News

It’s only been a few weeks or so since we last stumbled upon a batch of Star Wars-inspired Funko POP! culture collectibles. This time around we’ve got two new offerings that join the Concept Series: Han Solo and Snowtrooper. As we’ve come to expect, each model looks fantastic and is overflowing with detail. While these may not be quite as cute as Mando holding Grogu, it’s hard to throw shade at either of the new additions to the Funko POP! Star Wars Concept Series. Continue reading to learn more.

The official Destiny Toaster is now a thing. During a summer 2020 charity event, developer Bungie announced that if fans helped it hit a certain benchmark, it would look into actually producing a Destiny toaster for the community, and that day has arrived. The new Destiny toaster is now available for pre-order on the Bungie Store, but it’s going to cost you more than you were hoping for. Head below for more details and a closer look. 

Just in time for Fourth of July, the new TravisMathew Red, White, and Blue Collection just debuted with an array of great items for warm weather. This collection features 20 different items with pricing from $35. They also currently have a deal where you can get a hat and a polo for $100. Plus, you can score free delivery with a TravisMathew’s Rewards Membership (free to sign up). Head below the jump to find the rest of our top picks from the TravisMathew Red, White, and Blue Collection.

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

• Apple’s new M1 12.9-inch iPad Pro with XDR display falls to new all-time low, more
• Google Nest Father’s Day sale goes live: Nest Hub 2 hits all-time low $80, more from $30
• Best Buy launches 1-day flash sale with latest Apple gear, 4K OLED TVs, Chromebooks, more

Today, CASETiFY is expanding its stable of Apple accessories with an all-new product category, delivering its very first AirTags cases. Arriving in five unique styles, these stand out from other options on the market for customizable designs that let you choose from seven different colors and pick out personalized emoji or initials. Head below for all of the details.

It’s that time of year again. EA SPORTS announced Madden NFL 22 earlier today with a full trailer and pre-orders opening. There’s an all-new Dynamic Gameday aspect, which will “impact gameplay across every mode.” EA says that Madden NFL 22 “will feel fresh with a deeper level of strategy and storytelling in each match-up and in each stadium.” So, what all does the latest Madden game have? Let’s take a closer look.

While the world of mechanical keyboard keeps growing, one trend that has been picking up traction is the ability to hot-swap switches. With typing being such a tactile experience, being able to change the sound and feel of a keyboard can make work and play even more fun. Companies like Glorious PC Gaming Race, Keychron, and Drop all have great options, but there are other contenders out there like more affordable options like the Vissles V84 that we’re looking at today. With hot-swap MX-style switches, Bluetooth connectivity, a robust build, and a typing experience that might be the best I’ve tried in a pre-built keyboard, there is a lot to like about the V84. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details and hear these switches. 

Now that just about all of the details on the upcoming LEGO summer 2021 lineup have been unveiled, we’re beginning to get an idea of what to expect from the latter half of the year. With plenty to look forward to on the Star Wars and DC fronts, we’re now getting details that Technic fans will be able to assemble a massive recreation of the LEGO Ford F-150 Raptor come October. Head below for everything we know so far. 

Microsoft today is relaunching the Xbox Design Lab. After announcing a temporary closure starting back in October 2020 to give it time to refresh the service as Xbox Series X/S launched, Microsoft took to the official Xbox Wire today to announce the relaunch of its bespoke Xbox controller program. Alongside some additional design options, this means the latest model Xbox wireless controllers can now be customized to your heart’s content, providing you’re willing to shell out the slight uncharge for doing so. Head below for all of the details. 

Just yesterday we covered a new gaming-focused display from Monoprice, but today we’re shifting our attention toward a new LG 4K monitor that’s geared toward professionals. It wields a 32-inch display that’s paired with USB-C connectivity and 96-watt Power Delivery. This paves the way for driving a 4K display while also providing enough juice to adequately refuel a wide variety of MacBooks, Chromebooks, and PC laptops. Even better, there are two USB-A ports, allowing this display to also function as a hub. Continue reading to learn more.

Today, we are taking a look at the new SureView Incipio iPad case. The SureView for iPad 10.2-inch (7th & 8th Generation) case features a few magnetic touches to make for a premium experience with a not-so-premium $45 price tag. Designed for “streaming, gaming, viewing, listening and reading,” the new Incipio iPad case provides users an affordable solution for protecting their precious Apple tablet with a focus on putting your content front and center. Head below for a closer look. 

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

• Beats Studio Buds see first cash discount to $135 ahead of launch
• Anker Gold Box up to 43% off: Power banks, Qi pads, Lightning cables, chargers, more from $18
• Ditch gas and oil this summer with RYOBI electric mowers, pressure washers, more from $79

Today, Satechi is launching the latest addition to its roster of wireless aluminum keyboards with the new X2 offering. Arriving with all of the notable features you’ll find elsewhere in its stable, highlights include USB-C charging, a design that’ll blend right in with rest of your Apple setup, and a new hybrid full-size form factor for space-conscious workstations. Head below for all of the details.

Earlier in the year, the LEGO Group showcased the first part of the latest expansion to its Super Mario collection by bringing Luigi into all of the brick-built action. Now, we’re getting a first look at the summer 2021 wave’s flagship creation, which will assemble an over-1,100-piece version of Bower’s Airship in LEGO form. Complete with some existing new foes from the Super Mario universe, you’ll want to head below for all of the details.

Over the weekend, Microsoft and Bethesda announced a slew of new games, updates, and more for its Xbox consoles. Well, buried in a blog post recapping the event, Microsoft detailed plans to release the Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) app on Xbox One, enabling “millions of players” to enjoy next-gen games like Flight Simulator without having to buy a new console. What all does this mean for Xbox One owners and how can you take advantage? Let’s take a closer look.

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.

The arrival of Gallium nitride chargers shrunk USB-C wall adapters into offerings that could fit in the palm of your hand, and now, the latest GaN II releases are looking to deliver even more compact upgrades to your everyday carry. Anker’s latest releases arrive with just that exact emphasis, looking to put an end to compromising over a lightweight carry and high-end features. But do the ultra-compact form-factors on the new Anker Nano II lineup actually make a difference at this point? That’s what our latest Tested with 9to5Toys looks to answer. Head below for all of the details.

Welcome to the 9to5Toys best of E3 2021 roundup. After a year off in 2020, and with all of the major showcases behind us now, it’s time to catch up on the most exciting announcements from the (virtual) show floor at this year’s E3 conference. While, to some degree, it felt like some of the publishers weren’t quite ready to meet gamers’ demands when it comes to E3-level reveals, it was still quite a notable showing. From The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild 2 and Starfield to our first good look at Elden Ring, the new Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy game, a new 2D Metroid, and the “world’s most powerful” RTX 3080 14-inch laptop from Razer, it was quite an exciting four days’ worth of reveals and announcements. Head below for a full catch-up and our picks for the most anticipated announcements/reveals in the 9to5Toys best of E3 2021 roundup. 

The world of gaming monitors is packed with what can feel like a never-ending list of options. Commonly used resolutions range from 1080p to 4K, but many agree that 2K (or QHD) is the sweet spot as processing too many pixels often leads to sluggish performance. This is precisely where the latest Monoprice Zero-G monitor lands while also wielding a 144Hz refresh rate, 1500R curvature, HDR support, and Adaptive Sync. Pricing for this unit is quite competitive, undercutting other displays with similar specifications by around $40 or so. Continue reading to learn more.

Today, Pad & Quill is announcing its new iPhone 12 wood and leather wallet case. Dubbed the “10th Anniversary Luxury Pocket Books,” Pad & Quill is celebrating a decade in the leather iPhone wallet game with its latest design for iPhone 12, 12 Pro, and the 12 Pro Max model. This time around, it is presumably making use of the MagSafe array found in the back of Apple’s latest handsets while offering up a similar overall design to its previous-generation wallet-style cases. Head below for a closer look and an exclusive 15% discount. 

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

• Apple’s new M1 12.9-inch iPad Pro with XDR display sees rare $209 open-box discount, more
• Prime Day starts early for Anker’s latest charging stations, ANC earbuds, and more from $13
• Bring the New Beats Flex with Apple’s W1 chip on your next workout at a new low of $39

Apple Watch charging docks all largely deliver the same nightstand experience with horizontal designs to take advantage of Nightstand Mode during bedtime refuels. The latest contender in a sea of competitors looks to match the usual functionality while delivering a much more novel design and some added perks along the way. The new NightWatch dock fittingly arrives with that same bedside table emphasis, but with an unique orb form factor that magnifies the Apple Watch’s display. Head below for all of the details.

During Microsoft’s E3 event this past Sunday, we got our first look at Flight Simulator 2020 on Xbox Series X/S. Honestly, I was blown away by how good the game looks on console and can’t wait to get my hands on it. I recently tried out Flight Sim 2020 on PC and found that it’s a fantastic game that’s quite fun, though playing with a keyboard is a bit cumbersome. Heck, playing with a controller won’t be the easiest thing. That’s why Turtle Beach prepared its VelocityOne Flight system that’s designed specifically to be used with Xbox Series X/S and Windows 10 PCs for flying around in Flight Simulator 2020. What all does the Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flight System do? Let’s take a closer look.

Despite having well over 30 smart devices throughout my home, visitors often cannot tell that light switches, outlets, TVs, and many other pieces of my technology can be controlled using Alexa or Siri. This is because I go to painstaking lengths to blend technology within my space and even hide it whenever possible. Thankfully, IKEA and Sonos are attempting to make home audio disappear with the release of its new SYMFONISK Picture Frame Speaker. Outside of having a power cord, this piece of technology tries to mirror a piece of art while still wielding support for AirPlay 2. Continue reading to learn more.

The Ralph Lauren Father’s Day Gift Guide is full of timeless styles, including apparel, accessories, cologne, and shoes. Ralph Lauren is known for its classic apparel, and it has phenomenal Father’s Day gifts. The brand is also offering free delivery on purchases exceeding $150. Head below the jump to find all of our top picks from Ralph Lauren.

We’ve seen quite a few different ways to bring added wallet functionality to your iPhone 12 as of late, but Twelve South has launched its latest unveil today in the form of its new MagSafe SurfacePad. Delivering the brand’s latest leather form-factor, this is a compact way to stow cards alongside Apple’s latest handsets with a folio design. Head below for all of the details. 

Well, with Microsoft and Bethesda behind us now, it’s on to the main event: the Nintendo E3 2021 showcase. After confirming this year’s presentation earlier this month, we know we are in for 40-minutes of pure Nintendo Switch games and it all starts now. Be sure to catch up on our coverage of the all the biggest reveals in our E3 2021 hub, including last night’s notable Razer event that revealed ‘world’s most powerful’ RTX 3080 14-inch laptop (and much more), but it’s all about the Mushroom Kingdom and new Switch games right now. Head below for the Nintendo E3 2021 showcase. 

Apogee – one of the world leaders in analog-to-digital conversion and audio interfaces – is introducing its all-new Duet 3 today. Following in line with the previous generation version that “raised the expectations for what a home studio audio interface should offer,” the new Duet 3 interface is a sleek audio interface for Mac (and Windows) content creators and music producers with onboard hardware DSP to power built-in and low-latency recording with some serious plug-ins/FX. Head below for a closer look at the new high-end Apogee Duet 3 interface. 

After receiving a teaser over the weekend, the LEGO Group has now unveiled its latest set in collaboration with adidas. As one of the more unique creations to date, the brick-built replica assembles one of the footwear brand’s most iconic shoes with over 700 pieces and a surprising amount of detail. Head below for a closer look at the upcoming LEGO adidas Originals Superstar kit. 

Self-lacing shoes might not be as indicative of the future as hoverboards or flying cars, but for those who grew up on the musings of Back to the Future, they’re certainly some indicator of what’s to come from wearable tech. Looking to live up to the future predicated back in the 1980s, Nike has been expanding its lineup of self-lacing Adapt shoes over the past couple of years with various styles. But after wearing the smart shoes for over a year, we’re answering whether they are actually the future-worthy footwear that Nike proclaims, or just a gimmick. Head below for all of the details and our thoughts.

As we close out E3 2021 this week, we’ve already seen quite a few announcements from several of the larger brands, including Square Enix’s launch with Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers, and much more, as well as the Xbox and Bethesda show, which showcased Elder Scrolls 6, Starfield, Halo Infinite, and even Forza Horizon 5. That’s far from all though, as yesterday the Gearbox show detailed Borderlands and more, as well as Ubisoft Forward with information on Rainbow Six Extraction, Far Cry 6, and Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. Just yesterday, we also got a glimpse at the PC Gaming Show and the Capcom event earlier today. Now, it’s Razer’s turn to take centerstage. What all did Razer’s E3 2021 showcase include? For one, there’s now an AMD-powered Razer Blade 14, but let’s take a closer look at everything announced.

Nerf has been entertaining trigger-happy children, college kids, and a dedicated league of adults for decades. From video games to augmented laser tag, Nerf’s journey into the virtual has finally reached a new summit. Nerf Ultimate Championship was just announced at the Upload VR showcase, packed with iconic blasters and sci-fi-inspired tournament play for the Oculus Quest in 2022. The game will offer a whole new dimension of play for folks who just like shooting their friends with foam darts. Hit the jump to keep reading.

Out with its second generation, Amazon has made some small upgrades and updates on two of its Alexa-powered smart displays. The Echo Show 5 and Show 8 2nd gen both offer increases in camera resolution, though more updates will be noticeable on the larger screen. Be sure to hit the video below to take a peek at which one might best fit your needs. 

Welcome to day 3 of the world’s biggest gaming event and the Capcom E3 2021 presentation. Yesterday we caught the PC gaming show as well as the Guardians of the Galaxy title in the Square Enix showcase and the massive 90-minute long Xbox and Bethesda event. Before that we saw Ubisoft take the stage just after our first good look at Elden Ring, but it’s now time to hear what Capcom has brought to the virtual show floor this year. Head below to watch the Capcom E3 2021 presentation. 

While there’s no shortage of laptop stands currently on the market, there aren’t very many that sport a similar design to the new Cooler Master ErgoStand Air. Instead of embracing bulky style, this offering chases a fold-flat form factor that’s comprised of premium materials including both aluminum and rubber. It’s sold in silver and black colorways, allowing it to pair nicely with MacBooks, Chromebooks, PCs, and more. Continue reading to for additional information.

Today, we are taking a hands-on look at the Volonic Valet 3 charging system. This high-end wireless solution takes a cue from fashion design houses and Apple aesthetics to provide a luxurious and elegant charging pad with a price to match. Yes, there are more affordable options out there, but not very many that are quite as gorgeous — this is a true piece of functional art, in my opinion, with a sophisticated look and precision design approach. But is the steep price tag worth the price of entry? Read on for a closer look at the Volonic Valet 3 charging system.  

Just in time for Father’s Day, Men’s Wearhouse drops a new golf line with an array of top brands included. Be sure to swing your clubs in style with brands including Callaway, PGA Tour, and more. There are over 38 items in the new Men’s Wearhouse golf line with pricing starting at just $25. Orders of $99 or more receive free delivery. So be sure to head below the jump to find all of our top picks from the new Men’s Wearhouse collection. You will also want to check out our latest guide to the Clarks x Levi’s vintage collaboration here.

Amazon Prime Day is just around the corner, and we’ve already seen both Walmart and Target announce sales to compete with the shopping holiday. Now, it’s Best Buy’s turn with the Bigger Deal Event. But, there’s a twist here: Many deals are already live. That’s right, Best Buy isn’t waiting until next week to start its sale extravaganza. While the sales will rotate in and out through the next week, with everything coming to an end on June 22, we’ll take a closer look at the currently live sales below as well as what we could see in the days ahead.

Now that the dust has settled on much of the LEGO summer lineup, we’re getting all retrospective to highlight several builds that shine above the rest. Ranging from long-awaited creations from a galaxy far, far away to the upcoming appearance of video game icons in LEGO form, you’ll want to head below for a closer look at the five best summer kits.

As we continue onward in E3 2021, the PC Gaming Show just wrapped up. We’ve already seen Square Enix’s launch with Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers, and much more, as well as the Xbox and Bethesda show which showcased Elder Scrolls 6, Starfield, Halo Infinite, and even Forza Horizon 5. That’s far from all though, as yesterday the Gearbox show detailed Borderlands and more, as well as Ubisoft Forward with information on Rainbow Six Extraction, Far Cry 6, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. So, without further ado, we’re diving into the PC Gaming Show.

It is now time for the Square Enix E3 2021 presentation. Hot on the heels of the massive Microsoft and Bethesda event that just wrapped up (new Starfield footage, 27 Game Pass titles, Forza Horizon 5, Halo Infinite, and more), it is now time to see what Square Enix has in store. You’ll want to catch up on the Ubisoft and Gearbox events from yesterday as well as the Summer Game Fest presentation that capped off with an Elden Ring reveal, but for now all eyes are focused on the future of gaming during the Square Enix E3 2021 showcase. It’s waiting for you down below. 

Welcome to the Microsoft Xbox E3 2021 showcase, Bethesda included: Halo Infinite, Fable, Elder Scrolls 6, Starfield, Indiana Jones, and more. Microsoft acquired the behemoth game publisher for an equally massive $7.5 billion last year, which should almost certainly make for a particularly special event today. We have already caught some major reveals and announcements this year, including Elden Ring, Rainbow Six Extraction and Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope alongside everything from yesterday’s Gearbox presentation. While we’ll have coverage of today’s big Square Enix show later this afternoon, for now it’s on to one of this year’s biggest events, the Xbox E3 2021 showcase, and it all starts now down below.