning on the latest Hallmark movie marathon. A key part of that set-up is your home entertainment system. If you're looking to make some upgrades, it might pay to start shopping ahead of Black Friday.

The big post-Thanksgiving day event falls at the very end of this month, so if you're getting antsy about your holiday shopping, the good news is, the deals are already here. If you want to watch every moment of the Macy's Day Parade in perfect detail, TVs are already on sale as part of the early Black Friday rush. If you want to hear it too, that's where a soundbar comes in.

The early Black Friday deals on soundbars are abundant. Amazon and Best Buy have major discounts, up to 50% off on soundbars from Samsung, Bose, LG, Sony, and more. Here are the best deals to shop.

SEE ALSO: Best Buy is already going hard with QLED TV deals ahead of Black Friday Best soundbar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung HW-Q850D/ZA soundbar $599.99 at Best Buy
$1,099.99 Save $500.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you want not just a soundbar, but a fully decked out home entertainment system, the Samsung HW-Q850D/ZA is the solution. Not only do you get a wireless Dolby Atmos soundbar, but this deal also includes rear speakers to get true surround sound.

Normally $1,099.99, ahead of Black Friday, you can get it for just $599.99. That takes 45% off to give you $500 in savings.

Best budget soundbar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Insignia Insignia 2.0 Mini soundbar $34.99 at Best Buy
$49.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're not into spending $100, or even $50, you can still find a soundbar. The Insignia 2.0 Mini soundbar is a great candidate if you're on a budget. For just $34.99, it's a compact sound system that's 20 inches in length. It's Bluetooth-enabled, but can also connect with an AUX or USB cord. It comes with three audio modes, standard, theater, or news, to elevate your home entertainment no matter what you're watching.

During Best Buy's early Black Friday sale, you can find the Insignia 2.0 Mini soundbar for $34.99. That saves you $15 for 30% off.

Best streaming soundbar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roku Roku Streambar SE $79.99 at Best Buy
$99.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Roku Streambar SE gives you one of the greatest gifts in this age of modern technology: two devices in one. This soundbar also doubles as a Roku streaming device, giving you access to all your favorite streaming services. Plus, it features a system to automatically adjust the volume so voices are clearer. Even better: it lowers the volume during commercials.

It's down to $79.99 ahead of Black Friday for $20 off and 20% savings.

Best Bose soundbar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose Smart soundbar $399.00 at Amazon
$499.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Bose recently revamped its smart speaker so you can get the newest version on sale. It includes Dolby Atmos sound in addition to an A.I. Dialogue assistant to balance voices and surround sound for perfect clarity. It connects via Bluetooth, which also allows you to play cast music and videos from your phone to the TV, all through the soundbar.

Grab the Bose smart soundbar during early Black Friday sales for just $399, saving $100. That knocks 20% off its original price of $499.

More soundbar deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Bluetooth speaker deals live before Cyber Monday

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:35
Best Bluetooth speaker deals ahead of Black Friday Best overall Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $78.96 at Amazon (Save $21.03) Get Deal Best budget speaker deal JBL Go 4 $39.95 at Amazon (Save $10) Get Deal Best high-end Bluetooth speaker Sonos Move 2 $359.00 at Amazon (Save $90) Get Deal

The Black Friday shopping season is here, and Bluetooth speakers are at some of their best prices of the year.

Though it may not be the best time of year to take a Bluetooth speaker poolside, it's always great to think ahead and save some money. Plus, having a quality speaker is never a bad idea if you're planning on hosting any holiday parties.

SEE ALSO: All the best early Black Friday deals at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart

So far, we're seeing the most deals at Amazon, bringing deals on speakers from Ultimate Ears, JBL, Beats, and Sony. Thanks to the proximity to Black Friday, we're also seeing brands that don't typically go on sale, like Sonos, finally get some price cuts.

It's a pretty solid roundup (all of our favorite speakers are represented), but as Black Friday proper — Nov. 29 — draws nearer, we'll be updating this list with any new deals that crop up.

Best Bluetooth speaker deal ahead of Black Friday Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $78.96 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $21.03 Get Deal Why we like it

The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 is the best speaker we've tested under $100: it doesn't take up much space, has 14 hours of battery life, gets as loud as a larger speaker without losing much clarity, and can be taken on the go to pretty much any situation thanks to its IP67 rating. While it drops to $79.99 throughout the year, this is still a fantastic deal for a speaker that we think is well worth it at full price, and at the time of writing, each of the four colorways is available on sale. (At $78.96, you can get it for ever-so-slightly cheaper, but this price is only available on the black colorway).

If you're in the market for a new Bluetooth speaker, one of the only reasons we'd say to pass on this one is if you already own the Wonderboom 3 (it's incredibly similar) and want to pair up with another Wonderboom speaker to use stereo mode (none of the UE speakers are backwards compatible for stereo mode).

Best high-end Bluetooth speaker deal Sonos Move 2 $359.00 at Amazon
$449.00 Save $90.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Sonos Move 2.

Sonos speakers are expensive, and they really only go on sale during Black Friday. Even during both Prime Days this year, we didn't see price cuts on Sonos products, and especially not our favorite pick for smart homes, the Sonos Move 2. This speaker is big enough that it might be a hassle to move it around regularly, but it's not so big that you'll dread moving it if you're hosting a backyard barbecue.

The trade-off is that you get a speaker with 24-hour battery life and sound quality that shines across all genres of music. Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder wrote in his review, "It's capable of producing one of those effects where you play a song you know well (in my case, 'Roxanne' by The Police), and you hear details you never knew were there, like the (accidental?) touching of the drumsticks at the end of the song's intro." Plus, it has compatibility with Alexa and Sonos Voice Control.

Best budget Bluetooth speaker deal JBL Go 4 $39.95 at Amazon
$49.95 Save $10.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The JBL Go 4 is tiny and inexpensive, but it packs a punch. This speaker sounds surprisingly clear, and can get louder than you think (though you do start to sacrifice some of that clarity at higher volumes). During our testing, we found it got anywhere from seven to up to nine-and-a-half hours of playtime, making it an excellent option for taking on the go to the beach (where it's IP67 water and dust-proof rating will keep it safe), or for taking up minimal space in your home while still providing plenty of sound. $39.95 is the lowest price we've ever seen it at, beating its Prime Day price by about $5.

More Bluetooth speaker deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Cyber Monday noise-cancelling headphones and earbuds deals

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:34
Best noise-cancelling headphones and earbuds deals ahead of Black Friday Best headphones deal Sony WH-1000XM5 297 (Save $102.99) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbus $229 (Save $50) Get Deal

Black Friday is just around the corner, but major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart are already kicking off their programming. In other words: it's a pretty good time to pick up a pair of headphones on sale.

So far, we've seen the bulk of the deals at Amazon, with headphones and earbuds from Sony and Bose returning to record low prices. In addition to our top picks as of Nov. 20, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones and Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds, we're also seeing markdowns on brands like Apple, Beats, Jabra, and Google.

With a few pairs already down at lows we saw during Prime Day, we're anticipating that the actual day of Black Friday (this year, it falls on Nov. 29) will bring new record lows. In the meantime, we'll keep you updated on the best noise-cancelling headphones deals live, from now through Black Friday.

Best noise-cancelling headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-1000XM5 $298.00 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $101.99 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Sony WH-1000XM5.

If you want headphones that have great noise cancelling and incredible (adjustable) sound, then the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones won't let you down. Out of the noise-cancelling headphones we've tested, these are our top pick for audiophiles. It can be a little annoying that the ear cups don't fold in, but with 30 hours of battery life, you'll probably find yourself wearing them more often than not. They've hit $298 a couple times this month, but it's just a dollar away from their low price of $297. With these headphones being a 2022 release, we're hoping to see them drop even lower on Black Friday, but if you want to pick up a pair early, this deal matches both their July and October Prime Day price.

More noise-cancelling headphones dealsBest noise-cancelling earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds $229.00 at Amazon
$279.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds.

For folks who want the best possible noise cancelling they can get in their earbuds, we like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds. They do come with the price tag that reflects their top notch noise cancelling — but, on sale, they cost less than the full price of AirPods Pro. After testing out these earbuds, Mashable Shopping Reporter Samantha Mangino was more impressed than she expected to be, writing, "Truthfully, I can't imagine a person that wouldn't appreciate these buds. The noise cancellation is the best I've ever experienced, and the music feels like it surrounds you thanks to spatial audio. Plus, the fit is like no other."

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Categories: IT General, Technology

Walmarts best Cyber Monday TV deals are there for the taking

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:33

UPDATE: Nov. 28, 2024, 8:47 p.m. EST This story has been updated with the latest deals from Walmart's Black Friday sale.

The best Black Friday TV deals at Walmart Best 55-Inch Deal Samsung 55-inch Q60DB QLED 4K TV $498 at Walmart (save $150) Get Deal Best 65-Inch Deal LG 65-inch B3 Series OLED 4K TV $998 at Walmart (save $301) Get Deal

TVs being on sale for Black Friday isn't unique to any one retailer. Sure, that's news to no one. The less-known intel is that, while there will be a handful of price-matched deals on identical models at all of the big competing stores, each store also has a certain type of TV that they seem to really hone in on when it comes to Black Friday discounts.

Walmart's wheelhouse is simply the cheapest 4K TV possible at any given size between 50 inches and 75 inches. If you see Amazon and Best Buy plateauing at a certain sale price for a certain size (for instance, maybe the cheapest they're seemingly able to go for a 50-incher is $199.99), it's pretty safe to assume that Walmart will have an option that slightly beats both of those sale prices. This highly competitive vibe is the main reason why TV deals are typically better on Black Friday than on Amazon Prime Day.

SEE ALSO: The best Black Friday deals at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart

Because Walmart likes to release its most jaw-dropping TV deals as a handful of pre-meditated doorbusters, more shoppers will be waiting in the wings for the clock to strike a certain time (rather than calmly perusing several pages of TV deals) — which means TVs selling out is more likely and time is of the essence.

One way to make sure you get first dibs on any of Walmart's big Black Friday drops is by becoming a Walmart+ member. Paid Walmart+ members get early access to Walmart deals, often for several hours before the sale officially goes live to the public. Through Dec. 2, new, expired, monthly, and current Walmart+ trial members can sign up for an annual Walmart+ membership for $49 — 50% off the regular $98 a year that Walmart+ typically costs.

Along with this early access, Walmart+ members also get perks like a free Paramount+ subscription; 10 cents per gallon fuel savings at Exxon, Mobil, Walmart, and Murphy; Walmart Cash through Expedia; free shipping from your store; free online shipping with no order minimum; and more.

We're tracking all of Walmart's best TV deals throughout the Black Friday season below and will update the list as new ones drop — or as models sell out. On top of the ultra budget-friendly options we gushed about earlier, Walmart also has some good deals on premium models from Samsung and LG.

Note: Occasionally, a Walmart TV doorbuster will come in the form of a TV that's making its debut at a sale price rather than appearing as a clear-cut dollar discount off of an MSRP. Walmart will tag these drops as a "Special Buy" so shoppers know this is still a great price even if there's no previous list price crossed out to indicate a sale. To get an idea of what that size of TV is going for at other retailers, check out our general coverage of Black Friday TV deals which includes Amazon and Best Buy.

Note: All newly added or updated deals have been marked with a ✨, while struck-through deals were either sold out or expired at the time of writing.

Best Black Friday TV deals at Walmart43-inch TVs50- to 55-inch TVs65-inch TVs70-inch TVs and upPair your new TV with one of these streaming deals:
Categories: IT General, Technology

All of the top robot vacuums Ive tested are still at record-low prices before Cyber Monday

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:29

UPDATE: Nov. 30, 2024, 11:00 a.m. EST This story has been updated with current pricing on robot vacuums still on sale during the morning after Black Friday, including ones at Amazon that are now being called Cyber Monday deals.

A quick view of the best Black Friday robot vacuum deals still live Best non self-emptying deal Shark IQ Matrix 2-in-1 RV2402 $148 at Walmart (save $231.99) Get Deal Best budget self-emptying deal iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ $299 at Amazon (save $250.99) Get Deal Best premium deal Roborock Qrevo S $459.99 at Amazon (save $340) Get Deal

Yet another Black Friday is technically in the rearview, but we all know that the vibes will be alive and well through Cyber Monday. This chaotic shopping weekend often brings flashbacks to last year's frantic shopping — including the items that you didn't end up buying, and then wished you had all year. If a robot vacuum didn't make the cut last year, let Black Friday 2024 be the time to finally ditch your current clunky vacuum and treat yourself to a significantly shorter chore list.

Black Friday deals make high-end robot vacs super accessible

The robot vacs getting attention this Black Friday are packed with high-end features — ones you may have previously been fine to settle without just because, at full price, they're a really intimidating investment. I'm personally eyeing the number of options that bring home smart mapping and small obstacle avoidance (no more eaten phone chargers) and self-washing and drying mopping pads in the $500 to $700 range.

Considering the latter two features I just mentioned were once so newfangled that they were only available in the $1,000+ range, these sale prices are ones to hop on without hesitation. FWIW, most of the robot vacuums still on sale for Black Friday are the cheapest they've ever been. Many are even beating their previous record-low pricing that we just saw during October Prime Day — and unlike Prime Day, no membership is needed to access these deals, aside from a few random ones at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: I've tested over 20 robot vacuums and these are the best for every budget in 2024

Below, I'm tracking the best Black Friday robot vacuum deals still live through Cyber Monday and beyond. (Amazon is already officially referring to deals as Cyber Monday deals now, even if they're identical to Black Friday deals.) While nothing has really changed about the sales yesterday versus today, it's not unlikely for a few new robot vacs to go on sale as more retailers enter Cyber Monday mode — so if you've held out this long, I recommend waiting to see what deals the weekend brings.

Deals are organized into three sections: robot vacuums that don't mop, robot vacuum and mop combos, and vacuum and mop combos that also wash and dry their own mopping pads. Within each category, all robot vacuum deals are ordered by price from cheapest to most premium. (Need help deciding which robot vacuum to buy? I have some guidelines.)

Note: All newly added or updated deals have been marked with a ✨, while struck-through deals were either sold out or expired at the time of writing. Any deal marked with a 🔥 has dropped to a record-low price at Amazon, or matches Amazon's lowest price.

Best Black Friday robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ $299.00 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $250.99 Get Deal Why we like it

This nearly 50% off discount on the Roomba Combo j5+ is stellar at first glance, but it looks like an even sweeter deal when compared to the current deal on the cheapest self-emptying Roomba, the Roomba Vac 2. For $249.99, that bare-bones Roomba doesn't mop and can't smart map your house. For $299 — just $50 more — the Roomba Combo i5+ can mop and can smart map to clean specific rooms in your home on command. If $300 is your budget cap for a new robot vacuum, spending that extra $50 is a no-brainer.

The only downside to choosing the Combo i5+ over the more advanced Combo j5+ is that the i series Roombas don't have small obstacle avoidance technology, so they can't dodge things on the floor like charging cords or pet waste. However, if your home is already pretty tidy as it is, or you're down to deal with tidying up ahead of vacuuming, the Combo i5+ is a total steal at this price. Otherwise, the fantastic Black Friday deal on the Combo j5+ is also still live: grab it for 50% at $399.99.

More robot vacuums (that don't mop) on saleRobot vacuum and mop combos on saleRobot vacuum and mop combos with self-washing mop station on sale
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best TV deals from the Amazon Cyber Monday sale — these deals are live

Sun, 12/01/2024 - 10:28
The best Amazon TV deals at a glance: Best 55-inch TV deal Hisense 55-inch U8 Mini LED ULED 4K TV $697.99 at Amazon (save $402) Get Deal Best 65-Inch TV Deal TCL 65-Inch Class S5 4K LED Smart Fire TV $349.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal Best 75-inch TV deal TCL 75-inch Q5 QLED 4K Fire TV $549.99 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal Best Samsung TV Deal Samsung The Frame 50-Inch 4K QLED TV $847.99 at Amazon (save $450) Get Deal Best OLED TV Deal LG 65-inch evo C4 Series 4K OLED TV $1,496.99 at Amazon (save $1,203) Get Deal

We all know that Black Friday is the best time of year to buy a TV. Where to find those stellar TV deals is less obvious, and for many, a question that boils down to one simple question: Amazon or somewhere else?

While Amazon does have its fair share of stellar Black Friday doorbuster TV deals, we have to be honest: Best Buy and Walmart bring some serious competition in this space. Before pulling the trigger on a cheap TV at Amazon, it's worth checking the selection elsewhere. Of course, Amazon will have the lowest price on its own Fire TVs as well as Fire TVs made by TCL, Toshiba, Hisense, and Insignia. And now that Amazon's Black Friday sale is officially underway, most have dropped to all-time low pricing. In fact, some of those TVs are already low in stock, considering Amazon kicked off its Black Friday sale on Thursday, Nov. 21.

Amazon is a good place to find an affordable 4K TV with a smooth smart TV interface. That's especially true now that Amazon has debuted new versions of its Omni TVs, including its very first mini LED TV. However, you can also find some good deals on premium TVs at Amazon, especially if you've been eyeing Samsung's art TV The Frame or an award-winning LG OLED TV. As of this writing, Amazon has the best prices on these flagship TVs, though only by a few dollars.

SEE ALSO: The best Black Friday streaming deals so far: Peacock, Max, Paramount+, and more

For the biggest selection of QLED or OLED models, check Best Buy's Black Friday TV deals. It has a bigger selection of large-screen premium options from Samsung, Sony, and LG, and that selection isn't riddled with questionable third-party sellers like Amazon's. And if you're looking on the other end of the pricing spectrum, Walmart is offering the cheapest possible 4K TVs in 2024.

Don't want to price-check TVs across all the different retailers? That's why you've got us. In this guide, we'll curate the best Black Friday Amazon TV deals. We're confident you won't find these TVs at a cheaper price anywhere else.

Best budget Black Friday TV deal at Amazon TCL 65-Inch Class S5 UHD 4K LED Smart Fire TV $349.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Having covered so many Black Friday events in the past, we can tell you this: TCL is the king of Black Friday doorbuster TV deals. That goes for Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. And while TCL has expanded its lineup in the mid-range and near-premium categories, it still makes budget TVs for the masses. And that's exactly what this is. We won't lie and say this is anything but a basic TV with a basic LED display. However, it's hard to argue with $349.99 for a 65-inch smart TV, and we're not going to try.

Best mid-range Black Friday TV deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 75-inch Q5 QLED 4K Fire TV $549.99 at Amazon
$749.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon put its new Mini LED Fire TVs on sale for the first time mere days after announcing them, but that doesn't automatically make those the best deal on a QLED TV at Amazon this Black Friday. We have to give up that prize to this huge 75-inch Hisense TV, which is already ridiculously affordable at full price. Its $549.99 sale price looks even sweeter when compared side-by-side with Amazon's cheapest in-house Omni QLED, which is on sale for $599.99. This TCL gets you 10 more inches of screen for $50 less.

If you need to replace your old, slow TV and are looking for a happy medium between the cheapest possible TV and the fanciest possible TV, then TCL's base-tier QLEDs hit the sweet spot. Even as one of the more basic QLEDs on the market, you'll immediately notice the improved brightness and color of the Q65. The difference comes from a layer of quantum dots laid over the LED backlight, which provides an overall punchier picture that's much better for gaming or watching sports.

Best premium TV deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung The Frame 50-Inch 4K QLED TV $848.99 at Amazon
$1,297.99 Save $449.00 Get Deal Why we like it

You can buy a lot of amazing TVs on Black Friday, but Samsung's The Frame has a legit claim on being the best TV in the world right now, full stop. Mashable was there when Samsung debuted the new iteration of the famous art TV in New York City. The Frame isn't just a 4K TV with a pristine QLED display; it's also an art gallery for your living room wall. When you're not streaming, The Frame's screen displays classic works of art, contemporary photography, or your own photos. It's also got an AI processor and an incredibly unique "matte display," which makes glare disappear.

More TV deals at Amazon22- to 40-inch TVs43-inch TVs50- to 55-inch TVs65-inch TVs75-inch TVs and up85-inch TVs and up

One more thing: If you're getting rid of an old TV to make room for this Black Friday purchase, take it somewhere that recycles old electronics (like Best Buy) rather than trashing it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

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