I've been into technology for as long as I can remember. As a PCMag mobile writer, I get to test the newest phones and tablets. Since you rely on our buying advice, I make sure you get everything a manufacturer claims, which means lots of testing. This is your phone we're talking about; it's like a part of you. I've covered technology as a career for around two decades (yikes, I had to think about that). You've seen my work at The Apple Blog, PCMag (from my first go around), This Week in Tech, and CNET. I also occasionally produce independent video projects, including This Old Nerd, a how-to series that shows practical ways to get the most from your tech.
I use a 2023 M3 MacBook Pro customized with lots of keyboard shortcuts thanks to Raycast. Pixelmator Pro is my go-to photo editing application because there is no subscription, and I'm trapped with Evernote because I've used it forever.
I'm between phones at the moment, but I use a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 now, and used a Z Fold 6 before that. Considering that I like to have multiple windows open at once, the large inner screen of folding phones can show a baseball game on the top while I keep a chat app and Reddit open beneath. I do miss being able to write on the Z Fold 7's screen, though, which has me eyeing a Galaxy S25 Ultra.
My home is semi-smart, with many Google Home products that I thoroughly enjoyed in the pre-Gemini days. Be warned: smart bulbs are a gateway drug into smart home life.
Google’s Android platform is the dominant global mobile operating system for good reason. Here are the top Android phones we've tested, along with advice on how to pick the best one for you.
16 hours, 51 minutes
Want to charge your iPhone as quickly as possible? Check out our favorite fast iPhone chargers to top off your battery in a flash.
6 days, 15 hours
If you're looking for a simple and snappy way to charge your iPhone, Apple's MagSafe just clicks. Here's what you need to know about Apple's magnetic charging standard and the best chargers you can buy.
1 month
Is your phone, tablet, or laptop typically in the battery red zone before the end of the day? These portable chargers and power banks give you the most boost when you're out of juice.
1 month
Why fumble around for a charging cable when you can just put your phone on a wireless charging pad or stand? Whether you're an Android fan or an iPhone user, these are the top wireless chargers.
1 month
No matter your age, you can benefit from the simplicity of a voice phone or one with a big, bright screen. These are the best phones we've tested that make life easy.
1 month
Need a safe and smart way to use your phone in the car? These car phone mounts are ideal for hands-free calls, navigation, music streaming, and more.
1 month
Why rely on public hotspots when you can bring a personal Wi-Fi network with you wherever you go? These are the top mobile hotspots we've tested for each major US carrier.
1 month
Should you get your kids a simple voice phone or a more capable smartphone? What about parental controls? Here's what you need to know, along with our top-tested picks for children of all ages.
1 month
From service in the US to regional or global travel, the best eSIMs we've tested will help you stay connected wherever you go.
1 month, 2 weeks
Are you constantly looking for your keys, phone, remote, or wallet? From AirTags to Tiles, end the hunt quickly and easily with one of the best Bluetooth trackers we've tested.
1 month, 3 weeks
Tired of hauling around a separate camera? We've lab-tested a large majority of the phones on the market, and these are the best ones for snapping photos.
1 month, 3 weeks
Tired of the restrictive carrier payment plans that often come with new cell phones? The top unlocked phones we've tested aren't tied to a carrier, giving you more freedom to roam and carrying less bloatware.
1 month, 3 weeks
Want a big-screen phone that folds in half and slides right into your pocket? Here's everything you need to know about these nifty dual-display devices, along with our top tested picks.
1 month, 3 weeks
Whether you're looking for an Amazon, Android, or Apple slate, here's what to consider, along with recommendations for the top tablets we've tested.
1 month, 4 weeks
Looking for a new phone that won't wipe out your bank account? Whether you're looking for a basic smartphone or a retro flip phone, these are the top models we've tested for under $300.
2 months, 1 week
Are today's palm-stretching handsets too much for you? The top small phones we've tested fit comfortably in your hand and pocket.
2 months, 1 week
Whether you're looking for an Android phone, an iPhone, or a simple handset for voice calls, these are the top phones we've tested for various budgets across the major US wireless carriers.
2 months, 2 weeks
The top cheap tablets we've tested are ideal for reading books, watching videos, browsing the web, and more.
2 months, 2 weeks
Need (or simply want) to plug in wired headphones? These top-tested phones buck the wireless trend and keep the old-school 3.5mm audio jack.
3 months, 1 week