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Buying guides - page 2

iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 16: Newer isn’t always better

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iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 16
Sometimes, picking a winner is not easy.
Photo: Apple/Rajesh Pandey/Cult Of Mac

Apple’s budget-oriented iPhone 17e packs a faster processor and more base storage — at a lower price — than the iPhone 16. But despite launching more than a year earlier, the iPhone 16 still holds an edge in several important aspects.

Here’s how the two affordable iPhones compare — and which one you should buy.

$599 MacBook Neo has these 7 surprising limitations

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MacBook Neo - 7 missing features
MacBook Neo is great, but it misses out on these features.
Photo: Apple/ChatGPT

To make the new MacBook Neo — Apple’s most affordable laptop yet at just $599 — the company obviously needed to make some compromises. To keep costs down, Apple removed or scaled back several features that come standard on the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.

Every wise shopper should consider the limitations of the MacBook Neo before jumping on Apple’s fun-looking new laptop.

MacBook Neo isn’t the MacBook Air killer you might think

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MacBook Neo vs. MacBook Air
Which should you get?
Image: Apple/D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac

The MacBook Neo is Apple’s newest low-end MacBook. Does that mean there’s no reason to buy a MacBook Air anymore? Would power users go straight for the MacBook Pro? I don’t think so. There are still plenty of reasons to buy Apple’s midrange MacBook Air vs. the MacBook Neo.

Apple did a good job differentiating the two computers — there’s no configuration of the Neo that overlaps with the Air. Picking between the two should be straightforward. If you want more than 512GB storage, 8GB of memory or support for multiple external displays, you should opt for the MacBook Air. If you don’t need that much power or high specs, the Neo will do just great for you.

Here are all the differences between the two laptops. 

Best cases you can buy right now for iPhone 17e

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Beats iPhone 17e case
Beats often brings more style and especially color than Apple does.
Photo: Apple

Apple’s iPhone 17e is the most capable budget iPhone ever made. It packs the A19 chip, a 48MP camera, a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and, notably, MagSafe, into a $599 package. With MagSafe now onboard for the first time in the ‘e’ line, you’ll want a case that takes full advantage of those magnets while protecting your investment. Here are the best MagSafe-compatible iPhone 17e cases you can buy right now (with more surely on the way). 

iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 17e comparison: Here’s the smarter pick

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iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 17
Is the iPhone 17e a better buy than the iPhone 17?
Image: ChatGPT/Apple

Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup has a new, more affordable addition: the iPhone 17e. It might look different from the rest of the family, but under the hood, it shares many of the same core components.

If you are trying to decide between the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17e, here’s the smarter option.

Closed-back vs. open-back headphones: How to choose [Buying guide]

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closed back vs open back headphones
Each type of headphone has plenty to recommend it.
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac

Ever wondered how closed-back and open-back headphones differ? Is one or the other better for your uses in your computer setup and elsewhere? What the heck is “impedance?”

I recently experimented with both open- and closed-back cans in my evolving setup. I’ve laid out all the considerations and key differences for you below. And you can find my gear in the links list at the bottom of this article.

3 best SSDs for iPhone: Fast, secure or cheap

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3 best SSDs for iPhone
Whether you want fast, secure or affordable, we found the best iPhone SSD options.
Image: Cult of Mac

Adding storage space to your iPhone is easy — you just need the right SSD. I’ve tested ones that work with Apple’s handset and found three standout options for holding gigabytes of images, video and more without massively bulking up the handset.

So here are the best SSDs for your iPhone. All you need to do now is decide whether you want the tiny drive to emphasize speed, security or affordability.

10 great Valentine’s Day gift picks from Apple

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AI-generated image of best Valentine's Day gifts from Apple
Your sweetheart should be very happy with any of these picks.
AI image: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac

“Love is a many-splendored thing,” goes the old saying — like a multifaceted, intricately cut diamond. Fortunately, your valentine probably doesn’t expect a diamond for a gift on February 14 (hopefully, for the sake of your wallet). But you can still spend loads of cash on Apple’s picks for Valentine’s Day gifts. We selected a bunch below. 

Apple Creator Studio vs. Adobe Creative Cloud: Which creative suite should you choose?

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Apple Creator Studio vs. Adobe Creative Cloud
Which is the better creative suite?
AI image: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac

Apple Creator Studio and Adobe Creative Cloud take very different approaches to creative software. One focuses on deep hardware integration and streamlined workflows, while the other prioritizes breadth, flexibility and industry-standard tools.

Both of these subscription app bundles promise powerful creative capabilities. However, which one actually makes more sense depends on your requirements, capabilities and workflow.

Our guide to Apple Creator Studio versus Adobe Creative Cloud will help you decide which bundle is right for you.

AirTag 2 vs AirTag: Same look, smarter tracker

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AirTag 2 looks the same but there's a lot different.
AirTag 1 vs. AirTag 2: same design, important improvements.
AI image: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac

After years of rumors, Apple finally unveiled the second-generation AirTag on Monday. At first glance, it looks identical to the original, but the similarities end there.
From improved tracking precision to a louder speaker, AirTag 2 builds on its predecessor in every way.

Our guide to Anker fast chargers for iPhone 17

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Anker chargers
Anker has a great reputation for its charging products.
Image: Anker

If you want the absolute best fast charger for your new iPhone, check out Anker, one of the top makers of phone accessories.

Anker makes an array of chargers for iPhone, including some of the fastest on the market. You never know when you have half an hour (or less!) to charge your phone. You can prepare yourself for that — get a fast charger. All modern iPhones support charging at high speeds, whether it’s plugged in, on a MagSafe stand or a Qi2 charger.

Don’t know the difference, or what your phone supports? Read our guide below.

Shopping for Apple fans? These gifts can’t miss. [Updated]

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geeky gifts for Apple users
You can find plenty of weird and wonderful gifts for Apple fans.
AI image: Grok

Whether you’re shopping for an Apple aficionado who still treasures their original iPod or the productivity ninja who lives and breathes the latest iOS updates, finding the perfect geeky gift can feel like searching for a needle in a digital haystack. Fear not! We gather some of the most ingenious, innovative and downright cool gadgets that’ll make any Apple user’s heart skip a beat. 

From retro-inspired accessories that pay homage to Apple’s legendary design heritage to cutting-edge smart home integrations that would make even Tim Cook jealous, these gifts bridge the gap between nostalgia and innovation. Each selection celebrates the unique blend of form, function, and pure geek appeal that defines the Apple ecosystem. And return to this post, because we’ll keep adding to it. 

Make home automation affordable with last-minute Aqara smart-home deals

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Aqara smart home deals
You can get an Aqara Smart Lock U100 for 37% off and use it with iPhone or Apple Watch. And that's just the start of the home automation savings in Aqara's holiday sale.
Photo: Aqara

With the holiday season in full swing and gift-giving deadlines approaching, Aqara has a fantastic sale with huge discounts on a bunch of the company’s smart home devices. These devices work with Apple HomeKit and the Home app, so you can easily integrate them into your existing setup (or start a whole new thing).

It’s the perfect time for last-minute shoppers looking to spruce up their living spaces before the holidays or surprise tech-savvy friends with a cool gift.

The sale runs through December 22 and offers savings of up to 48% on everything from smart locks to security cameras. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to upgrade your smart home for less.

My favorite wireless earbuds for less than $100

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best wireless earbuds under $100
Inexpensive earbuds have gained massive quality in recent years.
AI image: Grok

Whether you’re commuting, working out or just enjoying your favorite music, there’s a pair of earbuds on our list of best budget earbuds for less than $100 that can meet your needs without (much) compromise.

Today’s budget-friendly earbuds offer impressive features once reserved for premium models — excellent sound quality, active noise cancellation, long battery life and companion apps for customization.

And can you believe it? Even an Apple product made our list of best budget earbuds (when it’s on sale).

10 must-have accessories to supercharge your iPhone 17 Pro Max

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best iPhone 17 Pro Max accessories
Make the most of iPhone 17 Pro Max.
AI image: Grok

iPhone 17 Pro Max is Apple’s most advanced smartphone to date, featuring the powerful A19 Pro chip, an innovative vapor chamber cooling system and the best battery life ever in an iPhone. With its stunning 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display protected by Ceramic Shield 2 and revolutionary camera capabilities, this device is engineered for excellence. However, even the most sophisticated technology benefits from the right accessories to unlock its full potential — so check out our 10 must-have iPhone 17 Pro Max accessories below. 

Whether you’re a creative professional pushing the boundaries of mobile photography, a power user who demands all-day productivity, or simply someone who wants to protect and enhance their significant investment, the right accessories can transform your iPhone 17 Pro Max experience. From tough-as-nails screen protectors to wireless chargers that deliver blazing-fast 25W speeds, and from professional-grade camera lenses to ultra-slim power banks that slip into your pocket, today’s accessory ecosystem offers unprecedented versatility.

How to get an M5 MacBook Pro for just $52.17 a month

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Photo of a laptop with the Upgraded's monthly payments plan for financing a MacBook, with an image on-screen that says
Subscribing to the latest, greatest MacBook has never been so easy.
Image: Upgraded

The new MacBook Pro M5 is here, and it might be Apple’s most powerful laptop ever.

But with prices starting at $1,599, getting the device you want can feel like a serious investment.

That’s where Upgraded comes in. It’s a new way to get the tech you need without paying thousands upfront. Instead, you pay monthly with the option to upgrade every two years.

With Upgraded, you can get the new M5 MacBook Pro starting at just $52.17 per month and as low as 0% APR. Get the M5 MacBook Pro from $52.17 per month.

5 best Sennheiser earbuds for iPhone users

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Best Sennheiser earbuds for iPhone
When it comes to the best Sennheiser earbuds for iPhone, users are spoiled for choice.
Photo: ChatGPT/Cult of Mac

Pairing your iPhone with the right earbuds shouldn’t be a compromise. While Apple’s ecosystem makes AirPods the obvious choice, Sennheiser’s German-engineered earbuds deliver superior sound quality that transforms how you experience music, podcasts and calls. We ranked the five best Sennheiser earbuds for iPhone users, with picks for various price points and uses.

From flagship audiophile options to budget-conscious picks, here’s everything you need to know about finding your perfect Sennheiser earbuds for iPhone.

M4 vs. M5 iPad Pro comparison: What’s different?

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M4 vs. M5 iPad Pro
The M5 iPad Pro offers more than just a faster chip upgrade over the M4.
Photo: Apple

Apple’s newest M5 iPad Pro might look the same as its predecessor, the M4 iPad Pro. But when you compare the two tablets’ internals, you realize a lot has changed. It’s not just a minor processor upgrade.

If you’re on the fence about upgrading or plan to buy a new iPad, here’s how the M5 iPad Pro stacks up against the M4 model.

Logitech MX Keys Mini vs. Apple Magic Keyboard: Which to choose?

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Logitech MX Keys Mini vs Apple Magic Keyboard
See which of these highly productive keeb suits you best.
Photo: chatGPT/Cult of Mac

It’s the ultimate battle of the small Mac keyboards: Logitech MX Keys Mini vs. Apple Magic Keyboard. Choosing between these two premium compact keyboards is tough, and the decisions you make can significantly impact your daily typing experience and productivity.

They’ve both become top contenders for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike. And while they’re similar, they’re not the same.

Find out which is better for you in our head-to-head comparison. 

8 best Sony headphones for iPhone users

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Best Sony headphones for iPhone
Choose the best Sony headphones to use with iPhone.
AI image: Grok

Finding the perfect Sony headphones for iPhone might seem challenging when Apple pushes its own audio ecosystem so heavily. This comprehensive guide examines each model’s features, pros, cons and pricing to help you find the perfect match for your specific needs and budget. Let’s dive into what makes these Sony headphones exceptional companions for your iPhone.

Top 10 power banks for Apple users in 2025

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Ugreen MagFlow Qi2.2 power bank
With fast Qi2.2 (25W) wireless charging, faster wired charging and an informative display, this is our top choice.
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac

Ever been stranded with a dead iPhone in a crucial moment? Finding the best power banks for Apple devices can be the difference between staying connected and watching your screen go black. Thankfully, the market is loaded with great portable power banks that can keep your iPhone and other Apple devices powered up on the go. We rounded up the top 10 power banks for Apple users, including two of the fastest Qi2.2 models available so far. 

iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone Air: Which one’s right for you?

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iPhone 17 vs. iPhone Air vs. iPhone 17 Pro
Which 2025 iPhone is the right pick for you?
Photo: Apple/CultOfMac

Apple’s 2025 iPhone lineup is its boldest — and most confusing — yet. It offers three distinct models designed to cater to very different kinds of users. From the slim and stylish iPhone Air to the all-out powerhouse iPhone 17 Pro, with the well-balanced iPhone 17 in between, there’s something here for everyone.

But with overlapping features, similar pricing and Apple blurring the lines between Pro and non-Pro models, choosing the right iPhone isn’t as straightforward as it used to be. 

Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Ultra 2: Should you upgrade?

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Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Ultra 2 comparison
Don't ditch your Apple Watch Ultra 2 for the Ultra 3.
Photo: Apple/Rajesh Pandey/CultOfMac

Compare the Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. the Ultra 2, and you will see that the new model looks quite similar to its predecessor. You’ll need to squint to notice the Ultra 3’s slightly larger display. And most other changes are internal, like faster charging, longer battery life and satellite connectivity.

Otherwise, this is basically the same rugged smartwatch that Apple launched two years ago. So, if you already own an Apple Watch Ultra 2, should you consider upgrading to the Ultra 3? Or should you save your money instead?

iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 17 comparison: Is going Pro worth it?

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iPhone 17 Pro vs. iPhone 17 comparison
The iPhone 17 is almost as good as its Pro sibling.
Photo: Apple/Rajesh Pandey/CultOfMac

Two closely matched heavyweights square off this year in Apple’s iPhone lineup: the iPhone 17 vs. the iPhone 17 Pro. On paper, the gap between the two has never been narrower. But look closer, and you’ll find a few key differences that could sway your buying decision.

The iPhone 17 Pro has a few tricks up its sleeve that make it the ultimate choice for power users. But is it worth the extra $300? Find out in this iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 17 Pro. comparison.