Monthly Archives: June 2023

What is refresh rate for TVs and why does it matter?

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Shopping for a new TV used to be just a matter of TV brand and screen size. These days, there’s way more to consider, like the different types of display technology, HDR support, and smart features.

One label that you’re sure to see on just about every TV box is refresh rate. It’s a hardware specification that describes how motion is handled on any given TV. Before you buy your next TV, it’s worth taking this spec into consideration—particularly if you’re an avid gamer or sports fan who watches a lot of fast-paced action. We’ll help dispel the mysteries of this technology to help you make the right decision.

What is refresh rate?

Credit:
Reviewed / Jackson Ruckar

Refresh rate—measured in hertz (Hz)—describes the amount of times the picture refreshes per second.

To put it in the simplest terms, a display’s refresh rate describes the number of times per second the display resets the image, whether you’re shopping for a TV or a computer monitor. The refresh rate is measured in Hertz (Hz).

Essentially, the higher your display’s refresh rate, the less amount of time that will pass between each individual video frame being displayed on screen. Higher refresh rates mean that a TV or monitor can display more frames per second (fps) which, depending on the content it’s fed, could affect how smooth and pleasing your video looks.

What is a good refresh rate for a TV?

There are essentially two types of common refresh rates available when it comes to contemporary TVs: 60Hz and 120Hz. Generally, 60Hz TVs are more affordable than 120Hz TVs because the 120Hz spec is usually found on TVs that offer premium hardware and software features in addition to higher-quality motion handling.

In 2022, TCL and Samsung both announced TVs with a 144Hz native refresh rate. This spec has been available in some computer monitors for years, and in fact, some monitors offer native refresh rates that go much higher, up to 360Hz.

As far as TVs go, however, most people will end up choosing between 60Hz and 120Hz right now.

Related content

What’s the difference between refresh rate and frame rate?

Credit:
Reviewed / Jackson Ruckar

Frame rate describes the amount of frames per second being displayed at any given time. Most filmic content is shot at 24fps.

While the refresh rate describes the number of frames of video per second a particular TV or monitor is capable of displaying, the frame rate describes the playback speed (in seconds) of a piece of video content. The frame rate of a piece of video content will be listed in fps (frames per second). A frame rate that divides cleanly into a TV’s refresh rate will make video smoother to watch.

For example, broadcast television in the U.S. plays at a standard 30fps (actually just below this at 29. 97fps), which fits nicely into a 60Hz TV’s refresh rate. However, most movies are shot at 24 frames per second (fps), which was settled upon in the early days of film. This is the frame rate you’ll likely see when you pop in a Blu-ray disc or a film on streaming service. If you settle in to watch a movie on Netflix, you’re probably watching something at 24fps.

If you settle in to watch a movie on Netflix, you’re probably watching something at 24fps.

The problem is, the average 60Hz TV can’t render native 24fps content without a little bit of help, since every three seconds the TV gets out of sync. To combat this, many modern 60Hz TVs use a telecine technique called 3:2 pulldown, where frames are doubled in alternating sequences in order to “meet up” with the display’s 60Hz refresh rate. Unfortunately, 3:2 pulldown usually results in a motion artifact called judder, where some sequences during playback can have a stuttering or skipping effect.

While many modern 60Hz TVs do 3:2 pulldown so successfully that you probably won’t notice the amount of judder in most scenarios, you can save yourself any trouble by purchasing a 120Hz TV. That’s because 24fps divides evenly (5 times) into a 120Hz refresh rate.

In addition, if you’ve recently bought a next-gen gaming console, you’re likely going to be displaying content at much higher frame rates than film or broadcast TV. This is where having a TV with a higher refresh rate can really pay off.

What are the advantages of a high refresh rate?

Credit:
Reviewed / Lee Neikirk

The 120Hz spec ensures that you’ll be able to play console games that offer 120fps game modes.

One advantage of a 120Hz TV centers around the gaming benefits touched on above. In addition to being inherently better at handling fast-paced video games, the 120Hz spec also ensures that you’ll be able to play console games that offer 120fps game modes to perfectly sync up with the ultra-fast motion and get the best out of your gaming experience.

Currently, the Xbox Series X and the PlayStation 5 are all capable of displaying 4K games at 120fps, and while there aren’t very many games yet that hit this benchmark, you can expect to see more of them in the coming years. If you’re a PC gamer who wants to play on the big screen, you’ll also reap the benefits from a 120Hz TV, as high frame-rate games have been available in that ecosystem for quite some time.

If you own one of these consoles but don’t own a TV with a native 120Hz refresh rate, you won’t have the best possible gaming experience at your fingertips. That’s not to mention other gaming advantages that often come with premium TVs, like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).

Regardless of frame rate, higher refresh rates tend to eliminate blur from fast motion, which isn’t just valuable for gaming: It also matters during high-action content, like sports. Because 120Hz TVs check for new information twice as often as 60Hz TVs, they can sometimes render particular sequences in sports with more clarity.

Should I buy a 120Hz (or higher) TV?

Ultimately, you might care more about landing a great deal on an affordable TV than you do about achieving the ultimate gaming or film experience. If you’re more of a casual viewer and sports broadcasts aren’t incredibly important to you and your family, there are plenty of budget-friendly 60Hz TVs that will fit your lifestyle perfectly.

We highly recommend shopping for a 120Hz TV if you’re an avid gamer.

That said, we highly recommend shopping for a 120Hz TV if you’re an avid gamer, a dedicated sports fan, or if you just want your movies and shows to look as easy on the eyes as possible. Motion handling can have a big impact on picture quality, especially for those specific content types.

All of the options in our round-up of the best gaming TVs feature a native refresh rate of 120Hz, and several of the picks in our round-up of the best TVs do, as well.

The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews, and more.

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

What is the Refresh Rate? 60Hz vs 120Hz

What Is The Refresh Rate?

Even though we don’t see it, our TV is constantly refreshing itself every second. A refresh rate defines how many times per second it draws a new image on the screen, and it’s written out in Hertz (Hz). A 60Hz refresh rate means that the screen is refreshing itself 60 times every second, and at 120Hz, it’s refreshing itself 120 times every second. This is different from frame rate, which is how many times per second the source sends a new frame. So if you have a source that’s displaying 60 frames per second, you always want your TV to be refreshing itself 60 times/second so that the refresh and frame rate match up, otherwise motion may look blurry.

When It Matters

The refresh rate affects motion handling; the more times the display can draw a new image the better it is for fast-moving content. Modern TVs either have a 60Hz or 120Hz refresh rate. Most high-end TVs have a 120Hz refresh rate, but it doesn’t mean they’re inherently better at motion handling either. The response time determines how good motion looks; a quick response time means that motion looks clear, while a TV with a slow response time leads to motion blur. Response time and refresh rate are indirectly related as a 120Hz panel is expected to have a better response time than a 60Hz panel, but it’s not a guarantee.

Since not all content will automatically have the same frame rate as your TV’s refresh rate, there are also ways a TV increases the frame rate to match up with the refresh rate, improving the appearance of motion.

When displaying 30 or 60 fps content

A 60 fps video played on a 120Hz TV should look almost identical to the same content played on a 60Hz TV. In a case like this, the TV either adjusts itself to match the refresh rate of the source, which effectively turns it into a 60Hz TV, or it simply doubles every frame.

60 fps content played on 60Hz TV (TCL 4 Series/S425 2019)

60 fps content played on 120Hz TV (Samsung Q8FN)

As you can see from the picture above, a TV with a higher refresh rate doesn’t produce less motion blur. Since both of these TVs have a very similar response time, 60 fps content results in an almost identical picture.

To better showcase these differences, we compared two TVs side-by-side; a 60Hz model, and a 120Hz model, with similar response times. We filmed these TVs in slow motion to easily compare each individual frame.

When displaying 24 fps content

While a 120Hz TV doesn’t inherently produce better motion, it can provide a few advantages over standard 60Hz TVs. One of the most important advantages is the ability to play back content that is meant to be displayed at 24 fps, which is often found in movies. Most TVs can simply lower their own refresh rate to 24Hz when the content is 24 fps, but some sources, such as Chromecast, output video at 60 fps, even if the content is 24 fps. This means that the TV’s refresh rate remains at 60Hz, and motion won’t appear smooth, which is an effect called judder. A 60Hz TV has trouble removing 24 fps judder because 60 isn’t a multiple of 24. To display this type of content, a technique known as a “3:2 pulldown” is used. Basically, 12 of the 24 frames repeat three times, while the other 12 repeat twice, totaling 60 frames. Not everybody notices this, but it causes some scenes, notably panning shots, to appear juddery. However, 120Hz TVs have an advantage here because they can simply display each frame five times since 120 is a multiple of 24.

Learn more about judder here

When displaying 120 fps content

There are a few sources that display 120 fps, such as the Xbox Series X or the PS5, and having a 120Hz TV helps display this content at its max frame rate. While it’s rare to find content other than games with this frame rate, displaying 120 fps has a significant impact on the perceived motion. As you can see in the picture below, content looks much smoother at 120 fps than at 60 fps on a 120Hz TV.

With the release of HDMI 2.1, there may be more 120 fps sources available in the coming years. This new HDMI standard allows TVs to display 4k images up to 120 fps, whereas HDMI 2.0 allows up to 60 fps. This means that 120Hz TVs may slowly become the norm.

TV playing 60 fps content (Sony X950G)

TV playing 120 fps content (Sony X950G)

When using the motion interpolation feature

Another place where 120Hz is useful is if you enjoy the motion interpolation feature found on TVs (also known as the Soap Opera Effect). It allows the TV to generate frames between existing ones, increasing the frame rate to match up to the refresh rate. Most TVs have this feature; a 60Hz TV can interpolate 30 fps content, while a 120Hz TV can interpolate 30 and 60 fps content. This is why a 120Hz TV is an advantage over 60Hz since it can interpolate more types of content.

Black Frame Insertion

Black Frame Insertion feature enabled (Sony X950G)

There are other ways to produce a similarly clear image as a 120Hz refresh rate. Many TVs these days have a feature called Black Frame Insertion. Essentially, the TV displays a black screen between each frame, which most people can’t see, but it can also make the screen dimmer. On most LED TVs, this is achieved by adjusting the flicker frequency of the backlight, which results in the backlight being turned off for half the frame. On OLED TVs, which don’t have a backlight, this is done by inserting a black frame in-between each frame.

Persistence blur occurs when your eyes move past a static image, such as each static frame that makes up moving content. With Black Frame Insertion, the static frame is present for a shorter duration, so the length of the persistence blur is shorter. Unfortunately, though, not everyone can stand the flickering, and some people may get annoyed after a while.

Different Refresh Rate From Different Sources

A TV is only as good as the content you are playing, and unfortunately, very little 120 fps content actually exists. With the new HDMI 2.1 standard, gaming consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5 support 120 fps, but there isn’t much online content available at such a high frame rate. We’ve compiled a couple of lists of common entertainment sources as well as their respective refresh rates.

Additional Information

Variable Refresh rate

A source’s frame rate isn’t always constant, especially in games. It may drop and if that happens, it can lead to screen tearing because the frame rate of the game and the refresh rate of your TV don’t match up. There’s a feature called variable refresh rate (VRR) that aims to match the refresh and frame rate on-the-go, so if the frame rate of the game drops, the TV automatically lowers its refresh rate as well. This is only possible if both the TV and the source support VRR.

There are different formats of VRR, with AMD’s FreeSync, NVIDIA’s G-SYNC, and HDMI Forum VRR being the three most common types. G-SYNC is usually reserved for monitors, but some TVs are compatible with it. Higher-end Samsung and LG TVs have FreeSync, and support for HDMI Forum VRR is starting to grow on HDMI 2.1 TVs. As for compatible devices, the Xbox Series X supports FreeSync and HDMI Forum VRR, while the PS5 should receive an update in 2021 for HDMI Forum VRR.

Learn more about variable refresh rate

Fake refresh rate

TV companies will often market their refresh rates in ways to make it seem like it’s higher than it actually is. A company like Samsung uses the term ‘Motion Rate’; the Motion Rate on a 60Hz TV is 120, while a 120Hz model has a Motion Rate of 240; they effectively double the refresh rate to come up with this number, and there’s no real explanation as to why it’s marketed like that. LG uses ‘TruMotion’, Vizio has ‘Effective Refresh Rate’, and Sony has two terms: ‘MotionFlow XR’ and ‘X-Motion Clarity’. These marketing numbers don’t really mean anything, and you need to check the TV’s specs to find the real refresh rate.

Learn more about fake refresh rate

Flicker frequency

LCD TVs are lit by LED lights, and most TVs use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to dim the backlight. What this means is that the backlight turns itself off every few seconds, so it doesn’t get too bright. It’s not visible to the human eye because of how fast the frequency is. Flicker frequency, like refresh rate, is measured in Hz because we want to know how many times it flickers every second.

If the flicker frequency doesn’t match up with the refresh or frame rates, it can create some image duplication. As you can see in the images below, motion on the LG UN8500 has image duplication because its backlight flickers at 120Hz; this is double the 60 fps source. However, the Sony X800H has a flicker-free backlight, so there’s no image duplication – the motion blur is caused by a slower response time.

Image duplication (LG UN8500)

Flicker-free backlight (Sony X800H)

Conclusion

A refresh rate defines how often the screen refreshes itself every second. Although we can’t see it, the TV draws a new image from the source every few milliseconds. Generally, a higher refresh rate TV results in better motion handling, but it’s not always the case as there are other factors that come into play with motion. It’s important that your source’s frame rate and the TV’s refresh rate each match in order to create smooth, stutter-free motion. For most people, a TV with a 60Hz refresh rate is good enough since there isn’t much 4k content that goes past 60 fps. However, 120Hz TVs with HDMI 2.1 support are beneficial to gamers as they allow for higher frame rates.

What is the screen refresh rate?

This is one of the indicators that characterizes the quality of the dynamic image on the TV screen. It shows how fast the frames on the TV screen change, and is measured in hertz (Hz). If the refresh rate is insufficient, then the TV user observes flickering of the image, which is very tiring for the eyes. This disadvantage is well known to owners of outdated cathode ray tube (CRT) televisions.

With the widespread adoption of liquid crystal models, 50 frames per second, or 50 Hz, has become the standard. However, in modern models this is considered insufficient.

The problem is that the LCD pixels do not switch instantly. No matter how small the inertia of switching, in scenes saturated with fast movements, it becomes noticeable – the image is “smeared”, gaps and comet trails appear. To get rid of these unwanted effects, you should increase the frame rate. Manufacturers achieve this with the help of special software solutions. The most popular is to insert an intermediate frame between the two main ones.

A powerful processor analyzes and compares two adjacent frames and, based on this analysis, creates a transition between them. Due to such an insert, the frame refresh rate is doubled – from 50 to 100 Hz. And if you insert several intermediate pictures, the frequency will increase even more. Thus, it is possible to raise the refresh rate up to 200 Hz. Other technological innovations are also used, for example, local dimming, flickering backlight, various anti-aliasing algorithms. All these measures can reduce the fuzziness of images of fast moving objects.

It should be added that drawing additional frames in its pure form is not currently used. The fact is that while it suits games and sports broadcasts well, then films processed using this technology have an undesirable unnatural effect, called the “soap opera effect”.

Therefore, in order to avoid annoying viewers watching TV, manufacturers use complex sets of algorithms that each large company develops independently and keeps secret from competitors.

Today, manufacturers are announcing absolutely incredible refresh rates of 1000 or more hertz. But this is not the real rate of staff turnover, but a marketing parameter invented to evaluate the effectiveness of the technologies used.

You can buy a TV in our online store at a low price with home delivery or pickup in Moscow.

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What is the best TV refresh rate

The passport of every modern LCD TV or computer monitor contains such a characteristic as the screen refresh rate. But even a sales assistant is not always able to explain how this indicator actually affects the image, how the picture differs in 50Hz, 100Hz, 200Hz, and which frequency is better to choose. However, there is a difference, and quite noticeable: the number of Hz significantly affects the quality. Sometimes it pays to increase the cost of a purchase a little, but to get a better model with a clear image and smooth transitions dynamic frames .

Contents

How many hertz does a good TV have?

Do not confuse this with 24 frames per second for film or 50 frames for TV. The refresh rate of a TV screen – or scan – is measured in Hz (hertz). The Hz value indicates how many frames per second the panel is capable of displaying.

The higher this characteristic, the clearer the picture will be, without “blurred” movements and flicker.

If you go a little deeper into history, then obsolete monitors and TVs had a modest frequency of 50 Hz, not hiding “smeared” scenes when the object moved quickly. Later they were replaced by more technologically advanced devices with a 100Hz sweep. The new products completely eliminated the unpleasant flicker, but there was still no need to talk about quality. As mentioned above, TV content produces 50 frames per second (which is equal to 50Hz), updated models “finished” intermediate frames, thus slightly increasing image clarity to a satisfactory level. But compared to its predecessors, TVs were considered excellent, and there was no better alternative.

At least 200 Hz will ensure high image quality when the digital video processing already projects three additional intermediate frames . Although the manufacturer promises that 100Hz is enough for modern technology, this is not entirely true. It is enough to turn on two TVs with different frequencies: in comparison, the difference in quality at a scan of 100 and 200 Hz will be noticeable. But screen resolution should also be taken into account. For modern types of TVs, 4K 120 Hz is enough.

Technical description of the scanning process

To understand what refresh rate is and how frames are drawn, you need to understand the types of LCD TVs and monitors that are on the market today.

1. LCD (Liqud Crystal Display) The was one of the first LCD TV designs. Currently, they are relatively cheap, as many improved models and new technologies have appeared. So, LCD panels are inferior to LED in terms of comparative characteristics. Image formation is carried out using CCFL fluorescent illumination. Such devices do not have good picture clarity, but with a sweep of more than 100 Hz, you can count on the complete absence of flicker.
2. L ED (Light-emitting Diode) are advanced LCD monitors, supplemented by a new image illumination system using LED diodes. These monitors have a higher contrast ratio. Please note: the placement of diodes over the screen area may be different, which affects the quality of the image transmission. Models labeled “Full LED”, “True LED”, “Direct LED” are of higher quality, they have diode backlighting distributed over the entire screen area, but the “Edge LED” marking means that the backlighting is concentrated in the end parts. You can read more about these nuances in the article about LED technology. Such a TV will be much cheaper, but the image will be somewhat worse.
3. Plasma Display Panel does not require additional illumination: the plasma cells are illuminated by the action of ultraviolet rays on the phosphors. Plasma provides higher contrast than the two types above and deep darks. The affordable cost of the panel is compensated by the fragility: in 3-4 years, the panel burns out somewhat, the image quality is noticeably reduced. Complements the list of shortcomings tangible energy consumption and frequent failures when detecting removable modules. Such a TV may not see the hard drive or flash drive, headset and similar connected devices.
4. OLED ( Organic Light- emitting Diode) in the modern world is the pinnacle of technical tele-progress. These were the first curved TVs in 2015, but the extravagant designs weren’t in high demand, and the familiar flat OLED devices followed. Manufacturers have achieved high quality pictures without any additional illumination. The advantages of this technology compared to LED are obvious.

Now about the display refresh rate technology itself. The television series, provided via non-switched communication channels, produces 50 frames per second. Digital video processing allowed each frame to be copied and shown twice, and 100Hz was born. The technology made it possible to eliminate the most uncomfortable image defect – flicker.

Further development borrowed technology from computer animation, when the technique takes two frames as a basis and creates everything in between intelligently, creating smooth and precise movement. Unlike a computer, a TV does not have the concept of a “future frame”, but this turned out to be enough. The drawing of additional frames is based on the analysis of past ones, which ensures a high image accuracy and smoothness . Objects moving at high speed are clear and not blurry.

What the market currently offers

The most modern panels today are considered to be 600 and 800 Hz with built-in Sub-Field Driving technology, which promises unsurpassed picture quality. There are many doubts about such characteristics. Distrust of manufacturers was born a long time ago, when such equipment was just beginning to enter the market. In those days, marketers did not hesitate to attribute hertz when image enhancement technologies inserted not copies of frames, but simply black pictures that the eye was not able to perceive. Thus, the quality did not increase, but the sales of digital electronics went very well. Modern LCD TVs of well-known brands correspond to the parameters stated in the passport, and there is no doubt about it. It is more important to take care of the availability of the necessary cables that allow you to transmit digitized channels of satellite or cable TV.

What does resolution affect? In addition to the above indicator, you should pay attention to

screen resolution , which also affects the image quality. The indicator is measured in pixels (p).

It is worth noting that the continuous development of technologies, their improvement, leads to the fact that each new model is much better than the previous one. About five years ago, 720p devices were at the peak of popularity, and models Full HD in 1080 p just appeared and cost twice as much, but today their cost is almost equal. The modern market has been updated with a new HDTV resolution, 4K Ultra HD, capable of displaying four times as many pixels as Full HD.

The new UHDTV or 4K has more color reproduction, the 120Hz refresh rate provides a clear, crisp and true-to-life picture. It is difficult to assess which is better: full immersion in 3D or super-realistic pictures of a new resolution format. But don’t discount Full HD at 1080p. Although the resolution fades into the background, it will be actively used for a long time. Most of the content is “tailored” for this resolution, unlike the new UHDTV, for which films have not yet been released, and the existing ones are not cheap. Therefore, you can choose which TV resolution is better only based on the quality of the incoming signal.

Moreover, the weight of such a file is much larger, the current cables, Internet speed and Wi-Fi router will also have to be replaced with faster and more powerful ones capable of playing and displaying ultra-precise video.

Summing up

Taking into account all significant parameters, several conclusions can be drawn.

Hooking Up a Washer: How to in 8 Easy Steps

Installing a new washing machine can make a big difference in your day-to-day routine. If you’re replacing an old washing machine, you should already have the plumbing hookups you need so you can simply swap machines.

If you don’t have hookups in your desired washer location, contact a professional to help get your laundry space up and running. For more information on how to prepare, read this guide to getting ready for appliance delivery and installation.

Select a link below to jump to a section:

Installing a Washing Machine: Video Walkthroughs

For a hands-on demonstration, refer to the videos below for top load washer installation and front load washing machine installation, including slight variations between the two configurations.

How to Install a Top Load Washer

Top load and front load washers have a similar installation process, though the location of the hoses and power cords may be slightly different.  Learn more about washer parts and placement for your installation process.

How to Install a Front Load Washer

The installation process is very similar to top load washers, though front load washers are stackable. If you want to save space by stacking, read the Maytag^®guide to stacking front load washers and dryers.

Follow the guide below for step-by-step instructions and the supplies needed to install your washing machine. Refer to your product’s installation guide for specific directions. If you have any questions or concerns, consult a professional for assistance.

Washer Hookup: Before You Begin

Once your appliance has been delivered, make sure you have what you need to start the washer installation process:

• Find another person to help you move the appliance in place or lift it when leveling.
• If you have them, install washer or dryer pedestals onto your machines before hooking them up.

Supplies and Tools You’ll Need

• Hot and cold water hoses with flat washers 
• 1 ¾” Pliers
• Adjustable wrench that opens to 14mm
• Level
• Utility knife
• Bucket
• Cable tie

Shop washing machine hoses from Maytag for your installation process.

How to Hook Up a Washing Machine Step-by-Step

Once you’ve removed all the packing materials and have your tools and washer in place, follow these steps on how to hook up a washing machine.

Step 1: Free the power cord

• Find the power cord in the back of the washer. Firmly grasp it and pull it out of the rear panel. 
• Gently place it over the washer console to allow free access to the back of the washer.

Step 2: Attach drain hose to drain port

• Look for a red plastic plug in the back of the washer. This will be the drain port. Remove the plug. 

• A clamp should have been included with the drain hose. Place the clamp on the elbow end (bent end) of the hose if it’s not already there. Slide the elbow end of the drain hose over the drain port and tighten the clamp with the wrench. 

Step 3: Place drain hose in standpipe

• A u-shaped drain hose form should have been included with the hose. Apply the form to the free end of the hose if it isn’t already in place. The hose opening should then be facing down. 

• Place the hose into the standpipe or over the side of the utility sink. 

• Only 4.5 inches of the drain hose should be inside the standpipe. Do not force any excess hose into the standpipe.

Step 4: Connect inlet hoses to water faucets

• Attach a hose to the hot water faucet. Water hoses should be replaced every five years. Screw it in by hand until it is secured on the faucet.  

• Use pliers to tighten the coupling an additional two-thirds turn. 

• Repeat with the other hose on the cold water faucet. Do not over-tighten or use sealant or tape on the valves and hoses. It could cause damage.

Step 5: Clear the water lines

• Run water for a few seconds through the hoses into a sink or bucket to avoid clogs. Run the water until it’s clear.

• Make note of which hose is connected to hot water to help you attach the hoses to the washer correctly.

Step 6: Connect inlet hoses to washer

• Attach the hot water hose to the hot water inlet valve marked with a red ring. Screw the coupling by hand until it is snug. Use pliers to tighten the coupling an additional two-thirds turn. Repeat with the cold water inlet valve.

• Turn on the water faucets to check for leaks. A small amount of water may enter the washer. Don’t worry, it will drain later.

Replace inlet hoses every five years

To reduce the risk of hose failure, replace them every five years. Record hose installation or replacement dates for future reference. Periodically inspect and replace hoses if bulges, kinks, cuts, wear or leaks are found.

Step 7: Secure the drain hose

• Use a cable tie to secure the drain hose to the drain standpipe, sink leg or one of the inlet hoses to keep it from shaking loose when the washer is in use.

Step 8: Level the washer

• Make sure to level the washer in its final location.  Place a level on the top and against the sides of the washer to ensure stability. Rock the washer back and forth to make sure all four feet make solid contact with the floor.

• If the washer isn’t level, use adjustable pliers to turn the plastic leveling foot counterclockwise to lower the washer or clockwise to raise the washer. Recheck the levelness of the washer and repeat as needed.

Washer Installation – Common Questions

For common questions, refer to the following FAQs to ensure a smooth installation process for your washing machine.

Do I Need to Connect Hot Water to a Washing Machine?

Most washing machines will require one hot and one cold water connection during the installation process. The hot water inlet valve will likely be marked red and will connect to the hot water hose. Follow the same process for the cold water hose and inlet valve. If you have questions or concerns with water source hookups, consider consulting a licensed plumber for assistance.

Washing Machine Plumbing Installation: What Do You Need?

To hook up your appliance to the existing plumbing, you will need washing machine hoses, pliers and sometimes cable ties to connect the hot and cold water supply and inlet valves, respectively. For drainage and clearing the water lines, be mindful to have a bucket on hand to catch any water.

Should I Put a Drain Pan Under My Washer?

Drain pans are not required during the installation process. However, if you are concerned about water leaking while hooking everything up, feel free to use one. It is not recommended to leave it under your washer after installation as it could cause vibration or noises.

Can You Install a Washing Machine Yourself?

Enlist the help of another person any time you are handling large, bulky appliances. This helps to ensure a smooth installation process and prevent damage to the appliance and surrounding area. For professional services, learn more about contactless delivery and installation from Maytag.

Shop Maytag

^® washing machines

Delivering convenience and control you can rely on, washers by Maytag brand give you the power to breeze through laundry with features like steam options and the Extra Power button on select models to boost stain-fighting performance. Discover Maytag^® washers to take control of laundry day .

MVW6500MBK

MVWP575GW

MHW5630HW

MHW6630HC

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  Discover more about washing machine settings and laundry cycles to get the best results on laundry day.

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How to Install a Washing Machine

Install a new washing machine in your home with these simple steps.

By

Timothy Dale

Timothy Dale

Timothy Dale is a home repair expert and writer with over a decade of hands-on construction and home improvement experience. He is skilled in residential, commercial, industrial and institutional plumbing, electrical, carpentry, installation, renovations, and project management.

Learn more about The Spruce’s
Editorial Process

Updated on 09/02/22

Reviewed by

Richard Epstein

Reviewed by
Richard Epstein

Richard Epstein is a licensed master plumber with over 40 years experience in residential and commercial plumbing. He specializes in estimating as well as design and engineering for plumbing systems, and he works for one of New York’s largest union plumbing construction companies.

Learn more about The Spruce’s
Review Board

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Project Overview

When you get into the habit of washing clothes at home, switching back to the local laundromat or running to a friend’s home to wash your clothes can be a hassle. So, whether you are replacing a broken washer, renovating the laundry room, or moving to a new home entirely, it’s beneficial to know how to install a washing machine.

If you have the knowledge and skill to install a new washer or reinstall your current washing machine, then you won’t need to worry about waiting for an appointment and paying to have a professional plumber install the washer. Use this guide to learn what steps to take to install a washing machine, including the appropriate tools and accessories to get the job done.

Warning

Any time that you need to lift or move a heavy appliance, like a washing machine, it’s necessary to ensure that you are lifting properly to avoid muscle strain and injury. It’s also recommended to have at least one other adult available to help lift the washer onto an appliance cart and balance the washer while it’s moved. Additionally, you need to wear gloves to protect your hands and help you grip the machine, as well as steel-toed footwear to keep your feet safe from being crushed by the washer if it gets dropped or slips off the appliance cart.

Equipment / Tools

• Appliance cart
• Measuring tape
• Adjustable wrench
• Level

Materials

• Washer hose kit
• Drain hose

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

1. Plan the Installation Location

   If you already have a washing machine installed and you are just replacing it with a new machine, then finding a suitable location isn’t a big problem. Just make sure to measure the space with a measuring tape to ensure that the new washer will fit.

   However, if you are moving into a new home or renovating the laundry room, then you need to plan an installation location for the appliance. Most electric dryers rely on 240V power, while washing machines need a standard 120V outlet. Gas dryers must be hooked up by a licensed professional.

   Additionally, the washer needs water to wash the laundry, so plan to have hot and cold water supply valves, as well as a suitable drain location for the drain line.

   Keep in mind that water lines are prone to freezing if the room isn’t properly insulated, so setting up a washer in the garage is not be the best choice if the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit in winter.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

2. Disconnect and Remove the Old Washer

   For washing machine replacement projects, you will need to disconnect the old machine and remove it from the laundry room before you can install the new machine. Unplug the washer, then use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the existing water supply hoses, placing the ends into a bucket to drain any water remaining in the lines.

   Similarly, you will need to remove the drain line and place it into the bucket to empty any remaining water. Once you are satisfied that the water supply and drain lines are empty, you can disconnect them from the washer.

   Slide the washing machine out of the current position so that there is enough space on all sides to properly grip the washer. With the help of a second adult, tilt the washer up on one end and slide an appliance cart underneath the washer.

   Secure the washer with furniture straps or tape, then use the appliance cart to remove the old washer from the home.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

3. Slide the Washer Into Position

   Once you have selected a spot for the new washing machine or the location to reinstall your current washer after a move or renovation project, then you will need to clean out any debris or obstacles that may be blocking the area. When the space is clear, carefully slide the washing machine into the general location. Have a second adult help to move the heavy appliance in order to avoid scraping or scratching the floor. At this point in the installation process, you will need to keep the washer pulled out from the wall in order to access the back of the machine. You should always familiarize yourself by reading the installation manual.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

4. Attach the Water Supply Hoses

   A washing machine requires access to water in order to wash the laundry, so you should have at least a cold water supply connection located close to the washer. Most laundry set-ups will have a hot and cold water supply connection for the washer.

   Connect the cold water supply hose to the cold water supply inlet on the washer, then connect the hot water supply hose to the hot water supply inlet. Use your adjustable wrench to tighten the connection if necessary. Attach the other end of the cold water hose to the cold water supply line, then attach the other end of the hot water hose to the hot water supply line.

   If the existing water supply hoses are too short to reach the water supply lines, then you will need to invest in new water supply hoses that fit the set-up. It’s also recommended to inspect your current water supply hoses for any signs of cracking, leaks, or corrosion. If there is a significant amount of wear-and-tear from years of use, it’s a good idea to replace the hoses.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

5. Connect the Drain Hose

   Just as the washer needs clean water to wash the laundry, it also needs to drain the used water before switching to a spin cycle to help remove any access water from the laundry. The washing machine has a drain that exits from the base of the machine, but you need to connect a drain hose to this outlet in order to avoid flooding the laundry area.

   Attach the drain hose to the back of the washing machine, then run the other end of the drain hose to an appropriate drainage location. Many laundry set-ups with have a vertical standpipe installed for the drain hose, but if your laundry area doesn’t have a standpipe drain, you may need to feed the drain hose into the laundry sink or even connect it to a floor drain.

   Use a plastic hose guide to ensure the drain hose empties into the standpipe, sink, or floor drain without creating a mess. Also, make sure to leave several inches of space between the end of the drain hose and the bottom of the drain or the bottom of the sink. Otherwise, the hose can actually siphon dirty water from the sink back into the washer, creating a cross-contamination problem.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

6. Plug in the Washer

   When you are finished connecting the water supply hoses and the drain hose, you can plug in the washer without worrying about water dripping on the electrical connection. With the washing machine plugged in and all the hoses in place, you no longer need access to the back of the washer. Slide the machine back against the wall, but make sure to leave enough space for the water supply hoses and drain hose.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

7. Level the Washing Machine

   Washing machines are typically designed with small leveling feet under each corner to help make slight changes to level out the washer. You can find out if the washer is level by placing a level on the top of the machine. Use each of the leveling feet to increase or decrease the height of one corner at a time until the machine is level. Remember to check if the washer is level from both left to right and from front to back. Otherwise, you may find that the washer is leaning forward too much, causing the drum to hit the sides of the washer during a heavy wash cycle or a spin cycle.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

8. Test the Washer

   After installing or reinstalling a washer, it’s important to test the machine to ensure that everything is connected properly. If you don’t test the washer and just assume that it is properly installed you may be creating a bigger problem in the long run, especially if there are any leaks that could damage the flooring, walls, and any items or furniture in the room.

   If you test the washer and see a leak or water on the floor, try tightening the connections on the supply lines, then verify that the drain hose is draining the water into the appropriate drain. Worn out hoses can also be the cause of a leak, so if any of the hoses appear to be in poor condition, it’s recommended to replace them.

   The Spruce / Kevin Norris

How to install a washing machine on your own – rules and tips

Few people want to spend money after buying a washing machine on installation, which is obsessively offered by employees of household appliances stores. In this article, we will show you how to install a washing machine yourself.

First stage. Installation

You have received the long-awaited equipment, now it’s time to move on to the installation. You will need to remove the shipping bolts located on the back of the machine body. Fasteners are necessary so that the tank does not dangle inside during transportation, as this can damage the “insides” of the equipment. The bolts will not allow you to turn on the machine, moreover, this can lead to serious damage. To avoid problems with removing the bolts, use a wrench or pliers. Close the holes with plastic plugs that come with the washer. Do not throw away the fasteners – they will come in handy in case of a move.

Recommendation! Read the instructions carefully before using your washing machine for the first time. This will protect the equipment from possible breakdowns and damage due to negligence.

Where is the best place to install the SMA? The place should be such that in the future it would be convenient for the equipment to maintain and get to all the necessary details. Often, owners prefer to install the machine in the bathroom, as it is not only convenient and practical, but also goes well with any interior. But in this case, it must be borne in mind that high humidity can adversely affect the operation of the SMA. A washing machine is also installed in the kitchen. This option is quite acceptable, especially when there is not enough space in the bathroom. And in the kitchen, the machine can be built into a cabinet, hidden in a closet or installed in a niche.

If desired, you can install the SM in the hallway, if there is enough space and there is a socket. Before installation, it is very important to think over everything, weigh all the pros and cons.

Hot water: yes or no

Today, some modern models of machines are suitable for connecting cold and hot water. But the opinion of experts boils down to the fact that when connecting hot water, no advantages are foreseen. Modern machines have a heating element that heats water to the desired temperature. But there are significant drawbacks:

• Water can be heavily polluted, unlike cold. Therefore, you will often have to clean the filter of the filler valve (and the drain too). You will have to do this either on your own, or call the master, and this will hit the family budget.
• Hot water is very hard, so you have to use more detergent. Otherwise, after washing, things will remain dirty.

If it is not possible to connect the washing machine to hot water, then there is no need to think about this issue.

Second stage. Connecting to water

Connecting the washing machine to the water supply is a process that requires special attention, precision and accuracy. If you do everything right, your machine will work properly. To connect the equipment to the pipeline, you will need flexible hoses with a diameter of 2 cm. To connect the washing machine to water, do the following:

1. Find the right place in the water pipe and cut the thread.
2. What do you need to install the valve? Fasteners – they guarantee a secure fit.
3. Install a protective mesh to prevent small foreign objects from entering the inside of the drum.

Tip! Clean the mesh and close the valve after each wash – this will ensure stable and efficient operation of the machine.

Water supply requires a prefabricated outlet connected to a faucet or cistern. Such a simple installation scheme will help you cope with the connection to the water yourself.

Third stage. Connecting to the network

This process requires responsibility. It is necessary to install one socket, which must have protection against water and grounding. Most modern washing machines are often protected from current and have grounding. But it’s better to play it safe once again than to put your life in danger, and your equipment to failure. Basically, all machines have a power cord approximately 1.5 meters long. Therefore, the outlet must be at such a distance that you can connect the equipment to the network.

Recommendation! Do not use extension cords as they do not guarantee safety!

If this stage is passed without any difficulties, it is time to move on to the final step.

Fourth stage. Fixing the machine

We continue the installation instructions. Do not know how to install the CM so that there are no vibrations, jumps and shaking during washing and spinning? This problem occurs due to an uneven floor. The machine must be installed on a perfectly flat floor. If you find any irregularities, use a rubber mat – put it under the machine. The mat is excellent at absorbing vibrations. In no case do not use wooden linings or linoleum cutouts – they only temporarily eliminate the problem. Here’s a way to make sure the washer is installed correctly and at the right level: put your weight on each corner of the top cover. If none of them give way down, the machine is level.

Important! If you neglect the installation rules, the machine will start jumping during washing. This usually ends in failure.

The final stage. Testing

Did you cope with all the difficulties when installing the equipment yourself? Now it remains to evaluate the result of the work done – to make sure that everything is done correctly and the machine works as expected. The check goes as follows:

1. When you select the washing mode, the drum rotates and does not stand still.
2. No signs of leakage – hoses are well connected.
3. When switched on, there is no extraneous noise inside the machine.
4. The correct operation of the spin cycle and the drain, which functions stably after washing, confirm the correct installation.

If you are interested in a visual and detailed installation of the washing machine, the video instruction will help you understand:

Now you can check the efficiency of washing clothes in the CMA. Good luck and enjoy using it.

How to properly install a washing machine: tips and tricks

In today’s world, technology plays a huge role in human life. It is difficult to imagine a hostess without a stove, vacuum cleaner or washing machine.

One of the most important helpers in everyday life is washing equipment.

And not just a technique that makes unimaginable movements around the room before washing or squeezing clothes, but smart automatic machines.

This article will talk about how to properly install a washing machine, but if you want a clean workplace, office cleaning will help you

Contents

1. Before installation…
2. What happens to the warranty?
3. Preliminary check
4. Read the manual
5. Installing the washing machine
6. Preparatory step
7. Installation step
8. Set up the stand
9. Set up the mains and grounding
10. We connect to sewerage and water supply
11. Final stage

Before installation…

What will happen to the guarantee?

First, before proceeding with the installation, you need to consider whether the warranty will be valid if you install it yourself.

If this issue is resolved or not so important, then you can safely begin to act and first figure out how to install the washing machine yourself. This is not a difficult matter.

Preliminary check

After purchasing the washing machine and delivering it home, it would be good to carry out some manipulations, in other words, to check the equipment for defects.

For this you need:

1. Unpack equipment .
   Attention! It may happen that the machine will not fit or will not work at all, so the packaging material must be stored for several days.
2. Check for damage.
   Look for dents, scratches visible to the naked eye on the body of the machine;
3. Rock the machine from side to side .
   With a characteristic tapping and incomprehensible noise, it is better to refuse such a product.

Read the instructions

So, an indispensable helper in everyday life has been acquired. But before it can begin to perform its function, it needs to be properly installed. It is advisable to carefully read the instructions that come with any equipment and study the nuances in order to avoid errors during installation.

Installing the washing machine

Preparation

Tools and materials

What you need to properly install the washing machine:

• cold water, 3/4″ tap;
• tap for machines, with which the water supply is closed and opened;
• exit to the sewer. Usually this is a 32 mm pipe;
• valve installed on the sewer pipe to prevent water from flowing in the opposite direction. Usually this does not happen, since the floor is 80 cm or more higher than the sewer pipe;
• wrench;
• clamp for a strong connection of the hose and sewage;
• you need to install a 10-20 volt socket for the washing machine in advance. It must have a cover that protects against accidental ingress of moisture and, as a result, electric shock.

The right place for the washing machine is half the success in its proper installation and operation.

Choosing a place

It is at this stage that you need to decide where to install the washing machine.

Place it on a hard horizontal surface.

In a small room, it is better to remove unnecessary items so that nothing interferes with the installation of equipment.

Make sure that the cord from the washer will reach the socket and be free and not taut. For example, a good option is to install a washing machine under the countertop in the kitchen or, in the classic version, in the bathroom.

Preparing the car

We have decided on the place, now it’s time to start the car.

1. Empty the machine from excess film and other unnecessary items.
2. Remove the shipping screws that secure the tank. This will help the wrench, matched to the diameter of the screws.
3. To avoid damage to the drum of the washing machine, it must be released from all installed fixings required for transport.
4. Close all openings with plugs.

Installation step

Adjusting the stand

It is very important to set up the washing machine correctly so that it does not jump. This can be achieved by choosing the correct height of each leg of the machine.

This way you give it maximum stability during washing. So, what needs to be done:

• choose the height of the stand so that the machine does not shake during operation;
• install the equipment exactly horizontally relative to the floor.

Compliance with these conditions guarantees the stability of the automatic machine and saves you from excessive noise emitted by improper installation.

Even the slightest deviation will cause unnecessary vibrations. After selecting the height of each leg, they are tightened.

To prevent the washing machine from slipping on the floor, you can install rubber feet on the washing machine or lay a rubber mat.

Set up the electrical network and grounding

The cord attached to the rear wall of the equipment is connected to the network with grounding.

If there is no outlet at all, it is better to call the master, who will install it with the correct grounding.

Otherwise, the washing machine will be electrocuted.

We connect to the sewerage and water supply

Let’s figure out how to install a washing machine drain. All washing units are connected to cold water using an inlet hose.

Further, water is taken automatically by the drain hose to the sewer pipe, so the connections must be tight.

A hose is connected with a plastic sluice on the back of the machine.

It is attached to the bathroom sink or sink with a hook and should not be higher than 90 cm.

Final step

Performing a control check

Signs that you can determine the correct installation of the washing machine:

1. No leaks.
   

The 24 Best Gifts for Gamers of 2023

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

1. Gifts
2. Gifts for grown-ups

By

Haley Perry and Wirecutter Staff

Updated November 4, 2022

Photo: Michael Hession

FYI

We’ve updated our recommendations for 2022 with new games and new accessories.

November 2022

Picking the right gift for the gaming enthusiast in your life is like navigating a minefield of preferences and past purchases, and finding high-quality, compatible accessories can be just as difficult. That’s why we put together this crowd-pleasing collection that includes practical gear for dedicated players, funky throwbacks for old-school arcade lovers, and a curated selection of our favorite games. In addition to top picks from our expert-informed guides, we’ve found a few unique gifts that any gamer would love to receive.

Categories

• Audio gear
• Storage
• Better controls
• Games
• Subscriptions
• Miscellaneous gifts that gamers will appreciate
• Retro gaming
• For DIY-ers

Audio gear

A sound upgrade for couch gamers

Photo: JBL

People who enjoy playing games on a TV and want to hear rich, enveloping sound without having to wear a headset will appreciate a speaker upgrade that won’t break the bank. The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass is the best soundbar you can get for under $400 (and often much lower). It has clearer voice reproduction and deeper bass than any of the other sub-$400 models we’ve tested, and though it’s only a 2.1-channel system, it produces impressive wraparound audio that feels surprisingly close to surround sound. It also keeps things simple with a remote that allows for only subwoofer adjustment, which we think is just the right amount of control.

Immersive sound

Photo: Rozette Rago

A great headset can make all the difference for gaming, offering the player a deeper level of immersion than basic speakers. Gaming headsets can also enhance voice chat and online gaming, eliminating some of the pitfalls and mediocrity of cheap earbuds or headphones. The HyperX Cloud Alpha has been one of the most comfortable headsets we’ve tested for multiple years in a row, and this set also produces some of the best sound quality we’ve heard for the price. And thanks to the Cloud Alpha’s 0.125-inch headphone adapter, this headset works with any game console or computer.

Storage

Game space for a Nintendo Switch

Photo: Rozette Rago

When you download games on a Nintendo Switch, the built-in 32 GB storage can fill up pretty quickly (some individual titles take up even more space than the internal capacity). The Switch player in your life will probably need to store more games at once, making the 128 GB SanDisk microSDXC Card a welcome gift, even if it’s not the flashiest of the accessories we recommend. It’s speedy when saving or loading games, and it’s one of the most cost-effective cards you can buy. If you’re feeling generous, SanDisk also sells a 256 GB version for double the storage.

The best option for external storage

Photo: Sarah Kobos

To add storage for more games on an Xbox, PlayStation, or PC, we recommend the Western Digital My Passport SSD. Xbox One and PS4 games are playable directly from an external SSD (or hard drive), but Xbox Series X|S and PS5 games can only be stored there—be prepared to transfer those games back to your console to play them. The My Passport is a fast and reliable drive, and Western Digital backs it with a five-year warranty. The drive is also compact enough to squeeze into almost any nook in a crowded entertainment center.

Better controls

A controller for mobile gaming

Photo: Backbone

The Backbone One is a controller that wraps around an iPhone, turning it into a portable game console that’s as comfortable to hold as any PlayStation or Xbox controller. It’s a great option for anyone who is always playing games on their phone. It features all the typical buttons you can find on any modern controller, as well as buttons for recording game play and launching the free Backbone app, which offers a unified way to open all your mobile games. The Backbone controller connects to iPhones through the Lightning port, so there’s no need to connect to Bluetooth, though the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max do require a special adapter, which ships free when you order (or, if you have a 3D printer, you can create it at home).

Make their console controllers rechargeable

Photo: PowerA

Xbox owners and PC players who use Xbox controllers will appreciate never having to open yet another drawer just to find all their AAs missing, thanks to PowerA’s Dual Charging Station. The pack comes bundled with a charger cradle for two controllers and two battery packs, and it’s a far less wasteful and longer-lasting option compared with single-use batteries (though you can buy standard rechargeable batteries, as well).

A heroic gaming mouse

Photo: Michael Murtaugh

A gaming mouse offers faster response times, ergonomic and customizable buttons, and better precision, making it a great gift for anyone who spends a lot of time playing on a PC. We love the Razer Basilisk V3, and we recommend it in our guide to the best gaming mice because it’s comfortable for most hand sizes and grip styles, and it offers plenty of buttons and excellent build quality. It also has lighting underneath, on the scroll wheel, and on the Razer logo that can be synced to match different dynamic colors in-game or simply customized to suit anyone’s color preference.

Fantastic and flashy keyboard

Photo: HyperX

For gamers who haven’t yet invested in a good gaming keyboard, an upgrade will let them take advantage of customizable backlighting, a more-ergonomic design, and macro keys that they can program to carry out any keystroke sequence with the push of a single button. We like the HyperX Alloy Origins Core for its tenkeyless design (which allows for mouse placement closer to the body, reducing shoulder, neck, and back strain), as well as for its dedicated media buttons, including volume and mic mute keys. We also like its vibrant backlights, which your gift recipient can customize with simple software.

Excellent desktop sound

Photo: Sarah Kobos

When it comes to game immersion, it’s not just about the graphics. Modern games have cinematic sound design, but many people have speakers or headphones that don’t do it justice. If it’s time to upgrade, the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX is our favorite set of computer speakers that includes a subwoofer. The speakers have a small on-desk footprint, and the subwoofer effectively adds more bass, which can give a little more oomph to video game effects.

A custom controller for any preference

Photo: Haley Perry

If you know someone who uses an Xbox controller for Xbox or PC gaming, you can tailor a controller to match the color scheme of their cherished sports team, their favorite video game, or even their desk setup through the Xbox Design Lab. You can customize almost every part of the controller’s appearance, with options for different colors, finishes, and patterns on its body and buttons. The website’s design tool is easy to use and a ton of fun, too.

For family gaming

Image: Game Freak/Nintendo

Pokémon Legends: Arceus for Nintendo Switch ($45 at the time of publication)

We like Pokémon Legends: Arceus because it takes the beloved creature-catching formula and sets it in a time before the modern era of Pokémon games. The result is something closer to a true open-world game, with an intriguing prehistoric and dangerous feel.

A legendary co-op game

Image: Tribute Games/Dotemu

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge for Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation, and Xbox ($25 at the time of publication; also on Game Pass)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was one of the most popular arcade games of its time when it came out nearly three decades ago, and Shredder’s Revenge, the newest iteration, keeps the classic art style and gameplay mechanics. It’s one of the best arcade beat-’em-up games you can play right now, and it features seamless co-op gameplay for those who like to team up with friends.

A challenging game in a beautiful fantasy world

Image: Bandai Namco

Elden Ring for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox ($60 at the time of publication)

Those who appreciate the fantasy genre and dark world-building of George R.R. Martin may enjoy Elden Ring, which was an early contender for the best game of 2022. It’s a difficult game with little direction to follow, and it’s not for the faint of heart—only those who fancy a challenge should attempt a playthrough. But those with patience will find the world absorbing to get lost in.

One of the best kid-friendly shooting games

Image: Nintendo

Splatoon 3 for Nintendo Switch ($55 at the time of publication)

Splatoon is one of our favorite kid-friendly shooting games because it offers a fun, nonviolent alternative take on multiplayer shooters where you shoot and spray other players with paint rather than bullets. The most recent installment, Splatoon 3, is the most refined and expansive version yet, with more solo and cooperative options than in both of the games before it.

One of the best games of all time, remade

Image: Naughty Dog/Sony

The Last of Us Part 1 for PlayStation 5 ($70 at the time of publication)

The Last of Us was already a masterpiece, but it’s even better now that it has been remade with the improved technology that powered 2020’s game of the year The Last of Us Part 2. Established fans and newcomers alike will appreciate the chance to play The Last of Us Part 1 on their PlayStation 5, as this edition enhances the visuals, integrates the DualSense controller’s haptic capabilities, and expands its accessibility options. The whole experience feels modern all over again, and it’s shipping just in time for folks to play it before HBO’s upcoming series.

Subscriptions

For Xbox and PC players

Photo: Xbox

Xbox and PC players alike will light up when you give them an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership, which grants access to a growing library of games on console and PC and provides deals and discounts on certain titles, free monthly games, and multiplayer capabilities on Xbox consoles. (Yes, it’s like Netflix for video games.) This has been a big year for Game Pass proving its worth, with huge releases including Psychonauts 2, Hades, Back 4 Blood, Forza Horizon 5, and Halo Infinite all hitting the service since August. Game Pass Ultimate also allows players to stream more than 100 games to their Android phones or tablets, and it includes an EA Play subscription. And if it turns out that your gift recipient already has a subscription, they can add the gifted months to their current account.

For PlayStation owners

Photo: PlayStation

Nearly any PlayStation gamer will appreciate a membership to PlayStation Plus for its access to online gaming across all games on the platform—an essential for multiplayer titles such as Destiny 2, Fortnite, and Call of Duty: Warzone. Every month, PlayStation gives away two different games for free to Plus members, and it offers extra discounts on certain games purchased in the digital store. And if your gift recipient already has a subscription, they can add your gift to it. You can also give the subscription in one-month and 12-month increments.

For Switch gamers

Photo: Nintendo

Nintendo Switch Online is required if you want to play Animal Crossing, Mario Kart 8, Super Smash Bros., and more with friends. It also has a growing collection of classic NES and Super NES games, which is great for those who want to relive their old-school Nintendo days with titles like Super Mario World and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. For those who want to try it out on a shorter basis, a three-month subscription is available, too.

Miscellaneous gifts that gamers will appreciate

A novel video game vinyl

Photo: Turntable Lab

You can find a range of video game soundtracks on vinyl from Turntable Lab, and they make unique gifts for gamers who also treasure their record collections. This particular pressing of the music from Pokémon Gold & Silver doesn’t feature the direct soundtrack from the games but rather a stunning orchestral arrangement. The half-black, half-white vinyl and the elegant outer sleeve are pretty enough to double as a piece of artwork for people who like to display their records, but Turntable Lab also has a lot of other fun and colorful options to choose from— some of our favorites include the Doom soundtrack pressed on blood-red vinyl and the marbled purple and orange pressings of the Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart soundtrack.

For the crafty gamer

Photo: Fangamer

Stardew Valley is a wildly popular farming game—and one of our favorite games to relax with—and there’s a good chance you already know someone who’s hooked on it. For the person on your list who likes to keep their hands busy when they’re not gaming, this beginner’s cross-stitch kit comes with 25 different Stardew Valley patterns featuring adorable creatures and icons from the game. It also includes cloth to sew on, embroidery needles, and all the matching threads necessary to bring the pixelated patterns to life.

Retro gaming

For the arcade gamer with a Switch

Photo: Fangamer

Those who frequently play arcade games on their Switch—such as Pac-Man in Namco Museum or Donkey Kong from the Nintendo Switch Online library—will appreciate the ability to enjoy the classics the way they were intended for original arcade cabinets. The Flip Grip allows players to reorient their Switch tablet so that the screen is taller than it is wide, without sacrificing any space on the tablet’s display. It’s a simple accessory that slides right onto the Switch, making it easy for players to set up and hold. Not all games are compatible with the portrait-style orientation, but you can find a list of flippable games on the Does It Flip? website. A quick warning: The existing version does not work with Nintendo’s new Switch OLED Model (and it doesn’t work with the Switch Lite, either).

A classic ornament for their tree

Photo: Hallmark

A few of Hallmark’s video-game (and sci-fi) ornaments caught our eye this year. The collection skews retro, with a handful of Mario characters and even some Sonic the Hedgehog ornaments, but the lineup also has a few other options—like Pokémon, Minecraft, and Fortnite—for a younger appeal. They offer a fun chance to get away from the standard Christmas themes, and Hallmark also covers some related sci-fi ground with Star Trek and Stranger Things ornaments and collectibles. You’ll almost certainly find something for the fan you’re shopping for (even if that happens to be you).

For DIY-ers

Build your own console

Photo: Andrew Cunningham

Gaming consoles will remain nearly impossible to find this year, so why not build your own? You can do so with a Raspberry Pi, a cheap computer that’s about the size of a deck of cards. With a little technical know-how and about an hour’s worth of time, you can turn the Raspberry Pi into a capable little game console, a project that’s perfect for DIY-ers, tinkerers, or anyone who doesn’t mind futzing about with different settings.

Help them keep what they have

Photo: Doug Mahoney

Once again, pretty much all electronics are tough to find this year, which is a great excuse to repair the consoles you already own. But in order to do so, you often need special tools. If you know someone who will take care of and fix their own gear, we recommend the iFixit Mako Driver Kit, which provides all the bit drivers necessary to repair modern electronics. If you can spend a little more, the iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit packs in even more helpful tools, such as spudgers to safely pry away cables and a handy opening pick to separate cases. For someone new to repair, iFixit has guides for repairing every major game console, including repairing the infamous Switch Joy-Con controllers. Some projects are more complex than others, but one of the easiest tasks is to do a battery swap for an old controller (Switch Pro, DualShock 4, DualShock 3), which can extend the life of the controller so you don’t have to buy a new one.

We love finding gifts that are unusual, thoughtful, and well vetted. See even more gift ideas we recommend.

This article was edited by Arthur Gies and Jason Chen.

Further reading

• The Best Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite Accessories

  We’ve researched and tested dozens of cases, controllers, stands, docks, and other accessories for the Nintendo Switch to separate the good ones from the junk.

Meet your guides

Haley Perry

Haley Perry is an associate staff writer at Wirecutter covering video games and technology. She used to review video games full-time, and she’s also a big fan of mezcal. If you get enough in her, she may just admit that she still plays The Sims … a lot.

Wirecutter Staff

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20+ Best Gifts for Gamers

20+ Best Gifts for Gamers | Ultimate Cool Gift List of 2023

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Men’s Gear

Last Updated December 27, 2022

Contents

• BEST GIFTS FOR GAMERS
• Next Level Racing F-GT Simulator Cockpit (NLR-S010)
• 100 Video Games Bucket List Scratch Poster
• Couchmaster CYCON² Black Edition
• My Arcade Retro Machine Playable Mini Arcade
• LEGO Nintendo Entertainment System
• X Rocker Wireless Bluetooth 2. 1 Sound Video Gaming Floor Chair
• SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
• Oculus Quest 2 – All-In-One Virtual Reality Headset
• Blue Light Blocking Gaming Glasses
• Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller for iPhone
• Razer Basilisk v2 Wired Gaming Mouse
• Havit RGB Gaming Headphone Stand Desk
• Game Shaped Neon Signs Wall Decor
• Do Not Disturb I am Busy Gaming Socks
• Gamer Mode ON – Stainless Steel Tumbler
• Neck Massage Pillow
• Bose Audio Sunglasses with Open Ear Bluetooth Headphones
• Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop PC
• HORI Real Arcade Pro N Hayabusa Arcade Fight Stick for PlayStation 4
• Decision making flip coin

Choosing a gift for gamers can be tricky. Some like to play on their console and others prefer PC games. There are also people who enjoy both, but all of these options make it difficult to know what type of game you should buy them as a present.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves video games, then we have you covered. Here are 20 gifts that will put a smile on any gamer’s face this year!  We looked through our favorite game websites and found some of the best items out there – from headsets to controllers. These gifts will make anyone happy, especially if they love gaming as much as we do!

With a variety of options, this list has something for every type of gamer from casual to hardcore and everything in between. Gifts range from $5-$1000 so there is an option no matter what budget you’re on!

BEST GIFTS FOR GAMERS

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Welcome to the Next Level! Escape reality and live in a world of your own design with this dual-position cockpit. It’s perfect for customizing setup positions, thanks to adjustable leg extensions and wheel mounts that can handle any type of driving game – from racing simulators to vehicular combat. With height adjustments too, you won’t need stairs or ramps into this racecar simulator. And don’t worry about carrying your snacks around because there are even cupholders built-in and located at just the right angle so you don’t spill anything on your keyboard while digitally drifting corners. This is a gift for a gamer even Santa would be jealous of giving next year!

Finish Line’s Next Level Racing F-GT Simulator Cockpit is the ultimate racing simulator, designed to seat you in an authentic Formula or GT driving position. Great for gamers and racers alike, this award-winning cockpit can be mounted either vertically standing up or horizontally as a reclining chair. The NLR-S010 features advanced GTR3 game compatibility including I/O box with USB and 10′ pedal and shifter extensions – perfect for realism on formula tracks like Indianapolis Motor Speedway!

Expensive but a great gift for gamers!

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This Scratch Poster is the best way to find your next favorite game! Finding new and fresh video games can be difficult so they’ve compiled this detailed list of 100 Video Games Bucket List perfect for any gamer, whether they’re an expert or novice. Start from Space Invaders all the way to Portal below, spot a game that catches your eye? Get at it! They’ll keep you updated on new releases with their newsletter and social media feeds.

This is the perfect gift for someone who’s been playing video games since they were old enough to reach the TV. This 100 Video Games Bucket List Scratch Poster will get your gamer pumped with all the classics and new releases, letting them scratch away until they’ve played every game on their list!

Alongside these amazing games, you’ll find some real gems that have stood the test of time and others that might just be your new favorite. With a quick flip through this poster, you’ll feel like an expert in no time! Plus they’ve included game summaries from fans for each to help give it a personal touch. So bring on those quality hours with friends and family playing all day long – because as they say: happy gamers are darkly beautiful people

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It doesn’t matter if you’re a console champ, PC addict, or die-hard casual gamer. The Couchmaster CYCON² Black Edition is the perfect gift for gamers who love to play at home on the couch. With support for up to six USB devices and your gaming essentials all on hand in one place–plus charging capabilities–you’ll never have to stop playing because of spilled drinks again!

The Couchmaster CYCON² Black Edition lets you chill like never before. The CYCON²’s patented design rests both your PC and gaming console to the left or right of your comfortably reclined position while forming an arch over them for ready access when things go south in-game (or likely because you had too much pizza). Its arms are designed to distribute the weight of two large devices on its underside which rests gently on a B3 bucket seat, allowing it to withstand up to 500lbs per end. Plus, with three new USB 3.0 ports at your fingertips (and connected) dragging wires through a living room can no longer be such a frustration!

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Find Your Inner Gamer and Play On!

The amusement has never been so portable! Now there’s no need to travel across town or wait for an installation, just plug in My Arcade Retro Machine Playable Mini Arcade to unleash your inner gamer. This device is packed with 200 retro games including Pac-Man, Asteroids, and Centipede among others. The controls are standard so you can use the joystick-like you’re on a real arcade machine or classic console controller to maneuver your way through game levels. And for those fast-paced moments, don’t worry about buttons, these ones work just like they would in any cabinet. You even have three exciting sound modes – mono speaker mode allows gaming audio without headphones; stereo mode lets gamers hear

Perfect for arcade enthusiasts of any age, the My Arcade Retro Machine Playable Mini Arcade is loaded with every classic game you could ever want to play! That’s not all—the console even packs a speaker and an LED screen. Choose from one of its 200 games or let it pick a random one for you. With controls that feel like they were straight out of 1985 and nostalgic visuals reminiscent of your childhood, this mini arcade cabinet brings back memories in seconds. All that’s left to do now is set up the time capsule on Grandma’s shelf before she finds out about it!

You’ve met your new best friend. He just happened to be born in 1982! Miniature mini arcade packed with games from the ’80s and ’90s. Portable and easy-to-use; a joystick for fast maneuverability, standard A and B buttons for super fun gameplay, start button to pause – this little guy has everything you need! Great for small spaces. Comes fully stocked with 200 retro titles including Pac Man, Tetris, Galaxian, Arkanoid Doh It Again etcetera. Miniature arcade fits anywhere: on tabletops or desk tops perfect match for kid’s rooms as well as teenager rooms. Built-in audio speakers included all that’s needed is four AA batteries (or power cord).

My Arcade Retro Machine Playable Mini Arcade is the perfect gift for gamers of all ages.

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With this LEGO Nintendo Entertainment System Building Kit, you can build a brilliantly detailed replica of the original video game console and TV combo which opened gaming up to an entire generation. With over 2,000 high-quality components including studs made from molded plastic bricks and interactive 1980s-style instruction sheet video onscreen, it’s perfect for gamers recreating treasured memories for themselves or someone else.

No gamer can say they don’t have a love for Lego and Nintendo. Best of all, the nostalgia within this set provides even more joy!

The ultimate gift for gamers! This iconic 2,646-piece set assembles into the NES console- and includes an ’80s-looking TV set and game cartridge that fits into the console. Reflect on those good old days when you were only young enough to have two feet hanging off of your chair in front of this video game system. Rebuild Nintendo’s most famous product with LEGO brick pieces to relive nostalgia every day.

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The all-new ‘X Rocker Video Gaming Chair’ is the perfect gift for any gamer in your life. Whether they play on their PlayStation 4 or Xbox One, this chair will take them to an immersive experience like no other. No need to go find a couch and use pillows — just plop down on the all-purpose plush comfort of their new favorite gaming chair, relax, enjoy some music (or video) with two forward-facing speakers with a powerful subwoofer for unmatched sound and a low rumble that intensifies as you’re playing games or watching movies and TV!

This chair is bound to make you the envy of all your friends, with its support, rich fabric, and perfect appearance. Connecting it an easy task- plug this gaming chair in and game on!

Step up your game with the best gaming chair on the market. This X Rocker sound chair cleverly combines style and comfort to provide a one-of-a-kind experience. It also has special features, such as Bluetooth wireless connection for more immersive gameplay, RCA outputs for old-school speaker connectivity, and headphone jack too so no one will be able to hear what you are listening to. With this chair at your command, it is certain that friends won’t know what hit them!

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The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless Gaming Headset brings all the functionality you need for a gaming headset.

This product has dual-wireless technology that provides rock-solid, 2.4G wireless audio for your game while Bluetooth connectivity to wirelessly connect to any mobile devices! The premium 100% hi-res speakers work together with high-density neodymium magnets and reproduce an expansive frequency range from 10 – 40,000 Hz, making your experience sound just like in real life!

To give you the perfect fit without compromising comfort or durability this headset is made of luxuriously lightweight steel and aluminum alloy. This will ensure that your gaming is uninterrupted even during long hours. Even better? Enjoy up to 20 hours.

The perfect present for gamers looking to get in touch with high-tech gaming while still being comfortable!

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With high-quality games and a chance to meet up with friends in VR, the Oculus Quest 2 is an all-inclusive way for gamers to get their daily dose of immersion. From hard-hitting action RPGs like RuneSaga and Apex Construct to interactive horror experiences such as The Exorcist: Legion VR, Quest 2 lets you explore the big world around you or venture down into your own imagination. Rolland Thunderjaw’s course vaults forward with new twists and turns as players glide past rocks and make lightning-quick jumps across chasms without breaking stride. Push your skills, find unity with nature at breathtaking heights or just put on some ukulele tunes in Quill18’s virtual home.

Oculus Quest 2 is Oculus’ newest all-in-one VR headset that runs on an Android operating system and delivers a high frame rate for games. It has 32GB of internal storage. You can connect Quest to your Facebook account, making connecting with friends in VR easy.

Enjoy breathtaking views of nature or transport yourself into a dystopian future with gripping social stories, games, simulations and more!

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Still, looking for the right gift for your gamer friend? Look no further! Blue cut BLUE LIGHT GLASSES are the perfect accessory to keep those pesky screens at bay in an innovative new way. You’ll find these great, chic glasses just what you’ve been looking for – and they look good on both women AND men.

You’ve been warned about the dangers of sitting too close to a computer screen or TV and knew your day was going to be an eye strain-fest. It’s already 9 PM, you want to finish that project but you know if you go on for one more hour, it’ll leave you with a full headache and ridiculously tired. You’ve tried so many tinted glasses before where they’re either ugly or don’t protect from blue light sufficiently but we got great news! We’ve found these luxurious blue light blocking glasses which are not only perfect since they block out 100% of harmful blue spectrum up into the 400 nm range – these stylish gaming glasses make sure your eyes stay clear and free from irritation by reducing the ill effects on your eyes.

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Want to play Fortnite on your crazy commute? Sick of playing mobile games with just a touchscreen and no physical buttons? The Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller was built for mobility. It’s the first of its kind to bring console-level controls running on iOS devices, complete with an analog stick and face buttons. Designed for those who want access to their favorite mobile titles wherever they go, this has been one long time coming – put down that potato peeler!

Built to bring console-level control with comfort and precision to mobile games everywhere, this mobile game controller lets you enjoy AAA games on the go anytime and anywhere. Equipped with features like trigger buttons that guarantee FACT action gameplay, dual joysticks for smoother in-game navigation, and myriad connection options; this is truly one device for entertainment & productivity on the go!

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Discover the next generation of intuitive mouse technology that immerses you with lightning-fast and precise control. Take your skills to an even higher level with on-the-fly sensitivity adjustment through dedicated DPI buttons, programmable switching options, customizable Chroma RGB color profiles, and amazing precision that’ll make every click count. Equipped with 3x faster than traditional mechanical switches in an all-new Razer optical sensor design for tracking 20K at speed without sacrificing accuracy or reliability.

Unleash a cascade of commands made possible by 11 programmable buttons including 4 side panels for executing complex macros across multiple game titles. Now it can be done effortlessly in just one hand – all without fishing around the keyboard!

The Razer Basilisk v2 is a versatile wired gaming mouse that adapts to your favorite surface with a mercury-infused coating, and it makes a great gift for gaming enthusiasts.

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No game is complete without a cool accessory for your headset. But those old school stands can take up all the room. Not to mention they look clunky and would never match any of your furniture, clothes, or décor in the dorms (we’re looking at you, big brother Jimmy). Rather than give in to these giant obstacles to happiness head-on, there’s this amazing contraption from Havit® that lets you not only store your earphones standing on their own with ease but also keep them tangle-free!

This innovative accessory will hold two or more sets of headphones, as well as all of the other peripheral gadgets you need! With 7 colors available to change with your moods – giving it that ultimate gaming feel. We bet you can’t wait to place one next time you game in style!

Cool gift for all types of gamers!

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Add some lights to your gaming experience with this LED Gamepad Neon Sign. Powered by low-energy LEDs, it has a USB cable that lets you attach it to any USB power supply or to the computer and comes equipped with a plug-and-play design for use in virtually any scenario! Whether you’re hosting a party, setting up an awesome man cave, or celebrating the game day on Sunday’s watch football in style with the only neon sign as cool as you are.

Brighten up your home with decorative lighting that is perfect for all occasions.

Turn any space into a gaming paradise with this LED Gamepad Neon sign. The shape of the gamepad is iconic for all gamers and perfect as a gift to an avid gamer, or just decorating your own room! Easily plug in and play.

The LED Gamepad Neon Sign is a great gift for teen boys and men who love gaming. Easy to use, the kid’s room or game room will be illuminated when you plug in this neon sign toy. Perfect as party favors, decoration for boys’ bedrooms and teenage dens at home, bringing colorful light to man caves and clubs during parties.

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These Socks are perfect gifts for boys, men, and teens who love gaming. They can show their true gamer pride with these funny socks that say “Do Not Disturb I’m Gaming.” With an awesome design and soft construction to keep your feet feeling wonderful and comfy all day, these captivating socks will leave anyone you know begging for the perfect gift!

Do not disturb I’m Gaming Socks are fun socks for gamers that say “Do Not Disturb” with a down arrow right below it. The lettering is rubberized so you can wear them on slippery floors. They’re comfortable and warm, but never make your feet hot or sweaty while playing video games!

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Designed for gamers, this tumbler is perfect at the in-law’s house or your desk. Never lose track of time again with your drink on a coffee break without burning your fingers holding it because you’re not done playing yet.

The Gamer Mode ON Tumbler includes an 18/8 food-grade stainless steel interior to avoid cheap materials that could lead to BPA leaching from plastic – keeping drinks hotter or colder longer than any other cup! The watertight lid helps keep spills off the floor when using as a travel mug and the straw hole lets players take drinks right out of their favorite games.

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Whether you’re an avid gamer, or someone who spends too many hours a day on the computer, VIKTOR JURGEN Neck Massage Pillow Shiatsu Deep Kneading Shoulder Back is the perfect way to increase comfort and keep your muscles from getting overused. You’ll be able to focus better thanks to a soothing massage, all while feeling less of that tightness at the end of a rigorous game of Counter-Strike. The heating function also helps with muscle relief – this cools off any area around it after those long hours spent in front of the screen. With German technology and design, these massages are so strong they can even combat workplace fatigue during long workdays!

The VIKTOR JURGEN Neck Massage Pillow is a perfect gift for the gaming enthusiast who plays for hours on his smartphone. The three rotating nodes are proven to treat overused and tight muscles, relaxing them in no time with shiatsu deep-kneading massage. With gentle heating that soothes aches, this device can easily be turned on or off with the flick of a button, which makes it so easy to use! This ergonomic pillow design suits all body shapes for suitable acupressure from neck to thighs when sitting at your desk or lying down watching TV after a long day’s work as well as being able to play video games.

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Bose sets the standard for audio in eyewear with their new proprietary, ultra-small speaker system that delivers more lifelike sound than ever before. With Bose Frames Alto, you get incredible Bluetooth headphones built into a pair of classy sunglasses – all without compromising your ability to enjoy what’s happening around you. Choose from 2 size options and 3 frame colors, each providing unrivaled fine craftsmanship that will set you apart wherever life takes you.

Bose Frames are the smartest way to listen. Crafted from premium materials, Bose Hearing Frames with Active Noise Cancellation technology and built-in Bluetooth technology provides you with immersive audio without any wires. You’re the only person able to hear anything —a whole new personal experience for music on the go!

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The Helios 300 is a sleek laptop with powerful gaming performance, featuring a 6th-generation Intel Core i7 quad-core processor and NVIDIA GTX 1060 graphics. It helps you enjoy entertainment anywhere from your daily needs to thirst for hardcore games. You can now take on all challengers – even those online – while getting the experience you want.

During your road trips, the weight of your bag shouldn’t be an issue when you have this amazing device with its thin profile and strong materials which make it light but durable at the same time in any situation! Additionally, Acer Predator’s exclusive CoolerBoost technology gives up to 7 hours* of battery life on a single charge, based not only on laptops specs as well on how you use it.

With a powerful Intel Core i7-8750H and GeForce GTX 1060 Overclockable Gaming Graphics, the Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop PC will easily handle any game you throw at it. A 15.6″ Full HD display with a 144Hz refresh rate, NIVIDA G-Sync Technology, and 72% NTSC color balance allows for an immersive gaming experience in whatever setting you find yourself. The built-in backlit keyboard ensures that your keys are lit up even in the darkest of situations – so there’s no need to worry about getting stuck or surrounded by enemies without being able to see which key to press! With its metal chassis and AeroBlade 3D Fans, this laptop stays cool and consistent even after hours of

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PlayStation gamers, get ready for the fight of your life. The new HORI Real Arcade Pro N Hayabusa Arcade Fight Stick for PlayStation 4 is officially licensed by SIEA and designed to work with PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, and PC systems. Includes turbo functions, touch panel, button assignment, and more- now you’re playing like a pro!

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20

Decision making flip coin

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Flip to make tough decisions, settle arguments, determine the winner of a game. This sturdy steel coin features two sides that show “heads” and “tails.”

Decision-making flip coin invented by gamers for gamers! The best part is any decision can be made with just one toss and it’s easy to know who won in the end. What happens when you pull your hair out trying to decide between fast food or expensive steak dinner? Never give yourself a headache from overthinking these simple things again- just grab this cool Decision Making flip Coin today!

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Top 10 Gifts for Gamers, Geeks and Nerds

If you love a weird guy and don’t even try to change him, then you are either a saint or his mom. Make a level up: learn how to make cool gifts for him.

1. Game as a gift

World of Warcraft game art

then a gift will definitely be on topic.

Please note that some games are not suitable for all gaming platforms: some are only available for game consoles, while others are only for computers. System requirements should also be taken into account.

What you can buy from already released games:

Before buying, make sure that your man does not have such a game yet.

• NHL 23 – hockey simulator pleases with even cooler graphics and new features – so now the players themselves decide who to pass the Cup during the celebration, and the goalkeeper has more advanced AI. We will not spoil, just say that the game has become even more realistic and dynamic.
• Doom Eternal is Doom! The best shooter released by people at its best.
• Crusader Kings III – does your man dream of ruling the world? A calm and reasonable fan of global strategies will be delighted.
• Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – a fearless warrior will have to lead his clan from icy Norway and conquer the fertile lands of England.
• Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is the perfect gift for fans of the saga. The player will engage in cinematic battles using the very lightsabers and the Force, which are designed to convey the full intensity of the exciting battles from the Star Wars films.
• The Outer Worlds – The player awakens after decades of sleep on a settler ship that has gone missing on its way to a distant colony at the edge of the galaxy, and immediately finds itself in the center of a large-scale conspiracy.

• Total War: Warhammer III – the dramatic finale of the Total War: Warhammer trilogy. The games in this series just can’t be bad.
• Mass Effect Legendary Edition is a relaunch of the super popular series, where the visual component was elevated to the absolute.
• Resident Evil: Village – if you like to spend cold winter evenings watching horror movies together, the Resident Evil series will suit your taste. She is very atmospheric!

2. Collector’s Edition Game

Collector’s Edition or Special Digital Edition is the same game that includes additional gifts. They can be both in-game and include physical objects: artbooks, figurines.

You can find collectible versions of old, but insanely popular and loved by many games on resale sites. Now these boxes are worth quite an impressive amount.

If your man is a fan of a certain game or is waiting for the new , then the collector’s version is the perfect gift.

Example of the collection publication of the game

3. An intra-game gift

In many online games there are microtransactions that imply the purchase of virtual goods for real rubles: heroes, gaming transport, weapons, premium accounts.

If your man plays this game, then a gift in the form of an infusion of real currency is not a bad idea. Usually, many do not want to spend money on this, but if you receive it as a gift, this is a pleasant help in your favorite toy.

4. Accessories for the game

Buying a good game accessory is a good and practical gift. A good example is a gaming mouse pad, which often reaches impressive sizes. Yes, it’s hard to go wrong when buying it.

It is much more difficult to find a gamepad, a special mouse, a keyboard, a headset, but you can think about them, especially if you take someone who understands this with you to the store.

There are even special versions of gaming peripherals for computers, made in the same style.

An example of a similar version for fans of Battlefield 4

useful little things that can show off a reference to your favorite game .

Assassin’s Creed mug

An iPhone case that Skyrim fans will love

The players are divided into factions to fight for. No one wants to receive a souvenir with the symbols of their enemy as a gift!

Implacable opponents in the game are representatives of the Alliance and the Horde. They are indistinguishable from each other in life… But T-shirts can fix everything!

6. Useless gizmo

In contrast to the useful – useless, but no less pleasant: replicas of weapons from the game, items of clothing of favorite characters, soft toys .

Maybe a real copy of a game sword is expensive and complicated. And where to find a blacksmith?

But a small copy of the famous Frostmourne is really nothing! Woo-way!

WoW Pepe’s New Mascot Stuffed Toy

Game Pendants (Warhammer 40000)

9008 2

7. Figurine? Well, yes, figurine

The figurine is absolutely special “useless thing” . What’s so special about her? Figurines are collectibles, they often cost a lot of money, they allow you to literally touch your favorite hero, and besides, they bring great aesthetic pleasure to people who are seriously interested in games.

The main thing is to find out what your loved one’s favorite toy is, and then everything is simple – order a gift via the Internet. Collection figures of characters from the game Mass Effect

In addition, the figure is one of the best options for MOBA lovers: Dota2, League of Legends, Heroes of the Storm, etc. Among them, you can find a lot of budget, but cute stuff.

Dota 2 stylized figures of Slark, Tiny, Doom and Wenga

8. Nostalgic item

Relive the era of video games and your childhood: Battleto ads, Mario, Ninja Turtles, Pac-Man . .. Now the heroes of these games are not only not forgotten, on the contrary, with the legendary characters of these games you can buy a bunch of both fun and useful gizmos.

A real gamer who remembers the golden age of the gaming industry will endlessly rejoice at the characters from a distant childhood.

Pac-Man Ghost Nightlight

Famous Game Characters You Can Build Yourself

Famous Sonic

Cake. Such a gift is not only very cool, but also very tasty!

9. Prefix

No, we are not talking about modern prefixes (although this is a good gift, only very expensive). We propose to continue the idea of ​​nostalgia – buy from your hands or from all kinds of Chinese sites the same prefix from childhood. And, of course, a set of cartridges for it.

There is nothing better than to plunge into your childhood for a couple of evenings, forget about problems and worries, becoming a 10-year-old boy who again goes through the ninja turtles.

By the way, another funny and cute gift is Tetris. Yes, yes, the one that was so popular in the 90s.

10. Keeping a company is also a gift!

Probably the most sincere and sincere gift for your favorite gamer on our list is to try to share his passion. At least for one evening. Most likely, he will be pleased to tell a loved one about his hobby, to feel like a more experienced player, to show you a piece of his world.

It’s like a romantic evening with rose petals and candles, but in a gaming version!

See also:

What to give dad on February 23: 20 best gift ideas

What to give a man on February 23: 50 best gift ideas

What to present birthday gamer

Another “plague” of our century is addiction to computer games. Without going into details of their boyfriends addictions, most ignorant girls call them gamers without exception. But what about at least the minimum division into consolers and pkashnikov? But we will not delve into this issue. So, on the nose is a holiday, is it a birthday or a new year, and does your boyfriend belong to the above class? So, the question arises “What to give a gamer for his birthday?”. We don’t put it off indefinitely and go in search, because it’s better to play it safe by buying a gift in advance exactly what he wants, but I think you don’t need to tell how to find out. Well, if you just want to surprise, then here are a few ideas for you.

• Top 15 birthday gifts for gamers
• Top 5 DIY birthday gifts for gamers
• Finally

Before you start choosing original gifts, you should find out which games are very popular now and you should build on this:

Here are probably all the most popular games both online and on the passage. Guys will love any accessory from the game: T-shirt, T-shirt, cap, mouse, pad, keyboard, headphones and all that.

Top 15 birthday gifts for gamers

Of course, we all hope that our present will be the most interesting and best. But how not to get lost in such a huge abundance of options offered, how to choose and present exactly the one you need to buy. In order to help you in this difficult but noble cause, we have prepared the top 15 best birthday gifts for a gamer.

• Does your boyfriend just love to play everything? There is nothing easier then for a gift! See what games he already has (if you are afraid not to remember, write it down) and go to the store. There, a responsive consultant will paint for you all sorts of charms of at least ten discs and advise what to buy.
• If you notice that your gamer is playing on the computer, give him a new keyboard, preferably with a backlight. True, a gift of this kind will surely make the guy “grow” to the chair near the monitor. Do you want to fall asleep alone?
• You might like a new joystick, and besides, this way you can play together – someone on the keyboard, and someone on the joystick.
• Powerful headphones will also fit, especially if the old ones are out of order or obsolete.
• “Rider” give a set of steering wheel, pedals and everything else that is included.
• If your dear gamer is loyal to one game (it doesn’t matter if it’s online or not), something with its logo will be the best gift. T-shirt, cap, mug, pendant, watch, whatever! Usually, game makers do their best to use their brand to increase sales, so there will be no problem finding such attributes. In extreme cases, you can make them to order.
• For some guys, it’s very important to be completely immersed in the atmosphere of the game. To do this, they even dress up as characters from their favorite shooters, RPGs and more. Such people will be pleased with any detail to their image as a gift. Find out what the guy is playing and buy everything you need. A helmet for a tanker, a gas mask for a stalker, a body armor for a Counter-Strike fan, and all in the same vein. Online stores are full of such trifles.
• Lately it is very fashionable to order portraits in the images of various heroes of history or games, as in this case. Agree, it is unusual and beautiful. Just imagine how fabulous your boyfriend will look like a warrior from WarCraft or Sacred. For even more originality of the gift, you can order a portrait-collage made from screenshots from one or more games that the recipient likes.
• If you decide to make a gift in the form of a computer upgrade, don’t do it yourself! No consultant will tell you what you really need for your boyfriend or friend. Better arrange a joint trip to the store, let him choose or write in the comments, I will help you.
• You can also buy a collector’s edition of the game, usually it comes with a figurine of the main character.
• By the way, many books have been written on many games. Why not donate them?
• A poster illustrating a colorful scene from the game, or maybe the characters of several games at once, will do for small holidays.
• For a friend who prefers online games, a certain amount of money put on his game wallet will be a good gift.
• Give a sweet tooth a cake in the form of a game console or something from the game. These are made to order.
• Is there going to be a contest or just a gathering of cosplayers near your city? Give the guy tickets there!

Top 5 DIY birthday gifts for gamers

No wonder they say that the best gift is the one made by yourself, that’s why we offer you top 5 birthday gifts for gamers made by yourself. A beautiful and original gift is not only necessary to buy in a store, show your imagination and you will succeed.

1. Original watercolor mug. Knowing the tastes of a man, it will not be difficult for you to beautifully decorate a mug that will become his favorite. To do this, you will need an ordinary white mug, nail polish, a container of warm water. Add a drop of varnish to a container of water, immerse a mug in it, pull it out and wipe off excess moisture. If necessary, wipe off excess with nail polish remover. Repeat the procedure several times, experimenting with different colors. Let the mug dry. The original gift is ready.
1. Shirt and tie postcard. This interesting gift can be used as an envelope for money or write holiday greetings on it. To create it, you need colored cardboard or A4 paper, bright and a ribbon for ten minutes. Step by step instructions can be found online. A bright present will not go unnoticed.
1. Bouquet of fish “Snack” for real men. Beer lovers will definitely appreciate such a gift. To prepare it, you need dried fish, wooden skewers, rough-textured wrapping paper, or newspaper, tape, tape, or twine. Tape the fish at the base of the tail with tape to a skewer, tie all the fish together with a rope or elastic band. The more fish, the more magnificent the bouquet will be. Wrap with wrapping paper or secure with newspaper and ribbon or twine. A few cans of beer will be an excellent addition to the bouquet.
1. Original tire coffee table. To make such a gift, we need an old tire, rope, twine or decorative cord, glue gun, wheels, two plywood circles, a little smaller in diameter than the tire. Attach plywood circles at the top and bottom, then glue with a rope. Treat the finished product with a finish coat.
1. Warm sweater house slippers. An old unnecessary thing can be very useful in the manufacture of a new practical thing.
   

Best Android projectors in 2023

By

Conor Cawley

Updated Apr 27, 2023

Go big and ditch the screen with these Android-powered projectors

TVs have gotten pretty big over the years, but sometimes that isn’t enough. An in-home projector is your best friend when you want that movie-going experience without the overpriced snacks and fart-filled seats. You can set them up in your basement, your living room, or even in the backyard, as long as you’ve got enough brightness to enjoy those darker episodes (looking at you, Battle of Winterfell).

While you might assume these handy devices are too expensive for your meager budget, the reality is that some of the best Android projectors offer a better experience and a lower price than your average TV. Even better, many popular options are equipped with app stores, so you can download apps like Netflix and Hulu directly onto them and ditch those expensive top streaming devices to save money.

Get started with one of these Android projectors

Source: Nebula

Anker Nebula Mars II Pro

Best overall

Complete package

The Anker Nebula Mars II Pro is a great option for an Android projector with a reasonable price tag and good performance. With a 3.5-hour battery life and dual 10W audio drivers, you’re getting both compact and portability and impressive sound quality. However, this projector has been known to cause audio lag issues among some devices, less than ideal for daylight outdoor viewing.

Pros

• Very portable with handle
• 3.5-hour battery life
• Excellent sound quality

Cons

• Weak brightness
• Few ports
• Occasional audio lag

$550 at Amazon

The Anker Nebula Mars II Pro is right in the sweet spot for Android projectors. The price isn’t too high, particularly compared to some models on this list, and it still performs admirably across the essential features. The 3.5-hour battery life should get you through most movies, as long as you aren’t embarking on a Synder Cut Justice League marathon. The sound quality is surprisingly impressive, thanks to the dual 10W audio drivers. All that’s packed into a decidedly compact, portable projector with a convenient handle for maximum portability.

Despite being our Editor’s Choice, the Anker Nebula Mars II Pro is, of course, not perfect. Some users reported audio lag when paired with certain devices, like the Amazon Fire Stick 4K and 500 lumens is a bit low for daylight outdoor viewing. Still, these are far from deal breakers, and with all the other great features on this projector, we feel confident recommending it as a go-to option.

Source: Xgimi

Xgimi Halo+

Premium pick

Fully loaded device

The Xgimi Halo+ is the high-powered upgrade your home entertainment experience has been waiting for. This Android-powered projector brings you high resolution, with a crystal clear picture, crisp colors, and significantly noticeable details.

Pros

• Bright, beautiful picture, with minimal color wheel artifacts
• Incredibly fast, automatic picture adjustment
• Reasonably quiet

Cons

• Quite expensive
• Limited battery life
• No Netflix

$850 at Amazon

If you’ve got a bit more money to throw around, the Xgimi Halo+ could be the Android-powered projector you’re looking for. You’d expect the picture to be crystal clear at this price, and that’s exactly what you get with this device. The resolution is high, the colors are crisp, and the details are actually noticeable, even without the optimal lighting conditions. The picture adjustment is also quite impressive, automatically providing the best viewing experience without having to adjust settings on your own. Plus, with the Android TV 10 interface built-in, you can enjoy all that content without navigating an outdated operating system.

There is one huge downfall of the Xgimi Halo+, though: no Netflix. Even if you manually download it, the streaming app won’t play its movies and shows, which is heartbreaking. You can attach a casting device to get around the problem, but it’s definitely a big con for this notably expensive device. Combined with the annoyingly low battery life (90-120 minutes), even shorter movies will require a power cable. Still, if video quality is more important than anything to you, this will be one of your best bets for the price.

Source: Amazon

Auking Mini Projector 2022

Best value

Affordable and functional

$80 $120 Save
$40

The AuKing Mini Projector brings the big screen to you without breaking the bank. Doing away with a built-in interface, this mini projector puts the control into the hands of the user, allowing you to connect directly with your Android phone, laptop, gaming console, or other streaming devices. With 2600 lumens, you can watch all your favorite shows and movies in stunning clarity, even in well-lit rooms.

Pros

• Very affordable
• Impressive brightness
• Compatible with many devices

Cons

• Requires lots of cables
• Copyright issues with Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+ and others
• Cheap, plastic body

$80 at Amazon

Affordability, thy name is AuKing! We don’t blame you if you’re intimidated by all these other $200+ projectors. That’s why we’ve included the AuKing Mini Projector, a more affordable alternative to the standard projector experience. This projector is a bit different, as it does not provide any built-in interface but instead works with your Android phone or other streaming devices, like a gaming console or laptop. This means you’ll have to use a lot of cords to get the job done, but you could do a lot worse for the price, particularly given the impressive brightness at 2600 lumens.

If you’ve got the money to spend, though, we wouldn’t recommend pinching pennies with this projector. The lack of a built-in interface really does hamper the ease of everyday use, and the cheap plastic body doesn’t inspire confidence in longevity. Plus, there are copyright issues with this kind of projector when it comes to popular streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, so you could run into some problems when watching your favorites. Overall, this is a budget pick through and through, so if price is your most important feature, the AuKing Mini Projector can help you.

Source: BenQ

BenQ GS50

Editor’s choice

Integrated functions and features

$750 $900 Save
$150

The BenQ GS50 perfectly combines portability with high-resolution, HDR-level details to give you an immersive viewing experience on the go. With a durable design made to endure bumps, scrapes, and the odd splash of water, this small but mighty projector is perfect for viewing your favorite shows outdoor. This Android-powered device also comes with an Android TV dongle, so you’re good to go from the start.

Pros

• Excellent picture quality for portable projector
• Durable and stylish design
• Comes with an Android TV dongle and a zippered case

Cons

• Spotty USB-C charging
• Pretty expensive
• No Netflix on provided Android TV dongle

$750 at Amazon

Don’t let its placement dissuade you; the BenQ GS50 projector was on the verge of taking our top spot on this list. As a portable projector, the picture quality is extremely impressive, thanks to a higher resolution than most others on the list and HDR-level detail in the picture. Sure, 500 lumens isn’t necessarily worthy of a letter home, but it’s more than enough to manage in low-light situations. The cool, durable design is made to endure bumps, scraps, and even a splash here and there, which is always nice for portable projectors. And with an Android TV dongle included, you’re all set to get your content on without buying anything extra.

The BenQ GS50 is more expensive, although it’s a bit cheaper than the Xgimi Halo+, so it’s got that going for it. The biggest issue we found in our review was that despite the USB-C charging port, the projector was a bit finicky about what kind actually worked. According to the box, it requires a 45W charger, and we couldn’t get any others to work, so keep that in mind. The Netflix problem also rears its ugly head with this projector, so you’ll have to do without your Stranger Things or find a workaround. Overall though, if you’ve got the money, the BenQ GS50 is a more than respectable option, boasting great picture quality in a portable projector, which is not easy to come by.

Source: XGMI

XGIMI Aura 4K

Extravagant Product

Extreme performance and price

The Xgmi Aura 4K is the most prestigious Android-powered projector you’ll find on this list. Still, with a plethora of features, and unmatched quality, if you can afford it, this one is worth taking a look at. With 4K resolution and HDR support, the picture quality you receive is like no other. You may find limited customization options in the settings menu, but the default settings are already optimized for the best viewing possible.

Pros

• Very sharp picture quality with 4K and HDR support
• Excellent audio quality
• Short throw distance for easier placement

Cons

• Extremely expensive
• Limited customizability
• No autofocus

$2000 at Amazon

Before you look at this price, let me warn you; it’s quite jarring. Compared to other projectors on this list that are a literal fraction of the price, the Xgimi Aura is certainly at the high end of the spectrum regarding cost. In fact, this projector is our honorary “if you won the lottery” pick because it was just too expensive to be considered the Premium Pick. Still, you very much get what you pay for with this device, offering unreal picture quality at 3840 x 2160(4K) resolution and HRD support. The short throw distance is perhaps the best feature, though, allowing you to place the projector directly beneath the wall for the easiest setup you can imagine.

The only downside we saw, in fact, was that it doesn’t offer much in terms of customizability, but the default settings should be plenty clear for you to watch it anywhere in your home. That, combined with the excellent sound quality, makes this an absolute must-buy, as long as one of your rich relatives has left you a small fortune in their will.

Source: Amazon

AKASO WT50

Modern style

Budget media player

$270 $290 Save
$20

The Akaso WT50 is one of the most affordable and probably the most compact Android-powered projectors you’ll find. This lightweight, pocket-sized device may not be very feature-heavy, but it’s hard to complain about a justifiable price point. While the brightness is quite low at only 50 lumens, you can only use this device in dimly lit rooms for optimal viewing.

Pros

• Small, sleek design
• Runs Android 9.0
• AUX and Bluetooth capabilities

Cons

• Poor brightness options
• Complicated setup process
• No built-in speaker

$270 at Amazon

Back on the moderately affordable side of the projector discussion is the Akaso WT50, an unassuming projector built for portability. It’s quite small, incredibly light, and comes with a handy tripod for simple setup in your home. Unfortunately, the specs aren’t too impressive, although, at this price point, you can’t be expecting the world. The brightness sits at only 50 ANSI lumens, which is not going to be favorable in anything but dark rooms and midnight viewings, so don’t expect that sunset movie marathon to look great with this projector.

The audio quality is non-existent, providing no built-in speaker, but instead providing a headphone jack (3.5mm) and Bluetooth support, so you can connect your own speakers for a more connected experience. While the tripod makes physical setup easy, the software side is a bit more complicated, and you’ll need to tinker with the settings to get the right picture for your room. Again, the price and portability make the Akaso WT50 so attractive, so if you’re in the market for a cheaper, portable-er option, you just found it.

Source: Kodak

KODAK Luma 350 Portable Smart Projector

Compact cinema

Perfect for on-the-go

$300 $350 Save
$50

The Kodak Luma 350 is another portable, pocket-sized Android-powered projector worth checking out. While Kodak is more famously known for its cameras, they’ve stepped into the projector game to bring you quality entertainment at a quality price. With Android 6.0 built-in, you get much of the programs and media you need, but the operating system is slightly outdated.

Pros

• Large image size
• Small, portable design
• Easy to use remote

Cons

• Only runs Android 6.0
• Mediocre video quality
• Few controls on projector

$300 at Amazon

That’s right; they don’t just make cameras. Kodak certainly isn’t as popular as it used to be, but the Kodak Luma 350 is not a projector to skip if you’re looking for a deal. It’s definitely on the higher end of the budget options but has many features to warrant the extra cost. For one, it’s got Android built in, although it only runs Android 6, so you might feel like you’re time-traveling a bit when you use it. It also has a larger-than-most image size at 200 inches, but the video quality isn’t great at only 854 x 480 native resolution.

Brightness isn’t terrible either at 350 lumens, which should be enough for most situations, but you could certainly do better if you’ve got a lot of windows and want to watch at noon. Overall, the Kodak Luma 350 is full of trade-offs but none that would be considered serious dealbreakers, particularly at the lower price point.

Can you use an Android phone as a projector?

While smartphone technology has gotten pretty advanced over the years, there isn’t an Android device on the market that can act as a projector for viewing media on your walls at home. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use your phone to improve your overall projector experience.

More expensive Android projectors have built-in interfaces that allow you to access content directly from the device. However, if you’re trying to save a bit of money, lower-cost projectors are often compatible with Android phones, so you can simply cast media to the projector without needing the built-in interface. Yes, this will likely cause the occasional connectivity issue, and you might have to avoid using other apps on your phone while watching. But this is a great way to keep costs down and still enjoy a top-tier projection experience.

What’s the difference between a projector and a mini projector?

As you can guess from the name, mini projectors are decidedly smaller than standard projectors, but that’s not the only difference. In most cases, standard projectors offer better quality, improved connectivity, and an overall better experience for users regarding the actual functionality of the device. On the other hand, Mini projectors are geared towards portability and convenience, allowing you to place them anywhere in your home and even take them to new locations (like your backyard with a hammock and a fire pit going).

How many lumens are good for a projector?

Lumens are how brightness is measured on these devices, and the number of lumens you’ll want will largely depend on where you want to put it. If you’ve got a dark dungeon with few windows nearby, lumens and brightness will not be as much of a factor, particularly if you’re only viewing at night. However, if glare concerns you, and you want to make sure you can watch at any time of day, you’ll want to be sure your Android projector offers at least 1,500 lumens.

Why should you get an Android projector?

There are plenty of reasons you might need a projector. You could be a regular person that just wants to experience movies and TV shows on a big screen. You could be an office worker that wants to take presentations to the next level. Heck, you could even be a movie theater attendant trying to save your skin after an unfortunate accident.

Considering you’re looking for an Android projector, though, it’s safe to assume that you’re just a regular person that wants a solid TV replacement. That’s where Android projectors shine, allowing you to download your streaming services and other media apps right out of the box, so you can start watching in minutes. These projectors are easy to set up, connect directly to your Wi-Fi network, and allow you to enjoy your viewing experience to the fullest in your home.

The best Android projector for you

As you’ve seen from the list, price is the most important aspect when looking for an Android-power projector. The range is substantial among these seven options, from $60 to almost $3,000, so your budget will factor in heavily. Factoring in value, though, we’ve got to say the Anker Nebula Mars II Pro offers the most bang for your buck. Lots of features, solid video, picture, and audio quality, portable with good battery life, and stylish, durable design make it one of the best options out there, if not the best for your money. The Xgimi Halo+ is also a great option, but it costs a bit more, so make sure your purse strings are nice and loose before deciding. For a good value, the Auking Mini Projector is the way you’ll want to go, as it’s notably more affordable and still provides solid video quality and compatibility with your Android smartphone.

In so many words, the Anker Nebula Mars II Pro checks the most boxes, and that’s what you’ll have to do when picking your perfect projector: decide which boxes you need checked. There are many different options for many prices with many different functionalities, and you’ll need to decide what’s important to you, with one of the main factors being where you want to use your projector.

Source: Nebula

Anker Nebula Mars II Pro

Best overall

Complete package

The Xgimi Halo+ is the high-powered upgrade your home entertainment experience has been waiting for. This Android-powered projector brings you high resolution, with a crystal clear picture, crisp colors and significantly noticeable details. The automated picture adjustment feature is also just as impressive, ensuring you get the most optimized viewing experience at all times, no matter the lighting conditions.

$550 at Amazon

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• androids
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About The Author

Conor has been staunchly in favor of Android since graduating to a smartphone from his hot pink Motorola RAZR. In fact, he’ll gladly ruin a friendly dinner in service of lambasting Apple devices to those that use them, which he admits is one of his worst personality traits. After being talked out of sports writing by someone working for ESPN Chicago (“it’s the same thing every year, it’s like purgatory”), Conor decided that the ever-evolving world of tech would be a much more interesting topic to focus on. Now, more than half a decade later, he covers everything from new devices and big conferences to small startups and business trends. In addition to freelancing for Android Police, Conor is the Lead Writer for Tech.co, a tech publication focused on helping small businesses grow and succeed. He’s worked with the likes of Forbes, WeWork, General Assembly, Chase Bank, Tech in Motion, and SXSW, among others, through Tech.co in service of making tech a bit more accessible. Conor also can’t properly pronounce the word “colloquially,” but honestly, who can?

Top 8 Projector Apps for Android to Wireless Connect Android

Wireless projectors have completely changed the way we present and share information. No cable needed, you can easily interact with listeners through air. More importantly, the mobile projector remote apps are another addition to the long list of technological advances in the realm of visual content. It helps you lose the compatible machine, and simply brings projection management to your fingertips.

Projector apps are mostly multi-functional, they do more than just change the slides and brighten the display. In case you have not come close to projector app or looking for a useful one, we have collected several best projector apps for Android phone, and showed you how to connect Android phone to a projector. Hope you can get what you expect.

You will also like reading: How to Hide Apps on iPhone and Android.

• Part 1. Best way to mirror Android phone to PC
• Part 2. Top 8 Android projector apps
• Part 3. How to use the Android phone as a projector
• Part 4. FAQs of projector app for Android

Part 1. Best way to project Android phone to PC

Before using projector apps to cast your Android to a wall or big screen. You can try an easier way to mirror your phone screen to a computer. Aiseesoft Phone Mirror is the projection option for cast your Android phone to a PC. Its user-friendly interface and seamless performance allow you to easily display your phone’s screen on a larger PC monitor. Meanwhile, it lets you control your Android device using the PC’s keyboard and mouse, making it convenient and efficient. Besides, it provides a reliable and high-quality mirroring experience, making it the best choice for Android phone projecting to a PC.

Moreover, the phone projector software supports different mobile phones, including Android and iPhone. It ensures compatibility with various phone models and brands. More importantly, it supports controlling the phone screen from your PC.

Part 2. Top 8 Android projector apps

Top 1. Epson iProjection

Epson iProjection is an intuitive mobile projector app for Android or iPhone. This projector app allows you to travel lightly and present anywhere from your mobile devices. You can project images/documents, or project from Chromebook wirelessly using an Epson projector with network function. Besides, you can mirror videos from your phone to a big screen. The tutorial to use this projection app is quite easy. Move about the room and effortlessly display content from your Android device on the big screen.

Top 2. Panasonic Wireless Projector

Panasonic Wireless Project is another android projector app that allows wireless projection of the captured screenshot and document files such as PowerPoint, Excel, Word, PDF, JPEG, and PNG, from Android device. It provides you more advanced features for you to project through Android phone with more ease. For instance, multi-live mode allows wireless projection from multiple devices, Marker function allows you to draw freehand lines (marker) onto image or document while projecting, etc.

Top 3. Projector Quick Connection

Projector Quick Connection is an projector app for Android/iPhone that allows you to do high quality wireless presentation directly from your mobile devices to compatible receivers such as Wireless Presentation devices (i.e. WiD340, WiD440, WiPS1000 etc.), Selected WiD Service Receiver. This Android projector app is very easy to use. Simply install on your mobile device, connect your WiFi to the same network of the receiver, select an office file, and then you will be ready for your own stylish “wireless” show!

Top 4.

Christie Virtual Remote

The Christie Virtual Remote App offers an alternative for controlling your Christie projector to the standard IR remote control. With Christie Virtual Remote you now have the same projector control capabilities from your Android-based mobile devices over Wi-Fi. This projector app for Android is specifically designed to control any Christie projector. Each projector can be controlled individually, or grouped together and controlled simultaneously.

Top 5. Projector App

Projector App is one reputable projector app that will serve as an excellent complement to the presentation. This projector app for Android consists of two parts: the server and client. To start the program, you need to copy it to the server part of the “MP” on the laptop, create a Wi-Fi network, and then run Mobile Projector on your Android and connect to the server.

Top 6. Presenter Remote

Presenter Remote Mobile Presenter allows simple connectivity to projectors using Android devices via a WiFi network. VueMagic Pro v2.4 is the most advanced mobile projector app for business professionals or educators. Powerful new features provide the ability to have full projector control from the convenience of your mobile device, as well as easy-to-use mobile presentation and annotation capability in a single app. New features in v2.4 include presentations and annotations snapshot and Android 5.0 support.

Top 7. Barco Pulse Mobile

The Barco Pulse Mobile app is an application which is designed for Android smartphones/tablets. It lets you control Barco projectors easily when you have them connected to the same wireless router. Besides replacing the traditional remote control, the projector app also provides additional functionality like fast setup and switching between internal projector test patterns. This app also allows the user to switch very fast between different projectors.

Top 8. How Make Smartphone Projector

This projector application gives you the solution to make projector using your Android with very low cost. The steps to make this projector have been explained in this projector app specifically. Follow the steps and you can easily make smartphone a projector, just like its name indicates.

Part 3. How to use the Android phone as a projector

After learning about all Android phone projector apps above, how to connect Android to one projector and use it as a remote? The fact is, once you choose the proper projector app, it can be quite easy to present content on your Android phone. Here I would like to take Epson iProjection app as an example, and show you how to use an projector app for Android within simple steps.

Step 1.

Connect your mobile device to the projector’s network.

Step 2.

Launch the app and select the connected projector.

Step 3.

Select the web page, document or photo you’d like to project, and you’re ready to go!

Downloads

FoneLab for Android

• FoneLab for Android is the professional Android data recovering tool, which fixes disabled phone to normal and recover deleted data from Android phone.
• Recover deleted or lost data from Samsung phone.
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• Support most Android device, including Samsung, HTC, LG, Huawei, Sony, etc.

Part 4. FAQs of projector app for Android

What is a projector app for Android?

A projector app for Android is a mobile application that allows you to turn your phone into a projector app. It enables you to mirror your device’s screen or display multimedia content on a larger screen or wall.

Can I use a projector app for Android without an actual projector?

Yes. You can use a projector screen app on your Android without a physical projector. The app may allow you to display content on other devices like smart TVs or computer monitors that can receive the transmitted content.

Are projector apps for Android easy to set up and use?

Yes. Projector apps are designed to be straightforward to set up and use. Most apps provide intuitive interfaces and step-by-step instructions for establishing connections between your Android device and the target display. However, the setup process may vary depending on your chosen app and the devices you are connecting.

Conclusion

In this article, we mainly introduced top 8 best projectors for Android phone, and showed how to connect your Android to a projector. Still have more questions about Android projector app? Feel free to leave your comments below.

Don’t miss: Best Android Backup App.

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Is it possible to turn an Android phone into a projector

What modern smartphone cameras can’t do. They can take photos in RAW, scan the environment in 3D, measure distance and volume, and much more. Therefore, when I recently stumbled upon a video demonstrating an application on TikTok that can turn the camera of any smartphone into a real projector, I was not particularly surprised. The video was very convincing, however, I did not follow the link suggested by the author for security reasons, but went to Google Play to find it myself. It turned out that such software is of interest not only to me.

There are a lot of advertisements on TikTok for apps that promise to turn your smartphone camera into a projector

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The essence of the video that told me about the projector app is very simple. The author simply launched the utility on his smartphone, pointed the camera at the wall, and everything he did on the screen was reflected on it. He could simply move around the desktop and the projection would follow him, or he could open a drawing application and start drawing, and the result would be duplicated on the wall. Another thing is that for this, as it seemed to me, additional equipment was clearly needed, which is not found in modern smartphones. And so it happened.

Projector for Android phone

As you can see, many users are interested in the possibility of turning their smartphone into a projector

If you open Google Play and search for “Projector”, you will see a wide range of applications that offer to turn your smartphone into a projector. In the description of some, it is even unambiguously stated that it is the camera that acts as a projector, projecting the image from the screen onto the wall through the matrix. As a result, some applications have accumulated several million downloads. But they don’t actually make any projector from a smartphone.

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If you open the reviews for any of these applications, you will see that not a single user received what was promised by the developer. No, I would still understand if these were applications for controlling real projectors, as is often the case with applications supposedly for measuring pressure – they simply control external devices via Bluetooth. But no, their creators directly promise that they will turn any smartphone into a projector. In fact, the app just starts showing ads.

Projector app for phone

Look, this app is cheating that it will allow you to project an image on the wall and due to this it got into the top downloads situations are different. Some simply frame the smartphone screen, imitating a projector, others simply issue a notification about the need to connect additional equipment, and still others offered to download third-party software, for which they were clearly paid to advertise. But neither in the one, nor in the other, nor in the third case, not a single user received what was promised, but instead increased the number of app downloads.

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It seems logical that no smartphone without a built-in projector can work as a projector. However, many users believe that all-powerful applications will be able to teach their device to project the image from the screen outside. They don’t really care how they do it. For them, the main thing is that they saw how someone is already doing it. And a large number of downloads from a fake application only assures them that they are right. As a result, developers get what they want, and users are left with nothing.

Tags

• Google Play
• Android security
• Smartphone camera
• Android apps

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How to connect your phone to the projector!

from CyberInfa

If your android phone’s screen size is not suitable for the task at hand, here are a few different options to easily connect your android phone to the projector. Here are ways to connect your phone to the projector, both wirelessly and with a cable.

How to connect your phone to the projector via wifi

Using wireless streaming adapters and the projector’s built-in mirroring support, you can bring your Android device to the big screen. Typically, you need an app for this to work.

Most wireless streaming solutions require that you have access to a wireless network, whether at home or at work. If you don’t have access to a wireless network, be sure to check out our alternative wired solutions below.

How to connect a

to a projector via wi-fi using CHROMECAST