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The best laptop deals as of April 22: Chromebooks, gaming laptops, and more

UPDATE: Apr. 22, 2022, 2:30 p.m. EDT This list has been updated to reflect pricing and availability as of April 22.

BEST SAMSUNG DEAL: Samsung Galaxy Book Pro, a nice alternative to the similarly priced MacBook Pro — $809.99 $999.99 (save $190)

BEST GAMING DEAL: Razer Blade 15, a powerful gaming laptop that'll keep you playing on the go — $1,660 $2,599.99 (save $939.99)

BEST 2-IN-1 DEAL: Asus Chromebook Flip C434, an affordable 2-in-1 for those who want the basics of a laptop and a tablet at once — $418 $569.99 (save $151.99)

What's better than a great laptop? A great laptop that's cheap. Nowadays, even budget machines can pack the punch to carry you through whatever's on your to-do list, whether it's work, watching Netflix, or endlessly browsing social media. If you're looking to pick up a new laptop but don't necessarily want to drop your life savings in one go, we'll be compiling a list of the best deals on cheap laptops right here, each and every week.

SEE ALSO: The best laptops to net you a great gaming experience

Best Samsung deal

Credit: Samsung

Our pick: Samsung Galaxy Book Pro

Save $190 at Samsung

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Why we like it

We love Apple, but MacBooks aren't the only laptops out there. The Samsung Galaxy Book Pro is a nice alternative to the similarly priced MacBook Pro, with a stunning display, a speedy 11th-gen Intel Core processor, a 20-hour battery life, WiFi 6E support, and a sleek, ultra-thin design.

Best gaming deal

Credit: Razer

Our pick: Razer Blade 15 Advanced

Save $939.99 at Amazon

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Why we like it

The Razer Blade 15 Advanced model is packed with solid internals that'll work well for PC gaming newbies and seasoned players alike. Under the hood, you'll get a 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10875H processor with up to 5.0 GHz max turbo and 8 cores, as well as an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card that has the power to run some pretty visually intense games. The 300Hz screen provides buttery-smooth frame rate performance and offers full HD visuals within a bezel-less display. It's all housed within a thin, compact body that you can take anywhere.

Best 2-in-1 deal

Credit: Asus

Our pick: Asus Chromebook Flip C434

Save $151.99 at Amazon

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Why we like it

Having your laptop and your tablet in one place is a convenience you need in your life. The Asus Chromebook Flip C434 is a fantastic budget 2-in-1 device, with speedy performance, a full HD touchscreen, and components that should be able to handle all of your daily tasks.

More great laptop deals

Dell Vostro 7510 — $1,099 $1,827.14 (save $728.14)

Dell Inspiron 3510 — $498 $525 (save $27)

Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio — $1,549.99 $1,799.99 (save $250)

Asus Vivobook — $329.99 $449.99 (save $120)

Lenovo Flex 5 — $577.14 $849.99 (save $272.82)

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 — $136 $219.99 (save $83.99)

Lenovo IdeaPad S340 — $675 $799.99 (save $124.99)

Acer Swift 3 — $641.89 $849.99 (save $208.10)

Acer Predator Triton 500 SE Gaming Laptop — $1,349.99 $1,749.99 (save $400)

Acer Predator Triton 300 SE Gaming Laptop — $999.99 $1,349.99 (save $350)

HP 14 Laptop — $239.99 $299.99 (save $60)

HP Pavilion 15-inch gaming laptop — $845 $899.99 (save $54.99)

HP 15-inch Laptop — $524.99 $659.99 (save $135)

HP Chromebook 11 — $147.98 $259.99 (save $112.01)

How to shop for a new laptop:

Choosing a laptop is entirely dependent on what you'll be using it for. Beginner laptop owners need something user-friendly and straightforward, frequent travelers need something light with a long battery life, designers and gamers need top-notch 4K graphics and quick central processors, and everyone needs something that will last. 

The first thing you should do is ask yourself a simple question: PC or Mac? This is an important question, as it's going to make a world of difference in what you can and can't do with your computer. Are you a gamer? A video editor? A business professional? An Apple device owner? The answer to any of these will probably point you towards your final answer. If you're constantly buying the new iPhone every year, editing YouTube videos, recording a podcast, or other creative endeavors of the sort, your best bet may be a Mac laptop. Apple obsessives will be happy with their Mac's compatibility with their other Apple products, and everyone can benefit from Macs' propensity to have better virus protection than that of a PC. 

That brings us to the perks of picking up a PC. You can still complete a number of creative projects on a personal computer, but where PCs really shine are their options for customization. PCs are much easier to upgrade part-by-part, as they aren't constrained to Apple-manufactured products (like Macs). And because there is a seemingly endless supply of PC manufacturers, there are a lot more options from what brand you chose, to the software you buy, to the type of graphics card you pick out for your gaming rig. Yes, gamers should always go the PC route — they are far more powerful than what a Mac laptop can handle, and also give you the option to connect VR headsets, if you're into that sort of thing.  

What size laptop should you get?

This really comes down to two things: Personal preference and lifestyle. Personal preference is self-explanatory, really — do you like having a huge display, or do you prefer something more compact? Lifestyle is where practicality comes into play. If you're traveling often and usually have your computer on your back in some way, you're going to want to go with something more light and compact (thin, 11-inch models will most likely be the best). But if you're a huge movie buff who doesn't normally take their laptop on the road with them, spring for a 15-inch (and higher) screen with a bulky construction so you can have epic Netflix sessions. If you're getting a gaming laptop, you should probably "go big or go home," as well.  

How much should you spend on a new laptop?

This is much more subjective, and at the end of the day, it's really going to come down to your budget. But, if money isn't the number one concern for you, you should really think hard about what you're going to use your laptop for. Need a device with lots of power under the hood and bountiful storage space? Aim for something in the $800 and beyond range. Only using your laptop to edit the occasional Google Doc? Then you can probably get away with spending way below the $500 mark. In other words, don't blow your savings if you don't need to. And if you're looking to go all out, meaning buying a laptop with every bell and whistle imaginable, you can get a monster of a machine for somewhere closer to $2,000.

Are cheap laptops worth it?

You know the old saying: You get what you pay for. But thanks to the technology boom of the last few decades, a cheap laptop can actually take you pretty far and won't break down immediately. It's all about knowing which one to select. Depending on what you use your laptop for the most, staying stingy might be your best option. Check out our roundups for the ones that we think are worth it — here are our favorite cheap laptop models under $500, and the best under $300.  

What does it mean when a laptop is certified refurbished?

Don't let the words "refurbished" or "renewed" scare you away — these types of devices are usually perfectly viable options and can end up saving you a lot of money without sacrificing much of anything.

A refurbished device, in its simplest terms, is a product that has been bought, but then returned for some reason. Notice that we didn’t necessarily say that it was returned due to some sort of fault on the device’s part. While that can certainly be true in some cases, it isn’t always. Oftentimes, a certified refurbished laptop never even left its original packaging.

While yes, saving money is a huge benefit of buying a "refurb," it's far from the only reason to consider getting one. What's great about refurbished devices is that they undergo rigorous performance tests to ensure that they are still in good condition (sometimes more strictly than the stuff coming right off the production line). There's also a chance that any refurbished laptop you buy may have been so lightly used, that it could almost be considered brand-new (just way cheaper).

We're big fans of buying refurbished gear for kids, especially when it comes to electronics. If you're shopping for a laptop for a kid who is under the age of 15, then refurbished is really the way to go. For kids of high school age and beyond who are a bit more careful with their digital gear, then a new laptop isn't as risky. Of course, it depends on the kid.

Explore related content:

Our picks for the best 2-in-1 laptops of 2020

The best blue light glasses for combatting digital eye strain

13 cheap laptops you can get for under $500

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Driving’s most innovative tech, hiding in plain sight

One of the biggest leaps forward for driving has been integrating smart tech to make vehicles safer. However, instead of being tucked away under the hood, much of this innovation is hidden in plain sight. In fact, you’re staring right at it — or rather through it — without even realizing it. More than just keeping out dust and rain, a windshield is a critical element of your vehicle’s advanced safety system. In addition to super-tough auto glass that creates a barrier between you and the road, the windshield is also where the forward-facing camera and cutting-edge sensors that help prevent accidents are mounted.

To keep your vehicle’s safety features functioning requires more expertise than ever before. Safelite®, always keeping up with the latest windshield technology, knows how to take these features into account when replacing a damaged windshield. Here is a look at some advanced safety features that are connected to many of today’s windshields. 

1. Forward collision warning

The driver in front of you suddenly slams on their brakes. A biker or a pedestrian unexpectedly crosses onto the road. There’s a lot going on around you when you’re driving. Forward collision warning (FCW) technology uses a vehicle’s forward-facing camera and sensors mounted on the windshield to detect if you’re getting too close to something or someone. In some vehicles, it may even trigger other advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking.

According to Safelite, 92% of all 2022 model vehicles require a recalibration when a windshield replacement is performed. So, when you get your windshield replaced you need to choose your service provider carefully. To recalibrate these advanced safety systems properly, Safelite’s technicians go through extensive training and use specially designed proprietary tools to assure your vehicle’s advanced safety systems are working as designed.

2. Automatic emergency braking

Automatic emergency braking (AEB) activates the brakes without a driver having to push down on the pedal, or it increases the pressure if a driver isn’t stopping fast enough to prevent a collision. 

The forward-facing camera and other sensors mounted to your windshield act like a second set of eyes telling the brakes to slow down or stop fast. Since there is no margin for error, Safelite considers all the moving pieces down to the smallest details, such as making sure your tires are properly inflated and you have an appropriate amount of fuel in the tank so your vehicle sits at the optimal height for recalibrating the forward-facing camera.

3. Lane departure warning and lane keep assist

It happens to all of us: Something grabs your attention while you’re behind the wheel and before you realize it you've begun to drift out of your lane. Veering from one lane into another is a major source of accidents; from 2016 to 2018, it accounted for 51% of traffic fatalities in the U.S., according to the Federal Highway Administration.

To help drivers stay on track, lane departure warning (LDW) makes a sound like a beep or a visual alert when you start moving out of your lane. For another layer of protection, some vehicles have lane keep assist (LKA), which activates automatic steering or braking to correct your path. Both of these rely on the forward-facing camera detecting the line markings on the road. That's why it's vital that recalibration be performed by highly skilled technicians like those at Safelite.

4. Adaptive cruise control

It’s not just about how fast other vehicles around you are traveling, but your speed as well. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) helps you stay within the speed limit and keep a safe distance like you learned in driver’s ed (tailgating isn’t cool unless it’s of the “partying before a football game” variety).

Ensuring that your advanced safety system is recalibrated correctly, so all these features work properly is a complex process. Luckily, Safelite and their expert technicians can recalibrate your vehicle’s system to manufacturer standards. When having your advanced safety system recalibrated, a Safelite technician may need to get into the driver’s seat and take your vehicle down well-marked roads or highway for several miles to perform a dynamic recalibration. Alternatively, for a static, or not moving, recalibration, technicians use a fixed target in their facility. Both are done to meet exacting manufacturer standards, and Safelite will inform you which type (or both) your vehicle needs when scheduling your appointment.

Your vehicle’s advanced safety features help keep you safe on the road. Trust only the best for expert windshield replacement and recalibration services. Learn more about Safelite, the nation’s largest glass specialist.

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Grab a refurbished iPad (6th generation) for under $200

SAVE $149: As of April 22, a refurbished 9.7-inch iPad (6th generation) is available at Walmart for only $179.99. That's a 45% drop from its original selling price.

For Earth Day, do the environment a solid and shift your focus to refurbished tech. One of the best gifts you can give to our planet is saving some old tech from hitting the landfill. Not to mention, it'll keep a whole lot more money in your pocket than opting for every trendy new gadget that hits the market.

If you're in the market for a new tablet, consider this deal on a refurbished iPad. As of April 22, you can score a refurbished 9.7-inch iPad (6th generation) for just $179.99 at Walmart. This model originally sold for $329, so you'll ultimately save 45%.

A throwback to simpler times, aka 2018, the 6th generation iPad has the classic iPad aesthetic with some noteworthy upgrades from previous generations. It's not as powerful or pretty as the newest iPad (we've been blessed with three more generations of iPads since), but it still holds its own as an ideal entry-level tablet for everyone. Whether you want a tablet for bedtime Netflix binges or getting work done on the go, the classic design offers reliability and impressive functionality.

When the 2018 iPad hit the scene, its noteworthy upgrades were faster performance, longer 10-hour battery life, and Apple Pencil support (a game-changing feature previously only available to expensive iPad Pro owners). Its other specs are largely similar to previous iPad generations, like the 2048x1536 LED backlit retina display, big bezels, 7.5mm thickness, light 1-pound weight, first-generation Touch ID, 1.2-megapixel FaceTime HD camera on the front, and 8-megapixel camera rear. It's not the most exciting iPad model by far, but it's iconic and familiar and costs less than $200.

The refurbished model in question is space gray, has 32 GB storage, and connects via WiFi only. That means you can only go online with an available WiFi connection, not by using data. It's also listed in "great" condition, which means it's 100 percent functional, but could have a few cosmetic boo-boos. Nothing too noticeable, though.

Credit: Apple

Refurbished 9.7-inch iPad (6th generation)

$179.99 at Walmart (save 45%)

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Explore related deals:

The best eco-friendly gifts at every price point

When will your iPad become obsolete?

The best tablets out there — for streaming, work, and sketching out designs

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5 of the best smartwatches for kids

Some parents are rightly cautious of giving their kids smartphones. It opens up a whole world of safety concerns — cyber bullying, excessive screen time, and those dark corners of the internet that just aren’t child-friendly. But that doesn’t mean you have to cut your kids off from smart tech entirely. Enter: smartwatches for kids.

For parents, there are various benefits to equipping your little one with a smartwatch — keeping your kids active and being able to monitor their whereabouts, for instance.

For kids, the freedom that comes with having their very own connected device — and potentially more leniency when it comes to doing things unsupervised — is pretty priceless. The fact that they can flex their Apple Watch-like bling around their friends is an obvious bonus.

But — much like smartwatches for adults — different watches are designed to do different things, with various features to keep your kids exercised, engaged, and entertained. Here’s a quick guide for parents.

Do kids really need a smartwatch?

That’s a question that can only be answered by each individual parent. But it’s worth knowing some of the bonuses of giving your kids a smartwatch. Some kids’ smartwatches (though not all) have a GPS, so you can keep tabs on where they are. There might be a messaging function too, so you can contact your kids at any time.

Many kids’ smartwatches are focused of physical activity — they actually encourage kids to get up and move. Kids can check their step count for the day or get a reminder to stand up for a few minutes, but the most fun part is easily the on-screen celebration when a daily activity or sleep goal is met. Settings can be tweaked in the parent app, but having a kid set their own alarms or follow their own activity rules could be a great way to assume some responsibility. Some watches allow you to set reminders for things such as homework, brushing their teeth, or bedtime.

Activities that are typically mundane are suddenly a lot more fun when animated celebrations, badges, or sibling leaderboard competitions are involved (and when a parent isn't doing the nagging). When healthy habits are established early, they can carry over into adulthood (when deep-rooted bad habits are typically harder to kick).

Can kids access social media on a smartwatch?

It will come as a relief to some parents that kids’ smartwatches aren’t just great for what they can do, but what they can’t do too. Unlike smartwatches for adults, kids' smartwatches don't promote social media sharing and usually don't have the option to get on the internet at all. That means these little devices are better at encouraging movement, responsibility, and routine than obsessively checking notifications.

What entertainment features are included with kids’ smartwatches?

A smartwatch might be replacing the need for a whole phone or tablet, but that doesn't mean entertainment is completely off the table. Some watches geared towards younger children have games including number challenges and augmented reality mysteries. For such a small screen, the resolution is surprisingly clear and more than enough to keep kids busy in line at the shops, in the waiting room, or in the car. 

At what age should kids have their own smartwatch?

There’s no set rule or guidelines but smartwatches are generally made for ages of 6 and above. Different watches are geared towards different ages, and will included age-specific features. The wrist band will be a big clue. If it’s brightly coloured and covered in Spider-Man or Frozen characters, it’s probably for younger kids. 

What is the best smartwatch for kids?

We've lined up a selection of excellent smartwatches for kids from top brands like Fitbit and Garmin. There should be something for everyone and every budget in this list.

There are the best smartwatches for kids in 2022.

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OnlyFans is hitting pause on Russian creators' accounts

OnlyFans will be temporarily pausing accounts of creators in Russia, saying, "[We] can no longer properly serve our Russian creator community."

The platform, used largely for adult content and made known by sex workers, said in a statement: "Over the past few months we have explored several options to continue providing our services to creators impacted by the Russia / Ukraine war. However due to a further tightening of payment restrictions to and from Russia, OnlyFans can no longer properly serve our Russian creator community."

"As a result, we are taking steps to temporarily pause accounts where payments are received in Russia."

When Russia first invaded Ukraine in February, the site similarly blocked Russian creators from accessing their earnings and accounts. Due to economic sanctions, payments to OnlyFans creators were "not supported," causing panic and fear amongst creators who rely on the platform for their livelihoods. Accounts and payments were later restored, however, with full functionality.

Two months later, the subscription-based service is again saying it is unable to support Russian creators. As per the company statement, this appears to be temporary, but it is unclear what the future looks like for users in Russia.

Mashable has reached out to OnlyFans for comment.

SEE ALSO: Instagram is now completely blocked in Russia

OnlyFans joins a cluster of creator-led platforms that have been blocked, banned, or hindered in Russia. In March, Instagram was completely blocked in the country, which head of Instagram Adam Mosseri called "wrong". Twitter has been impacted in the country, reportedly made almost inaccessible, and the company has also restricted Russian government official' accounts and any misinformation that arises from the Kremlin. Meanwhile, TikTok is still available for viewing, but Russian creators are unable to post content themselves.

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Secure all your devices with the best VPN routers

The VPN used to have a dodgy rep — once considered a means for conducting nefarious activities, it now just makes sense for everyone to have an extra layer of security when browsing online. Especially when doing things like checking your internet banking.

Without a VPN, your data is effectively open to anyone because it's not encrypted. While most people don't have to worry too much about being spied on, it's still an unnecessary risk. Circumvent that risk by installing a VPN. It's simple enough to find a good quality VPN — such as ExpressVPN or Private Internet Access — before setting it up with your devices.

The set-up is where things can get fiddly. One method is to install a VPN client onto every single device in your home. The odds are though, you have multiple devices that connect to your WiFi network, from your laptop and phone to your TV — maybe even kitchen appliances if you've gone full smart home. Installing a VPN on every device takes time and effort.

Instead, you can download a single VPN client directly to your router. That way, every device connected to your router will use the VPN automatically. It's the safest option, especially if you have kids or tech novices in your home, and if you want to keep things secure with minimal hassle.

What is a VPN?

The world of VPNs can quickly become quite complicated, but we’ll give you a quick rundown. A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your activity to shield your data and let you use the internet anonymously. It gives you an extra layer of privacy and security against hackers and data collectors.

A VPN on your device will make your IP address untraceable and keep your data secure, which is especially handy if you’re using an unsecured public WiFi network. Even in your own home, a VPN is useful for secure browsing, bypassing some regional restrictions, and more.

What is a VPN router?

Routers don’t automatically come installed with a VPN, but you’re able to download a VPN onto them. Some support the OpenVPN standard which means you can configure a VPN with any provider that supports this, while others can have their firmware changed to a third-party alternative that supports VPNs. Setting up a VPN on your router can be tricky. But if you know what you’re doing and you have lots of devices you want to be covered by a centralised VPN, you’ll probably find that the worth outweighs the trouble — it's certainly less hassle than setting up a VPN on each device separately.

Should you use a VPN with your router?

Configuring your router with a VPN means that any device connected to your router is protected under that VPN. So, you don’t have to get multiple VPNs, and smart devices that can’t otherwise be configured to use a VPN are protected. 

Most VPN subscriptions limit the number of devices you can connect to, and you have to pay extra if you want to add on any additional devices. Configuring your router to a VPN acts as a sort of loophole that gets around those limitations. Because the router pairs with any device connected to your wireless network, they’re all protected by that one VPN.

One instance where a VPN router is actually very useful is if you happen to own a small business like a cafe where random people will be connecting to your WiFi throughout the day. The VPN router will help protect customers’ data and it falls to the individual if they want protection on their devices once they leave.

Are there drawbacks to using a VPN on your router?

Hooking your router up with a VPN isn’t some magic, all-powerful solution. There are a few drawbacks. As already mentioned, it can be a pain to set up. It’s not as simple as downloading an app on your phone. Just looking at the ExpressVPN setup instructions might be enough to discourage the average person from attempting to configure their router with a VPN. But if you're tech-minded or good at following instructions, you'll be able to master it. We believe in you.

Aside from installation difficulties or high price tags, protecting your devices via a VPN on your router means that they won’t be protected when you leave your home and are no longer connected to your network. This isn’t a problem for devices like gaming consoles and desktop computers. But your mobile phone or laptop will be vulnerable unless you have a VPN installed directly onto them.

Additionally, not every service you use functions properly under a VPN. Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu work to block VPN usage to prevent users from accessing geo-blocked content (i.e. only available in other countries). Banks might also block VPNs to prevent cybercriminals from accessing accounts. If these services won’t work for you under your VPN router, you’ll either have to switch off your VPN or have a second router that’s not connected to a VPN that you use for certain devices or services. Neither is an ideal solution, but there are workarounds if you’re set on installing a VPN on your router. Using a VPN will also slow down your WiFi speed, but not by a significant amount.

What are the best VPNs to use with routers?

VPNs aren't all the same, so you can't just pick any VPN service to install on your router. The top picks are probably NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

NordVPN has more than 5,000 servers located all around the world, operates under a verified no-log policy (meaning the service doesn't collect any information transmitted through the network), has unlimited speed and bandwidth, and is good for streaming. ExpressVPN also has loads of servers in 94 countries, features unlimited bandwidth, is straightforward compared to third-party firmware, and comes built in to flash routers from brands like Linksys, ASUS, and Netgear. 

It's worth taking your time when it comes to selecting a VPN, because there are a lot of different services out there offering similar sets of features. Fortunately, we can help you find the best VPN for you and your needs.

Do you need a special router for a VPN?

In short, yes, you do need a special router for VPNs. Look for one with intuitive firmware and/or native VPN support. It's worth remembering that not every router is designed to host a VPN, though many let you install one even if they aren't pre-configured.

What is the best VPN router?

The decision is ultimately yours and depends on your own smart home set-up and internet usage, but we've done the hard work of researching and put together this list of top VPN routers. There's something for everyone here.

These are the best VPN routers in 2022.

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The best WiFi routers for every home

Good WiFi is one of life’s essentials. Like running water, central heating, and a next gen gaming console — you just couldn’t live without it. As life becomes smarter and better connected, the need for WiFi connectivity increases. This is where having a quality WiFi router (or wireless router) in the home becomes important.

WiFi routers are easy to install and they can instantly provide improved WiFi coverage throughout your home with lightning-fast connection speeds. Sounds pretty good, right?

But how do you go about picking the right model for you? Which WiFi router you choose will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your coverage area, the number of connected devices, and the types of devices connecting to the router. Here’s a quick guide to help you find the right device for your home.

What is a WiFi router?

Quite simply, it’s a little contraption that sits in the corner of a room and beams out data from your broadband line to your devices, allowing them to connect to the internet. Wireless routers usually have Ethernet ports, which allow you to connect PCs, TVs, and other devices directly to the internet.

How does a WiFi router work?

The WiFi router converts broadband data into radio bands, which are then picked up by your devices. These radio bands are like different lanes, which keep data separate to stop it getting clogged up. Different devices need different bandwidths — some more than others — so the higher number of bands, the more efficient the router is. You can choose from single, dual, or tri-band.

Single vs. dual-band — which is best?

A single-band router has just one 2.4 GHz frequency band. These are usually cheaper, connect easily to devices, and are good for penetrating obstacles such as doors and walls. But they have lower speeds than multi-band routers and won’t come with up-to-date features. These are probably best if your internet needs are minimal. Dual-band routers are pricier but also promise better speeds and performance. Dual-band routers are now pretty much the standard so modern devices will be well served.

What is the best WiFi router for large households?

If there are lots of people in your home — like a big family with lots of devices per person — a tri-band router will be the best choice. These have one 2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz channels. These routers are equipped to handle multiple Gigabit speeds — up to 2166 Mbps on each 5 GHz band.

How do you choose a router for gaming?

If you have lots of devices and a router that’s not up to the task, you’ll experience lag issues when you’re playing your console. You need a router that can handle multiple devices. Look for a gaming router that offers prioritisation for your gaming systems and applications. If you live in a home with multiple gamers, you might also want to get a router that allows you to control how much bandwidth everyone in your household gets. Some also have a modified management console to adjust bandwidth priorities easily depending on your needs. And make sure your gaming router is at least 2GHz so you can use the 5G one for faster speeds. A tri-band router is even better because then you could reserve one 5GHz for just gaming.

What is the best WiFi router?

We have done a lot of the hard work to make your selection process as easy as possible. Whether you’re looking for a single band WiFi router or a full-fledged dual band (or even tri-band) model to handle an entire family’s streaming and gaming needs, we've got you covered.

These are six of the best WiFi routers for 2022.

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Twitter's edit button will probably work like this

Twitter is working on an edit button. We know that thanks to the company's many hints about the feature coming, as well as Elon Musk's recent crusade campaign to get the darned thing finally live.

But how, exactly, will Twitter's edit button work? The feature isn't trivial to implement, as it opens potential for abuse; imagine, for example, someone tweeting a fun comment about the latest Nicolas Cage movie, getting a bunch of likes from celebrities, and then changing the tweet to a comment on how all bagels should be banned. Or something much worse.

Thanks to the work of mobile developer and leaker Alessandro Paluzzi, however, we now have a pretty good idea of how Twitter's edit button might work.

Paluzzi recently shared screenshots of what appears to be Twitter's test of the edit button. And on Friday, he followed up with screenshots that show the feature in action.

According to Paluzzi, tweets will be editable for only one hour after posting, so forget about editing that embarrassing tweet you posted years ago. Furthermore, edited tweets will display a blue sign saying "Edited," which will likely be clickable to reveal the tweet's edit history.

SEE ALSO: Twitter CEO hints at actually adding edit button after Musk's poll

This sounds like a healthy mix, giving users the convenience to fix typos but also making it crystal clear that a tweet was editing and giving everyone insight into those edits. If the tweet was edited into something sinister, anyone who liked or retweeted will be able to see that (and prove that what they originally liked/retweeted was something else).

There's still no word on when the feature might come. Twitter said in April that it plans to start testing the edit button in the "coming months." If Paluzzi's tweets are any indication, that timeline has been somewhat accelerated.

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When will your iPad become obsolete?

Believe it or not, it's been 12 years since Steve Jobs introduced the iPad to the world.

Since then, Apple's iconic tablet has gone through several iterations, adding cellular capability, sophisticated camera technology, and robust processing power. Initially confusing to critics who didn't understand the need for a device that was neither a smartphone nor a laptop, the iPad has proven the haters wrong and become a mainstay.

The current iPad lineup consists of the iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini. Since, this year's Apple events announced the next generation of iPads (and iPad Air) which bumps the older versions of iPads one step closer towards obsolescence.

Obsolete iPads

Technically speaking, obsolete Apple products are no longer eligible for service or repairs. For an Apple product to be declared obsolete means that production has been stopped for seven years. Here's the current list of obsolete iPads.

iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi

iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular

iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (MM)

iPad [original]

iPad 3G

iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi

iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular

iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular (VZ)

iPad Wi-Fi

iPad Wi-Fi + 3G

iPad Wi-Fi + 4G

iPad Wi-Fi + 4G (Verizon)

iPad 2 Wi-Fi

iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G

iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G (Verizon)

SEE ALSO: When will your Mac desktop computer become obsolete?

Vintage iPads

iPads that haven't been produced for a minimum five years and a maximum of seven years are considered "vintage" iPads. That means you might be able to extend it's life a little longer depending on available inventory and the type of service it needs.

iPad Air Cellular

iPad Air Cellular (TD LTE)

iPad Air WiFi

iPad Air WiFi + Cellular

iPad Air WiFi + Cellular (TD LTE)

iPad mini Wi-Fi

iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular

iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular (MM)

iPad mini Wi-Fi, 16GB, Gray

iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular, 16GB, Gray

iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular, MM, 16GB, Gray

iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi

iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular

iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular (TD-LTE)

iPad Wi-Fi + 4G, CDMA

iPad Wi-Fi + 4G, GSM

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Developer snuck apps past Apple that forced users into subscriptions

With so many apps in Apple's App Store nowadays, you need to get creative in order to make a living. 

One sneaky app developer discovered a unique way to do just that: by scamming users who downloaded free Mac apps that wouldn't close unless the user signed up for an unwanted paid subscription.

Tweet may have been deleted

The app, "My Metronome - Tempo Keeper," was called out as a scam earlier this month by Kosta Eleftheriou, an app developer who also tracks App Store-related scams. It was advertised as a free metronome app for musicians, but users would soon learn that there was no free version or even limited trial. Instead, it immediately tried to force users into a monthly $9.99 in-app subscription. 

Tweet may have been deleted

Upon being prompted to sign up for the paid subscription, users would be unable to even close out the app, according to Edoardo Vacchi, a programmer whose father was purportedly roped into the scam. The app's "Quit" option was grayed out. Vacchi, who equated the app to ransomware, said even restarting a computer with My Metronome installed didn't close the pesky app.

According to Eleftheriou, the Mac app had spent years in the App Store undetected by Apple. During that time, the app accumulated negative reviews from outraged users. My Metronome has since been removed from the App Store by Apple.

Tweet may have been deleted

It seems, though, that this wasn't a one-off. App developer Jeff Johnson found a connection between My Metronome creator Groove Vibes and another app company that was making money off of these similar bait-and-switch in-app subscriptions apps: Music Paradise, LLC. The terms of use on both Groove Vibes and Music Paradise, LLC had similar websites pointing to a company registered to the same street address in Novosibirsk, Russia.

Music Paradise, LLC's app, an audio editor, forced users into a $125 per year subscription. Like My Metronome, the app would not close unless the user made a purchase, although some reviewers reported being able to escape the audio editor by force quitting the app.

Tweet may have been deleted

Apple has since also removed the audio editor app from the App Store.

Although they are no longer available for download in Apple's Mac App Store, these apps proved to be quite lucrative for the developer. In fact, they were discovered because of their high rankings on the App Store's chart for highest grossing apps.

Tweet may have been deleted

Eleftheriou estimates that the developer has possibly made more than $2 million from these apps.

Mashable has reached out to Apple for comment and will update this piece when we hear back.

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Save 77% on a 3-year VPN subscription

TL;DR: As of April 22, you can get a three-year subscription to VPNCity for just $79. It usually costs $357, so you're getting 77% off.

So, you heard your friend mention something about accessing British Netflix or Canadian Prime Video and you want to get in on the action. The first step is to get a VPN (virtual private network). And this three-year subscription to VPNCity for 77% off makes that step a breeze.

VPNCity is a great option for a VPN for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly interface, simplistic navigation, and expansive network. It’s a newer VPN, but for what it lacks in brand recognition, it makes up for in features.

The network has over 3,000 servers in 42 locations around the world. That means there are 42 different locations you can login from, despite where you actually are. For instance, you can login to a Canadian network while home in America and access content that’s usually blocked here. Or you can login to a British network and binge all of the British Netflix series. 

VPNCity has custom apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, along with Chrome and Firefox extensions, so it works alongside whatever device and browser you’re already using. No configurations necessary. You can connect up to a dozen devices at a time as well. So you can stay anonymous on your computer, phone, gaming console, smartTV, tablet, and more. 

Besides being able to binge out-of-network content, you’ll also be able to browse more securely. Your online data will be fully encrypted with AES-256 encryption and there’s a no log policy. That means VPNCity doesn’t store any of your online activity, browser data, credit card information, IP address, or any other data.

Connecting to VPNCity is designed to be super easy. Just slide the bar on the app to the right and you’re in. Pick your network depending on your needs or just randomly login from anywhere. The options are seemingly endless.

For a limited time, you can sign up for three full years of VPNCity for only $79 (regularly $357) and save 77%.

Prices subject to change.

Credit: VPNCity

VPNCity: 3-Yr Subscription

$79 at the Mashable Shop

Get Deal

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Unlock extra content on Netflix with this heavily discounted VPN

SAVE 49%: ExpressVPN is the best option for anyone looking to watch more movies and shows from around the world. A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £79.02 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time.

Netflix has been a hot topic recently. News of a price increase was quickly followed by a potential crackdown on password sharing as subscriber numbers fall. It's not all bad, because it looks like you will be able to save on your subscription, if you're willing to sit through ads. OK, that's not exactly great news.

With all of this in mind, subscribers are naturally looking to get the most out of their subscription. If you're trying to squeeze everything out of Netflix, you should consider using a VPN to unlock extra content from around the world.

ExpressVPN is probably the best service for streaming. By hiding your IP address and connecting you to a server in another location, ExpressVPN lets you watch all the movies and shows from that country's library of Netflix content. The process is quick and easy, with strong connection speeds and reliable unblocking of Netflix and other popular streaming sites like Disney+ and Prime Video.

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £79.02, saving you 49% on list price. This discounted plan includes an extra three months of coverage for free, and is fully refundable for 30 days. Subscribers also get a year of unlimited cloud backup from Backblaze for free, which is a nice bonus.

Save 49% on the best VPN for Netflix.

Credit: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free)

£79.02 at ExpressVPN

Get Deal

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Winning Wordle: The best starting words to use and why

"Genius!" is the most elusive and coveted compliment that Wordle can bestow upon its faithful followers, but getting the five-letter combination with your opening guess is more L-U-C-K-Y than anything else.

While we cannot guarantee B-I-N-G-O from the get-go, here's a Wordle starting word strategy that should get your daily streak on a never-ending C-L-I-M-B.

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In Japan, a lab is quietly building friendly versions of Dr. Octopus’ robot arms

Over the last five years, researchers at the Information Somatics Lab in Tokyo have made significant process testing and developing Dr. Octopus-like robot arms. The goal is to find effective ways to redesign the human body, focusing specifically on augmenting and multiplying our upper limb capabilities. Their work has come a long way over the years, from feet-controlled robot arms to appendages controlled movements in the shoulders.

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Grab a refurbished 50-inch Samsung QLED for under $500, plus more 4K TV deals as of April 21

UPDATE: Apr. 21, 2022, 11:30 a.m. EDT This story has been updated with the latest 4K TV deals, including a 75-inch from TCL for under $700.

The Samsung 85-inch Q60A Series QLED TV pulls vibrant Quantum Dot technology across a huge screen for an immersive theater experience — $1,797.99 $2,599.99 (save $802)

The LG 65-inch C1 Series OLED TV stands sleekly on a solo pillar and uses AI to customize 4K to each scene — $1,696.99 $2,499.99 (save $803)

The TCL 75-inch 4-Series TV is a solid makeshift theater-sized option for under $700 — $699.99 $999.99 (save $300)

Large 4K TVs no longer have to cost an exorbitant amount of money. These high-quality TVs featuring punchy colors, decipherable shadows, and smooth transitions are actually affordable for regular consumers. And to make them even more budget-friendly, we've gathered up the best deals on 4K and QLED TVs from top brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and more.

Renewed TV deals (happy Earth Week!)

Samsung 43-inch The Frame QLED TV — $694.95 $847.99 (save $153.04)

Samsung 50-inch Q60A QLED TV — $496.80 $627.99 (save $131.19)

Samsung 55-inch Q70A QLED TV — $747.80 $947.99 (save $200.19)

Samsung 75-inch Q70A QLED TV — $1,197.95 $1,597.99 (save $400.04)

Samsung 75-inch QN85A Neo QLED TV — $1,499.99 $1,997.99 (save $498)

Samsung TV deals

Credit: Samsung

Our pick: Samsung 65-inch QN900A 8K TV

$2,999.99 at Samsung (save $2,000)

Get Deal

Why we love it

You know when you're in the movie theater and the audio sounds like it's coming from the direction of the action on screen? The Samsung Neo QLED TV does that, too. On top of Object Tracking Sound, the QN800 has 8K resolution (double the pixels of 4K) and super thin bezels to seal in that immersive theater feel.

More Samsung TVs on sale

Samsung 43-inch 8000 Series 4K TV — $349.99 $449.99 (save $100)

Samsung 43-inch The Sero Rotating QLED TV — $1,499.99 $1,999.99 (save $500)

Samsung 50-inch 7 Series 4K TV — $379.99 $479.99 (save $100)

Samsung 55-inch Q60A Series QLED TV — $699.99 $849.99 (save $150)

Samsung 55-inch Q70A Series QLED TV — $949.99 $1,099.99 (save $150)

Samsung 65-inch TU8300 Curved 4K TV — $649.99 $799.99 (save $150)

Samsung 65-inch The Frame QLED TV — $1,499.99 $1,999.99 (save $500)

Samsung 75-inch Q70A Series QLED TV — $1,599.99 $2,299.99 (save $700)

Samsung 75-inch QN8000 Neo QLED 8K TV — $2,599.99 $3,499.99 (save $900)

Samsung 75-inch The Frame QLED TV — $2,199.99 $2,699.99 (save $500)

Samsung 85-inch Q60T Series QLED TV — $1,599.99 + free $200 Best Buy gift card $1,999.99 (save $400)

Samsung 85-inch Q60A Series QLED TV — $1,797.99 $2,599.99 (save $802)

Samsung 85-inch Q70A Series QLED TV —  $1,999.99 $2,699.99 (save $700)

Samsung 85-inch QN8000 Neo QLED 8K TV — $3,499.99 $4,999.99 (save $1,500)

LG TV deals

Credit: LG

Our pick: LG 75-inch NanoCell 75 Series 4K TV

$899.99 at Best Buy (save $200)

Get Deal

Why we love it

In 2021, LG dropped a mid-range line of 4K TVs featuring its NanoCell technology, which amps up color depth using an extra light filter. In 2022, that line is becoming more affordable.

More LG TVs on sale

LG 43-inch UN6955 4K TV — $295 $348 (save $53)

LG 50-inch UP8000 Series 4K TV — $379.99 $479.99 (save $100)

LG 55-inch NanoCell 80 4K TV — $596.99 $799.99 (save $203)

LG 55-inch C1 Series OLED TV — $1,099.99 $1,499.99 (save $400)

LG 65-inch A1 Series OLED TV — $1,349.99 $1,599.99 (save $250)

LG 65-inch C1 Series OLED TV — $1,696.99 $2,499.99 (save $803)

LG 70-inch NanoCell 80 4K TV — $699.99 $1,099.99 (save $400)

LG 77-inch G1 Gallery Series QLED TV — $3,299.99 $3,799.99 (save $500)

LG 83-inch C1 Series OLED TV — $4,499.99 $5,299.99 (save $800)

LG 86-inch 90 Series QNED Mini LED TV — $2,799.99 $3,299.99 (save $500)

Sony TV deals

Credit: Sony

Our pick: Sony 85-inch X91J 4K TV

$2,199.99 at Best Buy (save $600)

Get Deal

Why we love it

Opting for the X91J over the X85J (the most affordable TV in Sony's 2021 lineup) means you'll get full-array local dimming, which means there is a stretch of individual LEDs behind every point of the LCD panel. This adds precision, vivid color, and deeper shadows to the focal point of each scene rather than relying on LEDs around the edges.

More Sony TVs on sale

Sony 43-inch X80J 4K TV — $499.99 $599.99 (save $100)

Sony 50-inch X85J 4K TV — $699.99 $799.99 (save $100)

Sony 55-inch X85J 4K TV — $749.99 $899.99 (save $150)

Sony 55-inch X80J OLED TV — $1,298 $1,699.99 (save $401.99)

Sony 55-inch A90J OLED TV — $2,199.99 $2,799.99 (save $600)

Sony 65-inch X80J OLED TV — $1,798 $2,199.99 (save $401.99)

Sony 65-inch A90J OLED TV — $2,999.99 $3,799.99 (save $800)

Sony 75-inch X95J QLED TV — $2,199.99 $2,999.99 (save $800)

Sony 77-inch X80J OLED TV — $2,799.99 $3,199.99 (save $400)

Sony 85-inch X95J OLED TV — $2,999.99 $3,999.99 (save $1,000)

Other TV deals from TCL, Vizio, and more

Credit: TV

Our pick: TCL 75-inch 4-Series 4K TV

$699.99 at Best Buy (save $300)

Get Deal

Why we love it

Peak moving season is here. TCL's 4 Series is solid, affordable model for your new place — especially if you're looking to upgrade to something bigger than 65 inches. Its brightness levels and pops of colors are great for binge-watching, though picture might get laggy during high-graphics gaming. Your purchase comes with three free months of Apple TV+.

More TVs from TCL, Vizio, and more

Amazon 50-inch 4-Series 4K Fire TV — $319.99 $469.99 (save $150)

TCL 50-inch 5-Series QLED TV — $429.99 $599.99 (save $170)

Vizio 50-inch M7 Quantum Series 4K TV — $499.99 $699.99 (save $200)

TCL 55-inch 4-Series 4K TV — $359.99 $499.99 (save $140)

Amazon 55-inch 4 Series 4K Fire TV — $349.99 $519.99 (save $170)

TCL 55-inch 6-Series Mini LED QLED TV — $699.99 $949.99 (save $250)

Hisense 55-inch H8 Quantum ULED TV — $597.99 $729.99 (save $132)

Hisense 55-inch U8G 4K TV — $699.99 $999.99 (save $300)

Vizio 58-inch V-Series 4K TV — $399.99 $529.99 (save $130)

TCL 65-inch 4 Series 4K TV — $479.99 $699.99 (save $220)

Amazon 65-inch Omni Series 4K Fire TV – $499.99 $829.99 (save $330)

Vizio 70-inch V-Series 4K TV — $599.99 $699.99 (save $100)

TCL 75-inch 5 Series QLED TV — $799.99 $1,299.99 (save $500)

Hisense 75-inch U7G ULED TV — $1,199.99 $1,499.99 (save $300)

TCL 75-inch 6 Series Mini-LED QLED TV — $1,299.99 $2,299.99 (save $1,000)

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The best 4K TVs: For gamers, Netflix binge-watchers, and everyone else

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