News

Today discovery+ launches on a variety of platforms in the United States. But as the latest of many streaming platforms to launch, it can be difficult to wade through the details, various offers, and more to see if there is any actual value here for your content consumption. The latest streaming service to hit the market arrives with “more than 55,000 episodes from Discovery’s iconic brands and over 1,000 hours of originals in year one.” So where can you watch discovery+ and what all does it offer? Head below for an overview on which devices are available, pricing, and more.

Today, LEGO is showcasing the final 25 fan-made creations that have a shot at becoming official builds from its 2020 campaign deadline. Packed with plenty of potential eye-catching models, highlights of the most recent LEGO Ideas winter review include a build right out of The Hobbit, as well as Among Us, Avatar, and a Roman warship. Head below for a closer look at the contenders for the next LEGO Ideas kit.

Today, we are looking at two of the most affordable audio interfaces on the market with the latest from M-Audio. A brand well-known in the music production space for gear ranging from mid-tier speakers and keyboards to some of the best and most affordable options for beginners, M-Audio’s new Mac, PC, and iOS-compatible interfaces start at just $49. Hit the fold 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.

Top deals:

• Anker kicks off the new year with deals from $11: HomeKit Camera $40, docks, more
• Start the year with Google Pixel 4a for free with 24-mo. commitment (Reg. $380)
• Leather Apple Watch band in various styles down to $8.50 from $15+

Founded in 2009, Bellroy is the maker of a wide range of accessories, from bags, cable folios, and backpacks to wallets, laptop sleeves, and more. But today, we are taking a closer look at the Australian-based company’s new covers for Apple’s latest handsets in our Bellroy Phone Case review. Head below for a closer look in the latest Tested with 9to5Toys.

We’re now officially into 2021, and LEGO is officially launching a new collection of creations to kick off the year. With hundreds of new builds spanning everything from Star Wars and Disney to Technic, Creator, BrickHeadz, and more, there are plenty of new sets now available for purchase. Head below for the full scoop on all of the new LEGO sets available in 2021 so far.

Today, we are giving the Ukutune UKA1 Tenor Ukulele a run for its money. The affordable tenor ukulele combines real ash wood construction with a warm tone ideal for beginners, hobbyists, or just folks looking for a simple ukulele to strum on without breaking the bank. Today, we are taking a closer hands-on look at one of the brand’s more universal, mid-range tenor models to shed light on its entire lineup of options and to get a better idea of what the UKA1 Tenor has in store. Head below for everything. 

Today, we’re taking a look at the largest LEGO Star Wars creation of the year, and one of its most accurate models to date. Bringing one of the most iconic locations from A New Hope into a nearly 3,200-piece set, the new Mos Eisley Cantina packs 21 minifigures and plenty of authentic details into an eye-catching creation. But is this collectible creation worth the steep price tag? Head below for all of our thoughts and a closer look at the LEGO Mos Eisley Cantina in our latest hands-on review. 

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.

Incipio’s organic iPhone case lineup made from eco-friendly materials is back again for Apple’s latest handsets. Designed to protect the planet and your new iPhone 12, the Incipio Organicore iPhone 12 cases leverage plant-based and biodegradable materials to offer a sustainable product, right down to the packaging. Today we are taking a closer look at the company’s 2020 lineup of eco-friendly iPhone cases in our latest Tested with 9to5Toys. 

You’ve already got the RGB peripherals, but what about your chair? Sure, you might have a high backed gaming chair, but does it have RGB? If you opt for the Vertagear SL5000, it could, thanks to the new RGB Upgrade Kit. Is it unnecessary? Absolutely. But, if you’re looking for a way to make your stream or content stand out, there’s not much else like this, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. Be sure to watch the video to find out more. 

Another year is just about in the books, and before we dive into all of the action from what LEGO has in store throughout 2021, we’re taking a retrospective look at what this year already delivered. Ranging from some of the most massive creations of all time to the latest licensed kits and collectible builds, you’ll want to head below for our top ten LEGO sets of 2020.

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.

Top deals:

• Apple Watch Series 6 discounted from $339 across various models ($60 off)
• Today only, refurbished iPad deals start at $75: 9.7-inch $260, Air 3 from $390, more
• Apple New Years sale offers 10-film bundles for $30, more starting at $5

Bluetooth keyboards are often uninspiring to use and lack the design and feel of a full-size mechanical keyboard. But, Cooler Master has a trick up their sleeve with the SK622. With both a Bluetooth 4.0 and removable USB-C connection, this low-profile 60% keyboard with RGB comes in at $120 and makes it possible to get a great feeling keyboard away from the home office. Be sure to hit the video below and see all the details.  

Throughout December, we’ve been counting down to Christmas with LEGO’s Advent Calendars. And now that the big day is finally upon us, we’re culminating our coverage with a look at yet another festive creation. And this time, it’s a limited-edition version of one of the most iconic vehicles from a galaxy far, far away. The LEGO Christmas X-Wing brings some Santa stylings into a fan-favorite starfighter from the Star Wars universe with exclusive figures and plenty of holiday charm. Head below for a closer look.

Each year as December descends, we begin the annual tradition of diving into the latest LEGO Advent Calendars, and 2020 is certainly no different. With 24 days of creations on tap, we’ll be going through everything day after day to showcase what’s new as we inch closer to the big day toward the end of the month. This year, we’re taking a look at what the LEGO Star Wars and City sets have to offer in particular. So whether you’re following along at home or just checking out the builds, be sure to head below the fold to see how the 2020 LEGO Advent Calendars stack up. 

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.

I’m usually a Mac user and have been for decades. But my son wanted to build a PC so he could compete with his online friends in high power games during the Pandemic. For just over $1,000 and a ton of time, he built a mean PC.

I’m now jealous and want to play Flight Simulator 2020 and some other games but don’t have the time to meticulously pick through the perfect build parts. Thankfully the whole package, including the gaudy RGB Frostblade fans configurable with PredatorSense App that make him jealous, are available in just a click or, if you are short on time before Christmas, a trip to Costco.

Razer has released the Kaira and Kaira Pro headsets and Wolverine V2 wired controller, and they’re aimed at players who want more control on the new Series X and S. Taking technology from their PC line of gaming headset and refining the design of their console controllers, the new suite adds some great options for those looking to get more out of their Xbox Series X|S gaming experience. Head below to watch the video and see all the details on the Razer Kaira Pro and Wolverine V2. 

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.

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.

Top deals:

• Take $60 from Apple’s latest Mac mini as the entry-level model goes to $639
• Sonos Playbase brings AirPlay 2 to your home theater for $548 (Reg. $699)
• Beats Solo Pro deliver Apple’s H1 chip and up to 40-hours of battery life for $150

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.

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.

Today we are taking a closer look at the UGREEN X-Kit — the “world’s first” portable laptop stand with an integrated 5-in-1 USB hub built-in. The X-Kit laptop stand provides an attractive home for your laptops and tablets with a focus on portability and expanding your device’s I/O via a unique fold-up design. Head below for a closer at our hands-in video and more details on the UGREEN X-Kit. 

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.

Top deals:

• Lock-in a $49 discount on Apple’s AirPods Max, the first we’ve seen
• Today only, take $150 off Apple’s latest 12.9-inch iPad Pro
• Anker Christmas week sale starts at $13 with deals on iPhone and Android essentials

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.

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.

Synology 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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Top deals:

• Cert. refurb iPad deals start at $100, today only via Woot
• Today only, Apple Watch and iPhones from $100: XS $405, 11 Pro $700, more (Refurb)
• ecobee Smart Thermostats with HomeKit start at $147: Latest model $190, more

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Top deals:

• Amazon 1-day storage sale from $13.50: SanDisk memory cards, portable SSD, more
• Latest Anker sale discounts Powerhouse 100 to $127, USB-C accessories, more from $14
• Samsung’s Galaxy A51 Smartphone is even more affordable at $325 (Save $75)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

Top deals:

• Apple’s latest Mac mini gets discounted with free next-day delivery
• Current and prev-gen. iPad Pro models up to $370 off in early B&H Christmas sale
• Add a Solo Loop band to your Apple Watch in various sizes and colors for $12

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.

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.