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Trevor Daugherty

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Trevor Daugherty is the Senior Editor of 9to5Toys. Since joining in 2014, he’s specialized in product reviews, exclusive discounts and 9to5’s New Toy of the Day. Contact him direct at trevor@9to5mac.com.

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The NBA is going to broadcast 25 games this year in virtual reality, here’s how you can enjoy the action

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Virtual reality is rapidly becoming more mainstream as headsets and smartphones supporting this technology are now readily available. A natural fit for this type of content has always been live entertainment but the associated costs has kept it at bay. Today, the NBA has announced that it will be diving into the world of virtual reality content with a commitment to broadcast at least 25 games this season. A new partnership with Next VR will help jump start this new venture. According to the NBA, this is the first time in history that a professional sports league will have a regularly scheduled slate of games in virtual reality.


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Green Deals: Switch to LED bulbs with this four-pack from Philips for $9 (Reg. $15), more

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Home Depot is once again offering a 4-pack of Philips 60W Equivalent A19 Daylight LED Light Bulbs for $8.97. You can pick your order up in-store or have it shipped for free in an order of $45 or more. Today’s deal is $4 less than Amazon, a match of our previous mention and the best price currently available. Ditch your traditional light bulbs and save upwards of 85% on your bill. You can expect around 10 years of use from a single bulb on average. An instant-on design and “soft white” glow round out its features. Rated 4.5/5 stars by over 700 Amazon customers.

Today’s Top Green Deals:


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The Kobi electric robot-mower will also rake your leaves and shovel snow

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There’s a fair share of robotic lawn mowers and vacuums on the market today. But there aren’t many that are as full-featured as the new electric Kobi Lawn Robot. This autonomous outdoor helper will mow your lawn, rake leaves in the fall and even remove snow during the winter. Safe to say, Kobi is next-level.

It is slightly more robust than some of the popular grass clippers we’ve seen with four large wheels and a hefty power supply. There are brushless motors that can handle each of the aforementioned tasks at ultra-quiet noise levels. Kobi ships with a charging station that it will automatically return to when not in-use for more juice. It has a pretty serious battery system that can handle up to 40 feet of cumulative snow at once. A built-in GPS system provides direction alongside sensors that detect obstacles in the way. Perhaps coolest of all? It uses weather services to detect upcoming precipitation and it acts accordingly. Kobi is slated to sell for $3,999 when it is released sometime next year.


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FABRIQ is an Alexa-enabled speaker with AirPlay, Bluetooth and more for just $50

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Amazon’s Alexa Voice Service is slowly making its way to more products following its initial release on the Echo speaker. Aside from the second generation Echo Dot, a new Bluetooth audio system is also receiving the voice assistant. The FABRIQ Smart Speaker is a cost-effective option for consumers that comes in at just $50. Surprisingly, it has built-in Wi-Fi that allows for multiple units to be connected for a whole home setup and Apple users will be happy to hear that it also supports AirPlay. That’s a welcome feature that we wouldn’t expect to see at this price point.

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FABRIQ can play music from a variety of services including Spotify, Pandora, Prime music and more. Playback is controlled via a free iOS and Android app. Inside the compact speaker is a two-inch driver that is powered by a 5W supply. Alexa is activated by the push of a button, which unfortunately means FABRIQ doesn’t have always-on capabilities like the larger Echo. Nevertheless, this is bound to be a very attractive option for consumers this holiday season. The FABRIQ Alexa-enabled Smart Speaker is available in three colors for $49.99 and can be ordered via Amazon today.


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Green Deals: two-pack Solar Outdoor Waterproof LED Lights $23 Prime shipped (Reg. $33), more

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Rusee (100% positive feedback all-time) via Amazon offers a two-pack of its Solar Outdoor LED Spotlights for $22.99 Prime shipped when promo code BCEGNQXO is applied during checkout. That’s good for $10 off the regular price, down $5 from the previous all-time low and the best offer available.

Easily add outdoor lighting to your landscaping without the need for batteries or an outlet nearby. Rusee’s solar lights are powered by the sun and feature four LED bulbs at 50 lumens each. There are two brightness levels and each enclosure is IP65-certified against water. Rated 4.6/5 stars.

Today’s Top Green Deals:

  • Torchstar 4-pack Dimmable Recessed LED Lighting Kit: $35 (Reg. $43) | Amazon
    • w/ code TS8D2KDL
  • Save $50 on the ecobee3 Smart Thermostat + get a free Echo Dot: $250 ($300 value) | Best Buy


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Kiën Light brings Philips Hue-like connectivity to its fashionable LED strips

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Internet-connected products are continuing to infiltrate our homes, perhaps none more than our lights. Philips Hue, WeMo and others are all pumping out products designed to create custom lighting schemes in our homes. The latest product to do so is the Kiën Light out of Europe that brings smartphone control, custom colors and energy savings in a stylish LED strip package.

Starting at just $395, users will be able to recreate a variety of different lighting scenes with these modern tubular accessories. The outer casing comes in three styles: aluminum, wood and concrete. There are three sizes available and they can be daisy-chained together if needed. Obviously, LED lamps are designed to be energy savers but the ability to customize shade and brightness are also noteworthy. Free iOS and Android apps will bring a Hue-like experience to the mix where you can adjust every feature with the slide of a finger. If all goes to plan, Kiën Light will ship in April.


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The Misfit Phase is a stylish analog smartwatch that blends the line between old and new school

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Misfit, who is primarily known for its fitness trackers, has today unveiled a new product in its line of wearables. The Phase Hybrid smartwatch combines technology and classic looks into one slick product designed to compete with Apple Watch and others. Being a Misfit product, it is packed with all of the fitness features that you’d expect including a pedometer, distance traveled and sleep statistics. It uses a built-in accelerometer that is combined with Misfit’s own proprietary algorithms to accurately track your movements.

Fitness features aside, Phase is loaded with all the normal smartwatch capabilities. You’ll be able to place calls, check notifications and send messages on the display. Best of all, it ships with a six-month battery life that is user-replaceable when needed and has a water-resistant casing. It will connect with both iOS and Android devices. The Phase may be one of the best Apple Watch alternatives for shoppers that prefer classic styling. It is slated to go up for pre-order on November 7th in six colors with a $175 price tag.


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Amazon announces new Family Vault feature that allows multiple users access to Prime Photos

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Amazon has been loading up the perks of its Prime subscription service lately. The latest addition is Family Vault, a new feature of Prime Photos that aims to simplify your image and content management. Aside from the usual free unlimited storage, users will be able to invite up to five individuals to their ‘Vault’. Designated individuals can upload as many photos as they’d like plus another 5GB worth of video or files from a variety of devices. This new feature is a noteworthy addition following the announcement of Amazon’s photo printing service last month.

Alongside today’s news, Amazon is also implementing an upgraded search technology that automatically identifies faces alongside new facial recognition features. This move is likely to combat Google’s free image storage service that includes impressive search functionality. One thing is for sure, there’s no shortage of digital storage options for consumers today with Apple’s iCloud service, Google and Amazon all vying for your content. Head over to this landing page to learn more about this new feature and Prime Photos.


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Auxillite combines Lightning and 3.5mm ports in a slim adapter for iPhone 7

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Since iPhone 7 was announced back in September, manufacturers have been scrambling to come up with solutions for its new design that inhibits simultaneous charging and listening. There have been a few ideas in the meantime but with varying degrees of functionality. That’s where Auxillite comes in. A fresh Kickstarter project that combines a 3.5mm jack and Lightning port in a small footprint. The T-shaped accessory has both ports for simultaneous charging and listening, solving the issue presented by Apple’s latest device.

Auxillite also has a built-in digital-to-analog converter that was created to supplement the built-in system on iPhone 7. Aside from its problem-solving capabilities, this product is attractive for its minimal design. As of now, Auxillite is available for early bird backing at just $13. If all goes to plan it will ship in January. It’s important to note that the campaign page does not mention MFi certification, so you’ll be backing this product at your own risk. In the meantime, consider these popular Lightning headphones or take a look at our favorite wireless options on the market.


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Ping Pong FM will DJ your music based on how you hit the ball

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A combination Ping Pong and music creation system wasn’t on my list of topics this morning, but here we are. In a move that combines the tabletop game and some sick beats, Ping Pong FM is a new project that DJs your party while you play. The paddles have special microphones inside that pick up on your movements and record each contact with a ball. A special software system then analyzes each hit and adjusts the music accordingly. Strike the ball harder? Your music will speed up.

Sadly, Ping Pong FM is not a mass produced project yet. But it’s gaining quite a bit of traction around the web. At this time, the paddles are required to be hardwired into the hub which you can imagine might be tricky while playing. If Ping Pong FM could go wireless with Bluetooth and communicate with a free smartphone app, we might be on to something. For now, you’ll just have to imagine the possibilities.


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Grab a 1st Gen. 42mm Apple Watch Sport in Space Gray for $219 shipped (Orig. $399)

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Best Buy offers the first generation 42mm Apple Watch Sport in Space Gray (model MJ3T2LL/A) for $219 shipped. For comparison, this model originally sold for $399 and still fetches $280 at Target. Today’s deal is a match of the previous popular deal price and the best available. You can save even further by going with an open-box model in ‘excellent’ condition for $199 (scroll down to buying options).

The first generation Apple Watch connects with your iPhone for notifications, fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring and more. Although the latest model has a few more bells and whistles, it’s tough to beat the popular Space Gray Sport version at this price. Of course, Apple just recently released watchOS 3 that includes a few popular new features and remedies some complaints from the first generation model.

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With your savings, pick up a stylish third-party leather Apple Watch Band or Spigen’s popular aluminum dock for $13 Prime shipped.


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Score a rare 25% discount on a year of Hulu’s streaming service: $6/month or $72/year

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Hulu is offering a rare 25% discount on 12-months of its streaming service. Currently, you can grab full access to its library of TV shows, movies and other content for $5.99 per month (Reg. $8). Today’s deal is only available on Hulu’s standard subscription plan that includes limited commercials. This offer is good for 12 months but you can cancel at anytime. Note: only available for new customers.

Hulu is available on nearly every platform including iOS/Android, Mac/PC, streaming media players, gaming consoles and smart TVs.


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Leica’s new limited edition M-P Grip camera has a bright and bold design

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Leica has long been known for its top-end end design and impressive cameras. After announcing a low-cost version of its M series camera nearly a year ago, the German company has announced a new limited edition version with a big-time price tag. The X Rolf Sachs M-P Grip has a few standout features starting with the outside. Leica has dropped a lot of its traditional metal styling for a bright textured rubber grip. It’s quite the departure from Leica’s typical black and muted color design.

Inside, it’s much like any other Leica M-P camera. It has a Maestro image processor that pushes out 24MP images from the full-frame sensor. There is a LCD display on the back, an optical viewfinder and standard manual controls. The lens is a standard Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 system. Leica’s new limited edition camera is available for $14,950.


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The Toys R Us Great Big Book of Awesome leaked with deals on Star Wars, LEGO, Drones, much more

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Amazon was one of the first retailers to show its list of the hottest toys ahead of the holiday shopping season when it unveiled its must-haves yesterday. Now, we’re getting a look at what Toys R Us will be promoting in the lead up to the big day in its Great Big Book of Awesome. These prices are good from October 27th until November 19th. With over 120 pages of toys, electronics and more there is a lot to sort through. Head below for a look at page scans and our top-picks.


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Giveaway: Mophie’s new modular Hold Force lineup gives your iPhone 7 flexibility ($220 value)

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Update (10/20 11:00am): @tonyyo11 is our winner. Thanks to everyone that entered!

At the beginning of the month, Mophie announced a new versatile modular case system for iPhone 7 that solves a variety of problems. The Hold Force lineup features three different cases with the option of adding a battery pack or two styles of wallets. Today, we’re partnering with Mophie to giveaway the entire lineup to one lucky reader. Head below to find out how you could win a new accessory bundle for your iPhone 7.


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Green Deals: 6-pack Philips A19 60W LED Light Bulbs $15 Prime shipped (Reg. $25), more

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Amazon offers a six-pack of Philips 60W A19 LED Soft White LED Light Bulbs for $14.96 Prime shipped. Today’s deal is a match for the lowest that Amazon has sold it for. It typically goes for around $25 online.

LED light bulbs are an excellent way to jump into saving energy and keeping utility costs down. These bulbs have an estimated 10,000 hour lifespan with a typical yearly cost of $1. Nearly 700 Amazon customers have left a 4.5/5 star rating.

Today’s Top Green Deals:

  • Toro 51496 Cordless 24-Inch 24-Volt Lithium-Ion Hedge Trimmer: $68 (Reg. $90) | Amazon
  • Get ahead of the season and save with BLACK+DECKER 40V Power Tools: Leaf Blower for $47 (Reg. $85), more


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Mag-Lev Audio’s Levitating Turntable lets your vinyl float in the air as it plays

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Despite vinyl’s massive resurgence in popularity over the last few years, it’s still difficult to reinvent the turntable. Largely, most designs are the same give or take a few different choices of material. However, a recent Kickstarter project has a new idea. Mag-Lev Audio’s Levitating Turntable is the perfect party trick that also plays your records. As the name suggests, it takes your vinyl and leverages the power of magnets to make your music float while it spins. Check the video out for yourself:

The Levitating Turntable has all of the regular technology you’d expect and it can play 33 or 45rpm records. It uses industry-standard Pro-Ject tonearms and a Ortofon cartridge to ensure your music sounds as intended. All told, the other features are standard vinyl specs. What’s truly impressive is the ability for the magnets to consistently keep the record spinning at a precise speed so it plays correctly. No matter, it’s a fun re-imagination of an old classic. It’s available for pre-order today on Kickstarter for $780 and is slated to ship late next summer if all goes to plan.


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Ding is the smart home doorbell for the design-conscious techie

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Much like everything else in your residence, doorbells have received the smart home treatment in recent years. But those camera-connected models won’t necessarily fit everyone’s needs. The Ding smart doorbell hopes to fill the gap between old school and overpowering. It just hit Kickstarter this week with a simple design and a $129 price tag. If all goes to plan, Ding will ship late next summer.

So why is it notable? Ding is a subtle three-piece system that consists of the doorbell, a fabric-covered chime and a free smartphone app. It has helpful features like the ability to converse with someone at your door via your iPhone or Android device. The chime can be configured to ring at different noise levels or you can schedule quiet hours where only your phone rings. My favorite part is its minimal design that doesn’t scream technology but also has a modern look. It’s available for pre-order today if you’re interested.


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The OnePlus 2 64GB 4G LTE Android Smartphone (unlocked) is on sale for $240 shipped (Reg. $300)

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Update (10/13 5:00pm): QualityCellz (99.3% positive feedback, Top-Rated Plus Seller) via eBay Daily Deals offers the Samsung Galaxy S7 32GB 4G Android Smartphone (open-box) for $389.99 shipped (Reg. $550).

Cell-Force (99.2% positive feedback from 112,000+, Top-Rated Plus Seller) via eBay Daily Deals offers the OnePlus 2 Factory Unlocked 64GB 4G LTE Android Smartphone (A2005) for $239.98 shipped. For comparison, it has a list price of $300 which it still fetches at Best Buy. Today’s deal is a match of the best price that we’ve seen in Amazon’s 48-hour Android event.

This Android smartphone features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 Process with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. It has a 5.5-inch IPS touchscreen plus 4K video recording capabilities on the 13MP rear-facing camera. Rated 4/5 stars by over 130 Amazon customers.

With your savings pick up a couple of extra USB-C cables and a charging block for the road.


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Samsung’s new smartphone-connected kitchen appliances aim to simplify your meals

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After introducing its Family Hub smart refrigerator at the beginning of the year, Samsung is back with a few new additions to its kitchen offerings. Today’s announcement includes new built-in ovens, cooktops and range hoods that have built-in smartphone connectivity. Naturally, Samsung will be requiring its SmartThings Hub as a means for communicating between devices. You’ll be able to monitor temperatures, settings and more while you cook.

Looking at the oven, it has a Flex Duo system that allows you to have different temperatures going while you cook. Features include the ability to pre-heat, adjust time/temperature and monitor progress throughout the meal. Samsung also has larger built-in double and single wall ovens with the same features. The cooktop systems are available in gas, electric or induction with ‘Rapid Boil’ and 15 different heat settings. Samsung’s line of smartphone-connected appliances starts at $1,099 for the electric cook top and hood with prices going up from there.


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Cassia Hub turns your Bluetooth speakers into a SONOS-like whole home audio system

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With multi-room wireless audio building in popularity, consumers are faced with two routes when it comes to selecting a speaker system. Do you go with Bluetooth that might be portable or Wi-Fi-connected that offers powerful features? A new product called the Cassia Hub plans on simplifying this situation. Cassia uses its BlueStream technology to set up a wireless whole home audio system.

Here’s how it works. The Cassia Hub is connected to your device and each of your Bluetooth speakers. From there, the smartphone app can stream music to multiple devices at a time just like a SONOS system. Users have access to all the popular services, like Spotify, Apple Music and Pandora. Although there is upfront cost with the Hub, Cassia’s added flexibility for Bluetooth enthusiasts makes this a very attractive product. The Hub with BlueStream is available for purchase today for $150.


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Apple AirPort Extreme 802.11ac Wireless Base Station (cert. refurb) drops to $100 at Best Buy (Orig. $199)

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Best Buy offers the Geek Squad Certified Refurbished Apple AirPort Extreme 802.11ac Wireless Base Station for $99.99 shipped. For comparison, it has a list price of $199 in new condition and typically sells for $129 direct from Apple as a refurb (currently out of stock). This is a match for the best offer that we’ve seen on this model.

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Apple’s AirPort Extreme pushes out 802.11ac speeds that are up to three times faster than the previous generation model. It has support for dual-band connectivity plus beam-forming technology. On the back side, you’ll find three gigabit ethernet ports and a USB port for file or printer sharing. Geek Squad Refurbished products go through “a rigorous multipoint inspection” that returns products to original factory specifications. More info can be found here. A 90-day parts and labor warranty is included with purchase.

With your savings, outfit your network setup with a new cable modem. We recommend Motorola Arris products for the best experience. The SB6141 is an Amazon best seller, receives great ratings and sells for $70.

Don’t forget, you can save even more on Apple accessories in Best Buy’s rare 25% off promotion.


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Netgear’s Arlo Pro wireless security camera has insane battery life and free cloud storage

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Security cameras have seen a huge jump in popularity over the last few years as smartphone-connectivity and cloud services have done away with costly storage systems. Nest Cam is a prime example with plenty others on the market too. Now Netgear is showcasing its new Arlo Pro wireless outdoor camera that has an impressive built-in battery system that last for months on end and a 130-degree wide angle lens. It also has a weatherproof design and an infrared night vision system.

One of the coolest features is its speaker and microphone system. This allows users to communicate with someone within range (say, a delivery man) or sound its motion-detected siren system if there is movement in the area. Of course, it has an iOS and Android app plus free cloud storage for seven days of footage. The new Netgear Arlo Pro is available for purchase today for $250 bundled with the smart hub. Additional cameras can be purchased at a discounted price, too. It is slated to ship at the end of the month.


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The new Tile Mate tracker is 25% smaller and designed for the everyday things in life

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Today, Tile has released the newest version of its popular smartphone-connected tracker that is 25% smaller than the previous generation. After unveiling the Slim model (review) just weeks ago, ‘Mate’ is designed to accompany everyday items like your keys or purse. It weighs in at just over 6 grams and is 34 x 34mm in size. Tile continues to use Bluetooth LE for communicating between device (like the original version) and tracker while the internal battery is rated for one-year of use.

Tile Mate connects to your iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch and select Android devices. From there, users can assign a ringtone that will sound if your valuables wander too far away. It can also be used to ping your phone in case it becomes lost, as long as it is within range. The free iOS and Android app also keeps tabs on the last known location of your accessory. Tile Mate retails for $25 as a single unit or you can grab a four-pack for the discounted price of $70 at Amazon.


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Western Digital takes the wraps off new portable hard drives with an updated design

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Today, Western Digital announced a refreshed line of its popular My Passport Portable Hard Drives. A new design and six colors – red, black, white, orange, blue and yellow – highlight its latest storage solution. There are two options in today’s announcement, one is designed for general storage on PC-friendly devices (Xbox One, etc) while the other is made specifically for Macs (in the black coloring only). Both feature the new textured design, up to 4TB capacity and 256-bit AES hardware encryption. Pricing starts at $80 for the 1TB model and it tops out at 4TB for $160.

Alongside today’s portable announcement is also a new My Book Desktop series that will ship in up to 8TB capacities. The 3TB model starts at $130 before topping out at $300. All of Western Digital’s new devices include a two-year warranty.


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Score a BOGO free coupon at Chipotle by completing its latest video game

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Chipotle is back again with another one of its fun games that will net you Buy One Get One Free mobile coupon if you win. Actually, even you don’t, they’ll still give it to you. Just head over to this landing page and click on ‘Play Now’. At the end of the game, you’ll need to enter your mobile phone number to receive the coupon via text message. Now go play and win your free meal! Find the nearest Chipotle here.

Of course, don’t forget Chipotle’s annual Boorito event is coming up that will net you a $3 burrito on Halloween if you dress up in a costume.


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Green Deals: Sun Joe Electric 14A Wood Chipper and Shredder $100 shipped (Reg. $120), more

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Amazon offers its Prime members the Sun Joe 14A Electric Wood Chipper and Shredder for $99.99 shipped. Also available at Walmart. For comparison, it usually sells for $120 online and today’s deal is the best price that we’ve seen at Amazon since last November.

There’s no need for gas or oil with Sun Joe’s electric wood cutter. Just in time for winter, you’ll be able to chop up enough wood to start your fire or mulch the garden. This model has a “powerful” 14A motor, built-in wheels and includes a two-year warranty. Rated 3.7/5 stars by over 680 Amazon customers.

Today’s Top Green Deals:

  • Volardor 2-pack 50 LED Solar Outdoor Light: $39 (Reg. $47) | Amazon
    • w/ code 5W3RXWLG
  • WORX WG546 20V Cordless Turbine Leaf Blower: $48 (Reg. $60+) | eBay
    • w/ code COLUMBUS2016
  • Save up to 50% off AeroGarden Indoor Plant Systems: from $40 | AeroGarden
    • w/ code SALE16


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CuCu Clock is a modern day timepiece for your wall with smartphone-connectivity

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We all know the famous cuckoo clocks of yesteryear. Remember? With the tiny bird that popped out to signify another hour gone by. I always thought those were pretty neat, despite its lack of technology. A new Kickstarter project, dubbed CuCu Clocks, is taking the old-school charm of those wall-hangings and combining it with modern day smartphone-connectivity. Each clock has a sharp design and is available in a variety of materials, such as wood or metal. There is a bright LED display built in to the casing that shows the time and of course, a cuckoo bird that makes an appearance to notify you of pending events or the time.

CuCu Clocks connect to your smartphone for settings management, synching your calendar and to monitor other features. All told, this is a modern evolution of an old favorite. It’s still a cuckoo clock at heart, but leverages the power of our devices to inform you of events and the time in a 21st century fashion. CuCu is available at an early bird price of around $220 with an estimated ship date of next July if all goes to plan.


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The best metal USB 3.0 flash drives for your MacBook Air or Retina Pro

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If you’re a MacBook user, chances are you’ve hit a point during your ownership where a little extra storage was needed. With MacBook Air and Pro (for the time being) starting at 128GB of internal storage, it’s no surprise that your hard drive can fill up fast. Adding a USB flash drive to the mix is not only helpful for storing files on-the-go but it also can help alleviate this problem.

While there are plenty of options on the market today, not all of them are up to the task of matching Apple’s design cues. We’ve rounded up the best metal USB 3.0 flash drives that are guaranteed to look right at home with your MacBook.


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Green Deals: WORX Cordless Electric 2-in-1 Lawn Mower (open-box) $184 shipped (Reg. $285), more

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The official WORX eBay store offers its WG770 19-inch 36V 2-in-1 Cordless Mower (open-box) for $184 shipped when promo code COLUMBUS2016 is applied during checkout. Today’s deal is $186 off the regular price, down $101 from Walmart and the best offer available.

Owning an electric lawn mower takes care of many of the headaches that come with carrying for your landscaping. There’s no need to check oil or gas levels, simply charge the battery and you’re ready to go. The WG770 can cut up to 10,500 square feet of grass per charge. It has multiple depth settings plus it mulches, bags and can discharge out the back. Rated 3.9/5 stars.

Be sure to check out the rest of the Columbus Day sale for even more deals with the above promo code that also can be used with almost the entire WORX store.

Today’s Top Green Deals:

  • 4-pack Mpow Solar Outdoor LED Lights: $25 (Reg. $30) | Amazon
    • w/ code SFNP6HXQ
  • 4-pack Intey Remote Control Outlet Switches: $20 (Reg. $24) | Amazon
    • w/ code GPKSTSTY
  • Wrangle your falling leaves with GreenWorks Electric Cordless Blowers from $119


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Roku and Hitachi pair up for three new affordable 4K Ultra HDTVs with the popular streaming platform built-in

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Roku has announced three new Hitachi 4K Ultra HDTVs with its smart platform built-in. Although the low-end market is crowded with options, Hitachi hopes to set itself apart in two ways. First up, is the design. These new 4K models have one of the more attractive designs that we’ve seen in the $300-$600 range. Hitachi will also lean heavily on Roku’s popular software and its massive catalog of over 3,500 streaming channels and 350,000 movies/TV episodes.

The combination of which results in one of the lowest cost options for consumers to access 4K content. As of now, there are 13 services available on the Roku platform that offer high resolution shows or movies including Netflix and Amazon Video. Set to launch later this month, the 55-inch model will sell for $599, while the larger 65-inch is listed at $999 and the 50-inch variety at $499.


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Tivoli Audio showcases new ART Wi-Fi speakers that are meant to complement your home’s design

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SONOS has long dominated the home audio scene with its best selling multi-room speakers. Over the last few years, companies both large and small have tried to steal the throne with new features or designs. The latest of which is Tivoli Audio. Although it has mainly been known for its retro-inspired Bluetooth speakers to this point, Tivoli is now introducing a line of devices called ART (audio reimagined together). Starting with two models, these speakers mix style and function as an alternative to SONOS and other manufacturers.

The CUBE and ORB both feature Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity that is controlled by a free smartphone app. Users will have access to a variety of services at launch including Spotify, Deezer and Tidal. Each speaker can be paired together for a stereo setup or function individually. The wood and fabric design continues the retro theme that Tivoli has leaned on for some time. Both speakers are available for purchase today. The Cube will sell for $200 while the ORB is listed at $250. Each model ships in different wood finishes and fabrics.


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Green Deals: Sweep your leaves and clean the gutters w/ WORX 20V Electric Blower/Vac $66 shipped (Reg. $100+), more

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Amazon offers the WORX WO7009 Cordless 20V Electric Blower/Sweeper with Gutter Kit for $65.67 shipped. It has a list price of $150 but it usually sells for around $100. Today’s deal is the lowest that Amazon has ever offered it for.

No gas. No oil. No fumes. Simplify your fall clean-up with WORX 20V Electric Blower/Sweeper. Even better, this model ships with the gutter kit for cleaning up to 11-feet of the ground. Additional features include a 20V battery, “lightweight and compact design” and 14 cleaning attachments. Rated 3.7/5 stars.

Today’s Top Green Deals:

  • LIFX 60W A19 Smartphone-Connected LED Light Bulb: $20 (Reg. $30) | Amazon
  • Philips 3-pack 40W Candalabra LED Light Bulb: $7 (Reg. $11) | Home Depot
  • Control your outlets w/ a smartphone: 2-pack TP-LINK Wi-Fi Smart Plugs: $45 ($60 value)


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Rimac’s Greyp G12H electric bike offers 150 miles of range at an affordable price per charge

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We’re big fans of electric bikes here at 9to5Toys. Over the past year, there have been more and more new designs popping up as alternative transportation continues to build in popularity. But today, we may have found the coolest eBike yet. Rimac’s new Greyp G12H has a stunning design that blends sports car looks with a mountain bike frame. Its standout feature? The G12H can cover up to 150 miles on a single fill-up thanks to its 3kWh battery.

A full-charge of the internal power supply will run you around 36 cents. That means a simple 5 mile commute would cost just a few pennies. Unfortunately, we don’t have a final cost at this time but the company’s comparable G12S model runs just under $10,000. Despite potential heavy up-front costs, there is real opportunity for savings in the long run over traditional transportation. Head over to our coverage at Electrek for a more in-depth look and commentary on this new release. Don’t forget to check out the new Leafboard too, which is dubbed the “lightest and most affordable” electric skateboard on the market.


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Sony’s new RX100 V camera can shoot a mind-numbing 24 RAW images per second

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Today, Sony announced the new RX100 V at its event in New York. The high-end compact camera is loaded with features including the ability to shoot up to 24 RAW images per second. A mind-numbing spec that produces 150 shots in an extremely short period of time. That’s not the only standout feature here, however. Sony is also introducing a new 315-point auto-focus system that can identify a subject in just .05 seconds. Additionally, the RX100 V has a one-inch 20 megapixel RS CMOS sensor.

Sony will ship its latest release with a Zeiss 24-70mm F/1.8-2.8 Lens with built-in optical image stabilization. Flipping over to video, this camera can handle 4K with up to 1000fps at lower resolutions. That feature along should serve up some incredible slow-motion shots. A three-inch LCD display rounds out the list of notable specs. Sony is set to retail the RX100V for $1,000 when it comes to market in later this month.


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The iPhone 7 has an incredible camera, but ExoLens wants to make it even better

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There’s no denying the iPhone 7 has one of the best smartphone cameras that we’ve ever seen. But there’s always room for improvement, at least that’s what ExoLens says. After first unveiling its add-on kits for iPhone 6/s/Plus, the accessory maker is back again with a new system for Apple’s latest release. Exo uses ZEISS lenses in partnership with a unique aluminum design that attaches to your device. Each of today’s new options offer different styles of optics for capturing photos in a variety of settings.

First up is the PRO Wide-Angle kit that comes with a 0.6x lens. It’s design for landscape photography but will also add an action camera-like effect to your photos. It’s slated to retail for $199 with the included metal mount. ExoLens has also developed a telephoto lens kit for iPhone 7. It has a 2.0x zoom that effectively takes the field of view and slices it in half. The idea is to create the equivalent of a 56mm DSLR lens. It will sell for $250. Finally, is the Macro-Zoom kit that has a unique built-in zoom system. Like traditional macro lenses, this add-on is designed for up close photography and is perfect for outdoor content (also $250). Each of the new ExoLens products are set to release in the coming months.

Looking for something a bit more cost-effective? Mpow has already released its own add-on lens kit for iPhone 7 that brings a wide angle and macro visual to your device for just $21.99 Prime shipped.


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Green Deals: EGO Power+ 20-inch 56V Cordless Electric Mower $195 shipped (Reg. $300), more

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Amazon offers the EGO Power+ 20-inch 56V Lithium-Ion Cordless Lawn Mower for $194.73 shipped. That’s down from the original price of $330, $61 less than Home Depot and the lowest that Amazon has ever sold it for.

This EGO Power+ is a full featured electric lawn mower with the a 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge design. It has a foldable arm for easy storage and a 20-inch cutting capacity. Amazon does not include a battery with this model, but any EGO power+ power supply is compatible. Even with the added battery cost, you’re still saving money over the regular bundle. Rated 4.6/5 stars by over 329 Amazon customers.

Today’s Top Green Deals:

  • GreenWorks 21332 40V G-Max Litium-Ion 13-inch String Trimmer: $53 (Reg. $70) | CPO
  • WORX WG565 24V Cordless Blower/Sweeper: $55 (Orig. $160) | eBay


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Gate combines nearly every smart home feature in a minimalistic deadbolt lock

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As Apple and Google continue the race to connect their devices to every part of your home, new products are popping up every day it seems. The latest of which joins the likes of August, Kwikset and others as a new smartphone-connected door lock. ‘Gate’ is designed by two former Google Glass dropouts that are hoping to cram as many features into a deadbolt as possible.

The circular lock has a built-in 720p camera, two-way speaker system and a backlit keypad on the front alongside a traditional keyhole. Gate’s free iOS and Android app will allow users to livestream video from the front door, remotely unlock or lock and manage custom codes. The developers state that Amazon Echo, HomeKit and Nest integration are also set to come down the line. Gate is currently available for pre-order at Indiegogo for $179 with an anticipated ship date of March 2017 if all goes to plan.


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Leafboard promises to be the “lightest and most affordable” electric skateboard on the market

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Electric transportation has seen a massive spike in interest over the last two years. From Telsa to eBikes, consumers are looking for alternatives to fossil fuel vehicles. The latest project to catch our eye is the new Leafboard electric skateboard that hit Kickstarter this week. In just two days, the project has blown past its original $50,000 goal garnering attention for its lightweight design (under 8-pounds) and impressive range (11 miles).

Leafboard looks similar to other electric skateboards that we’ve seen, but it puts an even greater emphasis on its compact design. The built-in battery can push speeds up to 19mph after a full 70 minute charge. Because of its compact design, Leafboard cannot quite handle hills by itself, but you’ll still receive up to a 28% boost over non-powered alternatives. The included remote controls your speed, ride mode, breaking and more. Riders can even flip the board over and charge their smartphone via the USB port. As of now, a pledge of $359 will deliver a Leafboard by the end of the year. It is slated to retail for $649 after this round of crowdfunding.


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Add a new widescreen 1080p monitor to your Mac or PC: Dell 29-inch $280 (Reg. $350) or LG 27-inch $150 (Reg. $200)

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Newegg via eBay Daily Deals offers the Dell 29-inch 1080p 21:9 Widescreen Monitor (model U2913WM) for $279.99 shipped. That’s $420 off the original price, down $70-$100 from most retailers like Walmart and the best current offer available. This panoramic display is 29-inches wide with support for 2560 x 1080p resolutions. It is loaded with connectivity, including DisplayPort, USB 3.0, DVI and HDMI plus it ships with VESA-compatibility for wall mounting. Rated 4.5/5 stars by over 1,300 Amazon customers.

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Adorama via Newegg has the LG 27-inch Widescreen LED Monitor (model 27MP65HQ) for $149.99 shipped. For comparison, that’s a 50% savings of the original price, down $50 from most online retailers and the best available. LG’s widescreen monitors are some of our favorite on the market today. This model features an IPS display, HDMI and DVI inputs, and a 1920 x 1080 max resolution. Rated 3.9/5 stars.


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Save 30% on your next Starbucks Store order with this rare promo code: coffee, tea, K-Cups, more

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The Starbucks Store is offering 30% off sitewide when promo code ENJOY30 is applied during checkout. Free shipping is available on orders of $30+. There are a few exclusions, mainly coffeemakers and gift cards.

This is a rare promotion at the Starbucks Store and an excellent opportunity to load up on coffee or tea as the cooler weather starts to roll in. You can select from whole bean or ground, K-Cup pods, Via and more in today’s sale. Shop the entire selection and make the most of this promo.


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Amazon introduces Prime Reading, a new service for Prime members with thousands of free books and magazines

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Today, Amazon announced another new feature for members of its $99/year Prime loyalty program. The latest addition – ‘Prime Reading‘ – delivers a rotating catalog of over a thousand books for free. This service is only available to subscribers in the United States and will feature noteworthy titles such as The HobbitThe Millionaire Next DoorHarry Potter and more. Additionally, the library will also bring a variety of premium magazines across multiple genres. A few standouts include Sports Illustrated, PEOPLE, and Bon Appétit.

Prime Reading is available on any Kindle e-reader or Fire device, as well as Amazon’s iOS and Android apps. The new service is available now and you can browse the entire selection of books and magazines right here. Today’s news comes on the heels of Twitch Prime and Audible Channels that were recently announced as the latest perks for subscribers. You’ll want to check out October’s selection of Kindle First eBook freebies, too.

Amazon is now offering up to $50 off many of its popular Kindle devices in celebration of the Prime Reading launch.


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Green Deals: LIFX Smart Wi-Fi Connected LED Light Bulbs – A19 or BR30 $40 Prime shipped (Reg. $60), more

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Amazon offers the LIFX Smart Wi-Fi Connected LED Light Bulb in A19 or BR30 configurations for $39.99 Prime shipped. These bulbs usually retail for $60 and have never been cheaper at Amazon.

Although traditional LED lights are less expensive, they don’t offer the level of convenience and control that comes with these Wi-Fi-enabled bulbs. For further comparison, these are less expensive across the the board than Philips’ Hue lights and offer the same wide range of colors. The LIFX bulbs have a dimmable design with an adjustable temperature from 2,500K – 9,000K. It works in conjunction with Nest and SmartThings plus it can be controlled by Amazon’s Alexa system. Rated 3.5/5 stars by 350 Amazon reviewers.

Today’s Top Green Deals:


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LEGO shows off three new Batman Movie-inspired sets before New York Comic Con

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Ahead of New York’s Comic Con event this weekend, LEGO has taken the wraps off three new Batman Movie-inspired sets. Two of the new kits – Batcave Break-In and Mr. Freeze Ice Attack – will be available nationwide in late November while the limited edition Arkham Asylum will hit Toys R Us shelves on January 1.

First up, the Batcave Break-In features just over 1,000 pieces and will retail for $100. It has the Penguin’s Duckmobile and a sweet rotating chamber for Bruce Wayne to transform into Batman. The Batboat is also in this set with spring-loaded missiles. It ships with four minifigs, including Batman, Penguin, Bruce Wayne and Alfred. The Mr. Freeze Ice Attack set is a bit smaller at 201 pieces and a $20 price tag. It comes with an Exosuit that fits your existing minifigs or the included Batman, Mr. Freeze and security guard. Finally, the lustworthy Arkham Asylum has a massive 1,628 pieces. It will retail for $150 and includes 12 minifigs in all plus a full-on multi-level recreation of the hospital.

Don’t forget to swing by our LEGO guide for even more deals.


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You’ll finally be able to own a pair Nike’s self-lacing Air Mag shoes … if you’re lucky

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After teasing the design some 20 months ago, Nike is finally set to release its self-lacing Mag shoes later this month that were first made famous in Back to the Future II. Some 30 years later you’ll finally have the chance to own a pair. Nike is partnering with The Michael J. Fox Foundation to give away 89 pairs to individuals that donate at least $10 by October 11th. Winners are set to be announced on October 17th. There is no limit on the number of entries you can purchase.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lJu1gLvctQ

The 2016 Nike Air Mags will feature the iconic lace-up design alongside bright eye-catching colors. After releasing a non-powered version back in 2011, prices skyrocketed on the open market to over $4,000. There is no telling how valuable this year’s model will be, but it’s not crazy to think it could be double that number. Interested in trying your luck? Simply head over to this landing page and pledge your donation. Don’t forget, Nike is also set to release its HyperAdapt self-lacing kicks to the general public in late November.


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Drobo integrates USB-C into its ‘world’s first’ self-managing DAS system

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USB-C first burst on the scene as a charging solution for Android phones but it gained additional momentum when Apple adopted it on the 12-inch MacBook. Since then, we’ve seen a plethora of accessories hit the market in a race to accommodate this I/O. With Apple expected to add USB-C to the new Retina MacBook Pro later this month, it will be come all the more popular with creatives, businesses and prosumers alike. Drobo has taken note with its latest direct attached storage solution, the 5C.

This five-bay self-sufficient DAS will sell for $349, which is a $50 premium over the standard version. You’ll get an extra slot for a hard drive plus the aforementioned USB-C connectivity (although a USB-A adapter is included). As expected, Drobo continues its easy-swap system that automatically configures RAID setups.


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The Inkjet days are over, upgrade to Brother’s Duplex Laser Printer w/ AirPrint for $150 shipped (Reg. $200)

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Amazon offers the Brother Networking and Duplex Laser Printer w/ AirPrint (model HLL5100DN) for $149.99 shipped. That’s $50 off the original price and almost every online retailer like Staples. Today’s offer is the best available by $40.

Brother makes some of the best laser printers on the market today and its latest release continues that trend with an impressive feature set. Users will be able to print wirelessly thanks to built-in AirPrint capabilities. It tops out at 42ppm and has a 250-sheet capacity that is expandable to 1,340. Additional features include duplex printing, an LCD display, ethernet connectivity, and support for Amazon’s Dash Replenishment service. Rated 4.8/5 stars.

With your savings, pick up an extra toner cartridge and USB cable.


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