Whether you want to track your teenage driver’s location or your luggage’s whereabouts on a flight, a real-time GPS tracker can be a great solution. A GPS tracker is battery-operated, and you can use it to track another person’s or thing’s movements discreetly. Most models let you track another person’s or thing’s location on a digital map and receive status alerts on their location, speed, and driving habits.

1. Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker

Best Value GPS Tracker for Cars

The Optimus 2.0 GPS tracker has a host of safety features and an attractive price point. You can hide it discreetly in a door pocket or glove box without being noticed. This GPS tracker comes with a water-proof magnetic case that you can attach to the chassis frame or bumper.

You can use the companion app to track real-time location, set alerts when the car goes out of range, and access driving reports. The app also allows you to change real-time tracking from 60 seconds to less than 30 seconds. Optimus 2.0 comes with a rechargeable battery that lasts up to two weeks on a full charge.

Pros

• Magnetic case
• SOS button for emergency alert
• Up to 10 seconds of real-time tracking
• Sends alerts if the car goes out of range

Cons

• Only available for use in the U.S. and Canada

2. Spytec GPS GL300 GPS Tracker

Most Popular GPS Tracker

The Spytec GL300 is a popular GPS tracker that you can use to track elderly parents or unruly teenage drivers. Its companion mobile app allows you to create a geofence, and send notifications if the vehicle enters or leaves the designated location. You also get an alert for excessive speeding.

This GPS tracker has an integrated battery that can last up to 20 days, but you can buy additional batteries to replace the current unit when it runs out of power. However, the magnetic casing is sold separately.

Pros

• Has an SOS button
• Uses 4G for satellite tracking
• Email and SMS alerts
• Long battery life

Cons

• Magnetic case sold separately
• Has limited alerts

3. Americaloc GL300 MXW

Best Premium Tracker for Vehicles

This real-time GPS tracker sends more alerts than any other tracker we’ve covered; it sends geofence alerts, excessive speed, harsh driving, when the car is turned off or on, and it also alerts to bad weather. It offers real-time tracking in 60, 30, 20, and 10 increments. It has an SOS button for emergency alerts.

You can set up a geofence, monitor vehicle movements, and check the battery life. Americaloc GL300 has an integrated rechargeable battery that lasts up to two weeks and provides different power modes that you can use to prolong the battery life.

Pros

• A higher number of alert
• Email and SMS alerts
• Provides one-year travel history
• Available for international use

Cons

• Optional magnetic case
• Pricey

4. LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker

This GPS tracker is built to withstand tough weather conditions when mounted on the exterior of a vehicle. Its waterproof casing protects the device from water, dust, and sunlight so that it can last a long time. It has an internal high strength magnet that allows you to conceal the tracker in the bumper or wheel well.

The companion app gives users real-time tracking that can be set to send updates every 3 seconds to 3 minutes. It sends multiple alerts like geofence alerts, speed alerts, low battery alerts, and InstaFence alerts. The in-built battery can last up tosix6 months on the low power mode.

A unique addition to the LandAirSea 54 GPS tracker is the ShareSpot feature. This feature allows users to share the device location with family and friends for quick action in emergencies.

Pros

• Long battery life
• Dark mode, with lights turned off
• Unique ShareSpot feature
• Integrated high-strength magnet for quick mounting

Cons

• Long update interval for the cheapest plan

5. Bouncie GPS Tracker

This GPS tracker offers real-time tracking updates every 15 seconds, and you can receive alerts for the geofence, hard braking, and other driving habit information. It plugs into any OBD port, and it does not need a rechargeable battery for power.

Bouncie GPS tracker provides diagnostic information on your vehicle’s condition. You can monitor the gas levels, annual emissions inspections, and other vehicle maintenance issues. This tracker is Alexa-compatible, and you can use Alexa to check gas levels and mileage.

Pros

• Impact detection for accidents
• Detects vehicle diagnostic issues
• No battery required
• Cheap monthly fees

Cons

• High one-time fee
• Frequent glitches with Alexa

6. MOTOSafety GPS Tracker

Best for Teen Drivers

If you want to track the driving habits of a teen driver, you can use the MOTOSafety GPS tracker. This tracker offers real-time tracking of their speed, direction, and location. You will receive alerts for harsh braking, speeding, geofences entry and exit, excessive idling, and rapid acceleration. It does not need a battery; just plug it into the OBDII port to power.

You can use the mobile app to set up geofencing and receive customizable location alerts. This app also allows you to set up curfew rules, making it easier to set a routine for your teenage daughter or son. You can access monthly driving reports to see any unsafe driving habits like harsh braking, speeding, and rapid starts.

A unique feature of the MOTOSafety GPS tracker is the driving coach program. This program provides access to education content on safe driving, and short questions to prepare them for a driving test.

Pros

• Enforces curfew rules
• Has a driving coach program
• No battery required
• Monthly driving report card

Cons

• Sensitive to acceleration
• Not discreet

7. Vyncs Link GPS Tracker

Best GPS Tracker for Company Fleet

Vyncs GPS tracker is good for monitoring several family cars, or a fleet of commercial cars. You can track the vehicle in real-time to see updates on the vehicle speed, location, cases of device tampering, etc. This tracker also tracks engine diagnostic and maintenance needs to help resolve issues before they become dangerous.

You can use this GPS tracker in over 200 countries, and you can use a single model on the entire fleet to reduce costs. The real-time tracker sends updates every 15, 30, or 60 seconds. The default refresh rate is 3 minutes. It does not require a battery; just plug it into the OBDII port.

Pros

• A low annual subscription fee
• Engine diagnostic alerts
• No battery required
• Can be used in 200+ countries

Cons

• Charges an activation fee
• Long refresh rate

8. Logistimatics Mobile-200 GPS Tracker

Best for Audio Monitoring

This GPS tracker allows you to monitor live audio from the vehicle through a dedicated phone number. If the driver is unreachable on their cell phone, you can use the live audio stream to know what is going on and provide information to emergency workers.

The mobile app lets you set up a geofence and you’ll receive an alert when the vehicle exits the designated area. The tracker provides real-time updates every 30 minutes. Logistimatics Mobile-200 also includes a magnetic case that can be mounted on the wheel well, bumper, or chassis frame. It has an integrated rechargeable battery that lasts up to two weeks.

Pros

• Live audio monitoring
• International use with the global SIM card
• A built-in magnetic case for quick mounting
• Long battery life

Cons

• Provides only 2 hours of complimentary audio per month, after which you will be billed

9. Brickhouse Security GPS Tracker

Best for Long-term Tracking

If you are looking for a GPS tracker with extended battery life, the Brickhouse GPS Tracker is worth considering. This tracker has a built-in battery that lasts 15 days on standby, but you can get up to 140 days with the extended battery.

This tracker offers real-time tracking, and you can get speed and location updates every 60 seconds. You can set up geofences in the complimentary mobile app so that you receive an alert when your cargo vehicle or teen driver exits the designated area or exceeds the speed limit. It comes with a magnetic case that you can attach to the vehicle for discreet tracking.

Pros

• Panic button for emergencies
• Magnetic casing
• Long-lasting battery
• Available in North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico)

Cons

• Limited number of alerts
• Pricey

10. PETFON Pet GPS Tracker

Best Real-Time GPS Tracker for Pets

If you are looking to track your pet’s movements, you can use the PETFON Pet GPS Tracker. This GPS tracker comes with two modules, the tracker and the control terminal. The tracker is attached to the dog collar, while the control terminal is carried by the owner.

You can track your pet’s movements in real-time to see their current location, and the distance covered. If your pet gets lost, you can use the Rada searching feature in the device to know their likely location and direction. You can also set up multicolor alerts to emit colored lights in dim lighting for easy tracking.

This pet tracker is compact, and only measures 42 mm long. Its battery lasts up to 16 hours, but you can recharge it using the included charging station.

PETFON GPS tracker does not charge subscription fees. Once you purchase this device, you won’t be required to pay additional fees for continuous service.

Pros

• No monthly fees
• Anti-lost radar search
• Customizable voice commands
• Multicolor alerts for night time

Cons

• High one-time fee
• Low battery life

Learn More Today

Choosing the right GPS tracker depends on your specific needs, whether it’s for tracking a vehicle, a pet, or monitoring a loved one. With options ranging from battery-operated and plug-in models to those designed for audio monitoring or even pet tracking, there’s a solution to fit various lifestyles and safety concerns. While each tracker offers unique features — such as geofencing, impact alerts, and real-time location updates — it’s important to consider factors like battery life, coverage area, and alert types before making a decision. With the right device, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re equipped to keep track of what matters most, wherever it may be. A quick note: If you want to monitor a person’s online activity — not their whereabouts — you’re looking for something a bit different – mobile monitoring apps. Of course, these tools should be used with the other person’s knowledge.

If you have sent an email to a potential customer and never received a reply, you have likely wondered what happened to the email. Did the prospect receive the email, or did the email get filtered into in the spam box? Email tracking help eliminate these doubts by telling you when a recipient opens an email, views an attachment, or even clicks a link in the email.

What is Email Tracking?

Email tracking is a technique of monitoring the delivery of email messages to determine the actions taken on outgoing emails. It tells you the email open rates, click rates, location, and attachment views, and then using the information collected to inform business decisions. Email tracking software use a tiny image pixel (web beacon) to know the time and date when an email was received, and the actions taken by the intended recipient.

When the recipient opens the email, the web beacon alerts the sender of who opened the email, on which device, when, and where. If the recipient performs certain actions like email clicks and attachment views, the sender receives a notification, informing them that the recipient performed certain actions on the email they sent. Most organizations use email tracking software in their sales and marketing departments to maximize engagement.

Benefits of Email Tracking

Using email tracking in your company communications can help you better understand your customer or user. Here are some of the ways email tracking can help your organization:

Get unique insights

When you track outgoing emails, you get valuable insights about how the intended recipient engages with them. If a contact opens an email, clicks a link, or views the attachment, you can increase the chances of converting those leads into actual customers.

Accurate follow-up

When you send an email to multiple contacts, email tracking helps you know how each of them interacts with the content. If a prospect has opened the email multiple times, you are more likely to get a reply if you follow up with them.

Save time

If you see that one of your prospects is actively engaging with an email, you know at the very least they’re interested. However, if the recipient doesn’t even opened the email, you’ve probably hit a dead end, and are unlikely to be successful in converting them.

Best Email Tracking Apps to Try

If you want to get started with email tracking, here are the best apps currently available.

1. Streak

Streak is a handy solution for Gmail users, allowing businesses to see the open rates, view times, and location of the intended recipient. It’s a hybrid between a CRM solution and an email tracker, and is integrated into the email sidebar. It displays a visual history in your Gmail inbox to give you useful insights.

2. Mailtrack

Mailtrack is a Google Chrome plugin that allows users to track when emails are opened and clicked. It allows you to track an unlimited number of outgoing emails. Mailtrack tells you when a contact opens the email and the type of device used.

Once you send an email, you will see one green checkmark and one grey checkmark next to the message. When the recipient opens the email, both checkmarks will light up green. Mailtrack also sends desktop notifications when the intended recipient opens the email.

3. HubSpot

HubSpot is a popular name in the sales and marketing niche, thanks to its collection of tools tailored to specific business needs. Email tracking is included in HubSpot’s suite of tools.

When a contact opens an email, HubSpot automatically loads the information on the contact’s activity stream. You can also use the activity stream to scan all communications between the business and prospect.

4. Mailalert

Mailalert is an email tracker for Gmail that provides unlimited email tracking. It also offers link tracking without any branding or logos attached to the email.

Users get real-time notifications of any actions taken by the recipient. This allows businesses to get more actionable data to determine the level of interest of a prospect, and convert warm leads into customers.

5. SalesHandy

SalesHandy is a no-cost email tracking software that offers unlimited email tracking and scheduling. Users receive real-time desktop notifications every time a contact opens an email or clicks a link.

This software allows users to create and save up to five templates. You can export a CSV file of the analytics report for further analysis.

6. Mailtracker by Hunter.io

Hunter.io is a popular email finder and verifier, and they also have an email tracking tool. This tool is available as a Google Chrome extension, and tracks email open rates, open times, and devices.

Once you install this tool, it adds a checkmark next to the send button in Gmail. The checkmark is enabled by default, but you can toggle it off if you don’t want to track an email. When the intended recipient reads the email, Mailtracker by Hunter.io shows a notification.

7. MixMax

In addition to the traditional features, MixMax email tracker provides access to meeting scheduling, sales templates, and up to 100 emails open tracking per month. You can also create polls and surveys within MixMax.

8. MailTag

MailTag is a data-rich email tracker that has helpful features like unlimited email tracking, link-click tracking, unlimited scheduling, and ping sequences. It also provides real-time notifications when a prospect interacts with your email.

A unique addition to MailTag is the automated follow-ups feature. You can set up automatic follow-ups, ultimately saving you time.

Choose a Provider

Whether you’re looking to increase your leads or measure customer engagement, finding the best email tracking software can save you money and time. You no longer have to wait for a response from a cold lead or send multiple follow-ups without success. With an email tracker, you know the type of interaction the recipient has with your emails and have a better shot at converting them.

Even with the rise of chat platforms, email remains one of the most effective methods of communication. You can use an email service for both personal and business communications, and need an email account for many regular activities, from booking a plane ticket to online shopping. While there are email services that charge a monthly or annual fee, there are plenty of email service providers that you can open and use.

1. Gmail

Gmail is one of the most popular email service providers, with an estimated 1.5 billion users around the world. It is a preferred choice many due to its modern interface, customization options, and the fact that it gives users access to the full Google Workspace. Users get a email address for personal and business use, with up to 15 GB of storage space.

Some of the Gmail features that stand out from its rivals include the ability to snooze an email, an option to recall a sent email and a confidential mode that protects the email contents from being downloaded or copied by the recipient. A recent addition to Gmail features is the auto-complete feature, which predicts phrases you might write while drafting the email.

2. Yahoo Mail

With over 225 million users, Yahoo Mail is another popular choice and one of the oldest email service providers. Users get 1 TB of online storage, making it a great option for those who send and receive larger file formats via email. Yahoo Mail has an advanced search feature that allows users to search email contents using a date, email address, or keyword, which is extremely convenient.

Another unique feature of Yahoo Mail is the ability to create up to 500 disposable aliases linked to your email, without sharing the actual address. These aliases can be used to avoid getting spam sent directly to your inbox. Other features include a built-in GIF collection, mobile access, virus protection and email forwarding.

3. Outlook

Like Gmail, Microsoft Outlook is integrated with other Microsoft tools, and you can access these services easily via their email service.

Outlook has a clean interface, and users get access to dozens of helpful features such as Skype, PowerPoint, OneDrive, Excel, and third-party tools like Trello. You get 15 GB of cloud storage, and up to 50 GB if you are a subscriber. Outlook also allows users to organize emails into folders, set out-of-office replies, snooze emails for later and schedule emails to be sent later. It has automatic email filtering that organizes important emails in a Focused Inbox, and other emails in the “Other Inbox”.

4. AOL Mail

If you are looking for a dependable email provider with 250 GB of storage, AOL Mail is an option worth considering. It is a web-based email service that is provided by AOL, a division of Verizon Communications. While it used to be extremely popular, it’s fallen quite a bit in rank. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t adequate.

You can use your email address to manage events via your calendar and set reminder notifications. Other features of AOL Mail include a clean interface, instant notifications, virus protection, to-do list, etc. You can also manage your AOL Mail via third-party email service providers such as Outlook.

5. iCloud Mail

iCloud Mail is an email service by Apple, and is a popular option among Mac users. You can get an email when you sign up for an Apple ID on your MacBook, iPad, or iPhone. However, iCloud is not limited to Apple users only; anyone can access iCloud Mail, even on a Windows laptop.

When you sign up on iCloud, you can access various products such as calendar events, reminders, iCloud Drive Content, and VIP labeling options. Users get 5GB of storage space that they can use to store emails and media such as photos and videos. It has the streamlined functionality that’s common with Apple products.

Pick a Provider

If you are looking for an email address, you have dozens of options to consider. You can choose between top options like Gmail, Yahoo Mail, and Outlook, among others, depending on the features you are interested in. You can compare these options based on key features such as the amount of cloud storage space available, advanced filters, end-to-end encryption, virus and malware protection, scheduling options, and filtering options.

Another consideration is where you can get a professional enough email address that’s still available. Even if you aren’t planning on using this email for work, it should be formal enough. If you have to add half a dozen numbers to your address just to find one that hasn’t yet been claimed, you might consider a different provider.

The IRS website has a ton of tax forms for different types of incomes, expenses, deductions, and other financial reporting. Each of these tax forms carries a different letter or number, which may be confusing to the average American and new small business owners, especially sole proprietorships. While you may not need a ton of forms when filing tax returns, there are some IRS tax forms that you will likely see each year. Knowing what tax form to use and when to use it can help you file correctly and avoid making costly mistakes.

The Most Common Tax Forms

1. Form 1040

Form 1040 is the starting point for most taxpayers. It is the standard federal income tax return that taxpayers use to report their income and expenses, claim deductions, and calculate the tax refund for the year. This tax form is comprehensive, and it has other schedules and tax forms tied to it.

Before 2018, Form 1040A and Form 1040EZ were available to taxpayers with smaller tax breaks. However, these tax forms are no longer required. Instead, taxpayers are required to use the designed “long-form” 1040 and 1040-SR tax forms.

1040-SR is a tax form for seniors above 65 years. It uses bigger fonts and an easy-to-use chart to help them compute their tax deductions.

2. Tax Form Attachment (Schedules)

Depending on your situation, you may be required to attach certain tax schedules with your annual tax return. The values calculated on the schedules are posted to Form 1040.

The most common tax schedules include:

3. Form 1040X

If you made a mistake when filing your tax return, you can file an amended tax return using Form 1040X. You must include copies of supporting documents and other tax forms used when filing the original return.

If you are amending an underpayment of your tax return, you can pay the taxes due online. You can also get a refund via direct deposit if you overpaid your taxes in the original tax return.

4. Form W-2

Form W-2 is used by salaried employees. This tax form reports the employee’s income (both federal and state incomes), social security taxes, and Medicare taxes that an employer withheld during the tax year.

It may also disclose the employee’s retirement plan contributions, Health Savings Account contributions, and the amount that an employer paid to the employee’s health insurance. This tax form is mandatory if the employer paid more than $600 in salary during the year.

5. Form W-4

Form W-4 is a record of the amount of taxes withheld by an employer. When starting a new job, the employer may require you to fill out Form W-4 to determine the right amount of tax to withhold on your paycheck.

Depending on the amount you input, you can overpay or underpay the taxes for the year. Any excess taxes will be paid back, whereas an underpayment will require you to pay the balance, and, in some cases, a penalty fee.

6. Form W-9

Form W-9 is a single-page tax form that includes a taxpayer’s personal information and social security number. This tax form is mainly used by freelancers and independent contractors to provide tax details when receiving a payment.

You can also use this tax form if you made a real estate transaction or had debt canceled. Form W-9 is submitted to a bank, employer, or other payers that may require your tax information.

7. Form 1098

If you are paying over $600 in mortgage interest, the IRS will send you Form 1098 in the mail. Form 1098 reports the amount of mortgage interest, mortgage points paid, mortgage insurance premiums, and property taxes paid during the year.

Other variations of Form 1098 include:

• Form 1098-T: Records the amount of tuition fees paid to an educational institution.
• Form 1098-E: Records the amount of student loan interest that a taxpayer paid during the tax year.

8. Form 1099

Form 1099 has multiple variations. It’s a record of incomes received by the taxpayer from other sources besides salaried income from an employer. The 1099 tax form is sent in twos; whoever sends you a copy of this tax form also dispatches a copy to the IRS.

The main 1099 variations include:

• 1099-DIV: A record of dividends, capital gains, and distributions from investments.
• 1099-INT: A record of interest income earned from credit unions, banks, and brokerage accounts.
• 1099-MISC: A record of miscellaneous incomes earned from other sources other than investments. These incomes may include rental income, royalties, prizes, awards, and commissions.
• 1099-NEC: This is the newest 1099 series tax form. Starting in 2020, freelancers, gig workers, and independent contractors are required to report all incomes earned during the year using this form.

9. Form 4868

Taxpayers use Form 4868 to request an extension of the tax return period. When sending this tax form, you should do an estimate of the amount of taxes you owe the IRS and send part or all of the estimated returns to the IRS.

If the estimated payment falls below the actual assessed payment, the IRS may charge interest and a late filing penalty on the amount due. If you are unable to calculate the estimated payments, find a tax professional to help you prepare your taxes and avoid penalties.

10. Form 9465

Form 9465 comes into play if you can’t pay your taxes due in full and want an installment payment plan with the IRS. You can use this tax form if you owe more than $50,000 in taxes and you need more than 120 days to make the full payment.

If the IRS approves an installment plan request, you will still pay the interest and penalties on the overdue balance. You must pay the balance within 72 months or less, depending on how much is overdue.

For amounts less than $50,000, you can file an online payment agreement application, instead of using Form 9465.

11. Form 4506

If you need copies of past tax returns, use tax Form 4506 to request the information you need from the IRS. When filling in this form, you should provide your personal information, the tax year, and the specific tax returns and forms you want to receive. The IRS charges a fee for each form they send you at your request.

Get Started

As tax season approaches, you might be uncertain about what forms to fill out and how the various tax forms and schedules fit together. Take some time to review each form and work ahead on your return to avoid paying late fees.

If you’re struggling with your taxes or have had a particularly complex financial year, such as starting a new business or adding employees for the first time, consider hiring a tax professional to help you file. If that isn’t possible, at least be sure that you’re keeping on top of your business accounting using software throughout the year to set you up for success in the following tax year.

The digital streaming market has grown exponentially in recent years, with most network and media companies venturing in. Today, there are more people streaming TV shows and movies than those paying for cable TV. With a fast broadband connection and a high-quality streaming device, you can now watch live news, sports, and original content on the go for a reasonable monthly fee. But which streaming platform is best?

1. Netflix

Best streaming service overall

Netflix started in the late 90s as a DVD-by-mail rental service, but adapted to grow to be the biggest streaming service. It provides unlimited streaming of TV shows – both old and new favourites, as well as originals – movies, comedy specials and more for a monthly fee. Since launching its original content in 2013, Netflix’s originals library now has a huge collection of award-winning shows such as The Crown, House of Cards, Master of None, CoComelon, The Queen’s Gambit, and so much more.

Although Netflix has lost a couple of shows to other streaming services such as Friends (to HBO Max), it continues adding new shows and specials every week. You can expect to see more original series, films, and documentaries than its competitors. If you are looking for binge-worthy content, Netflix is a great choice.

2. Amazon Prime Video

Best for Amazon Prime perks

Amazon Prime Video is second only to Netflix and has an impressive catalog of movies, TV shows, and original programming. Some of the popular shows on Amazon Prime Video include Jack Ryan, Bosch, Tales from the Loop, Hunters, Hanna, The Marvelous Mrs Maisil, The Boys, and The Expanse. This streaming service also gets new additions frequently.

Amazon provides access to the streaming service in two ways: an Amazon Prime subscription or Amazon Video subscription. An Amazon Prime subscription includes access to Amazon Music and Prime Video, kindle book downloads, and free two-day shipping on Amazon purchases. You can also get just an Amazon Prime Video subscription.

3. Disney+

Best streaming service for families

Disney+ was launched in 2019, and it is one of the youngest streaming services on the market. It hosts popular blockbusters like Avengers Infinity War, Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, The Simpsons, and National Geographic. Disney+ is also the home to originals like WandaVision, The Mandalorian, The Falcon, and the Winter Soldier.

Disney+ is among the cheapest VOD streaming services you can find, and the package includes 4K streaming and HDR color. You can also bundle the Disney+ subscription with ESPN+ and Hulu for an affordable price. It supports up to four device streams and up to six customizable profiles.

4. Hulu

Best value for your money

Hulu offers both on-demand and live streaming services. It gives you access to over 75 live and on-demand channels like CNN, ESPN, and others. Hulu is also home to popular shows like The Handmaid’s Tale, Nine Perfect Strangers and Saturday Night Live.

Hulu’s on-demand streaming offers an affordable plan, but you will have to sit through commercials. You can subscribe to the ad-free monthly package for double the price, or add live TV for more. It allows two devices to stream and up to six profiles.

5. HBO Max

Best for those who want to watch only Warner Brother content

HBO Max packs all the content that HBO had, and it tops up a lot more. It has a huge catalog of content that people love, include HBO’s favorites like the Lord of Rings, Sesame Street, The White Lotus, Game of Thrones, and Succession. It adds more content such as The Flight Attendant, Made for Love, Wonder Woman 1984, and The Big Bang Theory. It is also home to comedy specials and documentaries.

HBO Max subscription allows you to stream content on up to four devices if you opt for the ultimate ad-free plan.

6. Peacock

Best streaming service with free plan

If you have a very limited budget, you can subscribe to Peacock’s ad-supported free plan to watch up to 10,000 hours of shows, live sports, movies, and news. However, there is better content if you upgrade to the low monthly fee premium plan with ads or the premium plus plan with no ads.

Peacock has a host of good original shows, movies, and sporting events like The Office, Blacklist, Brave New World, Yellowstone, WWE events, and live Premier League Matches.

7. Paramount Plus

Best for classic TV shows

Paramount Plus launched in March 2021 as a rebrand of CBS All Access. It has a large catalog of movies and shows from CBS, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, and The Smithsonian Channel. It has a growing selection of shows and movies with a handful of originals like The Stand, The Good Fight, and Why Women Kill. It also has a great collection of Star Wars content, including Star Trek: Discovery and Picard.

8. Sling TV

Best for those used to paying for cable

Sling TV is an inexpensive option for replacing cable TV with and is considered a good option for the cord-cutting generation. It gives you affordable options for watching live sports, breaking news, and entertainment as they happen. You can access top TV channels such as ESPN, Comedy Central, CNN, and BBCAmerica in the Sling Basic plan.

There are two Sling TV tiers: Sling Orange and Sling Blue. Sling Orange is a sport and family-oriented plan, and you get access to ESPN, ESPN 2, and ESPN 3. The Sling Blue plan is news and entertainment-oriented, and you can watch channels like FX, USA, and Discovery. You can buy other add-ons such as Hollywood Extra, Kids Extra, and NBA TV at an extra fee. Sling also offers a free plan (no credit card required) to watch over 5000 on-demand series and pre-programmed content.

9. Apple TV+

Best for Apple users

Apple TV+ is one of the most affordable streaming services with 4K and no ads. However, this subscription only gives you access to Apple’s originals. Unlike top streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, Apple TV+ has a lean library, but is home to originals such as Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, Central Park, All Mankind, and Home Before Dark.

You can often get the Apple TV+ streaming service when you purchase a new iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac, or Apple TV. You can also get Apple TV+ when you subscribe to an Apple One bundle.

10. Fubo TV

Best for sports fanatics

If you are a cord-cutter sports fan looking to access live sports streaming, Fubo TV is your best bet. Its starter plan gives you access to over 120 channels including popular and lesser-known sports channels such as the Olympics Channel, beIN Sports, The Big Ten Networks, Fox Sports, NBC, ESPN, and CBS.

Whether you want to watch live European Soccer, NBA, Motorcycle Racing, or hockey games, you can be sure to find a channel on Fubo TV. One of Fubo TV’s flaws is its DVR cloud storage, which is limited to 250 hours.

How to Choose Streaming Services

When comparing streaming services, consider the following factors:

Content tastes

What type of content do you like watching? If you are into binge-watching original content, a subscription on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Hulu is probably your best bet. If you are looking for kid-friendly content, check out Disney+. For sports coverage, you should compare Sling TV and Fubo TV to see the variety of sport coverage each offers.

Device compatibility and location

Before buying a streaming service, you should check if the service is compatible with your streaming device. Some services may not be available for all devices and in all parts of the world.

Device and profile limits

Services limit the number of devices that can be streaming at the same time and profiles per account. For example, if a streaming service limits simultaneous streaming to two devices, you cannot stream to a third screen at the same time.

Pricing

Most streaming services have monthly billing, but some offer a discount if you pay ahead for a full year. Either way, you should know how much you’ll be paying beforehand. Although it is unlikely that the streaming service will introduce hidden fees, check for add-on services ahead of time, just to be safe.

Wired headphones have had their time and as tech advances, fewer users are opting for annoying corded headphones for work or play. In recent years, wireless earbuds have taken the market by storm, allowing people to listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks on the go without being physically wired to a phone, laptop, or other portable device. Discover the top wireless earbuds worth considering.

1. Sony WF-1000XM5

The Sony WF-1000XM5 is one of the top choices for those seeking high-quality sound and exceptional noise cancellation. These earbuds use advanced technology to reduce ambient noise, allowing listeners to enjoy crisp, detailed audio across a wide range of frequencies.

The WF-1000XM5 offers up to eight hours of battery life, with an additional 16 hours through the charging case, making them perfect for extended use. They feature comfortable, ergonomic ear tips for a secure fit and customizable sound settings via the Sony Headphones Connect app, which lets users tailor their audio experience to personal preferences.

2. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Ideal for iPhone users, the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) stands out with its seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem, making device switching effortless. These earbuds deliver excellent active noise cancellation (ANC), adaptive transparency, and spatial audio for an immersive listening experience.

Equipped with a MagSafe-compatible charging case, they offer up to 30 hours of listening time, while the earbuds alone provide about six hours per charge. The new Personalized Spatial Audio feature customizes sound based on ear shape, creating a more personal, three-dimensional sound. Touch controls on the stem add convenience for volume and playback adjustments.

3. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro

For Samsung Galaxy users, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers smooth connectivity, superb sound quality, and effective noise cancellation. These earbuds are lightweight and have an ergonomic design that ensures a secure fit, even during physical activities. Their 24-bit Hi-Fi audio support enhances sound clarity, while ANC efficiently blocks background noise.

The Galaxy Buds2 Pro also includes an ambient sound mode for better awareness of surroundings, which is great for commuting or exercising outdoors. With five hours of battery life (or 18 hours with the case) and fast wireless charging, they offer the convenience Samsung users appreciate.

4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds prioritize comfort and superior ANC, making them ideal for frequent travelers and office use. Bose’s world-class noise-cancellation technology eliminates distracting sounds, allowing users to focus on their audio or calls. The earbuds offer customizable sound profiles, allowing users to fine-tune their listening experience based on preference or genre.

The charging case provides an additional 12 hours of battery life on top of the six hours offered by the earbuds. They are designed for all-day comfort, with soft silicone tips that stay secure without causing discomfort, making them suitable for extended wear.

5. Google Pixel Buds Pro

Google Pixel Buds Pro is an excellent choice for Android users, especially those using Pixel devices. They feature active noise cancellation, which effectively minimizes background sounds. Additionally, the buds offer transparency mode, allowing external sounds to come through when needed.

The Pixel Buds Pro has an impressive 11-hour battery life (7 hours with ANC), and with the charging case, they last up to 31 hours. Customizable settings in the Pixel Buds app allow users to adjust EQ settings, bass, and touch controls. Their IPX4 water resistance rating also makes them suitable for light workouts or outdoor use.

6. Technics EAH-AZ80

The Technics EAH-AZ80 combines stylish design with top-notch audio quality, aimed at audiophiles seeking premium sound. With an advanced ANC system, these earbuds allow users to fully immerse in music without distraction. The earbuds support LDAC for high-resolution audio streaming, delivering clear, detailed sound.

The battery lasts around seven hours, with an extra 24 hours from the charging case. Technics EAH-AZ80 earbuds offer multi-point Bluetooth connectivity, so users can connect two devices simultaneously. Comfortable and secure, they’re perfect for anyone who appreciates refined audio quality and needs versatile connectivity for use across different devices.

7. Jabra Elite 7 Pro

The Jabra Elite 7 Pro earbuds are ideal for active individuals who prioritize call quality and durability. Equipped with Jabra’s MultiSensor Voice technology, these earbuds enhance voice clarity, even in windy or noisy environments, making them ideal for calls on the go. Their ANC and HearThrough modes allow users to either block out or tune into their surroundings.

With up to eight hours of playback and a total of 30 hours with the case, the Elite 7 Pro has impressive battery life. They are also IP57-rated for dust and water resistance, making them gym and travel-friendly.

8. Beats Fit Pro

The Beats Fit Pro offers a secure, comfortable fit, especially suited for athletes and active users. With flexible wing tips, these earbuds stay firmly in place during intense workouts. They provide immersive sound through spatial audio and effective noise cancellation to enhance listening.

The earbuds have an Adaptive EQ that adjusts audio based on fit, making sure that sound quality remains consistent. These earbuds integrate seamlessly with Apple devices, leveraging features like one-tap pairing and hands-free Siri. The Fit Pro offers up to six hours of listening time, and with the charging case, a total of 24 hours.

9. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3

The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds are a premium choice for audio enthusiasts who value sound quality above all. These earbuds offer rich, dynamic sound with deep bass and well-balanced mids and highs, making them ideal for music lovers. Equipped with Adaptive Noise Cancellation, they adjust automatically to external sounds, allowing listeners to focus on their audio in various settings.

With seven hours of battery life and an additional 21 hours from the case, they’re reliable for extended listening. Their customizable touch controls and support for high-resolution codecs ensure an enjoyable, high-fidelity listening experience.

10. Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro

The Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro provides an affordable option for those seeking quality sound and ANC on a budget. These earbuds deliver impressive sound quality, with customizable EQ settings through the Soundcore app. The ANC technology is effective, and the transparency mode allows ambient sound when needed.

They provide seven hours of listening time on a single charge, and the case extends this to 26 hours. For a budget model, they offer reliable performance, great sound, and a comfortable fit, making them a strong contender in the wireless earbud market.

How to Choose the Best Wireless Earbuds

There is an overwhelming number of wireless earbuds to choose from. Here are some features that you should consider:

Battery Life

When buying earbuds, you should consider how long the battery lasts on a single charge. Most earbuds have a battery life of at least 4 to 7 hours, which can be extended if it has a charging case. Check if the earbuds come with a charging case or whether one has to be purchased separately.

Sound and Audio Quality

Explore options with customization settings that allow users to create sound profiles depending on their hearing profile and music genre preferences. There is more to sound than just how loud it is, so look for an earbud with balanced audio and clear voice calls.

Comfortable Fit

Most users prefer comfortable earbuds with a small fit that will not fall out. Some earbuds come with multiple silicon tips of different sizes, allowing the wearer to pick a tip with a good fit. You should also check if the earbuds are water or sweat-resistant, especially if you’re planning on wearing them while working out.

Noise Cancelling

If you are looking for more advanced earbuds with noise cancellation and adaptive EQ, you should expect to pay more. These features help block external distractions so that you can focus on the podcast, music, or call.

Learn More About The Best Wireless Earbuds

If you like listening to music during workout sessions or while on the go, then you understand how useful wireless earbuds are. Before buying a specific brand of earbuds, compare several brands based on the features – including price point – that are important to you. If you’ve got your heart set on a pair that’s slightly above your budget, keep an eye out for sales in your local store or online.