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Best Hookup Sites: Top 15 Adult Dating Sites for Hookups

AndroidGuys
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We live in a fast world with so many opportunities. And one of the ways to explore your possibilities and chances is by hooking up.

Not everyone wants a serious relationship right out of the gate, and there’s not a single reason you should not enjoy a casual encounter – as long as you are respectful and stick to the basic rules of hookup culture.

So what’s the best hookup app, then?

The answer is AdultFriendFinder because it covers a lot of ground and delivers a high-quality experience for the biggest user base.

But other top hookup sites might be a better fit based on your taste, preference, and, well, kinks. 

So join us for a ride and check out the top 15 dating sites for all user profiles. 

Best Hookup Sites and Apps:

1. AdultFriendFinder: Best Hook Up Website Overall

Pros:

  • Hookups all the way
  • Plenty of kink variety
  • Free sign-up
  • Easy to search and find suitable matches
  • Huge user base

Cons:

  • Too many ads when used as free hookup app

AdultFriendFinder has been around since the mid-’90s. This place is older than Google itself and has adapted perfectly over decades to the latest relationship and hookup culture trends.

Let’s get this one straight – AFF is a dating app geared towards romantic get-togethers and casual relationships.

It stands out from other hookup websites because most users are extra-naughty and interested in a one-night stand or similar options.

Yes, all 90 million of them, excluding a potential fake here and there.

The platform will not connect you with other people or find matches for you. However, it offers one of the best filters and search functions for finding the exact match for your preferences and kinks. And we mean it – every kink you can imagine.

If you use the free version of the app, you’ll have to live with the ads, but you’ll still score a one-night stand faster than on any free dating site out there.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

2. Ashley Madison: Best Hook Up App for Discreet Dating

Pros

  • Discreet hookups
  • The dating app is free for women
  • No judgment about married dating
  • Great if you’re traveling

Cons:

  • A bit pricey for male users

Ashley Madison is the best hookup site if you are married and looking for an adventure with no strings attached.

You can question the business model’s moral side, but the platform is solid, offering maximum discretion and top functionality.

Ashley Madison is 100% free to use for women. On the downside, the platform is not free for men, and you have to pay up to $50 to use the service.

Yet, if you need to have a wild time while traveling or enjoy a night of wild fun in your own city to enhance your married life, this is likely the best dating site you will find.

Finally, the website does a fine job verifying profiles to remove catfishes and fake accounts, adding an extra layer of trust and safety.

>> Hook up with discreetly on Ashley Madison >>

3. Seeking: For Older Men Looking for Hookups

Pros:

  • More women than men
  • Quality search function
  • Top option for upscale dating
  • Free for women

Cons:

  • Hooking up has a transactional nature
  • Not the best solution if you’re on a budget
  • Tailored for affluent individuals

If you’re an older, wealthier man – or just a richer man regardless of age – we recommend Seeking as one of the best hookup sites.

We’re looking at an upscale dating site with 4x more women than men.

That sounds great, but you need to be loaded to use the site as a male. For high priority, you need to be a verified elite member.

For women, Seeking is a free hookup site. For men and those who feel like them, memberships cost well over $200 per month for diamond-tier members.

You will not find much romance on this platform, which is standard for online dating sites, with some misguided users complaining that communication feels much more like a transaction compared to most other hookup sites.

You could say that they simply don’t get it.

Here’s the truth: if you’re an affluent man looking for a fun girl to spoil, this is the dating app for you.

>> Find a luxury date on Seeking today >>

4. Tinder: One of the Most Popular Dating Hookup Websites

Pros:

  • Massive user base
  • Easy to use
  • Hookups galore
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Fake profile issues

When it comes to hookup sites and apps in the 21st century, Tinder is the most famous platform, bar none.

This place has over 75 million active monthly users and 6+ million subscribers. 

Chances are that you are familiar with Tinder’s swipe-based approach to matching couples. You’re presented with another user’s picture, and then you swipe left to discard or swipe right to like their profile.

The massive base of users means you can find locals in your city or while traveling. You can also find escorts.

Last year, Tinder reported crossing 65 billion matches globally, trumping even the best dating sites.

You can use the free version of Tinder with limited swipes or pay for a premium membership starting at $9.99 per month.

5. EliteSingles: Best Hook Up Site for Professionals

Pros:

  • Over 2,500 elite singles monthly
  • Above-average users
  • Personality test required
  • Advanced features

Cons:

  • Free version is limited

If you’re searching for casual hookup platforms and have above-average education, job, or income, you should consider EliteSingles.

This platform attracts doctors, lawyers, and business people, matching over 2,500 elite individuals each month.

You must take a 20-minute personality test to join the platform, significantly reducing fake accounts.

You can check the platform out for free, with limited features, or spend around $30 per month for the premium version, including unlimited messages and even staff assistance in profile creation.

6. Bumble: Best Casual Encounter Website for Women

Pros:

  • Safest option for women
  • Women initiate contact, not men
  • Intuitive design
  • More women than men

Cons:

  • Not everyone is looking for hookups

Bumble is the best dating platform for women because it offers more safety. It beats even the best free hookup sites and apps by adding features that keep the ladies safe from potential predators.

It’s no wonder that its database has more female than male members.

Bumble is among the very few sites that allow women to make the first move and ban men from initiating contact. You can still communicate with the ladies as a man, of course, just not unless you were contacted first.

The interface is easy to use, and if you’re a guy who’s not afraid of strong, successful women, you might want to give it a go. 

7. NoStringsAttached.com: One of the Most Casual Websites for Hook Up

Pros:

  • Focused on quick encounters
  • Easy to use
  • Great for affairs
  • Live chat rooms

Cons:

  • Limited free mode

NoStringsAttached.com is a standout platform for casual hookups. The website is oriented toward open-minded individuals (in every sense) and offers an intuitive, easy-to-use interface.

This site is a good option if you’re looking for an affair. It offers live chat rooms, a limited free account, and over four million users from numerous countries.

You can also check out live webcams with professional models.

>> Engage in guilt-free casual encounters on NoStringsAttached >>

8. Alt.com: Top Hook Up Website for Specific Preferences

 

Pros:

  • 2 million members
  • BDSM-oriented
  • Live cams available
  • Advanced filters

Cons:

  • Free version is too limited
  • Fake profile issues

If your kink is bondage, ALT is your hookup site, simple as that. The site is geared toward casual relationships filled with fetish fantasies and bondage.

As the leading BDSM platform in the world, ALT boasts 2+ million members, which is a very impressive figure for such a niche crowd.

Friendly advice: If you’re into plain old boring chit-chat, just skip this one.

>> Share your kinks with a hookup on Alt.com >>

9. Feeld: Hook Up Website for Open-minded Couples

Pros:

  • Open-minded couples galore
  • Couples’ accounts available
  • A platform that cares about the ethics
  • Judgment-free

Cons:

  • Facebook account required for ID verification

If you want to include your significant other in the hookup, check out Feeld, a couple-oriented hookup app with plenty of choices.

We like how inclusive and respectful the platform and its users are. It’s all about keeping an open mind and keeping everything free of judgment.

You can find people for threesomes, including all genders and orientations. The word open-minded for all is pretty well suited for this place.

>> Rekindle your passion with fellow couples on Feeld >>

10. Searchingforsingles: Best for Chatting

Pros:

  • Great for dirty talk
  • You can play the match game
  • Buy messages instead of premium membership

Cons:

  • Lack of moderation to reduce fake accounts

Searchingforsingles is the best option if you seek quality chat rooms for the exchange of explicit messages. Instead of paying full premium memberships, the site allows you to buy messages in batches.

This way, you can essentially test the platform without paying hefty monthly or yearly fees. 

You can also play the matching game to find your perfect hookup, similarly to the swipe left-right feature Tinder is known for.

>> Find a hot date on SearchingforSingles without fees >>

11. Grindr: Free Hook Up App for Gay Men

Pros:

  • 15+ million gay men on the platform
  • Community is up-front about their needs and preferences
  • Excellent for matching with locals

Cons:

  • Better-suited for urban regions

Grindr is the most famous hookup app for gay men in the world. And for a good reason.

This dating app features over 15 million users and does an excellent job filtering your matches and presenting you with the top local guys wherever you are.

While Grindr is more geared toward urban communities, its members have a reputation for being very upfront about what they are looking for.

12. HER: Best Free Hookup App for Lesbian Women

Pros:

  • Best hookup site for lesbian women
  • Free messages with no limit
  • 1+ million users in US alone
  • Social media accounts connected with profiles

Cons:

  • Not ideal for hookups
  • Lacking search options

HER is the top destination for queer women. With over a million users in the States alone, it’s the most popular hookup site in its niche.

We should point out that this dating site is more oriented towards social interaction than hooking up per se.

In plain terms, you can find hookups here but also casual friendships. The platform is affordable and features active social media profiles connected with every account.

13. FetLife: Open-Minded Website for Hookups

Pros:

  • Fetish hookups galore
  • LGBTQIA+ inclusive
  • Events and parties
  • Users of all ages and walks of life

Cons:

  • 3/4 of users are men

Fetlife is an interesting option if you’re into fetish hookups and kinks. It works as a social media-like website with an active, albeit male-dominated, community.

Most users are millennials or Gen Xers, but the complete user base ranges from people in their 20s all the way to their 50s.

The site is exceptionally hookup-positive and even hosts its special events. From casual coffee meet-ups to group encounters, you’re bound to find something to your liking.

14. Zoosk: One of the Best Online Hookup Sites for Young Guys

Pros:

  • Ideal for men in their 20s looking for short-term relationships
  • 35+ million users in 80+ countries
  • Diverse base of users

Cons:

  • Full features require a paid membership

Zoosk is known for short-term dating options, hookups included. Its community of 35+ million users spans 80 countries worldwide.

We’re impressed by how diverse the user base is, allowing you to find casual hookups of all kinds. If you want the full specter of features, you will have to pay for membership.

The platform is best for younger users, mostly men in their 20s. It’s not strictly hookup-oriented but is certainly geared towards short-term relationships.

15. POF: Best Dating Site for Hooking Up With Diversity

Pros:

  • Exceptional diversity
  • Large base of users
  • In business since 2003

Cons:

  • Fake account issues
  • Not explicitly a hookup site

The platform’s name is Plenty Of Fish, indicating what this dating app is about right out of the gate.

The platform has been around for almost 20 years. It’s a very diverse platform with users of all genders, races, and walks of life.

The site’s algorithm does a fine job exposing you to different kinds of people. If you’re looking to enter the hookup scene and aren’t sure what to look for, POF does a fine job of taking your interest in various directions.

The site is not explicitly a hookup app, though, which means that you might encounter people looking for a longer-term commitment. 

Things You Should Know About Hook Up Websites

What’s an Online Hookup?

A hookup is defined as a physical encounter between two individuals not in a dating relationship. Hookups imply that neither of the two people expects to develop anything from the relationship apart from a commonly agreed get-together.

Hookups are typically spontaneous and often associated with parties and nightlife. They are similar to one-night stands in terms of lack of any significant personal commitment. Hookups are more frequent among younger people in their experimental phases.

Are There Any Completely Free Hookup Sites?

Yes, there are, although in most cases, dating sites have free and paid sections. If you search for completely free hookup websites, you can check out Reddit R4R, for example, one of the best free dating sites online. Otherwise, AdultFriendFinder offers all the essential features in its free version.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

You can also use Ashley Madison or Seeking for free if you are female, for example. When it comes to the popular app Tinder, it’s free to use but with limited swipes. Free versions usually deliver the goods but are loaded with ads.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Older Men?

The best adult dating site for older men is Seeking. The platform is known for a community of active users looking for upscale dating. It’s one of the best adult dating sites in this department. The only possible drawback is that you will probably need to have more money to get the top experience.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Young Guys?

Zoosk is the best casual dating site for young men. The dating platform has a user base of 35 million people, mainly seeking short-term, casual romantic relationships, making it ideal for young men.

What’s the Best Hookup App for Women?

The top platform for women is Bumble because it instantly allows female users to screen potential male partners. 

As a man on this casual dating app, you cannot reach out to women and make the first move on your own. If you are a man searching for a successful woman, Bumble easily beats other dating platforms.

Are Hookup Sites Safe?

The ones recommended in this article most certainly are. But note that while you are safe on the online dating website, what happens outside the platform and during the date is outside the jurisdiction of even the top hookup websites.

Therefore, it is recommended to stay on the safe side and check the person you are considering hooking up with, whether by asking for photographic proof, checking their social media pages, meeting in public, and more.

How Can I Stay Safe During a Hookup?

There are five rules you should adhere to when meeting people for casual dating on popular hookup sites. Some of it is common sense, but it doesn’t hurt if we reiterate it.

  • Consent First, With Clear Expectations

When communicating with your potential casual dating partner through the hookup website, make sure to communicate clearly and make your expectations clear.

Always stress that it’s consent first and everything else later. You can do this in written form via chat rooms or over video chat.

  • Carry Your Own Protection & Use It

By this, we mean condoms, yes. Data shows that unprotected encounters are often a part of casual hookups and one-night stands. Yet, it’s best to stay protected to avoid future issues.

  • Use Reputable, Legit Hookup Websites

Regardless of your physical preferences and the type, shape, and form of a partner you are searching for, only use the best-in-business hookup apps. Half of the safety is in finding the best online dating site like AdultFriendFinder.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

  • Check Who You’re Hooking Up With

Verify your hookup partner. The best legit hookup sites offer a video chat feature, and we recommend taking advantage of it. It’s also not a bad idea to check the social media of your potential casual dating partner, their Facebook friends, and more.

  • Meet in Public

At least for the first date, meet in public. You can proceed with the one-night stand but make sure to first have a chat in public before proceeding any further.

Is Everyone on Best Hookup Apps Looking for a Short-Term Fling?

Yes, The majority of the user base will use a hookup website for no-strings-attached relationships. 

That’s what the hookup culture is about, and that’s what you should expect from adult hookup sites. But that’s not 100% of the user base, and some folks are also seeking serious relationships.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

Should I Be Upfront About My Preferences in a Partner?

Yes, of course, dating apps are about finding your best match, and you need to be specific on what you like and what you’re hoping to find. 

But on that same note, you need to be respectful to the user base and avoid using language that can come off as racist, fatphobic, or anything along those lines.

How Do I Find a Hookup?

Successfully finding a hookup comes down to two critical areas: your behavior and finding the right sites for casual encounters to match your needs.

On the one hand, don’t be creepy; try to post photos that represent you the best, be open and clear in communication, and preferably stay in larger, densely-populated areas. Just start with being honest, civil, and polite – it will go a long way in this scene.

On the other hand, whether you search for the best free hookup site or hookup website charging premium membership, you need to opt for the right niche and cover your kinks and preferences. 

Whether it’s discreet hookups or queer women, there’s a hookup platform for it out there.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Gay Men?

The best hookup app for gay men is Grindr. The platform has a massive community of active users looking for gay casual flings. 

Like most mainstream dating apps, Grindr is geared towards people in urban areas, with millions of users seeking casual encounters. It’s the most globally renowned hookup app for gay men.

Which Hookup Site Is Best for Lesbian Women?

HER is the best hookup app for lesbian women. Initially launched as a dating site for queer women, the platform has since expanded and now caters to lesbian, queer, and bi individuals seeking relationships and casual romance.

Best Hook Up Apps and Sites – Where Do I Find Them Today?

The answer is AdultFriendFinder, the best hookup platforms that emerged as the top overall choice after our careful research. 

It’s the best option because it’s fully geared toward casual meetings and features a massive user base that allows you to find your perfect match no matter which kink you’re into. It’s easy to use, too, so you’ll have no trouble availing yourself of its advantages.

But we’re all different and special in our own way, so at least check out the summaries of our best casual dating sites.

>> Join millions of hookup-seekers on AdultFriendFinder >>

As always, enjoy flings without judgment and make sure to stay safe. Keep it protected, and enjoy the journey!

DUEX Max Review

Andrew Allen
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Believe it or not, the pandemic is still showing its effects across our workflow. Remote working is now routinely part of a benefits package and not something taboo that only developers and graphic designers enjoy.

With this new normal has come a wave of devices to help alleviate some of the pain points. Mobile Pixels has been a little ahead of this trend, and with the new DUEX Max portable display, the company has a compelling remote working setup.

Design

The basic makeup of the DUEX isn’t revolutionary. The Max has a 14.1-inch matte 1080P panel capable of 300-nits. The aspect ratio is 16:9 with a 60 Hertz refresh rate. The right side of the DUEX Max houses two USB-C ports. That’s it. The casing of the rest of the device is plastic and comes off with a decent balance of lightness without feeling flimsy.

Around the back is the business end of the DUEX Max. This is where you’ll find the innovative magnetic mount and hinge system. The allows for the device to travel along with your current laptop without carrying any other equipment other than a USB-C.

The backside also has three buttons. These are used to manipulate the picture quality to your liking. You can adjust color, tint, and brightness much like any other monitor.

Real-world Usage

It’s somewhat hard to visualize without the DUEX Max in hand. The monitor has a track-style mount with four large oval magnetic platforms. These are used in tandem with metal discs with a 3M adhesive backing you position on the back of your laptop.

Once attached to the back of your laptop the track system allows for the Max to slide out to align next to your existing screen. With the monitor fully extended you can also move the panel front to back to pivot for optimal positioning.

Setup is seamless as far as no software is needed. The DUEX Max uses just the USB-C standard protocols to make the display work with your operating system. No drivers or special software are required as long as you have a USB-C port. If you have an older laptop with just USB3.0, then you will have to download the driver tool from the company’s website.

Auto-rotation is also on board. Regardless of the orientation of the side of your laptop, you want the DUEX Max the screen will automatically adjust. This makes for one of the most plug-and-play options I’ve experienced with a portable monitor.

Find the magnetic system to be sore on the eyes? That’s fine too. You can use any kickstand to use the DUEX Max as well. The fully extended mode for pivoting also allows you to flip the screen all the way around from the cover when not attached.

I’ve used it both ways, and honestly not sure which I prefer. I think if I lived away from my laptop docking station more often, I’d prefer the more permanent magnetic solution. With my workflow being more desk oriented with dedicated monitors, I think my needs would make more sense to just purchase the official kickstand from DUEX to use when I travel.

Conclusion

DUEX knocked it out of the park with the Max portable monitor. The design allows for multiple angles, solutions, and positioning. Pair that with the universal plug-and-play USB-C compatibility and you’ve got yourself one of the best solutions on the market.

The last pain point might be price. At $330, the DUEX Max is pricier than other solutions, but I’d argue it’s way more flexible in use. You can get the portable monitor in four colors: Gunmetal Gray, Rio Rouge, Mallard Green, and Set Sail Blue. Head over to the Mobile Pixels website now to order yours or build a bundle that works for you.

Purchase the DUEX Max

Visible shakes up its rate plans

Scott Webster
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Mobile service provider Visible has thrown its rate plans and offerings into a proverbial blender.

This week finds the carrier lowering the monthly price for its base rate plan and introducing a premium option. Moreover, it is doing away with its multi-line Party Pay discount program and ushering in a new referral program.

Previously, Visible was known for having a single rate plan of just $40 which included unlimited talk, text, and data. With the new change, the standard “Visible” plan is priced $30 per month and features the same package. Also included in that bundle is nationwide 5G and 4G LTE, unlimited mobile hotspot, and unlimited talk and text to Mexico and Canada.

The “Visible+” option, priced at $45 per month, adds in support for 5G Ultra Wideband, unlimited talk, text, and data roaming in Canada and Mexico, international calling to 30+ countries, and texting to 200+ countries.

The new Visible plan with unlimited data, talk, text and hotspot is just $30/mo for a single line, taxes and fees included. The new Visible+ plan is just $45/mo, all in, and includes 5G Ultra Wideband access, 50 GB of premium network experience, roaming coverage in Canada & Mexico and global calling to over 30 countries from the US.Additional information on Visible’s new plans is available on visible.com.

Perhaps most importantly, the Visible+ plan comes with “Premium Network Experience” which means the user will not see any de-prioritization in network speeds until they hit 50GB of data usage.

The standard plan is much like other MVNO rate plans in that it slows data and mobile hotspot speeds when the network becomes congested. Visible uses Verizon’s network for coverage so the tier one subscribers get precedence in those times. The Visible+ ensures plenty of high speed data is available to users without that restriction.

While Party Pay may be going away, Visible’s new referral program rewards its customers a $20 discount for each referral. Applied one referral per month, users can bank the referrals for up to 12 months.

Those who already signed up under Party Pay are able to keep their discounts in place provided they do not change their plan.

Motorola’s third generation Moto Edge is packed but not pricey

Scott Webster
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Motorola on Thursday announced its refreshed Moto Edge handset. Priced just $500, it packs many of the best features of the flagship Edge+ but at around half the cost.

The new phone has a 6.6-inch display at 2400 x 1080 pixel resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate. The fingerprint reader is located inside of the screen and Gorilla Glass 3 protects it.

A 5,000mAh battery keeps things running for up to two days with support for 30W fast charging. It also allows for 15W wireless charging and can share its power with other devices.

In terms of cameras, the Moto Edge a 50-megapixel rear shooter with a 13-megapixel 120-degree ultra-wide and 2-megapixel macro complimenting things. The phone has a wide array of shooting modes including Dual Capture, Spot Color, Night Vision, Panorama, Pro and more. Around front you’ll find a 32-megapixel camera with its own modes.

Internally, the Moto Edge employs a MediaTek Dimensity 1050 processor with at least 6GB RAM. Storage capacity is pegged at 128GB and 256GB, depending on where one purchases the phone.

The Moto Edge runs Android 12 upon its debut, however Motorola has committed to three OS updates and four years of bi-monthly security updates. Like its other higher end models, this one comes with support for Ready For, Motorola’s software for working on larger displays and accessories.

The Moto Edge will be offered in Mineral Gray and will be sold at the three largest wireless carriers of Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. The first of the service providers expected to carry the device is T-Mobile who will price its 8GB variant at just $498.

Verizon is anticipated to sell an 8GB/256GB option with AT&T getting the 6GB/128GB model. The Moto Edge will also be sold through UScellular, Spectrum Mobile, and Visible; it’s also coming to Best Buy, Amazon, and Motorola.com.

5 Things to know before buying BLUETTI B230 or B300

AndroidGuys
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Electricity, one of the most widely used forms of energy, soon became life’s necessity once found. If there’s a power cut, even a very brief one, the consequences can be catastrophic, especially while experiencing extreme heat on summer days. 

To ease the rising electricity tension this summer, BLUETTI will have a Power Week from August 18 to August 28. Scroll down to learn more about them. 

Not just a sidekick, but a hero on its own

Not only as an expansion battery, B230 and B300 can be used as an independent power source since multiple outputs are built for versatile charging, including 1*18W USB-A QC3.0, 1*100W PD3.0 Type-C, and 1*12V/10A Cigarette Lighter. 

The MPPT within B300 allows a 200W Max. solar input. While with the T500 adapter, no need to connect with AC200MAX and AC300 power stations, the B230 and B300 can reach up to 500W AC input rate.

The magic charging box – BLUETTI D050S (DC Charging Enhancer)

B230 and B300 are qualified as power sources. However, they can be leveraged to their full potential when teamed up with the D050S. It enables more recharging methods, like 12/24V car charging, Lead-acid battery, and even AC. It can boost a 1400W Max. solar input for AC200MAX. 

Without the idle draw of the inverter, the discharge efficiency of such a Pure DC Solar Generator is expected to reach more than 95%. An excursionist doesn’t have to carry a whole set of BLUETTI products because one battery pack is sufficient to power hungry devices on the road. 

High Compatibility – Not just for the AC200MAX or AC300

B230 and B300 were announced with AC200MAX and AC300, respectively. Yet they are also compatible with other units like AC200, AC200P, EB150, and EB240 while connecting with D050S. Increase the overall capacity anytime to survive blackouts and other emergencies.   

LiFePO4 – The safest and most durable battery chemistry

Safety and durability have been the top priorities to consider before purchasing a power station, so BLUETTI adopts the latest LiFePO4 technology while producing solar generators in recent years. 

B230 and B300 provides better electrochemical performance, lower resistance, and more stable cathode materials compared to NCM chemistry in the market. 

More Units and Combos to Recommend During BLUETTI Power Week 2022

OnePlus 10T review

Andrew Allen
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OnePlus has become a mainstay of the Android landscape. The once upstart is now standing toe to toe with the likes of Google and Samsung with the OnePlus 10 Pro. While that covers the high end these days, the company continues to shoot for mid-range perfection with the latest OnePlus 10T.

This mid-season refresh of the OnePlus 10 series comes with myriad specs and performance boosts to justify the release. However, let’s take a deeper dive into just how that compares to the competition in this full review of the OnePlus 10T.

Design

OnePlus has kept many of the elements in the look and feel consistent with the 10 Pro. You get a similar slab design with a slightly lower resolution screen. The size of the touch panel is the same 6.7-inches and still looks great.

The back panel is plastic instead of glass, but doesn’t feel cheap; it has a grainy textured feel that will remind some of the OnePlus One’s sandstone. The rear of the 10T also houses the same designed camera array with a new 50MP sensor for the main shooter, 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens.

One thing that will immediately be missed by OnePlus faithful is the alert slider. Yep, you read that correctly, the mainstay differentiator to choose your alert profile is gone. After being present on every OP phone to date, including the 10 Pro, the company nixed it on this model to make room for extra internals.

Personally, I find this to be a negative and that every effort should be made to include the slider button. Iconic hardware features are something a brand like OnePlus has prided itself on over the years. This makes it look like the company is tone-deaf to how its fans will inevitably react to the omission.

Performance

One key philosophy that still rings true is OnePlus’ dedication to performance. The 10T is packed full of the latest tech to make sure you get an optimal device that can compete with any other Android phone. With the combination of Snapdragon 8+ Gen1 CPU, HyperBoost Gaming Engine, and 3D cooling the OnePlus 10T has gaming phone standard specs that will get you through any task.

The new mobile 8+ Gen1 from Qualcomm offers 3.2GHz of peak CPU power while also being 30% more efficient. The on-chip 5G modem also supports speeds up to 10Gbps where carriers can keep up with those speeds.

The 3D cooling system is just as interesting. Using eight dissipation channels and 3D graphite, OnePlus has created its largest cooling chamber yet. This works in tandem with the HyperBoost Gaming Engine to offer superb gaming experiences. Frame rate fluctuations, touch response, and graphics rendering are greatly improved on the 10T.

Our unit added to all this with the full 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. This adds up to a total package that handled absolutely everything I could throw at it. From gaming to general messaging, I never felt the OnePlus 10T stutter or stumble once. Along with RAM management OnePlus has been able to allow for 35 simultaneous apps at one time to be open.

OxygenOS

The OnePlus 10T comes pre-installed with OxygenOS 12.1 and the company promises that OxygenOS 13 will follow later this year after it’s launched on the OnePlus 10 Pro. The current iteration is full of what I would call an amalgamation of many existing UI elements across Android.

The overall feel of 12.1 takes a huge key from what Samsung has done recently with OneUI. While this isn’t a bad thing, it’s not my personal favorite. The additional layers of settings menus change to the tiling in the notification shade, and other tweaks just add bloat to Android I don’t think is necessary and hide features honestly.

Another, “borrowed” element is the pull-down side panel. This is heavily influenced by many custom launchers like Action Launcher. Again, it’s not my cup of joe but may find this additional space to house shortcuts and widgets helpful.

Overall, even with the UI changes, Android feels relatively comfortable on the OnePlus 10T. All your apps are here and function as normal. OxygenOS might take a slight learning curve, but nothing outside the norm from any phone not running Google’s version of Android.

Battery Life and Charging

Performance and high-end specs can often translate to poor endurance. Fortunately, OnePlus doesn’t fall victim to this issue. With a 4,800mAh battery pack, the OnePlus 10T had no issues lasting me all day of normal usage. Can you game out of hours or play YouTube half the day and kill it? Yes, but in most instances, you should have no issue making it through your daily needs.

When you do need to charge on the goal, it’s a tradition that OnePlus supports some of the fastest charging in the market. The 10T can use the company’s proprietary SUPERVOOC protocol to deliver 125W of power. It’s worth noting that the adapter will technically output 160W but this is limited to 125W in the United States.

This allows for the included charger and the OnePlus 10T to regain from 1-100% charge in just 20 minutes. The additional wattage can often lead to degradation of the battery but OnePlus ensures us that the Battery Health tech included can retain 80% of the capacity up to 1,600 charge cycles.

Conclusion

OnePlus has always been a polarizing manufacturer in the Android space. They’ve continued that with some of the hardware and software decisions of the OnePlus 10T. However, this is still a fantastic device that starts at $649 for the 8GB variant.

You will get superb performance, good battery life, and a large screen at the base price point. The OnePlus 10T can be purchased from the company’s website now with orders shipping in September. But don’t forget you can get early access during certain time frames before the official retail dates.

AXS Audio Professional Earbuds review

Scott Webster
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People tend to purchase their mobile tech gadgets based on a couple of factors. More often than not we start with a budget in mind and look at the selection that fits within the range. Then there are those who have specific features that they look for and filter based on brand and price.

When it comes to wireless earbuds we tend to look for features such as battery life, water resistance, comfort, build quality and sound. For many, audio quality just needs to be good, not fantastic. Sure, we like our music but we aren’t necessarily audiophiles.

There is a segment of consumer, though, who appreciates the intricacies and fine details of music. To them, the audio experience is the main factor in buying headphones or earbuds. 

AXS Audio, a brand that’s new to the ever-expanding space, arrives with a pair of noise-canceling true wireless earbuds. Priced $150, they’re tuned by hand and promise perfect balance and music in its purest form.

I’ve had a chance to use a pair of the AXS Audio Professional Earbuds over the last couple of weeks and have a few thoughts and impressions I’d like to share.

When it comes to design, there’s only so many ways you can build earbuds. Are they beans and pea pod shapes or do they have stems? That’s pretty much it. There are varying degrees of “build quality” to contend with but it large comes down to whether they are comfortable and if they feel cheap.

The AXS Audio are not promoted for their design and as such, I did not find them to be anything remarkable in the looks department. They’re comfy out of the box, but you’ll find additional tips sizes in the event you need a looser or tighter fit. Other than that, you might easily overlook these in the crowded field of AirPod lookalikes.

The same goes for the carrying case which also looks like someone aping Apple. Is it low-effort or might it be following the concept of not fixing something that doesn’t appear to be broken? I posit that it’s more of the latter scenario. Just know that if you get the white pair, you’ll undoubtedly have someone mistake your earbuds for AirPods at some point.

I imagine the stems are a necessary evil and conscious decision. Partly for ease of use and partly for some of the tech that makes the audio experience so good.

Is the audio good in the AXS Audio Professional Earbuds? Yes, indeed. They’re designed and tuned to the preference of Rikki Farr, a music expert and producer who has worked with the likes of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Bob Dylan, Prince, Tom Petty, Jimi Hendrix, and many others.

Music is represented very well in the AXS earbuds, no matter the genre. While they may sound less heavy or deep in the beginning, it doesn’t take long to realize it was on purpose. Mids and highs are evenly spaced and balanced with things generally feeling neutral.

Maybe it’s placebo effect, but I felt like I was picking up tiny fragments of instruments and sound that I previously did not. Thumping earbuds tend to sound “good” at first but they ultimately drown out the nuance and effort from audio engineers. That’s not the case here.

While some earbud makers provide a mobile app companion for adjusting the EQ settings or toggling different modes, you won’t find that here. Changing things would undo all that work by Farr and his team.

The AXS earbuds pair over Bluetooth 5.2 LE so they’re able to deliver high-definition and lossless playback. Moreover, the dual microphones and active noise cancellation (ANC) help eliminate background distractions when settling in for Wish You Were Here.

Battery life is more than sufficient, if not a little surprising. With up to 10 hours of playback per charge, you’ll also get another 38 hours of music from the carrying case — without using ANC. Those numbers, from as far as I can tell, are fairly accurate as I’ve only had to charge the case up one time over the last three weeks.

Charging is done via USB Type-C or through a standard Qi-compatible wireless charger. You’ll find a short charging cable in the package but you’ll have no issues finding something else. Four LED indicator lights on the front of the case will help you get a feel for how much juice is left.

The AXS Audio Professional Earbuds are IPX4 rated which means they’ll stand up to sweat and rain without worry. What’s more, the eartips are resistant to bacteria as well.

If you’re more concerned with how your earbuds sound than their beauty and aesthetics, the AXS are a good pair to consider. Not only do they deliver on audio, but they do so for hours upon hours. For about $150 you’ll get a premium audio experience without spending extra money for looks.

Learn more about the AXS Audio Professional Earbuds at the manufacturer’s website where you can also purchase them in black or white color options.

Blackview Tab 13 tipped to launch

AndroidGuys
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1

Since Blackview launched Tab 8 which proved to be one of the bestsellers, the company has never stopped its steps to upgrade its tablet portfolio with the Blackview Tab 10 pro, Tab 11, Tab 12, each with their own compelling updates, and now the latest Tab 13, too, with innovative upgrades, but this time much bigger and more exciting. We have learned about its expected specifications from the Blackview official sources and here is what we know.

Highlights Worth Expecting—-Big Upgrades!

More Eye-friendly Low Blue Light Screen 

——10.1-inch TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certified FHD+ Display

According to some noted tipsters who share on Twitter the possible specification of Blackview Tab 13, it is likely that the slate will bear a 10.1-inch FHD+ screen panel claimed to be the first-ever TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certified display among all Blackview devices. Working in conjunction with 3 well-customized screen modes, namely Dark mode, Reading mode and Eye-protection mode, Blackview Tab 13 can protect its users against the harm from low blue light and reduce eyestrain in an effective way. 

Bigger Battery 

——7280mAh Battery 

Blackview Tab 13 is said to house a humongous 7280mAh battery, the largest one among all its tablet siblings, allowing more than 30 hours of use between charges for moderate users. Hence daily gaming, taking loads of pictures, streaming videos or using navigation from day till night seems unlikely to deplete the battery before next charge. 

Gigantic Capacity 

——128GB ROM +6GB RAM + 4GB  Memory Expansion + 1TB Expandable

As for the memory, Tab 13 is expected to offer 128GB ROM and up to 1TB expandable support. Plus, the slate is said to be backed by Memory Expansion Technology to expand its 6GB RAM further to 10GB. That means not only the capacity of  Blackview Tab 13 to store more digital content will be upgraded, but also the ability for more fluent multitasking will be greatly improved.

More convenient Outdoor Wifi Solution

——Simo Internet 

Another possible feature on Blackview Tab 13 will be the Simo Internet powered by SIMO, a company that offers smart device users uninterrupted fast mobile Internet access anywhere, anytime by automatically switching to the best available local network among multiple operators. This marked the initial cooperation between SIMO and Blackview. With Simo Internet, Blackview Tab 13 users have no need to purchase a SIM card to access the Internet when there is no Wifi connection, while they can go wireless literally anywhere. It is said that Tab 13 will carry the SIMO 1.0 which is only available in certain areas, but the company is working to upgrade its future tablet with SIMO 2.0 for more availability of the service in more regions.

Brand New PC-style Interaction 

——The PC Mode 

According to an OS designer from Blackview, Tab 13 is likely to provide the PC-style interaction with the use of PC Mode that allows users to open multiple app windows at the same time while not sacrificing the convenience of screen-touching capability. Hence, scenarios like online conferencing or online classes will be significantly improved in productivity.

Upgraded OS Design with Ultra-responsiveness

——DokeOS_P 3.0 Upgraded from 2.0 Based on the Latest Android 12

With the latest upgrades to DokeOS_P 3.0 from 2.0 and Android 12, Tab 13 will probably witness better UI fluency, more responsiveness in all gesture operation and more secure and customized privacy control thanks to the Android 12.

Superior Dual Smart PA-supported Box Speakers

An engineer from Blackview leaked that Tab 13 is likely to be streets ahead of all its elder siblings when it comes to audio quality since the slate is said to carry dual Smart PA-supported Box speakers offering louder, crystal clear, stereo and exceptional surround sound effects that will probably rock everyone’s world. In music-listening, films-watching or media-streaming, how Tab 13 will perform with its powerful speakers is indeed worth expecting. 

Other Thrilling Features

According to some leakers, Blackview Tab 13 is likely to be powered by MediaTek Helio G85 and shipped with dual Smart PA-supported Box speakers. For optics, Tab 13 is expected to house 8MP Samsung® front camera and up to 13MP + 0.3MP rear cameras. With regard to the external design, Blackview Tab 13 can be billed as the most gorgeous and minimalist combination among all Blackview slates with aluminum alloy back panel and flattened frame and being 7.7mm ultra-slim and 450g extremely light, maxing portability to the fullest. What’s more, the screen of Tab 13 is said to be protected by a reinforced tempered film for better crack-resistance. With so much to offer, it is no wonder that the company applauds Tab 13 by saying it is the combination of four upgrades——boost in speed, upgrade in design, further eye protection and up-a-notch recreation. 

Price & Release Date

Among all the great advantages of Blackview Tab 13, what surprises us most is surely its lower-than-average price point, which is said to be the record low. But as for the authenticity of this, we will have to wait to know until August 22nd, the expected world premiere day. Stay tuned for more information.

Link to Blackview Tab13 : https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_olrY1v7

Best Phones at Pure Talk (Summer 2022)

Scott Webster
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0

Shopping for a smartphone doesn’t have to be a difficult endeavor but we sometimes make it out to be one, don’t we?

Which phone is the right one for your needs? What if you’re working with a limited budget? What if you’re switching service providers and don’t know what’s available?

We field questions all the time friends, family members, readers and listeners. One of the most common topics is helping to determine which phone is the best one for them.

When dealing with the topic of which is the best phone at a particular carrier we often look at a number of things, including price, hardware specifications, version of software, and age.

Between these details we pare down the selection into a couple of options, typically spanning three levels: entry level, mid-range, and flagship. On occasion we’ll also find that a carrier offers a specialty or niches experience, too, such as folding, gaming, and productivity-based phones.

Below you’ll find our selection for the best phones available at Pure Talk as of summer 2022. Note that these are not the top devices across the lineup; these are aimed at specific user types or budgets.

We invite you to subscribe to our podcast where we highlight a wide range of wireless service providers and their respective phone selection. Moreover, we can also help you to get a better understanding of the MVNOs and carriers available in the US.

Perfect for smaller budgets, first time users, and those with minimal needs

Samsung Galaxy A13

A great phone for users who don’t want or need a lot from their device, this one is generous in a few areas. The big 6.5-inch screen is easy on the eyes and the 5,000mAh battery should last around two days.

An octa-core processor is paired with a fair amount of memory; the storage capacity is respectable and expandable, too. Toss in a recent version of Android (12), a triple camera setup, and a 3.5mm headphone jack and you’ve got pretty much all of the things that are important. $50.

Samsung Galaxy S22

A phone that’s as beautiful as it is powerful, you’ll get everything you need plus plenty of extras. Here you get a large 6.1-inch screen with high refresh rate, a powerful processor and plenty of memory.

The triple camera system is led by a 50-megapixel shooter and the battery is not only generous, but it charges quickly and wirelessly, too. Oh, and it can share its charge with other devices as well. $550.

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

The tip of the spear for Samsung phones in 2022, this is the biggest and boldest version of the flagship line. You’ll get a massive screen that’s easy on the eyes and works with the included S Pen digital stylus, a tremendous 108-megapixel camera system, and tons of power.

The 5000mAh battery is generous, charges incredibly fast, and supports wireless power sharing. The One UI software built atop Android 12 is one of the best user experiences around. $950.

Looking for something else?

While these are our picks for the best Android phones available at Pure Talk, we understand that budgets and needs are different for everyone.

Take a look around and you’ll see other options available. And don’t forget, you can likely bring your current phone or purchase one direct from a device manufacturer, too.

Android 13 officially arrives for Pixel devices

Scott Webster
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0

Google on Monday announced that Android 13 has officially been pushed to the Android Open Source Project. Moreover, the latest version of Android has begun rolling out to select Pixel devices as well.

Looking ahead, Google says that Android 13 will arrive on “your favorite devices” from Samsung Galaxy, Asus, HMD (Nokia phones), iQOO, Motorola, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, Vivo, Xiaomi and other manufacturers.

What’s new with Android 13? Quite a bit, actually. There’s plenty of personalization and customization for users to create unique device experiences. Additionally, there are more granular controls over security and privacy, ensuring you’re protected better than ever.

As more devices become connected and smart, even have interoperability, it helps when they play nice together. To that end, Android 13 is created with that in mind. That is to say there are features for better multitasking and working between devices.

One of the features we like best about Android 13 is the refreshed and enhanced Material You experience. It allows for a more cohesive look and feel and makes our device feel uniquely ours.

Longtime Android users have seen notifications go through a number of changes, and that continues with Android 13. With the latest release we find that apps now need your permission to send notifications rather than the general assumption that it’s okay to do so.

Digital wellbeing gets a punch-up, too, with a customized bedtime mode with wallpaper dimming and dark theme. If you struggle to put your handset down at night, this could be the tool to help make it easier.

Also cool is the ability to decide whether to share specific videos or photos with an app. Rather than granting full access to your collection you can select individual files.

Many of us work in Android and Chrome environments, taking advantage of the benefits of each. If you find yourself hopping back and forth between the two, you’ll enjoy some of the interoperability. You can stream messaging apps to your Chromebook; in the future you’ll be able to copy URLs, pics, text, and other content from your phone and paste it on your tablet. And vice versa.

Rounding things out we can also look forward to Bluetooth Low Energy Audio for lower latency, Spatial Audio, HDR support in third-party camera apps, an updated media player, and more in Android 13

For more information on what’s in Android 13, check out Google’s blog post on the new launch.

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