Looking for the best wireless mouse you can buy? Here are six we simply love

Wires are so last century. Wireless mice have become the standard for computer interaction. They just make sense: If you’re going to have an input device that constantly moves around by its very design, why would you want anything getting in the way?

At this point, there are literally thousands of choices vying for your wireless dollar, from under $20 to well over $100, and many specifically tailored — we’ve vetted the best gaming mice separately, for example. So which one is the best? While that’s certainly a subjective question, you can’t go wrong with any of the picks for the best wireless mouse provided below.

The Best

Logitech MX Master ($62+)

Logitech MX Master

The MX series has been the cream of Logitech’s crop for high-end mice, and the company pulled out all the stops with the “Master” update to its much-loved MX Performance model. While the Master retains the basic shape of the MX line with its distinctive thumb rest flare, the body has been re-sculpted with a higher back and some eye-catching trim.

The scroll wheel now automatically switches between the gliding “fast scroll” mode and the more usable single-scroll function without the need to press a physical button, and a secondary scroll wheel lets you scroll horizontally with your thumb. Standard left, right, and middle buttons, plus forward and back buttons, and a multi-tasting thumb button, are all programmable in Logitech’s software.

But it’s what’s on the inside that counts. In addition to a new permanent rechargeable battery, the MX Master is one of the only mice on the market that works wirelessly over RF (with Logitech’s proprietary “Unifying” dongles, one of which is included) and Bluetooth, allowing dongle-free connection to most new laptops and tablets. A handy illuminated button on the bottom of the mouse allows you to switch between three devices, connected via dongle or Bluetooth, without any extra pairing.

The mouse only has two downsides. First, its $100 price tag, and second, its small and pointy forward and back buttons. If those are points of contention for you, the MX Performance (with more finger-friendly browser buttons) is still widely available, and often discounted now that its successor is on the market. Also, if you want a mobile version of this mouse, check out the superb MX Anywhere 2.

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Amazon Best Buy

The Rest

Best mobile mouse — Logitech MX Anywhere 2 ($51)

If you’re looking for a wireless mouse so you’re not stuck using your laptop’s touchpad, this is the tail-free mechanical rodent for you. It sports a small profile so it’s easy to carry, but large enough so you don’t feel like you’re pushing a child’s toy. It’s compact form is sculpted to fit your hand, and provides enough space on the left side to provide two additional buttons for your thumb’s pressing pleasure.

Given this mouse is built for mobile, you won’t find an arsenal of buttons. Outside the mentioned thumb buttons, the mouse only provides the standard left/right click buttons, and a middle clicker mounted behind the mouse wheel. This wheel can tilt left to right for horizontal scrolling, and provides two tactile-based modes. It has Click-To-Click for bump-based tactile feedback, and Free-Spin for a smooth spin.

With Logitech’s MX Anywhere 2, you can connect to your PC in three ways — via the provided USB cable, Bluetooth, or using the included Logitech Unifying Receiver (2.4GHz wireless). It supports the Logitech Easy Switch platform, meaning you can pair up to three compatible mice, and switch between them with a simple press of a button located on the bottom of the peripheral.

On the technical side, the mouse has a sensitivity between 200 and 4,000 dots per inch (DPI). It’s based on Logitech’s Darkfield laser tracking system that uses a laser to track any surface, resulting in a mouse that you can use anywhere, even on glass.

We love this mobile mouse because it’s a “focused” peripheral. It’s meant for on-the-go computing, and promises up to 70 days of use on a single charge. That’s right — it includes a built-in rechargeable battery, so when the level gets low, just plug it into your laptop’s USB port. You simply can’t go wrong with this sporty compact mouse.

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Amazon Best Buy

Best ergonomic mouse — Evoluent VerticalMouse ($80+)

If ergonomics is your primary focus, the Evoluent VerticalMouse is our pick. We ran this bad boy through the gauntlet in 2016, and it’s still one of our favorite mice on the market.

Overall, the VerticalMouse looks like a dorsal fin protruding from your desk. The unit tapers toward the flared base, keeping your hand elevated and allowing you to more aptly keep your wrist aligned with your forearm. This positioning relieves physiological stress, potentially minimizing fatigue and the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

The unit is divided into three main elements. With the right-handed model, the button and wheel are located on the right side of the device. The left side incorporates a rounded indentation for your thumb to rest along. This setup allows you to grip the mouse at a 90-degree abduction angle when compared to a standard mouse.

A series of blue LEDs along the top ridge of the mouse illustrate the current DPI level while in use. One of the biggest drawbacks with this model, however, is that the mouse wheel does not click. Perhaps Evoluent will tweak this slight design flaw in later iterations. Read our VerticalMouse review here.

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Amazon

Best trackball mouse — Logitech M570 ($28)

Trackballs aren’t all that popular these days, so your options are limited, and even more limited if you want one that’s wireless. The Logitech M570 is the clear standout in the limited field of conventional stationary trackballs thanks to is standardized mouse shape that puts the ball comfortably under your thumb instead of jutting out beneath your index or middle fingers.

That design choice leaves your fingers free for mouse-style click buttons, plus smartly-placed browser buttons that leave your thumb on the ball. The M570’s ball pops out without any extra pieces or tabs for easy cleaning, and it works with Logitech’s Unifying RF receiver (handy if you share a desktop with a fan of a standard mouse).

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Amazon Best Buy

Best mouse for gaming — SteelSeries Rival 700 ($75)

SteelSeries did something fantastic when it conjured up the Rival 700: it crammed a small OLED screen on the left side of this mechanical rodent for PC gamers.

This little black-and-white OLED screen sports a mere 128 x 36 resolution, but packs enough space for you to create a cool logo or some other graphic to make this mouse your own. You can even create animations that run at 10 frames per second, or install one of the pre-generated images and animations SteelSeries provides right here.

But there’s more to this mouse than just its cool OLED screen. It includes a removable rubbery nameplate, too, that’s meant to be replaced. By accessing these files provided by SteelSeries, you can design your own customized nameplate, and then 3D-print that design to replace the default Rival nameplate. It’s just another way to make this mouse your own, which we simply love.

Another cool aspect of the Rival 700 is its tactile-based feedback. You can “feel” alerts in the palm of your hand through different forms of vibrations. For instance, if you wanted to feel the firing effects of a gun, you could assign the appropriate button with “Vibrate On Click” to feel the pulse on gunfire. Want to feel the effects of bunny-hopping? Assign your jump button with the “Triple Click” vibration to feel three short pulses.

The Rival 700 is based on the PixArt PMW3360 optical sensor with a sensitivity ranging between 100 and 16,000 dots per inch. It has a polling rate of up to 1,000Hz, and a maximum acceleration of 50g. There are seven buttons in all, with the two main click buttons relying on proprietary switches promising up to 30 million clicks. That all said, the Rival 700 would definitely be a great addition to your PC gaming arsenal, even if it’s just for the visual bling.

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Amazon Best Buy

Best budget mouse — Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 ($15+)

The Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 is a economic, no-frills alternative. The wireless mouse may not blow you away with adjustable click force or customizable accents, but if you’re in need of a wireless mouse and want to spend less than $20, this is your best bet.

The Mobile Mouse 3500 uses the company’s BlueTrack Technology, which capitalizes on a combination of both optical and laser precision for reliable tracking on an array of surfaces. The symmetrical, ambidextrous design also makes the Mobile Mouse 3500 perfect for users of left or right-handed persuasion.

And unlike the other premium mice on our roundup, Microsoft’s offering can last up to eight months on a single charge, which a welcome feature to say the least.

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Amazon Microsoft Best Buy

The ultimate guide to 2017’s Android Wear smartwatches

If you’re shopping for an Android Wear smartwatch, it’s too easy to be overwhelmed by all the options. In addition to mobile mainstays like LG and Huawei, luxury watch makers like Fossil and Tag Heuer have also entered the fray. The market is only becoming more crowded — but fortunately, all that competition means the products are only improving year after year. In this article, we’ll break down all the timepieces toting Android Wear 2.0 releasing in 2017, whether you’re after something lavish or sporty.

As a quick refresher, Android Wear is the smartwatch operating system from Google. It has been around for a few years, but Google launched a major redesign — version 2.0 — early this year. Similarly to the Apple Watch, Android Wear watches can give you all the notifications from your phone to your wrist, and you can interact with many of them. Some tout GPS, support for NFC to make payments with Android Pay, and an LTE connection, while others keep it simple with notifications, access to Google Assistant, and a lower price tag. For more details on what’s new, read our Android Wear 2.0 guide.

Fashion watches

Michael Kors Access Sofie ($350)

Brenda Stoylar/Digital Trends

We were pleased with Michael Kors’ latest women’s smartwatch, the Access Sofie, in our review. Though it’s not a success on every front — battery life is just middle of the road, and you won’t find NFC inside — it’s one of the most attractive women’s watch we’ve seen yet. The gemstones encircling the face surely won’t be to everyone’s taste, but you can tone down the look with interchangeable mesh and leather straps. The Access Sofie feels light on the wrist, and the display is bright, if a little on the smaller side. Still, it packs performance on par with the best Android Wear has to offer, and, being a women’s watch, there aren’t many alternatives that fill the niche.

Michael Kors Access Sofie Review

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Micahael Kors

Michael Kors Access Grayson ($350)

Christian de Looper/Digital Trends

The Access Grayson is Michael Kors’ Android Wear smartwatch for men. It packs the same internals as the Access Sofie, such as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 2100 processor, and it also has an IP67 water- and dust-resistant design, as well as support for interchangeable bands. Where it differs is design — it’s a lot bulkier, it has a bigger screen, and there are three customizable buttons on the right side. There’s no NFC here for Android Pay, and you won’t find GPS or heart-rate monitoring. If you’re looking for a good-looking watch that performs well and can offer up interactive notifications — with access to Google Assistant — the Grayson is a solid option.

Michael Kors Access Grayson review

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Michael Kors

Fossil Q Explorist ($255)

Fossil’s Q Founder was one of our favorite smartwatches of last year, and the Q Explorist improves on its predecessor with a fully circular screen, a slimmer design, and the proper specs to match. The watch is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 2100 processor — the same chip found in the best-performing Android Wear devices — and comes with 4GB of internal storage for music. Despite the name, you won’t find GPS or heart rate tracking here, which is typical among luxury smartwatches. When you’re buying a watch like this, style is paramount, and the Explorist picks up where the Founder left off. Best of all, the price isn’t out of the range of affordability, starting at just $255. You can opt for a stainless steel bracelet, or a leather strap, and the cases come in different colors. Look forward to our review soon.

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Fossil

Fossil Q Venture ($255)

If you’re a woman and you want something a little slimmer, smaller, and lighter than Fossil’s Q Explorist, the Q Venture packs a more feminine design with the same hardware inside. The look is less rugged and more elegant, but you won’t pay any more than you would for the Q Explorist. The Venture comes in several different stainless steel finishes: rose gold, gold, silver, and a combination of navy and rose gold that can be purchased with a matching strap. Speaking of straps, all of Fossil’s 18mm collection is compatible with the Venture. We’re currently reviewing this product.

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Fossil

Tag Heuer Connected Modular 45 ($1,550)

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

If you want a smartwatch but refuse to compromise on design, Tag Heuer’s Connected Modular 45 is the best Android Wear has to offer. Combining the look and feel of a Swiss timepiece with everything Google’s wearable platform has to offer, the Connected 45 is the right blend of luxury and technology that doesn’t skimp on either. Owing to the name, there are a variety of straps, horns, and clasps available for the Connected Modular 45 that can be mixed and matched as you please. In total there are over 500 combinations, and they all fit together perfectly. You can even purchase a mechanical watch module ($1,650) in case you want to go off the grid. The titanium body keeps the watch light on your wrist, and while it’s questionable whether any smartwatch will stand the test of time technologically speaking, there’s no doubt the Connected Modular 45’s design and build won’t fade. At least we hope so, considering the device starts at $1,600.

Tag Heuer Connected Modular 45 hands-on review

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TagHeuer

Guess Connect Touch ($300)

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Guess’ Connect Touch line is surprisingly reasonably priced — for just $300, you can get a 41mm watch face with the design you’d expect from the famed brand. A 44mm version is also available for $350, and Guess has created versions for both men and women. Each has a selection of customizable straps, with watch faces based on the company’s existing mechanical designs. In total, there are six body styles for men, six for women, and another six considered unisex. Again, there’s no GPS or heart-rate monitor. It’s expected to launch this fall.

Guess Connect Touch hands-on review

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Amazon

Gc Connect

Guess’ watch sub-brand, Gc by Guess, is also releasing an Android Wear smartwatch with a similar name. The Gc Connect’s design is based on the company’s Structura analog watches, and comes in both men’s and women’s styles. The watches do look quite different from Guess’ Connect Touch, with a more minimalist design and less bling overall. They still feature the same hardware underneath however, so you won’t have to compromise on technology to achieve a more modest look. Currently, there’s no word on pricing or availability, though we expect it to launch around the same time as the Guess Connect at a similar price.

Hugo Boss Touch ($395)

Hugo Boss’ first Android Wear smartwatch, the Touch, follows up the brand’s Smart Classic hybrid released last year. That was a mechanical watch with a simple LCD display behind the face, but the Touch is a full-on smartwatch powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 2100 platform. It features NFC, which means you can use Android Pay to make contactless payments. The device is manufactured by Movado, which is also producing Tommy Hilfiger’s TH24/7YOU, and costs $395. We haven’t heard much about it since it was announced earlier this year, but we’ll update this article when we hear a release date.

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Macy’s

Tommy Hilfiger TH24/7YOU ($300)

Both the Hugo Boss Touch and Tommy Hilfiger TH24/7YOU are mostly the same underneath, though Tommy Hilfiger’s version omits NFC to reach a price point about $100 less. There are still clear similarities in the designs, however, and the most notable difference with this model is the option of a metal link bracelet for the band. You’ll also receive a different set of watch faces bearing the brand’s iconic red, white, and blue color scheme. The TH24/7YOU is expected to go on sale this holiday season.

Movado Connect ($595)

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

While Movado may produce smartwatches for Hugo Boss and Tommy Hilfiger, it’s most luxurious offering is sold under its own brand name. It’s called the Movado Connect, and its refined, minimalist design makes it one of the most attractive Android Wear products on the market today. A 46.5 mm body makes it one of the largest on this list, but it isn’t terribly thick, and you’ll find more than 100 customizable watch faces to make the most of that big display. NFC is thankfully included in the package, just like the Hugo Boss Touch. The Movado Connect begins at $595, but depending on how you configure it, the price can easily stretch close to $1,000.

Movado Connect review

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Macy’s

Montblanc Summit ($890)

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

With its massive 46mm body, the Montblanc Summit is anything but subtle — but it’s the little details that really make it special. The 400 x 400 pixel resolution display is one of the best we’ve seen on a smartwatch, with a slight dome to its shape. Available in polished stainless steel or titanium, whichever Summit you choose is rated IP68 water-resistant and it features an embedded heart-rate sensor. That’s something you won’t find on many luxury wearables, and certainly helps justify the device’s steep cost of entry — $890.

Montblanc Summit hands-on review

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Bloomingdale’s

Diesel On Full Guard ($325)

Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

If you’re after a luxury watch with a seriously sporty flair, the Diesel On Full Guard nails the look. It’s not really a wearable for fitness connoisseurs — there’s no heart rate monitor nor is there any water resistance. If you’re looking for a watch chock full of features, you’ll be disappointed. For a starting price of $325, you’ll miss out on GPS and NFC as well. But the On is notable in other ways. The 454 x 454 display is among the highest resolution we’ve seen on an Android Wear watch yet, so it’s remarkably crisp and clear. The design looks positively stunning, when mixed with the brown leather straps, gunmetal body, and one of the more techy watch faces. Thankfully, it’s lightweight and comfortable to wear, despite bearing a more rugged and intimidating appearance.

Diesel On Full Guard Review

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Nordstrom

Emporio Armani Connected Touchscreen Smartwatch ($345)

Manufactured by Fossil, Emporio Armani’s new Android Wear-powered smartwatch sits above the company’s hybrid timepieces, but still starts at $345. If you’re shopping for fashion, that’s not bad — though under the surface, there’s very little differentiating this watch from others in the price range. The design and build quality is unquestionably solid, and it offers the same Android Wear 2.0 features as the other watches. With a Snapdragon Wear 2100 chipset, it’s certainly powerful enough to handle most tasks, though you won’t find NFC, GPS, or a heart rate sensor on board. Our full review is on the way.

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Macy’s

Louis Vuitton Tambour Horizon ($2,450)

In a sea of similar-looking smartwatches, Louis Vuitton’s offering easily stands out. It’s got a price tag like no other, too — $2,450. For that, you get a smartwatch that no doubt looks brilliant, with its bowed, almost hourglass-like profile. Sadly, it comes with less RAM and a smaller battery than its competitors. Fashion takes no backseat to technology in the world of jewelry, but when you’re spending that much, it’s hard not to be slightly bothered that ZTE sells a watch that comfortably beats this one in specifications and costs less than a tenth of the price. Still, you get to take your pick from a total of 60 strap designs and three case styles — stainless steel, brushed steel, and black. The Tambour Horizon, which is available now, also comes pre-loaded with a suite of travel apps to help with things like flight itineraries and finding local places of interest, which its jet-setting clientele will likely find useful.

Fitness watches

Casio Pro Trek Smart WSD-F20 ($500)

Bill Roberson/Digital Trends

Casio’s always had a reputation for rugged electronics, and for Android Wear, the Pro Trek Smart WSD-F20 is about as rugged as they come. Adhering to the military’s MIL-STD-810G standard, the Pro Trek is resistant to shock, pressure, temperature, and, most importantly, water. With protection against up to 50 meters of water pressure, Casio’s watch is an excellent option if you’re an avid swimmer, hiker, or general outdoor enthusiast. GPS functionality and the ability to download maps make it an even better choice. But one of the most fascinating things about the Pro Trek is its dual-layered display. The watch actually has two screens stacked together: the typical color LCD, in this case with a resolution of 320 x 300, and a traditional monochrome panel on top. As a result, the Pro Trek can turn off Android Wear and switch to the monochrome screen, which conserves significantly more battery power — it can last about a month in this mode, but you only get access to the time.

Casio Pro Trek Smart WSD-F20 review

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Macy’s

LG Watch Sport (As low as $250, original retail price was $350)

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

If you’re looking for a watch that will best serve your fitness needs and love of the outdoors, but isn’t quite as bulky as Casio’s Pro Trek, the LG Watch Sport might be more your speed. It’s thick and bulky, but it still carries a tasteful, minimalist design that won’t look quite so out of place during a night out. Just as important, it packs a ton of features as well, like standalone GPS, NFC, and LTE connectivity. Not many smartwatches can claim the latter, and it makes the Watch Sport something to consider if you’re after the most functionality. Unfortunately, being connected to cell towers all the time isn’t great for battery life, and unsurprisingly, that’s where the Watch Sport struggles the most. A day seems to be the max LG’s device can deliver, and even if you leave it mostly idle, it’ll eat up a third of a full charge in 20 hours. If you can put up with below average longevity, the Watch Sport is a solid option priced at $350, but it’s even better with a $250 price tag on Amazon.

LG Watch Sport Review

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LG Watch Sport

Verizon Wear24 ($350 – discontinued)

Kyle Wiggers/Digital Trends

Give Verizon credit — nobody expected a carrier to release a smartwatch, but then came the Wear24. There’s a lot to like about Big Red’s watch on paper — it was one of the first to launch with Android Wear 2.0, and it even features LTE connectivity. But that’s just about it. There’s very little to say about the design; there’s no heart rate monitor, so even with GPS and an LTE connection, it falls short of working as a true fitness companion. We also lamented the lack of NFC, which means you can’t use Android Pay, and the speaker quality is poor. You can do far better for the $350 price tag, except Verizon has already discontinued sales of the Wear24. It looks like time isn’t on Verizon’s side.

Verizon Wear24 Review

Huawei Watch 2 Classic/Sport (As low as $245, original retail price was $300)

Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends

The first Huawei Watch was one of our favorite Android Wear watches, and while the second generation isn’t quite as stylish, as an overall package, it’s even better. Whether you buy the Classic or Sport model, you get loads of features, like NFC, GPS, IP68 water resistance, and 4GB of onboard storage for music. Where the Watch 2 really shines, however, is in the battery life department. Through average usage, the Huawei Watch 2‘s 420mAh battery will put in slightly more than a day of work. But Huawei has included an optional Watch Mode that — like the Casio watch — turns off Android Wear and just displays the time and your step count, nothing else. In Watch Mode, the device can last up to 25 days. A “dumb” smartwatch is surely better than a dead one. The only difference between the Watch 2 Sport and Classic, aside from the aesthetics, is the presence of LTE connectivity. The watch retailed at $300 when introduced, but now can be found for as low as $245.

Huawei Watch 2 Review

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Newegg

New Balance RunIQ (As low as $200, original retail price was $300)

Marcus Yam/Digital Trends

New Balance’s smartwatch features the typical hallmarks of a high-end fitness tracker, but it goes one step further thanks to a partnership with Strava — an app popular with runners and bicyclists that tracks their activity and encourages a little healthy competition. Unfortunately, using the watch in this way significantly reduces its battery life. During casual use, you can expect to get 24 hours out of the RunIQ. On your workout, with Strava active, that drops to about five hours. Still, for your $200 (discounted price), you’ll get GPS, heart rate tracking and 5ATM water resistance. If running is your preferred way to stay in shape, it’s worth a look. This 2017 watch launched with Android Wear 1.0, but an update is now available to make the jump to version 2.0.

New Balance RunIQ hands-on review

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Amazon

Budget all-rounders

LG Watch Style (As low as $180, original retail price was $250)

For most people, LG’s Watch Style ticks all the boxes. Co-designed with Google, the Watch Style is as pure an expression of Android Wear as you’ll find. It’s not perfect — it lacks NFC, meaning you can’t use it for tap-and-pay transactions, and the battery is a little small. However, that’s partly made up with a tasteful, minimalist design, a svelte form factor, and responsive hardware. The Watch Style makes some other watches on this list feel bulky and unwieldy by comparison. It also comes with a strap made from genuine Italian leather, a welcome addition given that it starts at $250. Price actually has a lot to do with why the Watch Style is on this list — you can find one for as low as $180. With those savings, LG’s offering truly slides into budget territory, making it even more compelling.

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B&H

Misfit Vapor ($200)

Malarie Gokey/Digital Trends

Priced at just $200, Misfit’s first full-fledged smartwatch is powered by Android Wear 2.0 and touts many features typical of more expensive devices, like a circular AMOLED display, 5ATM water resistance, a heart rate sensor, and a touch-sensitive bezel. It’s not out yet, though it’s expected to launch this month. We did have an opportunity to test the Misfit Vapor earlier in the year, before the company shifted from developing its own operating system to Android Wear. We liked what we saw, and despite the low price, there doesn’t appear to be any obvious compromises. At the very least, this is a watch you should keep a close eye on entering the new year.

Misfit Vapor hands-on review

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Misfit

ZTE Quartz (As low as $96, original retail price was $192)

In our review, we said the ZTE Quartz is “the cheapest Android watch you’ll want to wear.” While that won’t be enough to win the fashion crowd over, it does mean ZTE’s device is one of your least expensive routes to a real smartwatch — and there’s certainly some value in that. For just $192 — now discounted to just $96 — you get the best specs among any device on this list — 768MB of RAM, 4GB of internal memory, and a 500mAh battery. Unfortunately, although it’s fast, fluid, and will last longer on a charge than its competitors, the Quartz misses the mark in a few key areas. You won’t find NFC, GPS, or a heart rate sensor onboard. Other watches might be able to get away with such omissions because they work as elegant fashion accessories, but the Quartz’s uncomfortable band and bulky, bland design don’t help the cause.

ZTE Quartz Review

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T-Mobile

Mobvoi Ticwatch S/Ticwatch E ($200 and $160)

The latest Ticwatch, made by Google-backed Chinese startup Mobvoi, was successfully funded on Kickstarter and looks to release later this year. It comes in two flavors — the S and the E — with the primary difference between them relating to the design and display size. The Ticwatch S has a slightly larger screen with GPS cleverly integrated into the band, to cut down on the thickness of the body. The Ticwatch E features the GPS in the case, allowing for interchangeable bands, and it’ll cost less. Price is a major factor with both of these watches. The Ticwatch E will cost just $160 when it hits retail. That’s is by far the cheapest device on this list (at retail price), while the Ticwatch S comes in at $200. No matter which you buy, each comes with GPS, heart rate monitoring, IP67 water resistance, and Ticwatch’s own suite of fitness apps. The screen is one of the highest-resolution you’ll find on the market, at 400 x 400 pixels, and while the plastic and rubber construction won’t fool anyone, these are two charming little smartwatches with surprisingly extensive feature sets.

OPPO F5 with FHD+ display is heading to India and other SE Asian markets

OPPO’s upcoming phone will leverage AI to help you take great selfies.

The OPPO F5 will be making its debut later this month, and now we know the launch markets for the device. The phone will be making its way to India, along with other markets in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

There’s precious little to go by regarding the OPPO F5, but what we do know is that the phone will be the first from the company to offer an FHD+ display with a resolution of 2160 x 1080. The teaser above also suggests it’ll have AI-assisted tech for taking selfies.

The launch event is scheduled for October 26, so we’ll know more about the device later this month.

How the Active Edge squeeze function works on Google’s Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

All you need to do is squeeze and Google Assistant will launch.

The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL both deliver excellent experiences on a gorgeous phone and come packed with new features. Amongst them is the Active Edge squeeze function, which lets you launch Google Assistant or ignore phone calls, all with a quick squeeze of your phone.

We’ve got the details on how this feature works and what it can do right here!

How does the Active Edge squeeze function work?

To launch Google Assistant or silence an incoming phone call you previously needed to use a voice command or press a capacitative button on your phone. Now you’re able to get the same results by simply squeezing your Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL and activating the Edge squeeze function.

This is a feature that doesn’t require any setup to utilize. Just grip your phone firmly in hand, and in a single motion, squeeze in on the left and right sides of the phone.

What can you do with the Active Edge squeeze function

Unlike Samsung’s Bixby button on the Galaxy S8 series, the Active Edge squeeze function is capable of doing more than just one thing. You can silence incoming phone calls that you don’t want to deal with or use it to launch Google Assistant. You’re even able to launch Google Assistant with a squeeze when your screen is off.

You’ll also be able to adjust how sensitive the Active Edge squeeze function so that it requires more or less pressure in order to launch. This is particularly handy to fine tune how and when it launches so that you have full control over the feature. Of course, if you aren’t a fan, you can also turn it off from within your settings.

Questions?

Do you still have questions about how the Active Edge squeeze function works? Are you excited to use this feature when you pick up your Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL? Let us know about it in the comments below!

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

• Pixel 2 FAQ: Everything you need to know!
• Google Pixel 2 and 2 XL hands-on preview
• Google Pixel 2 specs
• Google Pixel 2 vs. Pixel 2 XL: What’s the difference?
• Join our Pixel 2 forums

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Verizon

Galaxy Note 8 and LG V30 are the best big phones of 2017

The Note 8 and V30 are both fantastic phones, and these are a few reasons why some of our readers chose the one they did.

Ever since Samsung released the first Galaxy Note in 2011, big phones have been rising in popularity year after year – so much so that they’re now the industry norm. The LG V30 and Samsung Galaxy Note 8 are two of the hottest phablets for 2017, and naturally, a lot of debate between the two has been ignited.

Samsung Galaxy Note 8 (left), LG V30 (right)

On one hand, Samsung’s Galaxy Note line is a staple of the company’s for kicking out large phones with a ton of features that offer the kitchen sink and then some. On the other hand, LG’s V series has quickly been establishing itself as the go-to phone line for people that are serious about content creation, big screens, and powerful DACs.

Both the Note 8 and V30 are incredibly powerful and impressive phones, and based on the constant back and forth from our forum users, there are legitimate reasons for considering either handset as your next daily driver.

In regards to the Note 8:

nizmoz
10-08-2017 11:04 AM

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The V30 has slower performance over the Note 8 already tested. Also, it doesn’t have near the features Samsung does. Like Bixby, Spen, Samsung Pay, Live Photo, not as good of a screen, and so on. It doesn’t even come with headphones in the US wireless provider versions. LOL.

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Yankee512
10-09-2017 11:53 AM

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Note 8 of course. The V30 can’t touch the features it has.

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Retinella
10-09-2017 10:32 PM

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Why would you even consider returning a Note 8 for the V30? The Note 8 has more RAM, bigger pixels in the camera, better front facing camera, Samsung Pay, S Pen, better UI, better screen…that’s like asking if you should trade in your Lamborghini for a Ford Pinto.

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Praise for Samsung’s latest and greatest is apparent, but LG’s V30 also brings a lot to the table.

Will In SF
10-08-2017 10:27 PM

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I have been pleased with LG phones. I had the G3, V10 and now on the V20. I am switching carriers and have to get a new phone. I was thinking about trying the Note 8, but I can not get over the size (I thought the V20 was big). I like the wide angle camera of the V series and also a fan of the quad DAC as well, so as soon as I can get one in store at T-Mobile I am going for the V30.

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Kendahl Titcomb
10-10-2017 09:35 AM

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This is the very reason for this question. I struggled with the size and shape of this phone. I finally today just took the plunge and got my V30. It will be here in a few days and I’m excited to have it. I know people couldn’t understand the need for the question, but I really struggled with the size of this phone over it’s functionality. I love the Note 8 performance and love many of the…

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I think we can all agree that both the Note 8 and V30 have their own respective place in the market, but if you had to choose between one of two, which would it be – Samsung Galaxy Note 8 or LG V30?

Join the conversation in the forums!

Should you buy an original Pixel or Pixel XL in 2017?

Is a lower-priced Pixel or Pixel XL a good deal right now?

The unceasing march of innovation, coupled with the desire for a predictable revenue stream for manufacturers and carriers alike, all but ensures an annual update cycle for most major smartphone brands.

So is true of the new Pixel 2 series, which takes what made last year’s models so good and improves on them in nearly every conceivable way.

But Google and its U.S. carrier partner Verizon are not putting the originals out to pasture just yet. Instead, they’re each getting $100 price cuts and entering their second life as, if not budget phones, viable options for fast, capable, approachable Android flagships for people who don’t want or need the very best.

And if you want a Pixel with a headphone jack, last year’s models are your only option.

Should you buy a Pixel?

At $549, the original Pixel is still a good phone, but it’s not a great deal.

With the original Pixel down to $549, it’s easier than ever to get into a Chevy Google. With its 5-inch OLED display, still-powerful Snapdragon 821 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage, the Pixel has specs that don’t seem too out of place in late 2017, and it’s still got a year left of Google’s guaranteed platform updates, which means it will be among the first devices to get Android P when it debuts in 2018. It’s also got a 2770mAh battery, which is ever-so-slightly larger than the one in the Pixel 2.

But the original Pixel lacks a couple of key features that many people take for granted in phones today; its single, downport speaker doesn’t compare well to the front-facing stereo speakers on the Pixel 2, and it lacks its successor’s IP67 water resistance. It also has a rather pedestrian design that failed to win over the mass market.

At $549, the original Pixel is still a good phone, but it’s not a great deal. If you’re already spending that much on a phone, you should probably try to save up the extra hundred for the Pixel 2, which adds a faster Snapdragon 835 processor, double the storage, an improved camera with optical image stabilization, and the promise of an additional two years of platform updates.

Of course, as already mentioned, the Pixel has the headphone jack that the Pixel 2 lacks, which, if wired headphones are important, may singlehandedly be enough to push you over the edge.

If you do want an original Pixel, it may be worth investigating lightly used models on sites like Swappa or eBay, which could bring the cost down significantly.

See at Google Store

Should you buy a Pixel XL?

The question of whether you should buy a Pixel XL right now is a bit more nuanced. The same arguments against it still apply — no waterproofing, aging processor, shorter update lifespan — but the Pixel XL, at its lower price of $669, has a considerable price delta advantage to the Pixel 2 XL, which starts at $849.

The Pixel 2 XL is a better phone, but it’s also nearly $200 more expensive.

Sure, the Pixel 2 XL is sleeker and taller, with an updated design that takes advantage of LG’s near-bezelless design and pOLED technology, but the Pixel XL is still a whopper of a phone. Its 3450mAh battery has proven capable of offering all-day battery life, something its smaller Pixel counterpart never quite realized, and its higher-resolution QHD panel makes everything from watching video to playing games in Daydream VR a more pleasant experience.

Thanks to its hardware advantages, I spent a lot more time with the Pixel XL than the Pixel throughout 2016 and 2017, and I’d venture to say it’s one of the best phones ever made. At $669, it’s a much more interesting proposition than the Pixel at $549, and if you’re looking for a larger flagship that will stand the test of time, I’d encourage you to look into it.

See at Google Store

Google Pixel + Pixel XL

• Google Pixel and Pixel XL review
• Google Pixel XL review: A U.S. perspective
• Google Pixel FAQ: Should you upgrade?
• Pixel + Pixel XL specs
• Understanding Android 7.1 Nougat
• Join the discussion in the forums!

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You can now buy the Pure White Essential Phone

The Pure White Essential Phone can now be purchased from Essential, Amazon, Best Buy, and Sprint for $699.

When the Essential Phone was first announced in May, it was shown off in four colors – Black Moon, Pure White, Stellar Grey, and Ocean Depths. Once the device was finally made available for purchase in August, only the Black Moon color was available. Thankfully, Essential is now opening up orders for the Pure White model.

Essential made the announcement via Twitter, and along with being able to buy the Pure White model on the company’s website, it’ll also be available through Amazon, Best Buy, and Sprint (sorry Canadian readers, no Telus availability yet).

Although the Essential Phone launched with a myriad of performance and camera issues, the company has been making considerable progress in getting the software up to speed. It was recently announced that a public beta for Android Oreo would be available in the coming weeks, and along with this, further camera updates are in the works as well.

Welcome the newest Essential Phone: Pure White. Now available on https://t.co/5XqZeQu9cW and through partners @Amazon @BestBuy @Sprint. pic.twitter.com/lVZD29hLjz

— Essential (@essential) October 11, 2017

There’s no doubt that the Pure White model of the Essential Phone is a looker, but with devices like the Note 8, V30, and Pixel 2 XL also available, it might be worth holding off and getting something else until Essential finally finishes this beta.

Essential Phone

• Essential Phone review: First impressions
• Essential Phone specs
• The latest Essential Phone news
• Join our Essential Phone forums!

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How to use the Coloring feature on the Galaxy Note 8

Coloring is one of the most enjoyable features on the Note 8. Here’s how to use it!

It’s always been fun to use the Galaxy Note’s S Pen stylus to doodle in S Note and other compatible apps, but with the Note 8, Samsung has gone one step further — it’s added a dedicated coloring feature.

Part of the little-known but, in some circles, wildly popular PenUP app, the coloring feature gives the S Pen a creative rejuvination by transposing all of S Note’s brushes, styles and colors into a collection of thick line drawings.

The feature isn’t surprising, though: coloring books, both real and digital, have seen a resurgence in recent years as smartphone and tablet addicts look for something that clears the mind and encourages focusing on one task. While it’s not quite meditative, to many people the act of filling in a pictogram with color is relaxing, rewarding, and fun.

If you’re looking to do the same thing on the new Galaxy Note 8, here’s how.

First, enable Coloring in Air Command

You can easily access the Coloring feature directly in the PenUP app, but it’s much easier to get to it using the shortcut in Air Command, which pops up when you remove the S Pen from its holster.

But it’s off by default, so you need to enable it.

Remove the S Pen from the holster. Wait for Air Command to appear.
Tap Add shortcut.
Tap on Coloring under S Pen features.

Now, access Coloring from the Air Command menu.

That’s it! Now the Coloring icon will show up whenever you open Air Command.

Then, play with the features

You can also find the Coloring feature inside the PenUP app.

Swipe up from the Samsung Launcher to access the app drawer.
Open the Samsung folder.

Tap on PenUP.

Navigate to the Coloring section on the right.
Find a drawing.

Play with brushes, opacity, colors and other features.

Now you’re set up to use, in my opinion, one of the best features on the Galaxy Note 8.

The great thing about the Coloring feature is that more pictograms are being added every week, and you can compare your work to others who have submitted their work through the community.

Even better, it’s possible to download many of those finished works of art and apply them as wallpapers, or to use as stepping stones for your own projects.

Have you used the Coloring feature on the Galaxy Note 8? Let us know in the comments below!

Samsung Galaxy Note 8

• Galaxy Note 8 review
• Complete Galaxy Note 8 specs
• Galaxy Note 8 vs. Galaxy Note 5
• Which Note 8 color is best?
• Join our Galaxy Note 8 forums

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Google Wallpapers gets three new categories and Pixel 2 backdrop

Three new categories and a new Cityscapes wallpaper are now available on Google Wallpapers, but most are limited to the Pixel and Pixel XL.

Initially launched last year with the first Pixel, Google’s Wallpapers app has quickly grown to be my favorite tool for customizing the look of my home and lock screen. Google recently added a few new selections to the app, and although many of them appear to be limited to the Pixel and Pixel XL, there’s still a lot to like here.

The biggest additions are three new categories, including Keep Looking, Underwater, and Geometric Shapes. Underwater and Geometric Shapes are pretty self-explanatory, but the Keep Looking category is a bit odd. Each wallpaper has a description of “Keep looking, Love Pixel”, and swiping through the wallpaper will show hidden elements that aren’t readily apparent upon first viewing.

For example, the wallpaper “Boinggg” initially shows two Slinkys falling down a set of stairs, but swiping over to the left reveals a third one. The “Coffee overboard” wallpaper shows two coffee cups by default, but swiping shows another that’s not visible at first. All of them feature very bright colors and nice textures, and although some are a bit busy for my taste, I dig the overall aesthetic.

Additionally, the Cityscapes category now has the iconic “Rainy Day” wallpaper that’s seen on most press photos and renders for the Pixel 2.

Unfortunately, most of these new wallpapers are limited to Google’s Pixel lineup. The Geometric Shapes category appears to be working on non-Pixel handsets, but the Underwater and Keep Looking category and “Rainy Day” wallpaper are only showing up on the Pixel.

Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL

• Pixel 2 FAQ: Everything you need to know!
• Google Pixel 2 and 2 XL hands-on preview
• Google Pixel 2 specs
• Google Pixel 2 vs. Pixel 2 XL: What’s the difference?
• Join our Pixel 2 forums

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Get 5 free movies, including Big Hero 6, The Lego Movie, and others from Movies Anywhere

Movies Anywhere is running a promotion right now called “5 Movies on Us” that gives you access to five movies for free. All you have to do is sign up for their free service and link your new account to two digital retailers (Google Play, Amazon, iTunes, etc). After you link to the first digital retailer, Movies Anywhere will add 2016’s Ghostbusters and Ice Age to your account. The second retailer will net you Big Hero 6, The Lego Movie, and Jason Bourne.

Movies Anywhere is sort of a digital middleman for all the services you might use to watch movies. We’ve written about it before in regards to Disney Movies Anywhere. This platform lets you connect all your accounts from around the net from popular services like iTunes, Google Play, Amazon, Vudu, Disney, and others. It then consolidates all the media you’ve bought from those retailers in one place, the Movies Anywhere app, or lets you access the movies on one retailer from another (watch your iTunes movies using Google Play). You can also use this service to create a digital collection of physical DVDs or Blu-rays.

TL;DR

• What makes this deal worth considering? – Get Big Hero 6 for free. What more motivation do you need? For the minor inconvenience of the Internet version of filling out some paperwork, you get access to five free movies.
• Things to know before you buy! – Once you have the movies from the 5 Movies on Us promotion, they will stay accessible from the Movies Anywhere app and less accessible if you delete the app.

See at Movies Anywhere

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