NETWORKING

ZDNET’s key takeaways It’s not often you can pick up a top-tier 20,000mAh power bank for $30. Well, you get that here, and the current 30% coupon makes this an even better deal. It has a helpful display for charging specs. I’m a big believer in buying quality gadgets and accessories, because I’ve been bitten by the “buy cheap, buy twice” curse more than once. Quality doesn’t always have to break the bank. In fact,…

Magnetic breakaway USB-C connector – right angle configuration. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET ZDNET’s key takeaways These 240W USB-C connectors have a MagSafe-type mechanism that makes them safe and more secure than standard connectors. With prices starting at $28 for a two-pack (currently 25% off coupon on Amazon), this accessory is a must-have for travelers, tech enthusiasts, and folks who often switch between different cables and ports. Just be mindful of where you store these connectors, as they are…

ZDNET’s key takeaways This is one of the most portable ways to take AC power with you The 300W AC output (600W surge) is enough to power a whole range of devices The XT60 solar input allows for total off-grid capability I remember many moons ago wiring an AC inverter into my car so I could charge a laptop when on the move (this was a big AC brick power adapter, well before laptops could…

The display when the power bank is in use. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes ZDNET’s key takeaways The Anker 737 portable power bank is available on Amazon for $82. It’s a powerful, reliable power bank for all your devices, laptops included, and has one of the best color displays I’ve seen on a power bank. It’s big and bulky, so it’s definitely not something you’ll slip into a pocket! Some products are so good that I fall in love…

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET ZDNET’s key takeaways The Hoto 12-in-1 electric screwdriver is typically priced at $60. This electric screwdriver has a fast 220 RPM motor, two buttons for screwing in and out for ease of use, three torque settings for different tasks, a circular LED shadowless lamp for better visibility, and includes 12 S2 tool steel bits. While durable and reliable, the Hoto 12-in-1 electric screwdriver lacks a super-gentle setting for delicate tasks, making it too…

Bluetti AC70 power station. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET ZDNET’s key takeaways The Bluetti AC70 is a portable power station that won’t break your back (or the bank, as it’s on sale for $379. It’s a powerful unit, capable of 1,000W output for regular loads, increasing to 2,000W for resistive loads, such as heaters and hair dryers. You’ll need the companion app to access more advanced features. Portable battery packs have revolutionized power. Forget noisy, smelly gasoline generators…

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET ZDNET’s key takeaways The Bluetti AC180 is available from Amazon for $799. Its build provides simple functionality that delivers exceptional power performance.   It’s fairly heavy given its capacity, weighing in at 37 pounds. You can divide power stations into three broad categories — there are the tiny, highly portable units, huge units that roll about on wheels, and in between, you have the bulky but still portable units that you can lug about,…

Anker Need some cheap USB chargers that are going to last a few years?  One of my go-to brands — Anker — has a twin-pack of 20W dual-port chargers and two 5-foot USB-C cables for a price that’s unbeatable. Also: This ultra-thin power bank is a must-have travel gadget (and it’s now under $18) Total Wattage: 20W Input: 100-240V~1A 50-60Hz 1-port output: USB-C: 5V⎓3A / 9V⎓2.22A / 12V⎓1.67A (20W Max) USB-A: 5V⎓3A / 9V⎓2A / 12V⎓1.5A…

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET ZDNET’s key takeaways The Anker Solix C300 DC is available from Amazon for $199. This fantastic portable power station can charge pretty much everything you have, and you can recharge it quickly using both the 140W USB-C ports. I wish the 12V port had a rubber cover to prevent dirt and metallic items from entering the port. As power banks get bigger, power stations are becoming smaller. Despite their compact size, this new…

Jackery Jackery has given the Explorer 2000 Pro an upgrade to bring it into 2024, and is also slashing the price for the launch sale. The Explorer 2000 v2 is an updated version of Explorer 2000 Pro, giving it a few much-needed upgrades. Also: The best portable power stations you can buy: Expert tested Explorer 2000 v2 tech specs Capacity: 2,042Wh Power: 2,200W Cell technology: LiFePO4 Outputs: 3x AC, 1x 100W USB-C, 1x 30W USB-C, 1x…