News
Over the summer, we teased that KFC was cooking up a console of its own to take on Sony and Microsoft. Half expecting it to be a joke, KFC is back to close out the year today with the full unveil of its fittingly named KFConsole. Featuring 4K 240Hz gaming, the KFConsole delivers a unique form factor with a design that leverages the console’s heat to keep your chicken warm while gaming. Head below for a closer look.
Expand Expanding Close
Anker, a fan-favorite company here at 9to5, today announced the first third-party charging dock for the Oculus Quest 2 virtual reality headset. Coming in at $87, Anker’s Oculus Quest 2 charging dock makes it super simple to ensure you’re always ready for a long VR session. What all does it come with and how does it work? Well, keep reading to find out.
Expand Expanding Close
Today, The Pokémon Company is launching its latest collaboration, this time in partnership with eyewear brand JINS for a lineup of glasses inspired by the Kanto region and beyond. With unique styles packed with charm from fan favorites like Pikachu, Eevee, and Mew, the latest JINS lineup is aimed at all of the Pokémon trainers looking to grab some new prescription glasses. Head below for a closer look.
Expand Expanding Close
Control, a unique game where you have to master the combination of supernatural abilities, modifiable load-outs, and reactive environments, is coming to both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in February with a performance mode that sports 60FPS gameplay, as well as an optional ray-tracing mode with enhanced graphics, giving you the ability to change which mode you’re in while playing. Existing Control Ultimate Edition owners will receive a free upgrade to this next-gen version. What more is in store here? Keep reading to find out.
Expand Expanding Close
With its heritage of high-quality projectors, BenQ is out with another great option for the home theater. The BenQ TK850 can push 3,000 lumens, support 4K UHD, HDR10, and project a clear image up to 200 inches. Coming in at $1,499, it is an investment, but projectors are a great way to get a huge high-quality picture that goes beyond what flat panels are capable of. Be sure to check the video below and see all the brilliant details of the BenQ TK850.
Expand Expanding Close
Buy nowSynology has long been one of our favorites in the NAS game, and today we’re taking a look at one of its latest releases. Whether you’re thinking about securing your data in the new year or want to build out a capable Plex server, the new DS1520+ delivers high-end performance at a reasonable price point bolstered by five hard drive bays and four Gigabit Ethernet ports. Head below for all of the details as we review Synology’s DS1520+ NAS and put it to the test.
Expand Expanding Close
There’s a lot of copycats in the realm of luxury merchandise. This arguably makes it very difficult for online shoppers to buy with confidence with so many sneaky and deceptive sellers seeing this arena as a high-profit opportunity. When it comes to the world of shoes, a new eBay Sneaker Authenticity Guarantee aims to put customer and honorable seller concerns to bed. When a seller lists a pair of eligible shoes, eBay will show an on-page “blue check mark badge.” Once sold, one of eBay’s authenticators will verify the sneakers and then forward genuine shoes to the buyer with an an NFC tag that will showcase all the authenticity details when activated. Continue reading to learn more.
Expand Expanding Close
Since launching back in 2008, the LEGO Ideas platform has given fans a way to turn their own creations into official kits. And while we typically see a handful of kits released from the theme each year, LEGO is making some new progress today to provide an additional avenue for creators to turn fan-made builds into official kits. Relaunching its partnership with BrickLink, the upcoming LEGO Designer Program is giving rejected Ideas projects a second chance. Head below for all of the details.
Expand Expanding Close
More details on the Cyberpunk 2077 for PS4 and Xbox One debacle have come to light. Sony and CD Projekt Red made a difficult, albeit needed, decision to completely remove the game from Sony’s digital storefront yesterday evening, leaving the fate of the most highly-anticipated game in recent memory up in the air once again. The previous-generation version of the game suffers immensely from horrible visual fidelity and a laundry list of bugs, leading CDPR to announce refunds on Cyberpunk 2077 for PS4 and Xbox One. However, after players were having a hard time doing so, especially on PlayStation, it looks like the move to remove the game from PSN might actually help the cause. Head below for more details.
Expand Expanding Close
After making its console debut on Nintendo Switch earlier this week, Among Us will be coming to Xbox Game Pass for Console sometime next year in 2021. Already available on Xbox Game Pass for PC, this marks the second console-based launch of the unique game. But, this poses a few potential issues for players, so let’s take a look at what hurdles both companies have to jump before the launch of Among Us on Xbox.
Expand Expanding Close
Each month, we highlight our favorite fan-made LEGO creations from its Ideas platform, but today, we spotted a model that might be one of the most eye-catching builds of the year. With the second season of The Mandalorian coming to an end tomorrow, builder Jerac has shared an impressive recreation of the bounty hunter’s iconic vehicle. Giving us an idea of what to expect from a future UCS-style version, be sure to head below for a closer look at this fan-made LEGO Razor Crest model.
Expand Expanding Close
After countless attempts to get their hands on a PlayStation 5, many still have nothing to show for their efforts. Both of Sony and Microsoft’s new consoles have been back in stock several times since launch, but supply never seems to last very long. Only folks who are at the right place at the right time get to take advantage of this approach. Thankfully, PlayStation 5 fans will soon have another way to score a brand-new console, the Fortnite Generations Cup. PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 players go head-to-head in solo matches with the winner of each match winning Sony’s latest console. Continue reading to learn more.
Expand Expanding Close
For this year’s gift guide, I spent a lot of time pondering my own 2020 experience, filled with time at home and more room for tinkering with the everyday aspects of my life. I started with year, long before the pandemic arrived, embracing the Peloton experience, which ended up becoming a cornerstone of my pandemic experience. With just a few weeks left, I’m glad to say I have a nearly 52-week streak complete of workouts, giving me a new appreciation of what the at-home fitness experience can bring. So my 2020 gift guide centers around a handful of affordable items that can help jumpstart a fitness routine in the new year. Spoiler, Peloton didn’t make the list. Head below for my favorite fitness accessories for 2021 and beyond to gift this year.
Expand Expanding Close
Do you have your Christmas gifts wrapped already? If not, we’re here to help with the best gift wrap that can still be sent to your home before the big day. Whether you’re looking to wrap your gifts in bright red paper or neutral colors to match your house aesthetic, we’ve got an array of options for you. Plus, many are available at a budget-friendly price, starting at just $6. So be sure your gifts are ready to go next week, and head below to find all of our top picks. You will also want to check out our latest feature on Ali’s favorite fashion gifts for men including Nike, Ray-Ban, Cole Haan, and much more.
Expand Expanding Close
With the second season of The Mandalorian coming to a close, Microsoft is getting in on the hype by showcasing a pair of new limited-edition gamepads inspired by the series. With two eye-catching designs inspired by the popular Disney+ series, you’ll want to head below for a closer look at the unique gamepads and for all of the details on adding the Mandalorian Xbox controllers to your collection.
Expand Expanding Close
A new Cyberpunk 2077 Death Stranding update is now adding some interesting new wrinkles and goodies to the latest Hideo Kojima title. Yes, you read that correctly. A crossover campaign between CD Projekt Red and the Hideo Kojima camp is bringing a series of Cyberpunk 2077-themed in-game items, abilities and content into Death Stranding. But it looks like this content is only for PC gamers at this point. Head below for more details and today’s announcement trailer.
Expand Expanding Close
Call of Duty Black Ops: Cold War came out last month and is now entering its first official season. Each game always has a bit of time before Season One officially kicks off, and now’s that time. Both the Black Ops: Cold War and Warzone games are being updated here, with new content already available on all platforms. There are 1,00 Season Levels to climb, as well as new weapons, maps, modes, operators, Season Challenges, and Prestige levels to achieve and check out. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the Call of Duty Black Ops: Cold War Season One patch notes and see what’s new.
Expand Expanding Close
After spending some time with quite a few headsets for the new Xbox Series X and S, I wanted to run through what I like, what I don’t like, and which one I reach for most often. There are pros and cons to each headset, so bear in mind that just because I like one over the other doesn’t mean that it’s the best choice for everyone. If you need Bluetooth connectivity, value the utmost in competitive sound clarity, or just want the best sounding headset, these are all things to take into consideration, and I try to highlight those throughout this comparison. So which is the best headset for Xbox Series X and S? Be sure to hit the video below and see all the details.
Expand Expanding Close
Order Now!It’s a wonderful thing to have clothes that fit like a glove. Unfortunately, sizing can be inconsistent from brand to brand and even when buying the same two matching articles of clothing. While waist and shoulder measurements can be similar across several individuals, the same cannot be said for necklines, leg sizing, and the list goes on. Thankfully Amazon Fashion is here to save the day with a new Made for You service that delivers tailored shirts using modern technology. 3D scanning allows shoppers to share a couple of photos, select a few preferences, and that’s it. Continue reading to learn more.
Expand Expanding Close
You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.
A few months back, ElevationLab introduced its latest accessories for Apple’s line of MacBooks. The new ElevationHub takes your USB-C wall charger and brings a level of added functionality, including an extra USB-A port and SD card reader. The included USB-C cable brings it all together in one tidy package that makes it a unique option for frequent travelers. Head below for a brief overview and hands-on thoughts.
Expand Expanding Close
Eddie Bauer has debuted four new collaborations with unique brands you may have never heard of but will want to know. The four brands are Sub Pop, JJJJound, Karla, and Ebtek. These exclusive and limited edition styles won’t be here for long, so if you have your eyes on a piece, it’s the time to grab it. Head below the jump to find out details about each new Eddie Bauer collaboration, and be sure to check out our latest guide to Ali’s favorite fashion gifts for men including Nike, Ray-Ban, Cole Haan, and much more.
Expand Expanding Close
Amazon Prime members can now score some free Fall Guys content for PC and PlayStation. Prime Gaming — formerly known as Twitch Prime — is free to all Amazon Prime members and is now offering up some winter-themed Fall Guys content in celebration of the party game’s season 3 launch. That, on top of a slew of completely free games to score right now, might make you want to head below for more details.
Expand Expanding Close
Today, LEGO is announcing yet another new creation to look forward to in the near future. But unlike all of the 2021 unveils we’ve seen recently, today’s news is centered around the results of LEGO’s most recent fan vote to decide what the 150th BrickHeadz figure should be. But now the votes are all tallied, and LEGO is ready with an answer. Head below for all of the details and to see whether the new figure will be based on Star Wars, Minecraft, Jaws, or Lilo & Stitch.
Expand Expanding Close
Nintendo’s Indie World Showcase happened earlier today, and the most notable announcement was that Among Us would be available on Switch. The game is already live and costs the same $5 that it does on Steam, the App Store, and Google Play, making it a title that many will instantly pick up to have on Nintendo’s portable console. What all is available here? Well, keep reading to find out more.
Expand Expanding Close
As the VR industry grows, the choices for good headsets keep growing and getting more affordable. Oculus, now owned by Facebook, is probably the most widely known brand with its catalog and history of headsets. Its latest, Quest 2, takes technology the platform to the next level while also making it more affordable. A stand-alone headset that doesn’t need a gaming PC or separate base stations for tracking, Quest 2 is packed with features and is seamless to use. Be sure to check out the video below and see all the details of the Oculus Quest 2.
Expand Expanding Close
It wasn’t long ago that we covered the debut EA Play for Xbox Game Pass on console. At that point we cited a planned December 15 launch for PC subscribers, but at the last minute Microsoft has announced an EA Play delay. With many arguably looking forward to today’s launch, taking so long to share this unfortunate news is bound to be both frustrating and disappointing. Being in the midst of a pandemic is likely part of the reason for a delay, but Microsoft hasn’t come out and said as much, perhaps because spending more time at home is the very reason many subscribers could be very excited for this update. Continue reading to learn more.
Expand Expanding Close
It’s been a somewhat tumultuous year for Fortnite as the battle royale game has sought to keep its spot as one of the hottest titles out there. Looking to bank on the success of Among Us, Fortnite is adding a spy mode playlist called “The Spy Within.” There will be plenty of similarities to other Werewolf-style game as Fortnite looks to capture the popularity of this style of gameplay being found in other titles this year. Head below for full details.
Expand Expanding Close
Looking for a gift for the man in your life? Today we are sharing amazing options in men’s fashion at varying price points for that special guy in your life. Whether you’re looking for that last splurge item, a stocking stuffer, or just started shopping, we’ve got an array of ideas for you. Plus, each of the items below is still offering shipping to arrive by Christmas. Head below the jump to find all of our top picks for men.
Expand Expanding Close
Launch savings/Buy nowAfter seeing the launch of its 14-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 dock back in November, Plugable is looking to close out the year with the debut of yet another new Mac and PC accessory. This time around, there are some upgraded specs like 100W passthrough charging alongside the ability to drive two 4K 60Hz monitors and more. Head below for a closer look at the Plugable 100W Thunderbolt 3 Dock and all the details on locking in a launch discount on the new release.
Expand Expanding Close
To end out 2020, Wyze is launching a smart outdoor plug. After releasing a Home Monitoring setup, a new Watch, Sprinkler Controller, Vacuum, and much more, Wyze is further expanding its footprint in your home with a new outdoor-rated plug. This will allow you to control things like Christmas lights next season, or just a set of string lights on your patio during the summer. You’ll find some great features here, like Wi-Fi, two independently-controlled outlets, energy monitoring, and more. Would you like to learn more about the latest $10 Wyze product? Well, just head below the break to find out everything about the Wyze Plug Outdoor.
Expand Expanding Close
Nintendo has announced the next batch of Switch Online NES and SNES titles headlined by Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong’s Double Trouble. This week’s additions to the growing online library of Nintendo classics complete the Donkey Kong Country trilogy Nintendo started back in July, while also bringing a slew of titles from the SNES and NES library of titles. Head below for a closer look and more details on Donkey Kong Country 3 for Switch Online.
Expand Expanding Close
Star Wars is back today for another installment of its Mando Monday festivities with a collection of new collectibles from the new Disney+ series. This time around, you’ll find a pair of stylish Meister watches from The Mandalorian alongside upcoming Black Series figures and more. Head below for a closer look.
Expand Expanding Close
Hyper today announced the launch of a hybrid USB-C hub that aims to satisfy the charging and external display needs of Nintendo Switch, MacBook, and iPad users. The new HyperDrive Power Hub wields four ports made up of USB-A, Type-C, and HDMI. Using a single USB-C cable, it can both deliver 60 watts of power and output to an external 4K display at 60 frames per second. This technology fits in a package, which Hyper touts as being “smaller than a deck of cards.” Today’s release joins an ever-growing list of Hyper products. Continue reading to learn more.
Expand Expanding Close
With 2021 just around the corner, LEGO builders are already eagerly anticipating the new creations, and today, there’s a new collection on kits on the way. While we’ve already gotten many of the more popular LEGO kits covered, details on what to expect from some of LEGO’s in-house themes have now arrived. With a series of new BrickHeadz figures, as well as Ideas promotions and more slated to launch in the new year, we’re diving into yet another batch of upcoming creations. Head below for all of the details.
Expand Expanding Close
Cyberpunk 2077 refunds are now available for players not happy with the previous-generation console performance. Ever since the game released late last week, console players (mainly those on the base-model PS4 and Xbox) have been experiencing a series of sometimes game-breaking bugs as well as much lower resolution visuals than were expected. Developer CD Projekt Red is now issuing an apology, update/patch schedule, and Cyberpunk 2077 refunds for those affected. Head below for more details.
Expand Expanding Close
After first being announced back in August to mixed reviews, Amazon Halo is now available to the masses. The $100 fitness tracker is meant to serve as a middle ground between smart wearable and Apple Watch competitor for Amazon. Its display-less design has always put it in a somewhat peculiar place from a comparison perspective but for those deeply integrated to Amazon’s ecosystem of smart home accessories, apps, and streaming media players, this may be a logical next step. With today’s news, anyone can take advantage of Amazon Halo now that the beta period has concluded. Head below for more details and to learn how you can score one.
Expand Expanding Close
From $25With Christmas less than two weeks away, time is of the essence when it comes to gift shopping. While you may have already checked most of the people off list, the few that remain may be left over because they are the most difficult to shop for. Technology lovers can often fall into that category. So what do you give someone that loves and already owns a bunch of gear? Space-saving tech that allows them to enjoy it no matter where they’re headed. Continue reading to find my top recommendations, each of which I personally own.
Expand Expanding Close
It’s that time of the year again — the time when we try to find our loved ones exactly what they’ve been waiting all year for. Maybe you’ve got a PC gamer in the house and have absolutely no idea what to get them. There are quite a few different options when it comes to storage, monitors, keyboards, mice, and the lot, making it all a bit confusing. Well, that’s what we’re here for. In this PC gaming gift guide, I’ll outline exactly what gifts you should be looking at, from budget-focused $50 NVMe SSDs to high-end desktops, monitors, and everything in between.
Expand Expanding Close
After spending 38 years of releases on PC, Microsoft Flight Simulator will finally make its way onto game consoles — Microsoft’s latest Xbox Series X/S units, to be exact. The company announced these plans last night, and one could argue this move may help sell consoles to gamers and non-gamers alike. While this experience is unlikely to rival the graphical capabilities that gaming PCs are able to pull off, many are bound to agree that Flight Simulator on Xbox is going to look great on the big screen. Continue reading to learn more.
Expand Expanding Close
Nike just launched new gear including sneakers, holiday sweaters, accessories, and much more, just in time for gifting. So if you have an athlete on your gift list, be sure to check out the new Nike holiday gear. Nike Plus members (free to sign up) receive complimentary delivery. Head below the jump to find all of our top picks from the Nike holiday new arrivals and be sure to check out our guide to Oakley holiday gift list here.
Expand Expanding Close
Buy nowiOttie has now debuted the latest addition to its stable of car mounts with its most intelligent model yet. Deemed Aivo Connect, the new in-car accessory brings Alexa into the mix alongside built-in Qi charging and an auto-sensing mount that automatically grips your smartphone. Head below for a closer look and all of the details.
Expand Expanding Close
The Game Awards 2020 took place last night and now it’s time for a quick recap of the award winners and the biggest game announcements. Much like years past, the yearly award show brought it with major price drops on PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch games, but we also got a slew of the new game announcements, reveal trailers, and more. Hit the fold for a closer look at the Perfect Dark trailer and much more.
Expand Expanding Close
Today Leica has unveiled the latest addition to its line of cameras with the new SL2-S. This run-and-gun camera is “cheaper” than the flagship SL2 but still comes in at a salty $4,895. Branded with all of the familiar matte black finishes and the iconic red dot logo, the latest from Leica brings the barrier to entry down a bit, but still keeps many out. That said, for longtime fans of the brand, there’s a lot to like here that will make it a popular option for many. Head below for full details on the new Leica SL2-S, including availability, specs, and more.
Expand Expanding Close
AMD’s latest processors were announced two months ago and released last month. Though they’re still extremely hard to pick up right now, we were lucky enough to get the Ryzen 5 5600X on launch day courtesy of AMD for our review. I’ve been using it for the past month or so, and I have quite a few thoughts on AMD’s latest Zen 3 processor platform. Utilized for both gaming and transcoding in my workflow, I’ve been testing out the 6-core AMD Ryzen 5 5600X as an upgrade from my Ryzen 5 3600 PC that I built earlier this year, and let me say, it’s been a great processor so far. So, without further ado, here’s my review of the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X.
Expand Expanding Close
After getting a first look back in November, LEGO is now officially detailing its upcoming Disney Art set. The upcoming 2,600-piece creation expands LEGO’s lineup of brick-built mosaics with two of the most iconic characters in all of animation history. Giving you the choice to build either Mickey or Minnie Mouse, the latest pieces of LEGO home decor will be arriving next month. Head below for a closer look at the latest LEGO 2021 set.
Expand Expanding Close
Next-generation consoles have officially debuted, and many would agree that it was unclear which manufacturer would win the highest market share this time around. While PlayStation 4 won last time around, Xbox 360 was more pervasive the time before that. Pairing this game of leapfrog with odd behavior from Sony in the realm of crossplay, a lower entry price for Xbox Series S, alongside Microsoft services like xCloud or Xbox Game Pass, and it wouldn’t seem far-fetched to anticipate a potential loss for PlayStation 5. Surprisingly, it seems like the exact opposite could be the case if the PS5 resale market can serve as an indicator. Continue reading to learn more.
Expand Expanding Close
If you haven’t already picked up one for yourself, beauty advent calendars are now out, whether you’re looking for makeup, hair products, body care, and more. These calendars give us something to look forward to each day. Better yet, prices for the calendars start at just $12, and most have free delivery. So we’ve rounded up the best ones you can buy for yourself or your favorite beauty junkie. Also, be sure to check out our guide to December’s best new perfumes including top brands from Valentino, Jo Malone, Tiffany, and more.
Expand Expanding Close
Today, Synology is out with the latest expansion to its lineup of NAS with a new high-end model geared towards home networking enthusiasts and small business owners. The new Synology DS1821+ NAS debuts with an 8-bay design and as one of the brand’s first releases to be powered by an AMD Ryzen processor. Head below for a closer look at performance, features, and more.
Expand Expanding Close