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35+ best products we tested in 2025: Expert picks for phones, TVs, AI, and more

After a year of reviewing the top hardware and software, here's ZDNET's list of 2025 winners.

25 Dec 2025 1:31 am
How to clear your Android phone cache (and put a stop to slow performance)

This quick tweak can significantly improve the speed and responsiveness on almost any device - no matter the brand.

25 Dec 2025 12:30 am
This $200 Android phone is a refreshing reminder you don't need to pay for the flagships

The 2026 Moto G sticks to last year's formula, offering a decent midrange experience.

25 Dec 2025 12:20 am
I tried Lenovo's $3,000 rollable ThinkBook and can't go back to regular-sized laptops

First shown off at CES, Lenovo's ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 features an extendable 120Hz OLED display. Here's my verdict after using it for weeks.

24 Dec 2025 11:31 pm
I was jealous of MacOS 26 users, until I realized Windows PCs already had these 4 features

Apple's latest MacOS 26 has a slew of useful features - but a few of them appeared on Windows first, including one that dates back decades.

24 Dec 2025 9:45 pm
My perfect MacBook Pro replacement turned out to be a Windows laptop I didn't see coming

The Razer Blade 14 is one of the thinnest gaming laptops I've tested, trading power for portability.

24 Dec 2025 9:30 pm
I replaced my bedroom TV with this $180 Roku projector and can't go back

The Aurzen D1R Cube Roku TV projector is fast, bright, and surprisingly fun. It's available at a discounted rate for a limited time.

24 Dec 2025 9:29 pm
My AirTags kept dying, so I switched to this tracker that lasts for five years

An AirTag battery failure at the wrong time can leave your gear vulnerable. Elevation Lab's Time Capsule solves this problem.

24 Dec 2025 9:26 pm
This portable soundbar solved my biggest problem with modern-day TV audio (at a low price)

If you're looking for great sound without breaking the bank, the Creative Stage Pro is a budget-friendly option that's worth considering.

24 Dec 2025 9:15 pm
This ultraportable Lenovo tablet has no business being this good (especially for its price)

The 13-inch Lenovo Yoga Tab Plus is a multimedia powerhouse, with a brilliant display, reliable battery life, and powerful, room-filling speakers.

24 Dec 2025 9:15 pm
Ubuntu's new opt-in, open-source telemetry is a win-win for Linux users - here's why

The collection of user data has become a contentious issue for people worldwide. Fortunately, Canonical has shown how it can be done right.

24 Dec 2025 9:05 pm
I finally found a compact smart heater that warms up any room it's in (and it's priced well)

The Dreo Smart Wall Heater did a great job keeping my family warm all last winter, and it remains a staple in my household this year.

24 Dec 2025 8:52 pm
Hisense just unveiled a laser projector that could make OLED TVs feel unnecessary

Ahead of CES 2026, the company has unveiled two new projector models with some ambitious specs.

24 Dec 2025 8:38 pm
Your TV's USB port has a forgotten feature that can revitalize an old system for free

Updating your TV's firmware can boost performance and fix bugs - even without internet.

24 Dec 2025 8:36 pm
I tried the viral Fairphone 6, and it's one feature away from replacing my Pixel

If you're tired of phones designed for planned obsolescence, Fairphone might be your next favorite mobile device.

24 Dec 2025 8:15 pm
Should you buy Amazon's Fire TV Omni QLED? My verdict after replacing my LG with one

Amazon's latest flagship TV may just be the best mix of quality and price, but should you buy one over the bigger brands?

24 Dec 2025 7:48 pm
How to sync passkeys across your Android, iPhone, Mac, and PC with Chrome - it's easy

With Google Chrome's built-in Password Manager, you can quickly store and sync passkeys across all your devices for free. Here's how it works.

24 Dec 2025 7:43 pm
10 free Windows apps that improved my productivity (and I'd easily pay money for)

There are great open-source applications available for most any task. Here are some of my favorites.

24 Dec 2025 4:30 pm
My 5 favorite distros of Linux past - and why I'm still thinking about them

Linux's history is littered with distributions that came and went, many of which are long forgotten. There are some, however, that I actually miss, and these are they.

24 Dec 2025 3:31 pm
CachyOS vs Nobara: Which is right for you?

Sometimes, a somewhat obscure Linux distribution might be just what you're looking for. Is either CachyOS or Nobara the one?

24 Dec 2025 1:31 pm
The great software pricing shakeout of 2026: What every IT leader needs to know

Upcoming software purchases should no longer be one-time contracts; they're living partnerships built on shared data and trust.

24 Dec 2025 1:30 pm
Samsung's new 6K monitor can project in 3D without requiring glasses - but this model's more shocking

Samsung has unveiled the world's first 6K, 3D gaming monitor ahead of CES 2026 - but will it be a worthwhile purchase?

24 Dec 2025 7:39 am
This fresh new text editor is the nano replacement I've been waiting for

For Linux and MacOS, Fresh is the best of both worlds - a terminal text editor with GUI-like options. I'm all for it.

24 Dec 2025 7:30 am
I've tried Samsung's $3,000 Galaxy TriFold, but this rumored alternative sounds more enticing

A wide-screen Samsung Galaxy Fold phone would combine the pocketability of a Flip 7 and the versatility of a Fold 7.

24 Dec 2025 7:28 am
What is Bluetooth 6.0? Why the newest audio connectivity standard is such a big deal

The widespread adoption of Bluetooth 6 is progressing in audio products, with plenty of features to look forward to once the hardware catches up.

24 Dec 2025 7:27 am
FCC bans DJI drones starting today - here's what it means for you

Don't panic: You can continue to fly your drone - for now. Here's everything we know so far.

24 Dec 2025 1:30 am
How OpenAI is defending ChatGPT Atlas from attacks now - and why safety's not guaranteed

An 'automated attacker' mimics the actions of human hackers to test the browser's defenses against prompt injection attacks. But there's a catch.

24 Dec 2025 1:20 am
I've used Samsung's Galaxy TriFold, but this upcoming model may be more enticing in 2026

A wide-screen Samsung Galaxy Fold phone would combine the pocketability of a Flip 7 and the versatility of a Fold 7.

24 Dec 2025 12:45 am
The most popular Android e-reader has a worthy successor - with upgrades I've been waiting for

The Boox Palma 2 Pro features a color display, enhanced hardware, and a stylus in a smartphone-sized package.

23 Dec 2025 11:55 pm
Why the best budget Android tablet I tested this year isn't made by TCL or Samsung

The OnePlus Pad Go 2 is officially available for sale, and my first week's experience has been positive - with only a few caveats.

23 Dec 2025 11:49 pm
Hisense's latest laser projector is so colorful and bright, it may just replace your OLED TV

Ahead of CES 2026, the company has unveiled two new projector models with specs we've never seen before.

23 Dec 2025 10:22 pm
I saw the tech shop of the future - and maybe retail isn't dead

In the age of e-commerce, does a storefront really matter anymore? One tech retailer is betting big that it still does.

23 Dec 2025 9:38 pm
Want real AI ROI for business? It might finally happen in 2026 - here's why

Businesses have poured billions into AI with little return so far. Now, experts say the payoff could finally arrive in the new year.

23 Dec 2025 9:31 pm
CES 2026 trends to watch: 5 biggest topics we're expecting at the tech show

From foldable phones to AI advancements to all the TVs, here's what you can expect.

23 Dec 2025 9:19 pm
I tested the new elementaryOS 8.1 beta, and it absolutely brings the magic

This update proves that listening to users can make an already great Linux distro even better.

23 Dec 2025 8:54 pm
4 Google Pixel phone tricks every user should know - including my favorite

As a longtime Pixel user, here are the features that make a significant difference in my day-to-day life.

23 Dec 2025 8:47 pm
I tested Amazon's latest 65-inch Fire TV, and it dethroned my LG in surprising ways

Amazon's latest QLED Omni Series TV may just be the best mix of quality and affordability.

23 Dec 2025 8:27 pm
How to master ChatGPT basics in under an hour - with my favorite free resources

Want to learn ChatGPT fast? Here are the top videos and guides I recommend - and they're all free.

23 Dec 2025 8:01 pm
The best Linux VPNs of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed

We tested the top Linux VPNs with easy-to-use apps that feature a graphical user interface to keep your browsing safe.

23 Dec 2025 4:30 pm
I tested the best laptop docking stations - here's what I recommend for your office setup

Organize your workspace with our top picks for the best laptop docking stations available now.

23 Dec 2025 3:30 pm
Lubuntu vs. Xubuntu: Which Ubuntu flavor is right for you - my expert advice

Two Ubuntu-based distributions that have the same goal, but which is the one best-suited for your needs?

23 Dec 2025 2:30 pm
These vintage-style bookshelf speakers are the last ones I'll ever buy, here's why

The KLK Model 3 loudspeaker is a throwback to the past, giving audiophile-grade clarity to everything you listen to.

23 Dec 2025 2:05 pm
3 ways anyone can start using AI at work today - safely

Knowing how to harness the right AI tools for your particular role can be a big professional boon, but only if you do so carefully.

23 Dec 2025 1:30 pm
Your Android phone's most powerful security feature is off by default - turn it on ASAP

One of Google's most critical features is hidden behind a single toggle - turn it on to protect against theft, scams, spam, and more.

23 Dec 2025 8:31 am
I tried Amazon's new AI assistant, and I'm never shopping without it again

Did you know Amazon's Rufus AI tool can alert you to price drops and even snag deals for you? That's just one of several game-changing features.

23 Dec 2025 8:30 am
How to turn on Private DNS Mode on Android - and why it's a must for security

Unencrypted DNS can expose your browsing, but Android's Private DNS keeps it secure. Here's how to enable it.

23 Dec 2025 7:45 am
Is your iPhone missing? This genius camera trick helps you find it - fast

With one text, you can trigger a front or rear camera photo and grab your iPhone's exact location. No Find My required.

23 Dec 2025 7:30 am
5 tech gadgets that I didn't expect to love this much in 2025 (including surprise earbuds)

While the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 remained my favorite gadget throughout the year, there were some surprising entries on my list.

23 Dec 2025 6:45 am
I thought a privacy screen protector was a great idea - until I put one on my Galaxy S25 Ultra

The extra security is cool, but the underlying drawbacks aren't.

23 Dec 2025 6:31 am
Can't hear TV dialogue? I found 3 methods to dramatically improve the audio quality

Adjusting only a few TV settings can make those quiet, whisper-filled dialogue scenes much easier to hear.

23 Dec 2025 6:30 am