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Written By Julian Vittorio
Updated Jan 28, 2023 8:52 AM
If you’ve ever used a piece of pro audio gear, you’ve most likely encountered an XLR cable at some point. Inventor James H. Cannon first developed the now-ubiquitous XLR connector in the 1930s as a compact adaptation of his company’s widely used multi-contact electrical plugs. Since then, XLR connectors have become an audio industry standard for passing signals between professional equipment of every conceivable type, appearing at the ends of most microphones and on the inputs of mixers, speakers, and audio interfaces. While XLR cables come in a wide variety of pin configurations, these recommendations are for the three-pin type that’s most commonly encountered in pro audio settings. Whether you’re looking to amass a collection of cables for an entire recording studio or you just need to plug in a single microphone, we’ll help you find the best XLR cable for your needs and pass along a few things to consider when making your purchase.
How we selected the best XLR cablesWhen selecting our picks, we looked at the scenarios users likely encounter, did market research, referenced product impressions and peer recommendation, then combined all that with our own first-hand experiences to determine the cables that deliver the cleanest signal and feature the fewest potential failure points or parts that might come loose.
The best XLR cables: Reviews & RecommendationsThree-pin XLR cables are a pro preference due to their ability to carry robust audio signals. Unlike standard instrument cables and RCA cables, which carry a grounding wire plus a single signal wire, balanced XLR cables feature three conductors: a ground wire, a positive wire, and a negative wire. In this balanced design, the presence of signal on both the positive and negative wires allows for improved noise reduction over unbalanced designs. Due to the relatively delicate nature of their parts, wires, and internal electrical connections, an XLR cable should be built durable enough to withstand a reasonable amount of coiling, twisting, moving, and general use without risk of breaking. These are our top picks for the best XLR cables when you need reliable routing.
Best overall:Pig Hog PHM15
Why it made the cut: This XLR cable from Pig Hog features exceptionally thick construction that’s built to withstand the rigors of long-term use.
Specs
Connectors: XLR male and XLR female
Double-shielded: Yes
Pros
Thick gauge
Durable connectors
Shielded
Cons
Bulky
This XLR cable from Pig Hog comes in a variety of lengths ranging from 3 feet to 50 feet and is available in bulk packs of up to 10, making it an efficient and cost-effective choice whether you’re outfitting a large operation or you just need a couple for casual use. Its gauge of 14 AWG is well above the industry average cable thickness, making it more likely to survive repeated kinking and twisting. For this reason, the Pig Hog is an excellent option for stage and touring use in particular.
Users should note that while the Pig Hog is one of the best XLR cables overall, its thickness comes with extra weight and bulk that makes storage a bit trickier whether it’s hung on the wall or stowed in a bin. Of equal importance is an audio cable’s ability to flex under doors, through wall ports, and in the cramped spaces behind equipment, and this cable may be a bit too bulky for those applications.
Best upgrade: Mogami Gold Studio-15 XLR CableWhy it made the cut: Mogami manufactures top-of-the-line cables with an extra layer of internal shielding for maximum interference reduction.
Specs
Connectors: XLR male and XLR female
Shielded: Yes
Pros
Neutrik connectors
Gold-plated contacts
extra copper shielding
Cons
Expensive
If you can afford to spend a little more, Mogami’s XLR cables are some of the absolute best that money can buy. They’re built from components of the highest quality, featuring Neutrik locking ends for sturdy connections, gold-plated contacts for improved conductivity, and an extra insulating layer of copper shielding. All this is packed into a durable, yet flexible 24 AWG rubber housing with heat-shrink at each end.
Mogami’s cabling is known for providing some of the most reliable and noise-free performance on the market, but this reputation and quality come at a significant cost over other brands that can be hard for hobbyists and DIY-ers to justify. If you want a cable that consistently produces low-noise audio—and has a very low chance of cutting out, getting stuck, or breaking—the extra cost of the Mogami may be worth it.
Best XLR-to-USB: Behringer MIC2USBWhy it made the cut: The Behringer MIC2USB turns any dynamic microphone into a USB mic.
Specs:
Connectors: USB male and XLR female
Shielded: No
Pros
Plug-and-play
Direct microphone-to-computer connection
Cons
Only works with dynamic mics
Sample rate limited to 44.1 kHz
Thin gauge
Users who want to circumvent the time, bulk, and cost of collecting recording equipment will appreciate this novel computer recording solution from Behringer that integrates a simple audio interface and an XLR cable into a single product. It’s 5-meters long and offers CD-quality analog-to-digital conversion on Mac and Windows without the need for drivers—simply plug in a microphone, open your recording software of choice, and begin recording. If you need a decent option for light content creation duties, already have a microphone, and aren’t ready to spring for a USB mic, this may be exactly what you need.
While the MIC2USB is all about convenience and delivers it on some level, it’s really more of a quick-fix item than an appropriate replacement for a dedicated audio interface. It offers users no control over aspects of analog-to-digital conversion, nor does it include a headphone output for monitoring. Additionally, it only works with dynamic mics due to its inability to pass phantom power, which is required by condenser microphones. If you’re looking for a long-term professional solution for computer recording, opt instead for a standard XLR cable and a simple interface like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo.
Why it made the cut: If you’re looking to connect balanced, line-level equipment like stereo receivers, speakers, and mixers, this XLR-to-TRS cable from Monoprice is one of the best-designed cables for the job.
Specs
Connectors: XLR male and TRS male
Shielded: Yes
Pros
Thick gauge
Gold-plated connectors
Reinforced shielding
Cons
Connector screws may loosen
TRS, or 1/4-inch balanced connectors, contain three conductors and are used industry-wide for carrying the exact same types of signal as XLRs. This XLR-to-1/4-inch cable from Monoprice features gold-plated connectors, robust internal shielding, and a thick 16 AWG gauge to offer good protection from electrical interference and great durability when used in critical applications. If you’ll be connecting balanced gear with mismatched inputs and outputs, this cable covers the most common applications.
Unlike other designs that fasten together without small parts, the XLR connector on this cable features a housing that’s held together by screws. While these provide reasonably convenient access to the cable’s internal parts for repairs and maintenance, the screws can come loose over time and affect both the reliability and durability of the cable. This is nothing to worry about if you’re using this cable for a semi-permanent purpose such as installing a home stereo, but if you’re going to use it for repeatedly connecting and disconnecting gear, consider a Mogami Gold Series cable, which has Neutrik connectors.
Best budget: AmazonBasics XLR CableWhy it made the cut: This XLR cable from Amazon’s own brand offers good components and a quality build at a value price.
Specs
Connectors: XLR male and XLR female
Shielded: Yes
Pros
Good value
Connectors without small parts
Cons
Thin shielding
Built from budget components
AmazonBasics is known for offering a vast array of budget-friendly essentials at good quality, and the brand’s XLR cables certainly fit that reputation. Each connector on these XLR cables is built from minimal parts without screws and closely resembles the design of industry-standard connectors from Neutrik. A 6mm PVC jacket around a layer of spiraled copper shielding protects the cable’s internal conductors, though the shielding is not particularly thick, which may result in more RF interference.
While this cable is constructed from components that mirror high-end offerings and should last a long time if treated with care, they’re not guaranteed to be as robust or reliable as more expensive cables manufactured with premium components and high-level quality control. This may not be an issue for casual users—and these are certainly a good choice for light duties—but if you require prolonged reliability in critical environments, you may want to spring for a more durable cable, or at least invest in a soldering iron to handle any repair needs that arise.
Things to consider when buying one of the best XLR cablesThe wires inside an XLR cable are incredibly small, and each is soldered to its respective pin at both connector ends. For this reason, the strength of the solder points, the cable, and the connector itself are of high importance when trying to find the best XLR cable. Most of the cables on this list feature simple connectors, as well as connector housings that sit flush with the cable surface to keep out dust and debris.
How many XLR cables do you need?Quantity is an important consideration when searching for the best XLR cable for your needs. If you are setting up a rehearsal space, a live venue, or a recording studio, you’ll likely benefit from a bulk XLR cable package such as that offered by Pig Hog. More expensive cabling like that offered by Mogami will cost much more to purchase in bulk, but its lasting durability and quality may eliminate the need to otherwise repeatedly replace cheaper cables as they fail.
What type of equipment are you connecting?Nearly all microphones use XLR connectors, as do most sound mixers and pro audio interfaces. Some amplifiers, sound mixers, speakers, and stereo receivers also use TRS connectors to receive balanced signals, so it’s important to verify what type of connection you’re looking to make before you make your purchase. Also important to note is that while most equipment connections require a male-to-female cable, some connections may require a male-to-male cable, such as that from an audio interface to a powered speaker.
Are you going to be making repeated connections?Durability is an important quality to consider if you’re going to be repeatedly connecting, disconnecting, and storing your XLR cables. In situations where cables are plugged in and left there, such as podcasting setups or behind home stereos, connector quality isn’t of the utmost importance. For studio and stage work where equipment is constantly set up and torn down, however, choosing a cable with more robust connectors will lower the likelihood of cables becoming stuck in equipment or the internal connections failing.
FAQs Q: How much does an XLR cable cost?Depending on the materials and/or length of the cable, prices can run from $5 on the budget, short end to $225 on the top-tier, long end.
Q: What does XLR stand for?The term XLR originated in the connector’s early days at Cannon Electric. “X” referred to the company’s particular series of connectors, with “L” specifying the presence of a latch mechanism, and “R” representing the use of a rubber compound. Some sources suggest XLR stands for “external line return,” but this is a misnomer that disregards the connector’s extensive use as a means of carrying audio signals of every type and nature.
Q: What’s the best XLR cable for powered speakers?Powered speakers, or studio monitors like the Pioneer VM-50, most often accept either or both XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs, so the best XLR cable for your situation depends on the connectors on both your speakers and your output device. Pro audio interfaces and home stereo receivers usually have TRS line outputs, while sound mixers have some combination of both XLR and TRS outputs. For most applications, an XLR-to-1/4-inch cable is the right choice for powered speakers, but be sure to read the manuals for your equipment and verify its input and output connectors before buying a cable.
Q: What’s the best XLR cable for hi-fi sound?The Mogami Gold Series XLR is one of the best XLR cables for high-fidelity sound thanks to its gold-plated contacts and extra internal layer of copper shielding. When shopping for a hi-fi XLR cable, extra shielding is a particularly valuable feature to look for, as all cabling is naturally susceptible to picking up RF interference and becoming noisy.
The final word on finding the best XLR cables for your audio setupFrom hi-fi home stereos to mixing consoles, for microphones and recording interfaces, XLR cables are one of the prevailing tools for connecting sound equipment and carrying balanced audio signals. Budget XLR cables are great for keeping on hand as spares or installing in semi-permanent setups, while higher-quality cables are reinforced for durability and offer better shielding from electrical interference. Wherever your next creative endeavor takes you, find the best XLR cable to reliably connect your equipment so you can focus on the big picture.
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5 Best Speaker Cables With Banana Plugs
5 Best Speaker Cables With Banana Plugs
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Having an excellent pair of premium speakers is one thing. It is another thing to be able to make the most of out those speakers. This is the part where the speaker cables make all the difference. A good pair of speaker cables will help you extract every last drop of performance from your amps to the speakers. For most people, speaker cables with banana plugs offer the most practical solution to connect their speakers to the amps. Apart from the performance benefits, banana plugs are also more reliable than the traditional plugs. In this article, we have listed the best speaker cables with banana plugs to impress the audiophile in you. Note: Deals are subject to change. Keep in mind that the price tag often varies. We recommend going on the vendor’s website to check the price. Some of the products may be out of stock by the time you’ve made your purchasing decision. So, hurry up and hit the buy button.
The best thing about Silverback 12 AWG 259 speaker cable is that it lets you plug and enjoy the music instead of having to tinker with the setup all the time.
Silverback 12 AWG 259 comes in multiple sizes ranging from 3-feet to 200-feet and depending on the size price also varies. This cable is made of 12 AWG, oxygen-free cord for reliable performance.
Pros:
Crystal clear sound with precise output for the audiophile in you
Good quality materials
Banana plugs for worry-free connection
Cons:
None
Check price
Aurum Cables 16 is proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a good pair of high-quality speaker cables. It is a 16 AWG & CL rated product that allows in-wall installation in commercial and residential space.
Aurum Cables 16 offers professional quality banana plug speaker wire with grade 2 conductor for easy plug and play experience. Being a high strand oxygen-free copper, the wires are built to last longer.
Pros:
Durable yet flexible insulated jacket for easy installation
High-quality banana speaker plugs
Comes in multiple sizes ranging from 3 feet to 75 feet
Cons:
None
Check price
At a relatively affordable price tag, TNP 12 Gauge Speaker Cable are among the best speaker wires with banana plugs you can buy. It offers an increase in clarity when connected to the speakers via an amp.
TNP 12 Gauge Speaker Cable is made of high counter strand 12 AWG which makes it possible to install through the walls. The 24K gold plated tips offer corrosion-resistant for home theatre system.
Pros:
Clean and punchy performance
24K gold plated tip with banana plug for corrosion resistance
Flexible built
Cons:
None
Check price
KK ZB-SB HiFi OFC Speaker Wire probably isn’t the most affordable speaker wires, however, it justifies the price tag by offering crisp and clean and dynamic audio delivery.
KK ZB-SB HiFi OFC Speaker Wire comes with 2K gold plated connectors offering good sonic refinement and body to sound with little to no distortion.
Pros:
Available in multiple sizes ranging from 1.5 meters to 5 meters
Excellent quality speaker wires with banana plugs
Environment-friendly material
Cons:
None
Check price
Mediabridge 16AWG Ultra Series speaker wires allow for impressive levels of detail. It offers extremely insightful and detailed sound quality thanks to its high strand count copper construction.
The soldered banana plug terminations offer a secure connection with your home theatre system while making sure the wires last longer. The dual conductions with colour-coding make it easy to distinguish left from right.
Pros:
Corrosion resistance gold plated connectors with oxygen-free stranded copper wire
24K gold plated banana plugs
Flexible yet durable construction for lasting use
Cons:
None
Check price
Final thoughts on speaker cables with banana plugsStill experiencing issues?
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Having an excellent pair of premium speakers is one thing. It is another thing to be able to make the most of out those speakers. This is the part where the speaker cables make all the difference. A good pair of speaker cables will help you extract every last drop of performance from your amps to the speakers. For most people, speaker cables with banana plugs offer the most practical solution to connect their speakers to the amps. Apart from the performance benefits, banana plugs are also more reliable than the traditional plugs. In this article, we have listed the best speaker cables with banana plugs to impress the audiophile in you.Deals are subject to change. Keep in mind that the price tag often varies. We recommend going on the vendor’s website to check the price. Some of the products may be out of stock by the time you’ve made your purchasing decision. So, hurry up and hit the buy button.
The Best Monitors For Ps5 In 2023
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Written By Will Fulton
Updated Jun 14, 2023 3:18 PM
How we chose the best monitors for PS5Through testing, reading monitor reviews, comparing specs and features, plus a lifetime of experience in both console and PC gaming, we surveyed modern monitors on the market right now and drilled down on those capable of showcasing the PlayStation 5’s graphical specs. We selected well-reviewed monitors that offer solid value for their price, including top choices and products that selectively cut corners to reduce cost, depending on whether you care more about framerate or resolution.
The best monitors for PS5: Reviews & RecommendationsThe best monitors for PS5 vary quite a bit. Some focus on framerate. Some focus on resolution. A couple of them have everything you need. (One is actually a TV.) Depending on what you need and how much you have to spend, we’re confident that you’ll find that at least one of these monitors is a great fit for you and your new console.
Best overall: Acer Nitro XV282KSpecs
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
Size: 28”
Ports: HDMI 2.1 (2) DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.1 Type C
Panel Type: IPS
HDR: Yes
Pros
4K
144Hz
HDMI 2.1
Low Lag
Cons
Expensive
With a 144Hz refresh rate, 4K resolution, and 2 HDMI 2.1 ports, Acer’s Nitro XV282K is a very comfortable fit for the PS5 (along with any other consoles or gaming PCs you might want to hook up). It also boasts an impressively low 1ms response time for smooth, ghost-free gaming. The only drawback is a slightly sub-par contrast ratio, suggesting that blacks may look gray in a dark room. Otherwise, the image is about as fast and clear as you could hope for now, given the PS5’s high demands.
Best value: Gigabyte M28UWhy it made the cut: The Gigabyte M28U meets all the same overall specs as our top choice, but at a drastically lower price, with compromises that only the most hardcore gamers will notice.
Specs
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
Size: 28”
Ports: HDMI 2.1 (2) DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.1 Type C
Panel Type: IPS
HDR: Yes
Pros
4K
144Hz
HDMI 2.1
Lowest price for full range of specs
Cons
Slight input lag
Minor backlight bleed
The Gigabyte M28U offers the most bang for your buck among the relatively small number of HDMI 2.1-compatible monitors available right now. Like our top choice, it has a 144Hz refresh rate, 4K resolution, and a low 1ms response time, making them functionally equivalent in many situations. The main differences between the two come into play in specific scenarios, like some noticeable backlight bleed if you’re playing in the dark and higher input lag than comparable 144Hz monitors. More specifically, M28U’s input lag measured around 10ms, while the Acer Nitro XV282K clocked in closer to 4ms. That looks like a big difference on paper, but we’re talking about fractions of a second. While the most framerate-sensitive gamers may still notice the difference, the M28U is a very strong choice for most players.
Best for esports: BenQ Mobiuz EX2510Specs
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
Size: 24.5”
Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.2
Panel Type: IPS
HDR: No
Pros
144Hz
Smooth performance
Solid build
Cons
Not 4K
While 4K is the more headline-grabbing resolution, lots of people are more than fine playing in 1080p. In competitive PC gaming circles, framerate is king. Premium esports monitors are often 1080p, but hit incredibly high framerates upwards of 300Hz. Given the PS5’s cap at 120fps, that’s a bit much for our needs, though. BenQ’s Mobiuz EX2510 sits at a more reasonable 144Hz, allowing you to still get as many frames as possible out of your PS5 without sacrificing image quality for less than you might expect.
Best 4K/60 monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG289QSpecs
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Size: 28”
Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.2
Panel Type: IPS
HDR: Yes
Pros
4K
Great value
Cons
Middling HDR
When games first made the jump from 30 to 60fps, some people claimed that the human eye wouldn’t even be able to discern the difference, but anyone who’s tried them side by side can confirm that we absolutely can, and it makes games look substantially better. People are likewise capable of noticing the jump from 60 to 120, but with noticeably diminishing returns. The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q delivers excellent, color-accurate 4K graphics at a steady and still-generous 60Hz, which is less than perfect for PS5, but still looks buttery-smooth to the average eye. It isn’t perfect: With low overall brightness–350 nits–its HDR doesn’t keep pace with other, more expensive monitors. Still, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better 4K monitor at this price.
Best TV for PS5: LG C2 OLEDWhy it made the cut: If cost is not a concern, LG’s OLED TVs are the gold standard for incredible image quality with no compromise in responsiveness.
Specs
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Size: 48”
Ports: HDMI 2.1 (4), USB 2.0 (3)
Panel Type: OLED
HDR: Yes
Pros
120Hz on a TV
HDMI 2.1
Incredible blacks and color range
Wide viewing angels
Cons:
Very expensive compared to monitors
Burn-in risk
Where all of the above monitors use the current standard LCD technology, which requires a backlight, the next generation of screens are starting to shift over to OLED, which requires no backlight because every pixel is self-lit and independent. OLED screens allow for rich, perfect blacks and nearly infinite contrast, as well as much slimmer form factors without the need for a backlight.
It turns out that the best OLED screen to pair with the PS5 is a TV, not a monitor. LG’s C2 OLED, the best PS5 TV, offers these benefits, along with all the top specs you need to get the most out of the PS5: 120Hz, 4K, HDMI 2.1, and extremely low input lag. Obviously, the C2 is much bigger and more expensive than the average PC monitor, but its screen quality is top sharp to ignore. You could, of course, invest in the newer LG C3, but the C2 is fantastic and typically available at a discount because it’s an older model, so the C2 remains our pick for now.
Specs
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate: 240Hz
Size: 32″
Ports: HDMI 2.1 (4), USB 2.0 (3)
Panel Type: QLED
HDR: Yes
Pros
Roomy curved screen
Super-high 240Hz refresh rate
1ms response time
Matte display fights reflections
Great colors out of the box
Cons
Expensive
Stand could be better
A curved monitor can fill up your peripheral vision and drastically expand how big your games feel. Ultra-wide support with the PS5 can be finicky, so this more familiar aspect ratio with a curved design finds a nice middle ground. The rest of this monitor’s specs are far from the middle, though. It offers a 240Hz refresh rate with G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro for super-smooth gameplay. The matte screen does a very excellent job combatting reflections, which is very handy if you typically play in a bright room. Plus, the 1ms response time negates possible lag.
Right out of the box, this monitor provides excellent color worthy of the PS5’s ambitious output. At 32 inches, this isn’t the biggest monitor, but it’s also much more manageable on a desk than a giant 49-inch curved display that the PS5 won’t always play nice with. The price is up there, but it justifies the cost with its performance.
What to consider before buying the best monitors for PS5 What is HDMI 2.1?At bare minimum, you’re going to need an HDMI-compatible monitor. While many of the best gaming monitors have followed PC gaming’s shift to DisplayPort cables, the PS5 (and the Xbox Series X) call for HDMI 2.1, the latest iteration of the more ubiquitous HDMI cable. Although it looks the same as previous HDMI cables, HDMI 2.1 greatly increases how much data moves from computer to screen. HDMI 2.0 has a maximum data transmission rate of 18 gigabits per second, allowing for output at 4K at 60Hz or 1080p at up to 240Hz. HDMI 2.1 bumps that up significantly to 48 Gbp/s, allowing computers—including game consoles—to output 4K video at up to 180Hz, or 8K at 50Hz.
For the PS5 specifically, using an HDMI 2.1 cable and monitor opens the door for the PS5 to run games at 4K resolution and 120fps (and, eventually, 8K/30fps). Legacy HDMI 2.0 monitors will still be able to choose between 4K/60fps or 1080p/120fps, but you’ll need HDMI 2.1 to enjoy both simultaneously.
Monitor aspect ratio and resolutionResolution refers to the number of pixels on screen, with higher resolutions being capable of more fine-grained detail and smoothness. The PS5 outputs at two resolutions: Standard HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) and the richer, more pixel-dense 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels). As you might expect, 4K monitors are newer and more powerful, so they tend to be considerably more expensive than their 1080p counterparts.
Since most gaming monitors are built with PC gaming in mind, more choices exist. Many monitors offer up 1440p (2560 x 1440) pixels. A growing number of ultrawide monitors also differ from the usual 16:9 “widescreen” dimensions used for most modern screens. The PS5 doesn’t support 1440p. It can work with an ultrawide screen, though that may present problems from game to game. Realistically, if you’re buying a monitor specifically with the PS5 in mind, you’ll want to stick to standard widescreen monitors with a maximum resolution of either 1080p or 4K.
And while part of the PS5’s appeal is its ability to run games in 4K at better framerates, its sharper, more detailed gameplay shows up on a 1080p monitor as well. If “better” is good enough, settling for 1080p may be a good concession when shopping for a new monitor on a budget.
Refresh rate, response time, and input lagTo judge how games look, resolution goes hand in hand with a second monitor spec, refresh rate, which determines the highest possible framerate at which a game “runs.” Refresh rate, expressed in hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times per second a monitor can “draw” an image on your screen. The higher the refresh rate on your monitor, the more frames of animation your computer or console can animate each second.
Framerate rarely matters for TV and film, which are still traditionally filmed at 24fps but, in games, more frames means smoother animation and, often, more information. Being able to more quickly and subtly perceive motion can give you an edge in playing anything at all action-oriented, which becomes even more important in competitive gaming. During the PS4 and Xbox One era, framerates between 30fps and 60fps were the standard. The PS5 and Xbox Series X have now raised the bar to between 60 and 120fps.
Thus, in order to get the most out of your console, you’re going to want a monitor with a max refresh rate of 120Hz or higher. As with resolution, there are other options available aimed at gaming PCs. You can find monitors that go up to 240Hz or even an absurd 360Hz, which really pushes the border of what the human eye can perceive. For the PS5, though, 120fps is the limit. Luckily, there’s a standard refresh rate for monitors just over that cap—144Hz—that gives you exactly what you need.
What about HDR?Both PS4 and PS5 games support High Dynamic Range, or HDR, a TV and monitor feature that creates a wider range of in-game darkness and light on 4K monitors with high brightness and color contrast. HDR monitors are brighter overall, with richer, more accurate colors and more nuance in both shadows and bright areas, making images pop more overall.
There is such a thing as “good” and “bad” HDR. Some monitors support the feature, but lack the maximum brightness to create a true range of lighting conditions. When considering a monitor’s HDR, you want to check its brightness settings: Look for a maximum brightness of at least 500-600 NITs, and that it features full-array local dimming, which determines how much the monitor can change the brightness of specific parts of the screen.
FAQsIf you’ve already got a PS5, or even if you don’t have one yet, you will want to ensure you have a monitor that’s up to the task. Fortunately, once you understand the specs, it’s fairly easy to narrow down the options and find the best monitors for PS5. Consider what’s most important to you, whether that’s smooth, 120fps gameplay or crisp 4K images, and choose accordingly based on your budget.
Why trust usPopular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.
Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.
The Best Holiday Gifts You Can Get In 2023
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
The holidays are just around the corner, and your time to find the perfect gift is dwindling. Most Black Friday sales started early this year due to the supply chain issues, but all hope is not lost. There’s still time to make your list and check it twice. If you’re not sure what to buy the tech lover in your life, we’re here to help. These are our picks for the best holiday gifts you can get this year, including a few we’ve bought for ourselves.
Whether you’re looking for the home run gift or just a few stocking stuffers, this list should have you covered. We’ll start at the most affordable gifts and work our way up from there. And hey, if you’re already done shopping, maybe it’s time to treat yourself to a little something?
The best holiday gifts under $25Some people think stockings are the easiest to stuff, but it’s not always the case. Sure, you can go for socks and candy, but where’s the fun in that? These gifts are just right to round out your shopping budget, and they’re easy to use pretty much every day. Let’s keep it affordable with picks under $25.
Tile Mate 2023
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
Tile is no stranger to our holiday gift lists, and the Tile Mate is one of the best Bluetooth trackers on the market. Unlike Samsung’s and Apple’s options, it’s open to both Android and iOS, and the price hasn’t risen despite the recent upgrades. You get a durable IP68 rating and a three-year non-replaceable battery, and the Tile Mate comes in both black and white. If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, Tile also offers a few more premium options.
Tile Mate (2023) 1-pack
See price at Amazon
Anker PowerCore Slim 10,000mAh
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
There’s a good chance you’ll have to charge a gift or two this holiday season. If you’re heading over the river or through the woods to visit family, you may not have access to an outlet. That’s where a handy power bank comes in.
Anker’s PowerCore Slim PD is an excellent pick for its combination of size and price. It packs a 10,000mAh capacity and up to 18W USB-C charging with USB Power Delivery support. You might also want to check out some new USB-C cables while you’re at it.
Kasa Mini Smart Plug 2-Pack (No Hub Required)
See price at Amazon
The best holiday gifts under $50Alright, now we’re past stocking stuffers, but we’re not quite onto the biggest, most exciting gifts, either. These gifts fall somewhere in the middle, offering a few more comforts and a little more power for not too much more money. It’s been a great year for new streaming devices, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here are our picks under $50.
Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen)
See price at Amazon
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$20.00
LIFX Color Smart Bulbs
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
A standard light bulb isn’t the most fun thing to unwrap on Christmas morning, but the LIFX bulbs are anything but. This holiday gift puts millions of colors in the palm of your hand, and you can even choose from pre-designed themes, including a holiday option. It sets half of your lights to red and the other half to green to put you in the festive spirit. Of course, some LIFX bulbs are more expensive than others, so it’s best to buy in multiples to save some money.
TP-Link N300 WiFi Extender
See price at Amazon
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
Roku is the king of affordable streaming devices, but the Streaming Stick 4K packs a punch at the higher end. As the name suggests, it offers crisp 4K streaming with compatible TVs in a tiny form factor. The Roku remote packs voice command capabilities and four quick-launch buttons for a few of the most popular streaming services — Hulu, Disney Plus, Netflix, and Apple TV. Roku also offers the Streaming Stick 4K Plus if you want a little more punch.
Now you have some room to flex your gift-giving muscle. Once you get close to $100, you can tap into gaming accessories, new speakers, and so much more. You can even check out some budget-friendly headphones in case you have to tune out the holiday noise. Here are our gifts for under $100.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
See price at Amazon
Google Nest Hub (2nd-Generation)
Jimmy Westenberg / Android Authority
Over on Google’s side of the smart home wars, the Nest Hub (2nd-generation) is a great way to build out your setup. It doesn’t pack the Nest Audio’s music streaming punch, but it gives you a way to check the weather, see calendar reminders, and enjoy some old favorite photos.
The new Nest Hub is among the most affordable smart displays, and the interface is straightforward to pick up, making it a great alternative to something like a digital picture frame.
Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen)
See price at B&H
Blink Outdoor
Roger Fingas / Android Authority
A home security camera may not be the most exciting gift to unwrap, but it’s a great way to avoid a Home Alone situation. Unless you want to live like Kevin McAllister, the Blink Outdoor is a reliable way to catch would-be robbers in the act.
This version is weatherized to put up with harsh conditions like water and dust, and lasts up to two years with just a pair of AA batteries. You can sync the Blink Outdoor with your Echo Show devices to check on the feed any time of day or night.
Blink Outdoor
See price at Amazon
Samsung Wireless Portable Battery
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
The more affordable Anker PowerCore Slim is a great option for most people with limited charging needs, but this Samsung option goes further. The Wireless Portable Battery offers up to 25W speeds with USB Power Delivery PPS support for the latest Galaxy and Pixel devices. You get a pair of USB-C ports to choose from, or you can stick with the rubberized wireless charging pad to cover accessories like Galaxy Buds or smartwatches.
Finally, all limits are off. We’re talking big-ticket gifts to round out our best holiday gifts guide this year. No, they won’t exactly be kind to your wallet, but they can make the most impact on your home. The latest Xbox and PlayStation consoles are here once again because, well, most people haven’t been able to find them since last year. Check out our final picks for gifts beyond $100.
A new console
Oliver Cragg / Android Authority
Last year, we listed this as one of our holiday gift picks, and it’s back for another round. Unfortunately, the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 haven’t become too much easier to track down, but at least there are far more games available this year. You probably already have your preferred ecosystem, but we’d be remiss not to mention both of them. If you get lucky enough to pick one up, you can always add accessories to your gift list, and we picked a few favorites here:
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2
See price at Amazon
Fitbit Charge 5
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
Fitbit Charge 5
Fitbit is as popular as ever, and the Charge 5 is a great way to get back into fitness for the new year. Whether you make a resolution or not, it can be helpful to keep up with your steps, heart rate, and more.
Of course, if you give the Charge 5 as a gift to a Charge 4 owner, you’ll want to grab some new Fitbit bands, too. The revamped design means that previous bands won’t work with the new body.
Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen, Wi-Fi, 64GB)
See price at Adorama
A new phone
Robert Triggs / Android Authority
Our final holiday gift suggestion has the potential to be our most expensive — a new phone. After all, we’re an Android site, so it only makes sense we would suggest you pick up a shiny new device. We’ve had our hands on plenty of them this year, and there are heaps of solid options out there.
You don’t have to go for a flagship device; the midrange market is looking better than ever. We even reviewed a good number of budget phones in case you want to keep your wallet in check. Here are a few of our favorites from 2023.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
See price at Amazon
OnePlus 9 Pro
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$370.00
Google Pixel 6
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$100.00
Google Pixel 6 Pro
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$250.00
Sony Xperia 1 III
See price at Amazon
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$151.00
Best Cable Management Accessories In 2023
Are you working from home? There’s a good chance that your desk is brimming with cables and, well, more cables! Although we need them, they can be annoying and unsightly. To help you declutter and better organize your space, I have scoured the internet to prepare this ultimate list of the best cable management accessories. They are efficient, cost-effective, and can enhance your productivity by leaps and bounds! Let’s look at each.
1. Amazon’s cable management sleeve – Best in durability
You can call this sleeve a synonym for simplicity at its best. The white-colored sleeve measures 60 inches in length and 1.2-inch in diameter. The full-length Velcro strip can be of great help in giving a secure closure with ease of access. It can serve impeccably for home theaters, TV entertainment systems, and computer stations all at once and prevent the wires from fraying.
The best thing? Since it an Amazon product, you get a 1-year warranty with this cable management sleeve.
Check out on Amazon
2. OHill’s cable clips – Convenient cable management solution
In the package, you receive 16 different-sized black cable clip holders that can be used individually at different places or together based on your need. The compact cable holders offer grip for single-wire, two wires, and three wires. It also includes two clips that can hold up to five cables at once.
You don’t have to make an additional hole in your wall to install them; peel the back sticker and let the adhesive pad do the rest for you. Just ensure there isn’t any dust particle on the surface and is free from water while sticking them. If you fail to check that, you might face trouble with the longevity of its hold.
Check out on Amazon
3. Syncwire’s self-adhesive USB cable clips – High-quality, non-toxic built
Also, these are made using high-quality silicone that’s non-toxic and odorless. However, these aren’t the only features you get. Besides holding your cables, they can also hold your pen, toothbrush, and flossers.
In the packet, you receive self-adhesive clips of five different sizes with varying capacities to hold cables.
Check out on Amazon
4. Topbooc’s cord organizer kit – Convenient cable management solution
This one is a mega cord management bundle housed with 124 pcs to manage cords and cables with the utmost ease. The list includes 4 cable sleeves with zipper, 10 self-adhesive cable clip holders, 10pcs and 2 roll self-adhesive ties, and 100 fastening cable ties. Each of them is made using premium quality material that’s highly durable and resistant to electric hazards.
All in all, it has every component that can be of immense use to manage cords and cables in your office and home.
Check out on Amazon
5. Hmrope’s cable zip ties – Comes with a lifetime warranty
The 200mm long and 3.5mm wide zip wire tie is a perfect example of simplicity at its best. It can hold a weight of up to 50 pounds and is made using high tensile fire-resistant nylon. It can withstand 40°F to more than 185°F temperature and serve as an impeccable resource to meet your outdoor needs.
The self-locking fastener is bestowed with a robust locking system and prevents snagging in tight. As a part of the package, you get 100 durable cable ties.
Check out on Amazon
6. TEYGA Bamboo Cable Management Box
Here’s a cable management box that’s the perfect home for up to 2 unsightly power strips and all of the cords that go with it. It serves as an ideal charging station on my desk for a clutter-free space. Although the most expensive on the list, it looks like an elegant piece of home decor and blends into almost any decor scheme.
The bamboo looks good while being eco-friendly and durable. Moreover, it’s been crafted with precision and has smooth, rounded edges that are child-friendly.
It’s perfect for staying organized at both the home and office. It also comes backed by a 1-year warranty, so you know you’re investing in the best quality!
Check out on Amazon
7. SOULWIT’s self-adhesive cable organizer clips – Best in eco-friendly material
These are made using premium PA66 eco-friendly material, which provides good insulation and makes these clips resistant to corrosion and high-temperature.
These clips can house maximum width of 8mm and hold them firmly. As part of the package, you receive 50 pieces of cable management clips that make a perfect companion for network cables, video cables, power cords, audio cables, and cables in data centers, offices, or homes.
The clips come with a self-adhesive pad at the rear that can be glued on any clean, water-free, dust-free, and oil-free surface.
Check out on Amazon
8. Hydream’s silicone wire holders – Highly flexible and long-lasting grip
I’ll call this one compact and resourceful considering that it features 7 cable slots in the space of 5-slot size. The package includes 3 cable organizers that can serve individually to declutter 21 cables effortlessly. It is made using 100% non-toxic silicone and is non-magnetic and highly flexible. This allows you to stick it using the adhesive pad wherever you want. Just peel and stick it in a clean and dry place and hold it for 30 seconds to ensure a long-lasting grip.
Its build makes it perfect for charging cords, USB cables, audio cables, wired earphones, and computer cables. Besides, as of writing this article, the seller offered a 1-year warranty on the product.
Check out on Amazon
9. ENONCI’s cable raceway kit – A durable cable organizer
This cable raceway kit by ENONCI is different than the rest on the list as it demands working with the screws but offers broader capabilities. It measures 10mm in diameter and can house AWG 1/0 wire and cable, and can be a perfect choice for thick cables like 3-pin plug cables, Cat-5 or Cat-6 Ethernet cables and camera cables, etc.
As a part of your order, you receive 77-inch cable cover raceways, five cable raceways, two-wire holders, one adhesive tape, 5 velcro cable ties, and 20 expandable screws.
Though this might require additional effort to install, it can serve as a single accessory to meet all your cable management needs, thus, making it a little expensive than most others on the list.
Check out on Amazon
10. PASOW’s reusable fastening wire organizer – Easy-to-use and sturdy
Manage your cables in the simplest form using this affordable set of 50 cable ties by PASOW. The velcro cable ties are available in 8 different colors as a set and make an ideal choice to organize your cables and make the work desk look tidy without compromising the aesthetics.
The multipurpose cable ties can be reused and are made using flexible and durable fabric material. If you don’t want to work around a lot and keep things simple, these reusable fastening wire organizers are a perfect choice.
Check out on Amazon
11. VIVO’s under desk cable organizer tray – Best cable hiding solution
The black tray helps you avoid tangling against wires beneath your work desk and gives a clutter-free setup. It is made using sturdy material and can easily conceal cables weighing up to 11lbs support.
Also, you can install it underneath any wooden or metallic table using the screws that come with the package. It features a partially closed design to ensure that your cables don’t fall apart.
The setup can indeed serve a purpose significantly when accompanied with velcro ties holding the wires from spreading.
Check out on Amazon
12. SimpleCord’s J channel desk cable organizer – Best in desk cable management
The desk cable management channel supports peel-and-stick function and can route and conceal your cables smartly. You can have a set of five organizers and opt from six different color options.
Each channel measures 16-inch in length, which, if used smartly, can impeccably hide your cables all through the socket till your tabletop. Besides color options, you can further ensure that the final output is more appealing.
This desk cable organizer protects your child from touching the wires and can be used not only for your work desk but also in baseboards and the kitchen.
Check out on Amazon
13. Tokye’s cord organizer with cable kit – Best fire-resistant kit
There’s no way you can avoid giving this kit a second look or resist the temptation to have it. However, this one’s different; this isn’t like those we saw in the list.
As a part of the kit, you receive one stylish wire box with 1 sleeve, 4 clips, and 6 ties. You can house a multi-pin socket in the box and further use sleeves, clips, and ties to serve the purpose of routing the cables neatly.
Although the most expensive on the list, it is made using premium materials that offer features like high density and an anti-scratch surface. What I explicitly loved about this kit is its fire-retardant quality. It ensures that you are not only organized but also safe.
Check out on Amazon
14. Viaky’s adjustable cable clips – Best in tabletop cable management
It is made using 100% authentic industrial-grade nylon for added durability and strength. Besides this, they are resistant to high-temperature, corrosion, acid, etc.
As a part of the package, you get 30 pieces of clips. Just make sure while applying them, the surface is dry and dust-free. Also, once placed, leave them for around an hour for the best grip.
Check out on Amazon
15. INCHOR’s cable white cord holder – Best home cable organizer
The package includes three cable clips with 7, 5, and 3 slots. The silicone cable clips are durable and flexible by nature and can house wires with a diameter of up to 6mm. Besides holding your wires, it can also hold your pens, toothbrush, floss holder, etc.
You need to peel the sticker off from the rear and stick the clip on a clean and dry surface. Press and hold it for around 30 seconds for better grip. The adhesive pad is strong enough to hold your phone charging cables, USB cables, network cables, TV power cords, etc.
It is super easy to install. However, the only thing you need to take care of before sticking is to ensure the surface is clean, oil- and dust-free, and water-free.
Check out on Amazon
FAQsYou may only need one of the above accessories to ensure the clutter-free management of your home office. While my favorite from the list is Amazon’s cable management sleeve cover for its 1-year warranty and ease of use, you can see what works best for you.
Meanwhile, you may also enjoy reading:
Author Profile
Mehak
Mehak has a master’s degree in communication and over ten years of writing experience. Her passion for technology and Apple products led her to iGeeksBlog, where she specializes in writing product roundups and app recommendations for fellow Apple users. When not typing away on her MacBook Pro, she loves being lost in a book or out exploring the world.
Best Apple Card Wallets In 2023
Apple Card is made of titanium, and therefore, this might prevent your iPhone from receiving wireless charging if you are using a wallet case. This indicates that users who install their iPhones in wallet cases might have to find other options. So, where to keep your Apple Card? Well, we have listed a few card wallets you can use to store your Apple Card.
1. Easyoulife
Easyoulife presents a credit card holder zipper wallet made of genuine leather. This card case has 26 slots to store all your credit/debit cards apart from Apple Card. There is enough room for your driver’s license, social IDs, gift cards, discount cards, and more. The small size of this case is perfect to fit in your pockets, fanny packs, travel bags, laptop bags, and other bags.
You can buy this zipper wallet to gift somebody. Available in more than 15 shades, this Apple Card case protects your ID from wireless theft. Its high-quality PVC card slots safeguard your titanium card from damage.
Check out on Amazon
2. Travelambo
Travelambo has come up with a 100% hand-made wallet for women of discerning tastes. It is your RFID blocking bi-fold multi card case with zipper pocket. The best thing about this case is you can keep your iPhone in it. There are sixteen slots to store your credit/debit cards and other IDs.
Travelambo uses high-quality synthetic leather to make it an inexpensive and yet extraordinary wallet for women. This soft and durable case has two zipped long slots for cash and mobile. You can pick up any cardholder from an impressive range of forty-five shades.
Check out on Amazon
3. Clifton
Clifton’s leather wallets for men & women are minimalist in design. The RFID blocking technology secures your virtual money from robbers. This compact and slim cardholder has five card slots, one ID card slot, a compartment for cash, and a document compartment.
Clifton has used 100% genuine cowhide leather, which makes it tough against any injury or damage. This smart wallet is your reliable partner in any season. The case is a perfect gift for men, who appreciate elegance, convenience, and ample room.
Check out on Amazon
4. Pinch
Pinch is a handcrafted wallet case for your Apple Card. To provide full protection to your titanium card, professional artisans have tough stitched this case that gets better with age. Pinch has used birch leather to impart the right character and heritage to this wallet.
This TUV certified case has an RFID shield to protect information leakage. All your digital documents are secure inside this wallet. It is one of the most stylish cases that has functionality in equal measure.
Check out on Amazon
5. FurArt
FurArt has made a minimal wallet case for Apple Card. You can easily manage your eight cards, including IDs and a driver’s license. The best thing about this card holder is that it retains its thin profile even after inserting cards. For the same reason, you would like to carry this cardholder in your front or back pocket.
The brand offers you a bewildering range of colors; you can select your favorite from 45 different shades. Two notable features are removable D-shackle for lanyard or key-ring and a finger groove to push the cards out easily.
Check out on Amazon
6. Buffway
Buffway is another brand that crafts slim and minimal front pocket to store Apple Card. The leather wallet is for men and women, who live a stylish lifestyle. A slim and discreet card holder case is your modern outlook to hold your plastic money. The minimalist wallet easily fits in your pocket, purse, fanny pack or travel bag.
Check out on Amazon
7. Shell-D
Look at the rounded corners, which make it comfortable for you to carry this wallet in front or back pocket. This cardholder is made of ABS plastic to guard your cards against scratches.
Check out on Amazon
8. Zhoma
Zhoma has crafted this credit card case from high-quality genuine leather with fabric lining and soft hardware. RFID blocking security travel wallet prevents thieves from scanning your credit/debit cards, banking information, and other digital documents. It gives you peace of mind when you are on a long vacation and surrounded by strangers at airports, crowded streets, and shopping malls.
This case comes with enough storage capacity of 11 card slots; moreover, you can keep currency bills, notes, or receipts inside the wallet. When you open the case, it looks like an accordion; zip up the case to protect your cards and money.
Check out on Amazon
9. Yeeasy
Yeeasy has crafted this wallet from 100% genuine cowhide leather. You can notice a soft and smooth texture with a refined appearance. This is a durable case that boasts 25 card slots to put all your credit/debit cards and social ID, and driver’s license. Keep all your valuable documents in one place.
The wallet is small enough to put in your handbags or fanny pack. You can use the zipper pocket to store coins and currency bills. Since the wallet has RFID blocking technology, your documents and cards are secure against any data theft.
Check out on Amazon
That’s all friends!
Wrapping up…
A cardholder case is an essential accessory for credit card owners. An Apple Card inside the iPhone wallet case prevents the device from being charged wirelessly. For this reason, people have to rely on separate wallets to store Apple Card.
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Author Profile
Suraj
Suraj is an operations head on the iGB team. He contributes to the social media section along with tips and tricks for iPhone, Apple Watch. Apart from blogging, he likes to work out as much as he can in his gym and love to listening to retro music.
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