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TL;DR: Through April 30, you can score a 1min.AI lifetime subscription including 4 million monthly credits and 20 user seats on sale for $79.97 (reg. $540).
You’ve heard of subscription fatigue. Decision fatigue. Maybe even Zoom fatigue. Now, meet AI fatigue — the feeling of jumping between a dozen tools, models, and logins just to get basic work done. One platform is breaking the cycle by giving you lifetime access to every major AI model — from GPT-4o and Claude 3 Opus to Gemini Pro and Llama 3 — all in one place, with no monthly fees or context switching.
It's called 1min.AI, and it's on sale for a limited time. The most advanced plan is normally worth $540, but it's down to $79.97 through April 30.
Create text, images, code, and more1min.AI makes it easy to handle a variety of tasks with a user-friendly setup, so you’re not wasting time hopping between different tools. It includes everything from AI-driven writing assistance to design and photo editing options, letting you switch between projects without the constant app shuffle.
Plus, 1min.AI gives you 4 million credits each month, plus the chance to earn up to 450,000 extra credits monthly just by visiting the web or mobile apps. This gives you plenty of space to test, create, and explore without worrying about extra fees.
While AI tools are incredibly helpful, they aren’t perfect, and 1min.AI is straightforward about that. You’ll get support with drafting, designing, and brainstorming, but human editing and oversight can bring your projects to the next level.
Simplify your creative process and boost efficiency with 1min.AI’s Business Plan lifetime subscription — now $79.97 (reg. $540) with no coupon needed.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan Lifetime Subscription $79.97SAVE OVER $100: As of April 26, the ASUS Vivobook S 14 is on sale for $689.99 at Amazon. That's a 13% savings on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS Vivobook S 14 $689.99 at AmazonIf a new laptop is on your wishlist, this latest Amazon deal on the ASUS Vivobook S 14 is one you'll not want to miss. Not only are you getting an impressive laptop, but this bundle includes a headset.
As of April 25, you can save $100 at the new, discounted price of $689.99. And that's not all, Amazon is offering an additional 5% off coupon for a limited time. Simply click the orange coupon box below the list price and see your extra discount applied at the checkout.
SEE ALSO: The best laptops under $500: Affordable options worth consideringThe Vivobook S is a lightweight but powerful laptop, weighing under 3 pounds. It features a 14-inch OLED display with bright, vivid colors that stay visible even when outdoors or in bright light. It's powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor with Intel Arc graphics, so expect speedy processing time for high-resolution streaming, gaming, and editing. It's really a perfect all-rounder laptop, whether its main use is for work or play.
With 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, this laptop offers plenty of space for large files and apps. And running on Windows 11 Home, it’s designed for everyday use, whether you’re working, creating, or just browsing.
Head to Amazon now to secure this great price.
A Martian spacecraft spied a Martian rover rumbling through the red desert.
The new image captured by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter — which has orbited Mars since 2006 — shows the space agency's car-sized Curiosity rover traversing the terrain below as it scales the planet's 3.4-mile-high Mount Sharp.
"The image marks what may be the first time one of the agency’s Mars orbiters has captured the rover driving," NASA said in a statement.
The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter hosts a powerful camera — called the High Resolution Imaging Experiment, or HIRISE — which can spot surface objects as small as a kitchen table from some 160 to 200 miles above the surface. Here, we see the Curiosity rover as a dark spot, trailed by the robot's tracks as its six metallic wheels crossed the desert.
SEE ALSO: Aliens haven't contacted us. Scientists found a compelling reason why.These tracks, spanning 1,050 feet (320 meters), were created over 11 separate drives. The orbiter spotted the tracks and rover on Feb. 28.
On Feb. 28, 2025, NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter captured this view of the Curiosity rover exploring the Martian surface. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / University of Arizona This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.The Curiosity rover has driven over 21 miles of uneven desert since it landed in 2012, and is now ascending Mount Sharp as it investigates Mars' climatic and geologic past. Curiosity's observations point to a Martian past, billions of years ago, that supported floods, lakes, rivers, and even rain. For example, the rover revealed ripple formations on the surface, which is telltale evidence of small waves breaking on lake shores long ago. Observations like this suggest that Mars once was warm, wet, and quite habitable before it gradually transformed into the extremely dry and frigid desert we see today. (Today, Mars is 1,000 times drier than the driest desert on Earth.)
Curiosity is currently headed to a new destination on Mount Sharp, a place home to expansive and compelling "boxworks" formations. From space, they look like spiderwebs. They are "believed to have formed when minerals carried by Mount Sharp's last pulses of water settled into fractures in surface rock and then hardened," NASA explained. "As portions of the rock eroded away, what remained were the minerals that had cemented themselves in the fractures, leaving the weblike boxwork."
As NASA's rovers find more and more evidence of past water on Mars, it's becoming clear that Mars was once a planet friendly to life, capable of hosting the temperate environs that could potentially host microbes.
Still today, however, there's no compelling proof that life ever existed on Mars. But there are quite a few Martian robots, both dead and alive.
SAVE $30: As of April 25, the Amazon Fire TV 32-inch 2-Series is on sale for $119.99 at Amazon. That's a 20% saving on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 32-inch 2-Series $119.99 at AmazonAn upgrade to a new, smart TV shouldn't have to mean spending hundreds (and sometimes thousands) of dollars, and with this latest Amazon deal, it doesn't. If you're after something simple, smart, and easy on the wallet, we've got good news: the 32-inch Amazon Fire TV 2-Series is on sale for less than $120.
As of April 25, you can buy this impressive model for $119.99, saving you 20%. This price is for the 32-inch model and for the TV only; to add on a four-year protection plan, you'll need to pay more.
SEE ALSO: I think Sony’s 77-inch A95L OLED is the ultimate PS5 TV, and it’s $1,000 off right nowLike most Amazon devices, this TV comes with Alexa voice control. Not only can you use this to control some of your other smart home devices (think speakers, robot vacuums, or light bulbs), but you can also use it to search through multiple streaming platforms at once, ask questions, and find out the answers to all your hard-hitting questions.
For entertainment, the TV runs on Amazon's Fire OS, so you'll have access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. It also features two standard HDMI inputs and one ARC input, making it easy to connect gaming devices. It also supports Dolby Audio for even better sound quality.
Head to Amazon to grab this great deal.
SAVE $30: As of April 25, Bose QuietComfort earbuds are on sale for $149 at Amazon. This deal saves you 17% on list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Earbuds $149 at AmazonWe're always on the hunt for deals on some of the best earbuds and headphones here at Mashable, and this latest Amazon discount on the Bose QuietComfort earbuds is one that really catch our eye. As of April 25, these earbuds are reduced by $30, down to $149. They come in three colors: black, chilled lilac, and white smoke.
These earbuds are an excellent choice, especially if you're looking for stellar noise cancellation. The noise cancellation is designed to block out any and all distractions, creating an immersive listening experience. These earbuds will block out the annoying chatter, so you don't need to turn up your music.
SEE ALSO: I tried Soundcore’s Space A40 earbuds and they shouldn't be this good for under $50You'll also get up to 8.5 hours of listening time on the go, and with a quick 20-minute top-up charge, you get an extra two hours. Style-wise, like most, these earbuds come with multiple ear tips so they fit comfortably. Not to mention, a secure fit means they are better for sports such as running or gym workouts.
And one of our favorite features is the customizable tap controls. Choose whether you want these to adjust the volume, skip tracks, or pause your music. Do this in the Bose QCE app, where you'll also find more personalization options to tweak EQ settings and check battery life.
Grab this great earbud deal from Amazon.
Another year, another batch of enjoyably strange LOVE DEATH + ROBOTS stories.
Netflix has dropped its trailer for VOLUME 4 of Tim Miller's genre-spanning anthology, teasing tales about everything from Godzilla-sized babies to talking cats.
MrBeast, John Oliver, Amy Sedaris, Chris Parnell, Kevin Hart, John Boyega, Brett Goldstein, Rhys Darby, Niecy Nash-Betts and the Red Hot Chili Peppers are just some of the new cast additions.
LOVE DEATH + ROBOTS VOLUME 4 is streaming on Netflix from May 15.
SAVE $1,000: As of April 25, Sony’s 77-inch Bravia XR A95L OLED TV is available for $3,998 at Amazon. That’s $1,000 off its regular $4,999.99 price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony 77-inch Bravia XR A95L OLED TV $3,998 at AmazonI don’t exactly need a $4,000 TV, but Sony’s A95L makes a pretty compelling case for why I should pretend otherwise. This 77-inch QD-OLED display is sitting at $3,998 right now at Amazon, which is $1,000 off its list price. Yes, it’s still expensive. No, it’s not overkill if you’re trying to future-proof your entire living room.
In my opinion, Sony nailed it with this panel. The QD-OLED tech paired with XR Triluminos Max delivers a level of color saturation and contrast that makes most TVs look like they’ve got a screen protector made of fog. It’s powered by Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR, which is basically a way of saying the picture looks freakishly lifelike and way sharper than whatever your cable provider is serving you.
SEE ALSO: Sony's WH-CH720N headphones have dropped below $100 for a limited timeBut let’s be honest — if you’re buying this TV, you’re probably also gaming on it. And this thing is built for that. With HDMI 2.1 features like 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, it’s clearly designed with performance in mind. The real cherry on top is the PlayStation 5 optimization. Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode give you the best possible picture settings without having to dig through menus.
It’s also a smart TV, obviously. Google TV handles the UI, and voice control works through Google Assistant and Alexa. You also get 10 movie credits and a two-year subscription to BRAVIA CORE for streaming in actual high-bitrate 4K, which feels like a dig at every other service that throws around “HD” as a buzzword.
Specifications:
Price: $3,998 $4,999.99
Retailer: Amazon
Display: 77-inch QD-OLED, 4K UHD
Processor: Cognitive Processor XR
HDR: Dolby Vision, XR Triluminos Max
Refresh rate: 120Hz
Gaming features: 4K/120, VRR, ALLM, Auto HDR Tone Mapping, Auto Genre Picture Mode
Smart TV: Google TV with Google Assistant and Alexa support
Streaming extras: BRAVIA CORE (10 movie credits, 24-month subscription)
Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
The A95L doesn’t pretend to be a budget pick, and I’m glad it doesn’t. I think if you’re serious about gaming or just want to watch nature documentaries in a way that makes you feel like you’re about to be eaten by a tiger, this is the upgrade worth making.
SAVE $35: As of April 25, Soundcore Space A40 wireless earbuds are available for $44.99 at Amazon. That’s 44% off their regular $79.99 price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore Space A40 Wireless Earbuds $44.99 at AmazonI’ve tested more wireless earbuds than I care to admit, and I don’t usually expect much from anything under $50. But Soundcore’s Space A40 earbuds are the exception. They’re currently down to $44.99 at Amazon, a solid 44% off the usual $79.99. That’s not just a good deal — it’s the kind of price that makes you rethink what budget earbuds can do.
I think the biggest surprise is the noise cancellation. These things claim to reduce noise by up to 98%, and while I didn’t whip out a decibel meter, I will say they’re impressively quiet. The adaptive system adjusts automatically depending on where you are, and it works. I used them while walking near a busy road and didn’t need to crank the volume just to hear my music.
SEE ALSO: Live your Kawaii gamer dreams with this discounted Logitech POP ICON keyboard and mouse comboBattery life is also no joke. With 10 hours per charge and up to 50 hours total with the case, they outlast some high-end models. And if you’re down to 10% and in a rush, a quick 10-minute charge gets you four hours of playtime. That’s the kind of stat I didn’t expect to care about until I was running late and didn’t have time to babysit a charging case.
In terms of sound quality, they’re clearly tuned with mass appeal in mind. The bass is warm, vocals sit nicely in the mix, and the treble doesn’t shred your ears. There’s even a Hi-Res Audio Wireless mode via LDAC if you’re the type who notices those things. I appreciate that they didn’t just phone it in on the audio front.
Specifications:
Price: $44.99 $79.99
Retailer: Amazon
Form factor: In-ear wireless
Noise cancelling: Adaptive active noise cancellation
Battery life: 10 hours single, 50 hours total with case
Sound quality: Dual-layer diaphragm drivers, LDAC Hi-Res mode
Comfort: Lightweight, compact, ergonomic design
Color: Black (also available in blue, green, purple, white)
Charging: Wireless charging, 10-minute quick charge for 4 hours of playtime
Comfort-wise, they’re smaller than most ANC buds I’ve worn, and they actually stay put. I forgot I had them in a few times, which, for in-ear anything, is about as high a compliment as I can give.
If your budget’s tight or you just want a backup pair that doesn’t feel like a compromise, I think this deal makes a pretty strong case. They’re cheap, but they don’t act like it.
SAVE $50: As of April 25, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are available for $199.99 at Amazon. That’s 20% off their regular $249.99 price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro $199.99 at AmazonI want earbuds that do more than just play music, and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro check that box with a Sharpie. They’re down to $199.99 at Amazon, a full 20% off the usual $249.99. For a product that only came out recently, that’s a price cut worth a second look.
In my opinion, this update finally makes Samsung’s earbuds feel premium. They’re redesigned for a more secure fit, which means I’m not constantly poking them back into place like some sad ear-Tamagotchi. The silver finish is understated and clean, and they come with a two-year warranty exclusive to Amazon. I don’t usually get excited about warranties, but I’ll make an exception when the product is this small and this easy to lose in a coat pocket.
SEE ALSO: Samsung's 4TB T5 EVO SSD is over $100 off and includes a free Sonic microSDXCSound-wise, the Buds 3 Pro lean heavily into AI. They use adaptive noise cancellation to filter out distractions when you want focus, then let in voices or ambient sounds when the context calls for it. There’s also an adaptive equalizer that tweaks your audio in real time based on fit. I didn’t expect to care about this feature, but it makes a noticeable difference. Everything sounds sharper and more balanced, like your music went through a finishing school.
The real party trick is translation. With Galaxy AI, you can hear live translations during phone calls or face-to-face conversations. It’s the kind of feature that sounds like a gimmick until it’s not. I wouldn’t rely on it to negotiate an international treaty, but for travel or quick exchanges, it’s surprisingly competent.
Specifications:
Price: $199.99 $249.99
Retailer: Amazon
Form factor: True wireless in-ear
Noise cancelling: Adaptive active noise cancellation with Galaxy AI
Sound optimization: Adaptive equalizer with Galaxy AI
Unique features: Real-time interpreter, intuitive touch controls
Durability: Two-year limited Amazon-exclusive warranty
Color: Silver (also available in white)
Compatibility: Optimized for Samsung devices
I think if you already use a Samsung phone, this deal is almost too logical to ignore. The integration is seamless, the features are actually useful, and the price is finally in a range that feels fair. If your current earbuds are more “wireless-ish” than wireless, it’s probably time for an upgrade.
The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.
With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.
So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on MashableHere are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, April 25, 2025:
Across"Beware the ___ of March"The answer is Ides.
The answer is Texts.
The answer is Algae.
The answer is Iota.
The answer is Vet.
The answer is ItA.
The answer is Deli.
The answer is ExGov.
The answer is State.
The answer is Seat.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of GamesAre you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.
Netflix is introducing a new type of original language subtitles.
On Thursday, the company announced a new subtitle option: original language subtitles that only show the spoken dialogue.
The only option for subtitles in the original language before was Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (SDH/CC). These subtitles include dialogue but also audio cues such as [dramatic music swells], as well as names of the people speaking on screen.
However, Netflix has realized that a lot of folks watch content with subtitles (fifty percent of Americans do it most of the time), and decided to offer a subtitle option that only covers spoken dialogue. If you're wondering why that is, you've probably never seen Brad Pitt's legendary performance in Guy Ritchie's "Snatch."
Now you get both the CC and the non-CC version. Credit: NetflixUnfortunately, this will not be available for older titles, at least not right away. Netflix says the new subtitle option will first appear on new titles coming to the platform, with the first show to get it being the fifth season of You.
SEE ALSO: How to unblock and watch U.S. NetflixNetflix also said that, going forward, the non-CC subtitles will be available on all new Netflix originals in every language that the platform offers.
Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.
Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.
If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.
If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.
Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Happens at a track competition
Green: Descriptions given for athletes
Blue: Heard their name called first
Purple: Share a second word
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Track and field events
Green: Bio info for an NFL draft pick
Blue: Previous No. 1 NFL draft picks
Purple: _______ball sports
Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.
Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #214 is...
What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition todayTrack and field events - C100 METERS, DECATHLON, POLE VAULT, STEEPLECHASE
Bio info for an NFL draft pick - HEIGHT, POSITION, SCHOOL, WEIGHT
Previous No. 1 NFL draft picks - BURROW, FISHER, LONG, LUCK
________ball sports - FOOT, PICKLE, SOFT, VOLLEY
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.
TL;DR: Live stream the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
You can feel the excitement building. The biggest international song competition in the world is fast approaching, so clear your calendar, prepare food from across the continent, and dress to impress.
The Eurovision Song Contest is back once again, promising incredible performances, dazzling choreography, and moments that you really can't explain. There isn't anything else like the Eurovision Song Contest. You just know it's going to be beautifully mad. We can't wait to watch, and you can do the same without spending anything.
Want to watch the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest for free from anywhere in the world? We have all the information you need.
What is Eurovision?The Eurovision Song Contest is an international song competition organised annually by the European Broadcasting Union. This popular competition primarily features entries from European countries, with each participating nation submitting an original song to be performed on live TV. Competing countries cast votes to pick a winner.
Eurovision has a reputation for delivering truly memorable performances, and not always in a good way. Rules and convention go out the window with Eurovision, resulting in some absolutely unmissable moments.
Where is the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest?The 2025 Eurovision Song Contest is the 69th edition of the event. This year's competition will take place in St. Jakobshalle, Basel.
When is the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest?The full schedule for the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest can be found right here:
First Semi-Final — 9 p.m. CEST on May 13
Second Semi-Final — 9 p.m. CEST on May 15
Grand Final — 9 p.m. CEST on May 17
Keep these times and dates in mind. No excuses.
How to watch the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest for freeAudiences from all participating countries should be able to watch the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest on local broadcasting services:
Albania — RTSH
Armenia — AMPTV
Australia — SBS
Austria — ORF
Azerbaijan — İctimai
Belgium — VRT
Croatia — HRT
Cyprus — CyBC
Czechia — ČT
Denmark — DR
Estonia — ERR
Finland — YLE
France — FT
Georgia — GPB
Germany — ARD/NDR
Greece — ERT
Iceland — RÚV
Ireland — RTÉ
Israel — Kan
Italy — RAI
Latvia — LTV
Lithuania — LRT
Luxembourg — RTL
Malta — PBS
Montenegro — RTCG
Netherlands — AVROTROS
Norway — NRK
Poland — TVP
Portugal — RTP
San Marino — SMRTV
Serbia — RTS
Slovenia — RTVSLO
Spain — RTVE
Sweden — SVT
Switzerland — SRG SSR
Ukraine — Suspilne
United Kingdom — BBC
If you are based in a country not on this list, you will need to use a VPN to live stream the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest for free. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country. This simple process makes it look like you're connecting from a country with free access to Eurovision, so you can live stream the event for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with free access to Eurovision
Visit your favorite free streaming platform listed above
Live stream the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest for free from anywhere in the world
Something to note is that the best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can live stream Eurovision without actually spending anything. This is not a long-term solution, but it gives you plenty of time to stream the event before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for streaming?ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing free streaming services, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Stream the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest for free with ExpressVPN.
A TV is the centrepiece of most living areas — not only a source of constant entertainment, but the thing that all your furniture is pointed towards — so it's vital that you get it right. Even when you're shopping on a budget.
The great thing about modern tech is that when you are shopping on a budget, there's a surprising number of features that you can get for your money. 21st Century TVs can do much more than just tune into a couple of channels.
If you need some help choosing a TV, we've trawled the internet to find a selection of the best models. We have information on the best 4K TVs, TVs for gaming, and TVs for under £500. We wouldn't want budget shoppers to feel left out though, so here’s a quick guide to buying a cheap TV, along with some of the very best models.
How much do budget TVs cost?As you can see, we’ve kept it to £300 or below. Indeed, there’s lots of talk about huge, mega-resolution smart TVs — eye-popping 4K sets and eye-watering prices — but it’s perfectly possible to get a good television set for a few hundred pounds. In some cases around the £150 mark. It’s worth remembering that if you’re not fussy about having the very latest model, you’ll find that more expensive models from the last few years are now marked down to a more agreeable price.
Do budget TVs offer smart features?Cheap doesn’t necessarily mean lacking in quality. Because some of these models even offer impressive features like Ultra HD image resolution and HDR support. Enormous QLED TVs are obviously not going to make this list but you can still find real quality, if you know where to look. All the TVs featured in this roundup have smart platforms that offer a selection of streaming apps as well access to free-to-view channels. You’ll also find features such as Alexa compatibility, gaming modes, and audio technology.
What is HDR?This is a common selling point in modern TVs, so it’s worth knowing about — especially if you’re particular about having the best quality image. HDR stands for High Dynamic Range. This essentially means a wider gamut of colours and shades of light and dark. It produces more vivid, nuanced colours — deeper, richer, and more detailed. There are different HDR formats — notably Dolby Vision and HDR10 — and you’ll find that certain TVs support certain formats (or both).
Can you get 4K for under £300?In years gone by, most TVs at this price range were either HD Ready (720p) or Full HD (1080p), but that seems to be changing. It's relatively easy to find 4K in the budget price range now, as you can see from the selection below.
Can you watch streaming apps on a cheap TV?Streaming apps are a feature of smart platforms, which you'll find on all of the TVs we've selected. You'll be able to watch the likes of Netflix, Disney, and iPlayer — though you need a subscription in some cases and an internet connection, of course. You can watch live digital channels through platforms such as Freeview Play and Freely, which may also be included on budget TVs.
What is the best TV for under £300?We have painstakingly checked out everything on offer at this price range to bring you a selection of your best options. Whether you want something for your spare room, university halls, or home office, there will be something for you in this list. We’ve done the hard work so you can focus on the more important details, like where the TV is going to live in your room and what you're going to sit on. You know, all the fun stuff.
These are the best TVs for under £300 in 2025.
This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.
Wired headphones are making a comeback with Gen Z — and wired headphones have always been the choice for true audiophiles — but wireless headphones are still the direction of technological travel. In fact, lots of up-to-date devices don't even have headphone jacks, so going wireless is now the universal option.
And we are talking headphones here, not earbuds. Sure, earbuds might be more convenient for on-the-move lifestyles and fitness, but headphones tend to deliver superior sound. And they do a great job of shutting out the outside world. That's because headphones create a seal over your ears to block out exterior noise, so even if they aren't technically "noise cancelling", they will still do a decent job preventing unwanted sound from interfering with your music or podcast.
But buying headphones can be hard. The sheer number of available headphones, combined with ever-advancing tech — which is all designed to cater to different listening habits and lifestyles — makes it tricky to pick the best pair of headphones for you and your ears. Let us help by offering some handy headphone information.
How do wireless headphones work?Most wireless headphones are Bluetooth-enabled, the standard technology these days for hooking your headphones to a smart device. Other options include old radio frequency technology. Bluetooth is the standard and work perfectly well for music and podcasts, but if you’re using wireless headphones to hook up to your TV, radio frequency might be a better choice because there’s less chance of lag between picture and audio — sometimes an issue with Bluetooth unless your device and headphones support the latest and best performing Bluetooth codecs.
What are the most important headphones features?Some of the jargon around headphones can be confusing, so we've broken down some of the most important headphone features to help you pick the perfect pair:
Bluetooth codecs — As referenced above, these are clever bits of software that encode and decode digital audio signals. The codecs decode at a specific bitrate, which determines whether the headphones have a high or low latency (AKA lag), measured in milliseconds. Look out for headphones with low latency that support Qaulcomm’s aptX codecs, which are usually rated as the best codecs for streaming video content or hooking up to a TV.
Closed-back/open-back — Closed back headphones have completely sealed ear cups, which directs sound to your ears and keeps out ambient noise. Closed-back are often the go-to choice for commuting and noisy environments. Open-back headphones let air into the ear cup but can cause sound leakage that goes both ways — in and out. This is sometimes found on very expensive headphones for clearer, natural sound.
Drivers — These are little cone-shaped gadgets in the ear cups that are responsible for your tunes. They convert electrical signals into sounds. For over-ear headphones, they usually measure between 20mm and 50mm in headphones.
On-ear and over ear — These are self explanatory but it's always good to be clear. On-ear headphones sit on your ear, while over-ear have bigger cups that go over the entire ear. On-ear are usually more portable, with better battery life, while over-ear create a more immersive experience and often support noise cancellation. Over-ear is becoming the more common style.
Keep these features in mind when shopping around for your next pair of headphones.
What is noise cancellation?Noise cancellation is exactly as it sounds — a method of cancelling out external noise to help you shut off the outside world and get deep into the listening zone.
There are two kinds of noise cancellation: Passive and active noise cancellation. Passive noise cancellation happens by design as the physical build of the ear cups creates a seal to block incoming sounds. Active noise cancellation (ANC) is a bit more complicated. It uses tiny microphones within the ear cups, which detect incoming noise and emit sound waves to cancel out that noise.
Some headphones feature different ANC modes, such as “transparency mode”, which allows certain noises to get through, such as voices. That means you can immerse yourself in the music but always know when a friend or colleague starts a conversation.
What are the best wireless headphones?To help you decide, we've rounded up the best wireless headphones based on researching the reviews, listening experience, and customer comments. They range in quality, features, and price, so there's something for everyone.
These are the best wireless headphones for 2025.
Working from home — or WFH to use the modern parlance — is now well established. That means you can no longer get away with an uncomfortable or amateurish setup in your home office. It's time for a serious upgrade. It's time to get profresional.
If you regularly WFH, consider a good quality computer monitor. Your desk chairs, keyboards, and mouse would seem pretty useless without one. A good monitor can also be essential for boosting productivity, helping you to organise, prioritise, and focus. It could be just what you need to overcome productivity issues. Because it is easy to get distracted when you're at home, even if you are technically on the clock.
But how to choose a monitor? As with all tech purchases, it’s easy to get blindsided with spec and jargon. But we can help with choosing a monitor to upgrade your office. Here’s some handy information to get you started.
What size are computer monitors?Computer monitors are somewhere between a laptop and a TV. They tend to average out at around 24 or 27 inches, though there are definitely bigger options available. If you like to mix up work and play — as in, use the monitor for gaming as well as WFH — a larger monitor might be best. We’ve included a range of sizes below.
What is the best resolution for a computer monitor?If you’re using the monitor just for work — spreadsheets, documents, and video calls — regular HD (720p) or Full HD (1080p) will do the trick. But if you are also using it for gaming or streaming in your downtime, consider a monitor that goes all the way up to 4K. You’ll find a selection of resolutions in this roundup. And it's not just about resolution. Monitors may also be equipped with HDR (high dynamic range), which means the monitor can produce richer colours and sharper details.
What features do monitors offer?You might come across some jargon and tech speak while shopping for monitors, so here's a simple breakdown of key features:
Eye Protection — Some monitors are built with technology to protect you from blue light or reduce eye fatigue — always a problem when you’re staring at a screen for the whole working day. There are also features that make it easier to read on the screen, and display technology that ensures you see the monitor clearly from any angle.
Ergonomic Features — Ergonomic is a term that comes up with lots of office equipment. It basically means that it’s built for the most efficient and safest use. In the case of monitors that means they can be adjusted to tilt, pivot, and angle at a position that’s comfortable and reduces the chance of neck and posture problems. Sitting at a desk poorly can have bigger health impact than you might realise.
Built-In Speakers — Basic monitors tend to not have speakers, which means you’ll need to add external speakers if you want audio. More advanced monitors like gaming monitors are more like little TVs, so may come with speakers already built-in.
Ports and Connections — Depending on the price, different monitors will come with a different selection of ports. This will of course depend on your home set-up and what devices you need to connect. But look for monitors that have a range of HDMI and USB connections. And take note whether they offer USB A or C.
AMD FreeSync — You'll find this technology on monitors that are designed for video playback and gaming. It helps minimise issues such as screen tearing, stuttering, and input lag, and improves the overall fluidity of the monitor's visuals.
Keep these features in mind when shopping for a monitor.
What is the best monitor for working from home?To help you find a monitor that works for you and your budget, we have tracked down a selection of devices from a bunch of top brands. We're confident that there's something for everyone — not to mention every budget — on this list.
These are the best monitors in 2025.
If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.
Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on MashableBy providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.
If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferrined pace.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 25 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 25 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: It's in the starsThe words are visible in the dark.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedThese words are things that can be found among the stars.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is Constellations.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for April 25Constellations
Hunter
Swan
Maiden
Cross
Centaur
Dipper
Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!
Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.
Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.
If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.
If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.
SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 25 Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Found in a chewy substance
Green: The beginning
Blue: Patriotic hymns
Purple: They share a second word
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Gum flavors
Green: Starting point
Blue: Great American songbook songs
Purple: __ Tube
Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.
Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to today's Connections #684 is...
What is the answer to Connections todayGum flavors: BUBBLEGUM, CINNAMON, MENTHOL, WINTERGREEN
Starting point: CATALYST, LAUNCHPAD, SPARK, SPRINGBOARD
Great American songbook songs: AUTUMN LEAVES, SUMMERTIME, UNFORGETTABLE, WITCHCRAFT
__ Tube: FALLOPIAN, INNER, TEST, VACUUM
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 25Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.
Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.
If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for April 25 Where did Wordle come from?Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once.
Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.
What's the best Wordle starting word?The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.
What happened to the Wordle archive?The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.
Is Wordle getting harder?It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.
SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 25, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:Familiar.
Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?The letter N appears twice.
Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...Today's Wordle starts with the letter K.
SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.
Drumroll please!
The solution to today's Wordle is...
KNOWN.
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 25Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.
If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.
There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.
An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.
If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.
SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hintA crest.
SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answerRIDGE
Hurdle Word 2 hintMushrooms.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 25, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 AnswerFUNGI
Hurdle Word 3 hintLopsided.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 25 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 25, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answerWONKY
Hurdle Word 4 hintAn imposter.
SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for April 25 Hurdle Word 4 answerFRAUD
Final Hurdle hintA popular seed.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answerPOPPY
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
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