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  • The best unlimited data plans in 2025

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    The T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and Mint Mobile app icons on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra home screen.
    T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and Mint Mobile have excellent unlimited data plans for varying coverage areas and budgets.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider

    These days, most mainstream plans from major carriers come with unlimited data, and in our extensive testing, it’s hard to go wrong with most of them if you use a lot of data. That said, the best unlimited data plan and its carrier will depend on your location, budget, and needs for and apart from data.

    As the particular coverage area of a carrier should be your primary consideration, we’ve selected the best unlimited data plans from each major carrier in the US: Verizon’s Unlimited Plus plan, T-Mobile’s Go5G Plus plan, and AT&T’s Unlimited Extra EL plan. These plans are not the carriers’ cheapest or most expensive options; they’re happy mediums offering the best value for most people with full network access and still-liberal mobile hot spot data.

    We’ve also listed Mint Mobile’s Unlimited 12-month plan as a budget option. While it offers unrivaled long-term value at its low cost, especially for fewer lines, note that premium unlimited data plans from major carriers can still be surprisingly affordable with multiple lines.

    Our top picks for the best unlimited data plans

    Best from Verizon: Unlimited Plus Plan – See at Verizon

    Best from T-Mobile: Go5G Plus Plan – See at T-Mobile

    Best from AT&T: Unlimited Extra EL Plan – See at AT&T

    Best budget: Mint Mobile Unlimited 12-Month Plan – See at Mint Mobile

    Best Verizon unlimited data plan

    Verizon’s Unlimited Plus plan offers the best balance of features, data connectivity, and value. We like the Unlimited Plus plan’s truly unlimited premium data, where there are no data caps, and speeds aren’t artificially reduced due to network traffic. It also offers access to Verizon’s fastest 5G network.

    The Unlimited Plus plan is pricey, starting at $70/month for a single line with the auto-pay discount. However, the monthly cost per line reduces as you add more lines, making it more affordable if you add friends and family to the plan. For four lines, it can go as low as $40/month, and Verizon is, accordingly, our top choice among the best family cell phone plans.

    Best unlimited data plans: An original image of the Verizon app opened to a plan management page.
    Verizon’s Unlimited Plus plan is significantly more affordable with multiple lines.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider

    For the high-end price, however, the Unlimited Plus plan gives you the peace of mind that you’ll always get the fastest speeds available in your coverage area.

    To be sure, Verizon’s cheaper Unlimited Welcome plan, which starts at $55/month for a single line (with an auto-pay discount), also includes truly unlimited data. With four lines, the monthly cost per line lowers to $25. However, you don’t get access to Verizon’s fastest 5G network, and your line is subject to deprioritization, which means data speeds can be artificially throttled when the network is congested. It also doesn’t include the features below.

    The Unlimited Plus plan includes 30GB of mobile hot spot data monthly. That’s plenty of data for connecting a laptop or tablet to browse the web, send emails, watch videos, or scroll social media.

    Also included is a 50% discount for data-connected devices, like a cellular tablet or the GPS plus Cellular version of the Apple Watch Series 10. That reduces the usual $15/month price to $7.50.

    Assess Verizon’s coverage map and check with local friends, neighbors, or social media like Nextdoor to ensure adequate coverage.

    Best T-Mobile unlimited data plan

    T-Mobile’s Go5G Plus plan offers an excellent balance of features, data connectivity, and value. We like the plan’s truly unlimited premium data without hidden data caps or deprioritization. However, speeds can still be naturally affected if the network is congested due to bandwidth. The plan also offers access to T-Mobile’s fastest 5G data speeds.

    Starting at $90/month for a single line (with an auto-pay discount), the Go5G Plus plan is very pricey for one or two lines. Yet, it’s well suited for those who can add friends and family to their plan. The total monthly cost for three lines is $150/month, which translates to $50/month per line. Add a fourth line, and the monthly cost reduces to $46.25/month per line, which is an excellent value.

    Best unlimited data plan: An original image of a T-Mobile storefront in New York City.
    T-Mobile’s urban coverage sets it apart from other major carriers.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider

    However, thanks to T-Mobile’s premium data, single-line users can still rest assured that they’ll get unlimited data at the fastest speeds available in their coverage area. There’s no data deprioritization here.

    T-Mobile’s cheaper Essentials Saver plan costs $50/month for a single line. It includes a generous 50GB of premium data with access to T-Mobile’s fastest 5G network. Lines that use over 50GB of data are then deprioritized. Essentials customers may also notice slower speeds than other customers during congestion, per T-Mobile, and the plan doesn’t include the features below.

    The Go5G Plus plan includes 50GB of mobile hot spot data, which easily suffices for web browsing and sending emails on laptops and tablets and even allows plenty of headroom for video streaming.

    Texting and WiFi connectivity on flights are also included, and video streaming is possible when it’s available, depending on the airline and flight. T-Mobile also lets you upgrade phones every two years, compared to the typical three-year upgrade window.

    T-Mobile also offers full discounts on Apple TV Plus and the ad-supported Netflix Standard plans on the Go5G Plus plan.

    To ensure coverage in your area, check T-Mobile’s coverage map and survey local sources like friends, neighbors, and online forums.

    Best AT&T unlimited data plan

    AT&T’s Unlimited Extra EL plan offers a great balance of features, data connectivity, and value. The plan includes 75GB of premium data before deprioritization, which is less generous than the truly unlimited premium data you get with Verizon and T-Mobile’s comparable plans. However, 75GB should easily suffice for most people, and you still get unlimited data after 75GB, though it’s subject to speed throttling when the network is congested.

    Best unlimited data plan: An original image of an AT&T storefront in New York City.
    AT&T’s Unlimited Extra EL plan is the carrier’s best option for unlimited premium data.

    John Lynch/Business Insider

    Starting at $75.99/month for a single line with the auto-pay discount, the Unlimited Extra EL plan is slightly more affordable than Verizon and T-Mobile’s equivalent offerings. The plan becomes more affordable with every line you add, as the monthly price per line reduces to $35.99 with five lines.

    AT&T customers can opt for the cheaper Unlimited Starter SL plan, which also comes with unlimited data. However, any data on this plan is subject to deprioritization, so speeds may become slower if the network is congested at a particular time and place.

    AT&T’s Unlimited Extra EL plan comes with 30GB of mobile hot spot data, which is more than enough data to browse the web and send emails from a laptop, with even some headroom for video streaming.

    Check AT&T’s coverage map and local sources to ensure coverage.

    Best budget unlimited data plan

    Mint Mobile’s Unlimited 12-month plan for $30/month (or $25/month with a limited-time discount) offers incredible value for truly unlimited data. As a budget-friendly mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Mint Mobile is understandably lighter on extra features than the premium plans from major carriers. Still, it may offer all that most people need in an unlimited plan.

    Mint Mobile runs on the network of its parent company, T-Mobile, and its data is subject to deprioritization behind T-Mobile’s higher-paying customers. While Mint Mobile’s unlimited plan is truly unlimited, going beyond 35GB of monthly data can deprioritize speeds behind users on the carrier’s lower data tiers, but only in times of congestion.

    Best unlimited data plan: An original image of the Mint Mobile app in hand, with a protruding SIM card at the bottom of the phone.
    Mint Mobile’s 12-month options offer unbeatable value if you can make an annual payment.

    Eve Montie/Business Insider

    The Unlimited plan from Mint Mobile includes 10GB of mobile hot spot data, which should be plenty for browsing the web and sending emails from a laptop, and even the occasional video stream, with an emphasis on occasional.

    Mint Mobile doesn’t include access to high-band 5G networks, also known as mmWave 5G networks, but most people may not notice. The carrier advertises typical speeds between 79 and 357 Mbps, which is more than fast enough for most common phone activities.

    Mint Mobile’s plans are prepaid in three-, six-, or 12-month increments, with lower monthly prices for longer intervals. Its value-driven payment structure makes the MVNO relatively inflexible compared to major carriers and monthly prepaid options. However, for new customers, Mint Mobile has an introductory promotion that discounts each three-month plan starting at $15/month. It’s our top pick among the best cheap cell phone plans for eligible users.

    Mint Mobile runs on T-Mobile’s network, so consider its coverage map and local sources regarding T-Mobile to determine whether the network works for your area. For further assessment, see our Mint Mobile review and Mint Mobile vs. T-Mobile guide.

    If T-Mobile’s coverage doesn’t work well in your area, we also highly recommend US Mobile’s Unlimited Starter plan, which includes unlimited data for $22.50/month on an annual plan, 10GB of mobile hot spot data, and the ability to switch between networks that include Dark Star (AT&T), Warp (Verizon), and Light Speed (T-Mobile). See our US Mobile review for more information.

    How we test unlimited data plans

    We test unlimited data plans at scale in our broader testing for the best cell phone plans through standard criteria and with special considerations.

    With preset data limits for nominal unlimited plans, or the lack thereof on truly unlimited plans, our primary focus is testing data speeds on a carrier’s 5G and LTE networks. We also perform tests with varying signal strengths of LTE, low-, mid-, and high-band 5G networks.

    We test for and note deprioritized data speeds to see how they affect the experience of data-intensive tasks like video streaming. While our testing is often specific to a set of particular locations, coverage varies widely across the US and even within a single ZIP code. As noted above and below, we direct readers to assess coverage maps and seek out local sources to determine which carrier will work best in their location.

    Overall, we consider our test results combined with our general experience of a plan in daily usage and assess its value accordingly. We also consider mobile hot spot data allotment and perks, like discounts to streaming services.

    What to look for in unlimited data plans

    The first thing you need to know is which carrier has the coverage you need in the area where you’ll be using an unlimited plan, whether it’s your hometown, a place you often visit, or a combination of both. Without adequate coverage, a plan is useless. Check the coverage maps of Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile and crowdsource locally to ensure coverage and inform your selection.

    You can also assess whether you need premium features, like access to high-band 5G networks, prioritized top-speed data, and generous mobile hot spot data. If you don’t, you can opt for a cheaper plan, which, like Mint Mobile’s plans, can still feature truly unlimited data, though at deprioritized speeds during congestion.

    For major carriers with premium plans, look for the price-per-line for the plan you’ve selected and see if you can get as many lines on the plan as possible to get the best possible value. Also, look out for extra perks, like discounts on streaming channels and other services, which can notably lower your total monthly expenditures.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • You can’t split a payment on Airbnb directly — here’s what you can do instead

    The Airbnb logo is being displayed on a smartphone screen in Athens, Greece, on May 31, 2024.
    You can’t split payments directly on the Airbnb website or app anymore.

    Nikolas Kokovlis/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    • You can’t split a payment on Airbnb between multiple guests directly through the service.
    • You’ll need to use a different method to divvy up payments.
    • If you choose Airbnb’s payment plan or are booking a long-term rental, you can use a different credit card for each payment.

    Up until 2018, Airbnb offered a feature that was a favorite among users: split rental fees. 

    With a few extra clicks of your mouse or taps on your phone, you could invite everyone staying at a rental to pay their share of the fee and avoid those awkward conversations about who owed who how much cash or who already sent money through Venmo.

    However, you can no longer split payments on Airbnb. So, if you want to split the cost of an Airbnb rental, you have to do it the old-fashioned way — with a few exceptions.

    How to split an Airbnb payment

    The simplest way to split the cost of an Airbnb is for one person to handle the entire payment via the Airbnb site or app and then have everyone else pay their fair share through Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, Apple Pay, or any other preferred payment app. 

    Most rentals will also allow you to pay a down payment when booking and then pay the rest in installments, giving you time to collect payments from everyone else staying at the Airbnb. 

    A screenshot of an airbnb booking page with skitch around the pay later option
    Most rentals require at least half the fee at the time of booking and the other portion two weeks before the start of the stay.

    Lauren Savoie/Business Insider

    If you choose to pay in installments, you can use a different credit card for each payment, which may be a good option if there are just two of you splitting the bill. If you’re renting a long-term Airbnb, you also have the option of using a different payment method for each recurring monthly charge.

    If you’re the one to lay down your credit card, you can also collect a large number of points, especially if you use a travel credit card.

    The bottom line

    Unfortunately, Airbnb doesn’t make it easy to split payments for a reservation if you’re traveling with a group. Your best option is for one person to pay and then use an electronic payment service like Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, or Apple Pay to collect reimbursements from the other travelers.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • The best 100-inch TVs of 2025 for a theater-like experience at home

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    A side-by-side composite graphic with an image of a 100-inch Hisense U8K TV on a media console next to an image of a 98-inch TCL QM7 TV hanging on a wall.
    100- and 98-inch TV models are available from brands like Hisense and TCL.

    Amazon/Best Buy

    Extra-large TVs are growing in popularity, and many brands now sell huge 100-inch displays across a range of budgets. The best 100-inch TVs offer a theater-like experience in your living room, with an expanded sense of immersion for movies, sports, and video games. Though sets this large used to be outrageously expensive, prices are now much more reasonable, with options starting at around $1,500 during sales. These giant TVs are especially great for watching big sporting events, like March Madness.

    I’ve been reviewing home entertainment gear for over a decade and used that experience to curate a list of the best 100-inch and 98-inch TVs you can buy. My top pick for most people is the TCL QM7. This midrange QLED is often sold for less than $2,500, and it delivers impressive brightness and color. Those who want to spend less should consider the step-down TCL Q65. Its contrast performance isn’t as good, but it’s typically sold for $1,500, which is fantastic for such a large display.

    Below are all of my picks for the best 100-inch TVs. Keep in mind that TV sizes vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and display type, with 97, 98, and 100 inches being popular options. With that in mind, this guide includes picks from 97 to 100 inches.

    Our top picks for the best 100-inch TVs

    Best overall: TCL QM7 QLED 4K TV- See at Walmart

    Best on a budget: TCL Q65 QLED 4K TV – See at Amazon

    Best high-end: Hisense U8K QLED 4K TV – See at Amazon

    Best OLED: LG G4 OLED 4K TV – See at B&H

    Best overall

    When it comes to overall value for your dollar, the TCL QM7 is the best 98-inch TV available. It’s often sold for under $2,500, which is a great deal for a midrange QLED so large.

    Unlike cheaper QLED TVs this size, the QM7 uses a Mini LED backlight, which gives it better control over its contrast and light output. When I tested the 65-inch model, I measured a peak brightness of around 1,700 nits, and that number should carry over to larger sizes. Bright displays like this are great for rooms that struggle with glare, and they enable impressive high-dynamic-range (HDR) performance to produce highlights (like explosions) with realistic intensity.

    During my evaluation, the 65-inch QM7 offered solid black levels, but I did spot some light bleed in letterbox bars when watching widescreen movies. However, the 98-inch model has more dimming zones than its 65-inch counterpart, which could lead to slight improvements in that regard.

    On the downside, the QM7’s viewing angles are mediocre, so colors and contrast distort if you sit at an angle. On extra-large screens like this, viewing angles also become an issue if you sit very close to the display, as color and contrast can appear faded on the far left and right of the TV compared to its center. But in this price range, it’s rare to find wider viewing angles, so I don’t consider this a huge con.

    The QM7’s picture processing is a bit of a mixed bag but is still solid overall. High-quality 4K sources look excellent, but lower-quality videos, like YouTube streams and broadcast TV, look softer than they do on pricier displays from brands like Sony, Samsung, and LG. But to get a comparable 100-inch set from one of those companies, you’d need to spend at least $5,000, and I don’t think the bump in image quality is worth such a huge premium.

    Gamers should also note that the QM7 supports up to a 144Hz refresh rate when used with a PC (120Hz with a PS5 or Xbox Series X). It also supports VRR (variable refresh rate) and ALLM (auto low latency mode) to produce smooth motion in games while reducing lag and screen tearing.

    The QM7 uses the Google TV operating system for its smart TV interface, and this platform is quick and easy to navigate with the included backlit Google Assistant voice remote. When testing the 65-inch model, I did encounter a few minor glitches with menus and settings, but nothing impacted my experience enough to change my recommendation.

    TCL’s 98-inch QM7 is an excellent all-around performer for anyone who wants a gigantic TV for movies, sports, and video games. It’s not the absolute best-looking display, but it offers good image quality, handy smart features, and an incredible level of immersion for a reasonable price.

    Read our TCL QM7 4K TV review.

    Visit our guides to the best TVs, best smart TVs, and best TVs for sports.

    Best on a budget

    If you’re buying a TV in the 100-inch class, you should be prepared to spend a good amount of money, but sets in this tier have come down in price a lot over the last couple of years. Budget models are now regularly sold for around $1,500, and the 98-inch TCL Q65 is the best option.

    The Q65 is the step-down version of my top pick in this guide, the QM7. Like that pricier display, the Q65 uses a QLED panel with great color performance. However, this model does not have a Mini LED backlight or local dimming, so it can’t match the QM7’s contrast, brightness, or black-level capabilities. As a result, the Q65 looks more washed out and uneven when watching TV in a dark room, and it can’t overcome glare as well in a bright room. It’s also prone to narrow viewing angles, just like the QM7.

    But that’s not to say that the Q65 has poor image quality. It’s just that this is closer to an entry-level TV than a midrange or high-end set. The Q65 is a great budget pick for buyers who want a giant screen size instead of paying a similar amount to get a smaller TV with better picture performance.

    The 98-inch Q65 actually has a higher refresh rate than its 50-, 55-, 65-, and 75-inch counterparts, so it’s a solid gaming TV, too. This model supports up to a 144Hz refresh rate, VRR, and ALLM. The Q65’s built-in Google TV operating system is also solid, and you get a Google Assistant voice remote.

    TCL also sells a step-down 98-inch TV model called the S5. That TV performs similarly but doesn’t use quantum dots. The S5 is a good budget pick if you can find it on sale for less than the Q65, but both TVs are typically sold for around the same amount, so the Q65 is usually the better value.

    Best high-end

    The Hisense U8K QLED is the best 100-inch TV for people who want high-end image quality without spending an exorbitant amount of money. The 100-inch U8K is often on sale for around $3,000, and while that’s still pricey, it’s much less than high-end 100-inch sets from brands like Samsung and Sony.

    The 100-inch U8K compares favorably to Samsung’s 98-inch QN90D, but the QN90D typically costs $9,000. Samsung’s TVs are known for better build quality, but it’s hard to justify such an extreme price gap. The U8K uses a QLED panel, and, like TCL’s QM7, it has a Mini LED backlight with local dimming to control its light output and offer deep black levels. But the U8K can get even brighter and it provides higher contrast with less blooming (halos around bright objects).

    This all leads to a more precise image that looks exceptional whether you’re watching TV in a dark or bright room. The U8K is also fully equipped for gamers with up to a 144Hz refresh rate, VRR, and ALLM. Google TV is built-in for access to all of the best streaming services, and the display supports Google Assistant voice search with the remote or hands-free via a wake word.

    In this tier, I also recommend the 98-inch TCL QM85, which has similar performance but offers higher peak brightness. However, the QM85 is harder to find in stock and is often sold for a bit more money. If you happen to find the QM85 for the same price as the U8K, it’s a better buy. Otherwise, the U8K is the best 100-inch TV I recommend for premium picture performance.

    Best OLED

    OLED TVs larger than 83 inches are rare. This is because OLED panels are difficult to produce in extra-large sizes, which makes them very expensive. This brings us to LG’s 97-inch G4 OLED TV. Though this set is one of the best-looking displays available at this size, it costs a whopping $20,000.

    But if you happen to have those funds to spend on a TV, the 97-inch G4 is a home theater dream come true. Unlike the other picks in this guide, which use QLED panels that need a backlight, the G4’s OLED screen has an infinite contrast ratio with perfect black levels that disappear into a dark room. High contrast is one of the most important elements of high-end picture quality, and it doesn’t get any better than this.

    Viewing angles are also exceptional, with no major loss in color or contrast if you sit to the side of the screen or up close. However, the TV’s peak brightness isn’t as high as on a premium QLED model like the Hisense U8K. It’s also important to note that the 97-inch G4 does not use Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology, a brightness-boosting feature used on smaller versions of the G4.

    But the 97-inch G4 still gets bright enough to showcase the benefits of HDR content, and the pixel-level dimming capabilities of its OLED screen enable a more impressive HDR effect than you’d get on a QLED. The G4 also has premium styling to match its high-end image performance, with a thin profile that enables the display to be mounted flush on your wall. Just keep in mind that this size only comes with a mount and does not include a pedestal stand (a floor stand is sold separately).

    LG’s solid webOS smart TV platform rounds out the package with access to tons of apps, though the system can be a bit slow to load certain graphics. The G4 also supports a 120Hz refresh rate with a PS5 or Xbox Series X, but unlike its smaller counterparts, it does not support 144Hz with a PC.

    All things considered, the G4 OLED is the ultimate 97-inch display if money is no object and picture quality is your primary concern. Buyers should also note that LG just launched preorders for a new 2025 version of this TV, the 97-inch G5. The new model should offer very similar performance, but it currently costs $5,000 more. However, the 97-inch G4 is hard to find in stock, so the newer G5 is a great alternative if the cheaper G4 is sold out. You can learn more about the G5 in our LG 2025 OLED TV breakdown.

    Read our LG G4 OLED TV review.

    Visit our guide to the best OLED TVs.

    How we select 100-inch TVs

    A TV with a brightness test pattern displayed and a colorimeter attached to the screen.
    We use test patterns and a colorimeter to measure a TV’s brightness capabilities.

    Steven Cohen/Business Insider

    To choose the best 100-inch TVs, our team relied on a combination of hands-on testing and research informed by years of TV review experience. When we review TVs, we usually evaluate 65-inch models since most brand’s consider that their premier size. However, most TV models carry over the same general specifications across sizes 55 inches and up.

    With that in mind, most performance results for a 65-inch TV will also apply to its 100-inch counterpart. Some larger TVs do have more notable differences compared to their smaller versions, but we’ve noted those differences when applicable.

    To evaluate a TV’s image quality, we rely on demo material and test patterns, along with a colorimeter to measure brightness. We use specific clips from various movies and shows to review different picture quality attributes, like contrast, black levels, HDR highlights, clarity, and color. We also sample material across different quality levels, from standard definition to 4K, in both standard dynamic range (SDR) and HDR.

    We try to use each TV we test as we would if we had it as our regular daily display by watching streaming content, cable channels, and Blu-ray discs in both bright and dark environments. We also test smart TV features, like navigation speed and digital assistant functions, to ensure they work properly.

    100-inch TV FAQs

    A 116-inch Hisense TriChoma TV on display at CES 2025.
    TVs even larger than 100 inches, like Hisense’s 116-inch TriChroma TV, are set for release in 2025.

    Les Shu/Business Insider

    How much should you spend on a 100-inch TV?

    The best 100-inch TVs don’t come cheap. However, 100- and 98-inch QLED displays have come down dramatically in cost compared to when they first launched several years ago. This is especially true if you shop from brands like Hisense and TCL, which have made huge strides toward bringing 100-inch TVs to the mainstream.

    When on sale, the best 100-inch TVs from Hisense and TCL start at around $1,500 for entry-level models, $2,000 to $2,500 for midrange options, and around $3,000 to $5,000 for high-end sets. Brands like Sony, Samsung, and LG also sell a few 98- and 100-inch QLED TV models, but they cost a lot more and don’t offer a big jump in image performance.

    Unfortunately, extra-large OLED TVs have not come down in price like their QLED counterparts have. The few OLEDs available in sizes over 83 inches remain prohibitively expensive for most consumers, but if you have deep pockets, you can find 97-inch OLED TVs for around $20,000. You can learn more about the benefits of an OLED in our QLED vs. OLED comparison.

    Should you buy a 100-inch TV or a projector?

    If you’re shopping for the best 100-inch TV, chances are you might also be considering a projector to handle your big-screen needs. Projectors have some perks over TVs this large, as well as some key drawbacks.

    When it comes to benefits, projectors are capable of producing even larger images, with many models supporting up to 300 inches. Depending on your room, setting up a thin projector screen could be much simpler than finding a place to rest or mount a heavy 100-inch TV. You can also find a lot of budget-friendly projector options for under $1,000, while entry-level 100-inch TVs start at around $1,500 when they’re on sale.

    However, there are some notable cons to keep in mind. Many affordable projectors still use Full HD (1080p) resolution rather than 4K, and some options advertised as 4K actually use pixel-shift methods to approximate a higher resolution rather than deliver a true native 4K image. Projectors also need to be placed at a certain distance from the screen in order to enable certain image sizes. Though short-throw projectors can be placed very close, long-throw models need to be at a greater distance, which can be tricky for certain spaces.

    Projectors also struggle with brightness compared to TVs. Many entry- and mid-tier models lack the luminance necessary for daytime viewing in a bright room. In most cases, a typical consumer projector’s contrast performance and HDR capabilities are also noticeably worse than those of a midrange TV, which leads to a more washed-out and less dynamic image with elevated black levels. Gamers should also note that it’s rare to find projector models that support a 4K/120Hz refresh rate.

    High-end projectors, especially those from brands like Sony and JVC, can still deliver exceptional image quality, but the best 100-inch TVs we recommend in this guide will yield better overall picture performance than any projector you can buy at a comparable price.

    Are TVs available in sizes larger than 100 inches?

    Yes, some brands sell TVs that are even bigger than 100 inches. Most notably, Hisense has the 110-inch UX QLED TV, while TCL has the 115-inch QM89 QLED TV.

    In 2025, Hisense is set to release two more options larger than 100 inches: the 116-inch TriChroma LED TV (116UX) and the 136-inch MicroLED TV (136MX). TCL has also announced a 115-inch version of its QM7 series set for release this year. You can learn more in our CES 2025 TV roundup and our breakdown of 2025 TV trends.

    For buyers who want something smaller than 100 inches, be sure to check out our other TV guides:

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • Get $250 off a cheap TV with expensive performance — save 32% on the Hisense U6N

    Hisense U6N TV side-by-side with the TV set up in a living room.
    The Hisense U6N TV is on sale for the lowest price we’ve seen in months.

    Hisense/Amazon

    We use our TVs often, but that doesn’t mean we want to spend over $1,000 on one. Getting a TV on a budget is possible, but finding an option that doesn’t sacrifice quality for the price is easier said than done. Luckily, one of our favorite options, the Hisense U6N, is on sale now at Amazon.

    Don’t let the price fool you; the Hisense U6N boasts features and performance comparable to its much more expensive competitors. Our tech experts should know; they’ve tested plenty of TVs for their display, interface, and more. As one of the only Mini LED TVs in its price range, the Hisense U6N earned the title of best overall in our guide to the best budget TVs.

    The Hisense U6N’s display sets it apart from others in its price range. Its Mini LED backlight delivers vibrant, high-contrast images and a wide range of colors. The U6N also uses the Google TV OS operating system to give you access to all of the best streaming services to watch your favorite shows and movies. Plus, it comes with a voice-activated remote that makes navigation a breeze.

    With hundreds of five-star ratings, Amazon shoppers also love this TV. “The TV right after the initial software setup was absolutely amazing. So bright and crisp I couldn’t believe my eyes. If possible, it was brighter and more vivid than real life! The darks were also exceptionally dark, and fast motion scenes look great,” said one reviewer. “This is my first set using the Google TV operating system, and so far I’m very happy with the user interface. Everything has been very intuitive.”

    Shoppers even said the U6N held up better than other, more expensive screens they had tried. “Wow, this is a great TV for the size, and the price is unmatched. Years ago, I spent $2,000 on a different TV, which was a bit underwhelming at the time, considering the price and lag of the menu screens…This Hisense feels like a real upgrade so far, and I’m impressed with the quality,” said another reviewer. “The Dolby Atmos sound is great for being in TV and fills the room while even at a low volume.”

    With the current discount on Amazon, you can grab the Hisense U6N for just $498—the best price we’ve seen in months. Add it to your cart now while the deal lasts.

    More trending tech deals on Amazon

    Still shopping? Browse through more TV deals on Amazon.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • The 4 best TVs under $500, including small and big-screen options

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    A side-by-side image of a Roku remote held in front of a Roku Plus TV next to an image of a Hisense U6HF TV hanging on a wall.
    The best TVs under $500 include the Roku Plus Series (left) and the TCL Q65 (right).

    Ryan Waniata/Amazon/Business Insider

    It can be challenging to shop for a new TV, especially with so many pricey models on the market. But don’t worry — our experts are here to help. We’ve put together a carefully curated list of the four best TVs under $500. Our picks range from 50 to 70 inches, so all spaces are accounted for.

    We’ve focused on selecting models that deliver the best performance available at each size while still meeting our price requirements. For example, people who want a solid 65-inch TV that’s sold for under $500 should check out the TCL Q65. The Q65 offers better color performance than most competing displays in its price range. Meanwhile, the Roku Plus Series is the most impressive 55-inch TV available for under $500. Thanks to its local dimming capabilities, the Plus Series has higher contrast than other TVs that cost the same amount. 

    Our recommendations for the best TVs under $500 are based on a combination of hands-on testing and research informed by more than a decade of experience covering tech products.

    Our top picks for the best TVs under $500

    Best 50-inch: Hisense U6HF – See at Amazon

    Best 55-inch: Roku Plus Series – See at Amazon

    Best 65-inch: TCL Q65 – See at Amazon

    Best 70-inch: Insignia F50 – See at Best Buy

    Best 50-inch

    The Hisense U6HF is the best TV under $500 for anyone who wants a 50-inch display. Its performance isn’t quite as good as the brand’s newer U6N, but that model isn’t available in this size. To get better picture performance from a 50-inch TV, you’d have to pay substantially more.

    The U6HF is essentially a downgraded version of the Hisense U6N. Like the U6N, it has a QLED panel to deliver wide color support and up to 600 nits of brightness, which is excellent for this price. It also has local dimming to control light output across specific zones on its screen. This gives it much better contrast performance than cheaper 50-inch TVs. However, this model uses regular-sized LEDs in its backlight rather than the Mini LEDs that are used on the U6N. As a result, black levels can’t get as deep as those models, and blooming (halos around bright objects on the screen) is more prevalent.

    Like all our picks in this guide, the U6HF has narrow viewing angles and a screen limited to 60Hz. This means its colors will fade if you sit to the side of the display, and it can’t support 120Hz gaming. But compared to other 50-inch TVs in this price range, it’s nearly in a class of its own. Most TVs this size don’t have local dimming at all, and many have a more limited range of colors.

    The 50-inch U6HF also comes with an Alexa voice remote and uses the Fire TV OS as its interface. Its full list price is $340, but it’s often available for as little as $260 during deal events, which is an incredible value. These discounts can cause the TV to sell out, however, so stock can be an issue.

    As an alternative, buyers should also consider Amazon’s Fire TV Omni QLED. The Omni QLED is a little dimmer than the U6HF but it has similar color and contrast capabilities, as well as the added bonus of hands-free Alexa support. The 50-inch Omni QLED is frequently on sale for around $400.

    Check out all our picks for the best 50-inch TVs.

    Best 55-inch

    Buyers who want the best 55-inch TV for under $500 should check out the Roku Plus Series. It delivers good image quality for the money and boasts our favorite smart TV interface. 

    Like the 50-inch Hisense U6HF, the 55-inch Roku Plus Series uses a QLED panel with local dimming to provide expanded colors and high contrast. However, the Plus Series has more zones to work with, and it can get a little brighter.

    During our tests, high-dynamic range (HDR) content came through with solid pop, making this a great budget TV for movie-watching. There are a few shortcomings, like poor viewing angles and a 60Hz screen, but those limitations are common on most sets under $500. Considering its low price, the Plus Series’ image performance excels where it counts most. 

    A scene from “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2” on a Roku Plus Series 4K TV.
    Local dimming and quantum dots help the Roku Plus produce good color and contrast performance for a TV in its class.

    Ryan Waniata/Business Insider

    We also like this model’s Roku OS (operating system) more than rival interfaces, like Google TV and Fire TV. While those platforms place a heavy emphasis on content recommendations, Roku takes a simpler approach. The streamlined homepage focuses squarely on presenting all your TV apps upfront and center with large icons that make it easy to organize everything and jump right into your favorite services. 

    The TV’s remote has a few nice perks as well, including a built-in battery that recharges over USB. The remote also supports hands-free voice search (with a dedicated mute switch) and has a tiny integrated speaker that can emit a chime if you ever misplace it. 

    The 55-inch Roku Plus Series has a full retail price of just under $500, but it’s often on sale for even less. In this price range, buyers should also consider Hisense’s 55-inch U6N. That model has a list price of over $500, but it’s often discounted. The U6N has similar features but boasts a Mini LED backlight, which gives it better contrast control than the Plus Series. However, we still prefer the Roku OS over the Google TV interface that the Hisense uses.

    Read our Roku Plus Series TV review. 

    Check out all our picks for the best Roku TVs and best budget TVs.

    Best 65-inch

    As one might expect, bigger TVs tend to cost more than smaller ones. This is especially true if you want advanced image quality perks like local dimming and Mini LEDs. However, there are some cheap 65-inch TVs that still manage to offer wide color support, and the TCL Q65 is the best value. The Q65 technically carries a list price of $550, but it’s commonly sold for under $500 and is sometimes on sale for under $400.

    The Q65 is available with the Google TV OS or Fire TV OS, which should suffice for most streaming needs. Those systems aren’t as streamlined as the Roku interface, but they offer access to many of the same services and integrate seamlessly with an existing Google or Amazon account. Buyers who prefer a different interface can always buy a separate media player, like a Roku Ultra or Apple TV. Check out our guide to the best streaming devices for top recommendations. 

    Though it doesn’t have local dimming like our 55- and 50-inch picks, the 65-inch Q65 can produce the expanded color gamut needed for HDR material, which is a rare perk at this price. Its full-screen peak brightness is also decent, but since it lacks local dimming, the TV isn’t able to brighten or darken specific zones on its panel. This means it’s not able to control its brightness precisely enough to create deep black levels or intense specular highlights (like explosions). 

    So, while the Q65 can offer good HDR color performance, its HDR contrast capabilities are lacking. To get better contrast performance, we recommend stepping up to the 65-inch Hisense U6N, which usually costs between $500 and $750. But if you have a hard budget you don’t want to go beyond, the TCL Q65 is the best TV under $500 at this size. 

    For recommendations that cost more than $500, check out our full guide to the best 65-inch TVs.

    Best 70-inch

    It’s rare to find 70-inch TVs that sell for under $500. In fact, this entry-level Insignia model is one of the very few options that fits that bill. When viewed in this specific context, it’s a solid value-forward display.

    To be clear, you get what you pay for here, as this model makes some big compromises to keep its cost down. As such, we only recommend this for casual buyers who prioritize a large screen and low price above all else. The F50 replaces our previous pick in this category, the F30. The F30 is no longer available, but the F50 carries very similar specifications. It has a standard 4K LED screen that omits any extra bells and whistles like Mini LEDs, quantum dots, or local dimming.

    As a result, the F50’s brightness, color, and contrast capabilities are limited. The TV can’t control its light output across specific areas, so black levels will appear a bit elevated in a dark room. Though the F50 can technically process high-dynamic-range (HDR) videos, it doesn’t have the ability to get bright or dark enough to really showcase the benefits of HDR content. It also can’t display the full range of colors that a QLED TV can.

    But that doesn’t mean the F50 is a bad TV. As an entry-level LED set, it can still handle 4K standard-dynamic-range (SDR) streaming material just fine, as well as typical live TV broadcasts. Thanks to its built-in Amazon Fire TV operating system, it also offers a large selection of video streaming apps, and it supports Alexa voice search through its remote.

    Buyers should note that Insignia previously offered an F50 QLED model that implemented quantum dots for better color performance, but that edition is no longer sold. This new F50 only has a regular LED screen.

    Ultimately, home theater fans are better off stepping down a size and paying a little more for something like TCL’s Q65 QLED TV, which can deliver a nice upgrade in color. But as a casual channel-surfing display, the F50 is an affordable 70-inch option. 

    How we test TVs under $500

    A shot of the Roku menu on a Plus Series 4K TV.
    Roku’s operating system offers easy access to tons of apps.

    Ryan Waniata/Insider

    Our guide to the best TVs under $500 was compiled using a combination of hands-on testing and research. Our team has been covering TVs and home entertainment products for more than a decade, and we use that expertise to inform our criteria and testing parameters. 

    To review displays, we examine a TV’s clarity, HDR brightness, contrast capabilities, black-level performance, viewing angles, upscaling quality, smart TV interface speed, and extra features like voice control. To measure brightness, we use test patterns from the Spears & Muncil Benchmark 4K Blu-ray disc with an X-Rite iDisplay Plus colorimeter.

    But while test patterns are useful for establishing certain performance thresholds, we find that real-world content is the best barometer for seeing how a TV performs during day-to-day viewing. We use a curated selection of scenes from various movies and TV shows, focusing on sequences that put each TV’s shadow detail, specular highlight, and color performance to the test. We also use a mix of sources, including 4K Blu-rays, cable TV, and streaming videos. Contenders for the best TV under $500 are evaluated in both light and dark rooms to get a sense of day and nighttime viewing performance.  

    For more details on our review methodology, check out our breakdown of how we test tech products.

    FAQs

    A hand holding a Fire TV remote in front of the Amazon Omni QLED TV.
    Amazon sells several Fire TV models, like the Omni QLED, in sizes that cost under $500.

    Ryan Waniata/Business Insider

    Are 75-inch or larger TVs available for under $500?

    Though some models do dip below $500 during limited-time TV sales, 75-inch and larger TVs typically cost over $500. For that reason, we have not included any displays bigger than 70 inches in our guide to the best TVs under $500. 

    If you’re looking for recommendations for those larger sizes, visit our guides to the best 75-inch TVs, best 85-inch TVs, and best 100-inch TVs.

    Are OLED TVs available for under $500?

    You may have noticed that we haven’t included any OLED displays in our guide to the best TVs under $500. The reason? There simply aren’t any OLED TVs currently available for that amount. 

    In the past, smaller versions of LG’s A-series OLEDs went on sale for around $500. But those models are no longer sold, and even when they were, we never saw them dip below the $500 mark. 

    Right now, the most affordable OLED TV is the LG 48-inch B4, which sometimes goes on sale for $600. For more OLED recommendations, check out our guide to the best OLED TVs. And head over to our QLED vs. OLED comparison for details on the pros and cons of each panel type.

    Should you buy a soundbar to pair with a TV?

    Most TVs under $500 come with mediocre built-in speakers that lack bass, depth, and clarity. For better audio quality, it’s worth investing in a dedicated soundbar. Reliable models can be found for as little as $100, and even these entry-level options can provide better sound than a typical TV can on its own. For the most immersive performance, we recommend soundbars with Dolby Atmos support, but those models cost more.

    Visit our soundbar and speaker guides to browse our top picks:

    Are TVs under $500 worth it?

    Yes, the best TVs under $500 are worth the money, but you should be aware of certain performance limitations that are common when shopping for TVs in this price range. 

    First, you’ll need to settle on a TV with a QLED or LED panel rather than an OLED. Second, you should expect peak brightness for models in this price range to top out at around 600 nits. Third, you should focus on models that are 70 inches or smaller. And finally, there are certain companies that tend to offer better overall value in this class.

    Advanced picture quality features like quantum dots, local dimming, and even Mini LED backlights can be found on TVs for under $500, but these models are usually sold by value-oriented brands like Hisense, TCL, Vizio, Roku, and Amazon. 

    In our experience, quality control from these companies isn’t on the same level as that from more expensive brands like Samsung, Sony, and LG. But none of the slight inconveniences we’ve encountered are troublesome enough to prevent us from recommending their displays.

    Samsung, Sony, and LG also sell TVs for under $500, but their offerings provide worse image quality than similarly priced models from the competition. However, if you’re willing to spend substantially more than $500, you can find excellent high-end TVs from those brands with better features and build quality than cheaper options. 

    For more TV recommendations across budgets and sizes, check out our other TV guides:

    The best cheap 4K TV overall

    Hisense U6G 4K TV
    Hisense’s U6G delivers impressive picture for the price.

    Best Buy

    The Hisense U6G Android TV uses local dimming and quantum dots to deliver some of the best picture quality you can get on a budget.

    Pros: 4K with every major HDR format, local dimming, quantum dots, Google Assistant voice remote, solid brightness capabilities for the price

    Cons: No HDMI 2.1 ports, 50-inch model has less dimming zones than larger versions

    Buying a TV on a budget typically means you have to miss out on some advanced features found on more expensive sets. The Hisense U6G totally dispels that notion, and the 50-inch model is an especially great value at under $500. 

    The U6G is the 2021 successor to the Hisense H8G. It carries over everything we loved about that model while keeping a similar low price. Meanwhile, our previous pick for best cheap 4K TV overall, the 55-inch TCL 5 Series, has actually gone up in price this year. The TCL is still a fantastic set but, for the money, the Hisense now edges it out. 

    One of the most important image features you should look for in a new 4K TV is high dynamic range (HDR). HDR enables enhanced contrast and wider colors for a more realistic picture. The U6G offers some of the best HDR specs in its price range. It also supports every major HDR format so all your bases are covered.

    It’s a little disappointing that the TV lacks Google’s newest smart TV system, Google TV, but the older Android TV OS is still a solid performer with easy access to tons of  services. Google Assistant is also supported via the included remote for reliable voice control.

    I reviewed the 2020 version of this TV last year and this new model is expected to perform even better. Buyers who want more advanced features, like HDMI 2.1 for next-gen gaming, will have to pay more for the step-up U7G or U8G, but at this price, the U6G is a bargain.

    The best cheap 4K TV for wide viewing angles

    LG UP7000 4K TV
    The UP7000 is a great fit for people who sit off to the side of their TV.

    Best Buy

    The LG 55-inch UP7000 offers better viewing angles than most budget TVs, enabling solid picture no matter where you sit.

    Pros: Wide viewing angles, affordable price for a 55-inch model

    Cons: Black levels and contrast aren’t great, doesn’t include a voice remote

    Though many of the 4K TVs recommended on this guide offer solid picture performance, they all suffer from one pesky drawback: mediocre viewing angles. 

    This means that colors and contrast wash out when you sit off to the side. Though that’s not a problem for people who can plop down on a couch right in front of their TV, it can be an issue for buyers who have to position their seats in other parts of the room.

    If viewing angles are your main priority, then the 55-inch UP7000 from LG is one of your best options on a budget. This 2021 model is the successor to our previous pick, the UN7000. 

    The UP7000 uses a special type of panel that’s designed to offer improved off-axis picture. This lets you sit off to the side of you display without the TV’s colors and contrast dramatically degrading. Picture quality will still shift a bit, but not as badly as it would on a typical LED TV. 

    On the downside, TVs with panels like this tend to have worse black levels and contrast than other displays. This particular model also lacks local dimming or wide color support. So, while great for viewing angles, the UP7000 doesn’t have particularly good home theater performance in a dark room.

    Like most LG TVs, this one offers access to many popular streaming services. HBO Max, however, is missing. Unfortunately, the UP7000 also lacks a voice remote, but you can use the TV with a separate Alexa or Google Assistant device. 

    The UP7000 is also available in a few larger and smaller screen sizes, but we think the 55-inch model offers the best value. Also, keep in mind that only the 75-, 65-, 55-, and 43-inch models use panels with wide viewing angles, according to Rtings.

    The best cheap 4K TV with a big screen

    Hisense A6G 4K TV
    The A6G 4K TV is an affordable 60-inch display.

    Best Buy

    The Hisense A6G is one of the most affordable 60-inch 4K TVs on the market, offering a big-picture experience for a budget-friendly price. 

    Pros: Big display for an affordable price, HDR10 and Dolby Vision support, voice remote included

    Cons: Image quality is only average, lacks local dimming or quantum dots

    Flagship big-screen 4K TVs can cost a couple thousand dollars, but that doesn’t mean that budget buyers always have to settle for smaller screen sizes. In fact, there are several worthwhile big-screen models out there that don’t cost an arm and a leg. 

    Our previous pick for this category, the Vizio 65-inch V-Series, remains an impressive TV for the money, but stock is now hard to come by and its price has increased a bit since its initial launch. With that in mind, we’re recommending the more affordable Hisense 60-inch A6G in its place.

    The 60-inch A6G is bigger than most TVs in its price range, and boasts a 4K screen with entry-level HDR and Dolby Vision capabilities. That should net you solid picture quality for casual viewing, but the display lacks local dimming and wide color support so you won’t get the most out of HDR videos.

    Android TV is integrated for easy access to most major streaming services. A voice remote is also included with built-in support for Google Assistant.

    Budget buyers who favor home theater performance over size will be better off going with the smaller Hisense 50-inch U6G for a similar price, but if you want a 60-inch 4K TV in this price range, the A6G offers good value for the money.

    The best cheap 1080p TV

    TCL 40 in tv
    TCL’s 3 Series has very basic picture performance, but its low cost is appealing.

    Best Buy

    It doesn’t have 4K resolution or other advanced features, but the TCL 40-inch 3 Series HDTV is one of the most affordable 40-inch Roku TVs you can buy.

    Pros: Very affordable, Roku TV platform with easy access to streaming apps

    Cons: Not 4K, no HDR or wide color support, no voice remote, smaller screen size

    The TCL 3-Series is about as basic as a smart TV can get. It’s the smallest display on this list, it features a 1080p resolution screen instead of 4K, and it lacks HDR support — but when it comes to overall value for the money, the TV is still a worthy option for budget buyers. 

    This 40-inch smart TV uses a modest Full HD panel. While you won’t be able to watch 4K HDR streams from Netflix, the reality is, most  live TV content is still presented in SDR high definition. With that in mind, this 1080p screen is fine for casual viewing needs. 

    Overall image performance isn’t as good as the more expensive TVs on this list, but at a screen size of 40 inches, it would actually be hard to see major benefits from an upgrade to 4K. The lack of local dimming is a bit more of an issue, but contrast and black levels are decent considering the low price.

    While the included remote doesn’t feature voice control, you can pair the TV with a separate Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device.

    This definitely isn’t a TV geared toward buyers looking for advanced picture quality. Instead, the TCL 3 Series is meant to appeal to people who just want a reliable 40-inch smart TV with easy access to their favorite apps. Thanks to the simple yet effective Roku platform, the 3-Series does just that.

    Check out our other TV buying guides

    The best OLED TVs LG CX

    LG

    The best 4K TVs

    The best OLED TVs

     

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • Apple sells 4 different types of iPads. Here are the latest models you can buy, including the new iPad and iPad Air.

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    An original image of four iPad Air models artfully arranged to represent the newest iPad lineup, set against white blocks and a yellow background on an orange tablet.
    Apple released new standard iPad and iPad Air models in March 2025.

    Isabel Fernandez Pujol/Business Insider

    Apple doesn’t give new iPad models simple numbers like the iPhone series, which can complicate shopping for newer or older iPads. The best way to approach Apple’s tablet lineup is to consider and work backward from the latest iPad models, which we detail below.

    Apple released its newest iPads, the 11th-generation standard iPad (A16) and the M3 iPad Air models, on March 12. In 2025, the company now sells six different tablets in new condition, listed below from newest to oldest:

    Determining which iPad best suits your needs can be difficult, as many features and specs overlap. Below is a full breakdown of the latest iPads in the four current model types, arranged in descending order of release. For further assessment, check out our guide to the best iPads. 

    The new standard iPad

    Apple released a new standard iPad, the 11th-generation iPad with an A16 chipset, on March 12, 2025.

    The new entry-level iPad is solely an internal upgrade from its predecessor, the 10th-generation iPad from 2022. Apple claims the new tablet’s A16 chip makes it nearly 30% faster than the previous model, which ran on the A14 Bionic processor. However, the almost three-year-old A16 processor means the latest standard iPad remains the sole tablet in Apple’s current lineup that is incompatible with Apple Intelligence.

    The 11th-generation iPad (A16) in silver, yellow, pink, and blue.
    The new standard iPad’s A16 chip provides a solid performance boost over its predecessor from 2022.

    Apple

    The only other upgrade from the 10th-generation iPad is that Apple increased the 11th-generation iPad’s base storage from 64GB to 128GB while keeping the same entry-level price of $349. The company also added a new 512GB storage tier.

    The 11th-generation iPad otherwise retains the same design and features as its predecessor, including Touch ID, USB-C, a landscape-oriented 12MP front camera, a 12MP wide rear camera, and support for the Apple Pencil (USB-C) and first-generation Apple Pencil.

    The 11th-generation iPad’s model numbers are A3354 for the standard WiFi model and A3355 for the WiFi + Cellular version.

    See our guide to the 2025 iPad launch for more information.

    The new iPad Air models

    Alongside the latest standard iPad, Apple updated its iPad Air line, releasing new 11-inch and 13-inch M3 iPad Air models on March 12, 2025.

    Relative to the standard iPad’s upgrades, the new iPad Air models represent an even slighter internal upgrade, as their M3 chipsets won’t provide significantly better short-term performance than the M2 chips in last year’s models. However, Apple claims the M3 iPad Air models are twice as fast as the M1 iPad Airs (released in 2022), and those upgrading from any older iPad will see drastically improved performance.

    Apple's M3 iPad Air models arranged in a spiral.
    The new M3 iPad Air models offer a minor year-over-year performance upgrade.

    Apple

    With the same starting prices as last year’s M2 models — $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch — the M3 iPad Airs also retain the same Liquid Retina LED displays, Touch ID, landscape-oriented 12MP front camera, 12MP wide rear camera, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C).

    Alongside the M3 iPad Airs, Apple introduced a new Magic Keyboard for recent iPad Air models. It features a larger trackpad and a new function row that previous Air-compatible keyboards lacked.

    The model numbers for the 11-inch M3 iPad Air’s standard WiFi and WiFi + Cellular versions are A3266 and A3267, respectively. The 13-inch model numbers are A3268 for the standard WiFi model and A3269 for the WiFi + Cellular version.

    See our guide to the 2025 iPad Air launch for more information.

    The latest iPad Mini

    Apple released its latest iPad Mini, the seventh-generation iPad Mini (A17 Pro), in October 2024.

    Starting at $499, the seventh-generation iPad Mini is a mid-range option between the standard iPad and the latest premium iPad Pro and Air models. If you’re looking for the perfect balance between portability and performance, the iPad Mini could be calling your name.

    The 2024 iPad Mini with screen on showing app icons and widgets against a white background.
    Apple’s latest iPad Mini, the seventh-generation iPad Mini, is the cheapest iPad compatible with Apple Intelligence.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider

    The latest iPad Mini continues Apple’s modern tablet design with narrow borders and flat edges. It features the same 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display as its predecessor, the sixth-generation iPad Mini from 2021.

    The seventh-generation iPad Mini runs on the A17 Pro processor introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro models, making it the least expensive iPad model that can run Apple Intelligence. The capable processor also runs apps and games quickly and smoothly, whether basic or intensive.

    Upgrades from the previous sixth-generation iPad Mini include support for Apple Pencil Pro, though the new model has lost support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. The seventh-generation iPad Mini also supports the Apple Pencil (USB-C). Base storage has also been upgraded from 64GB in the previous generation to 128GB, and it’s available in 256GB and 512GB options.

    The seventh-generation iPad Mini’s model numbers are A2993 for the standard WiFi model and A2995 for the WiFi + Cellular model.

    The latest iPad Pro models

    Apple’s most premium tablet last received an update in May 2024, when the company released the latest 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models.

    Apple debuted its M4 processor on the iPad Pros alongside a slate of AI-focused enhancements that make the high-end tablets more powerful and tailored for productivity than ever before.

    Apple iPad event iPad Pro
    Apple’s latest iPad Pros are ideal for highly intensive tasks.

    Apple

    At launch, the iPad Pros were dubbed Apple’s “thinnest” products to date. The 11-inch and 13-inch models boast slim designs at depths of 5.3mm and 5.1mm, respectively, thinner than even the latest iPad Air models.

    Apple introduced a “Tandem OLED” design for the iPad Pro displays, allowing for enhanced brightness and clarity relative to the Pro line’s previous LED and mini-LED displays. 

    Apple released a new Magic Keyboard in 2024 specifically for the latest iPad Pro models. It features a function row and a larger trackpad, which brought the iPad Pro closer to a viable laptop replacement. The latest iPad Pros are compatible with the Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the newer Apple Pencil Pro; the latter offers a “squeeze” sensor and a gyroscope that enable a suite of new features. 

    The generational improvements to the iPad Pro line resulted in higher prices. Whereas the previous iPad Pro line started at $799, the latest 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $999, and the 13-inch iPad Pro starts at $1,299. 

    The latest 11-inch iPad Pros model numbers are A2836 for the standard WiFi model and A2837 for the WiFi + Cellular model. For the 13-inch iPad Pros, the model numbers are A2925 for the standard WiFi model and A2926 for the WiFi + Cellular model.

    See our guide to the 2024 iPad Pro launch for more information. 

    How to figure out which iPad you own

    All the latest iPads look similar now that each current model has Apple’s modern tablet design language, but a model number distinguishes each iPad model within and between generations.

    As noted in bold at the end of each section above, the iPad model number is a four-number code preceded by a letter, such as “A2995,” for the WiFi + Cellular model of the latest seventh-generation iPad Mini.

    If you’re unsure which iPad model you own, you can find your iPad’s model number in the Settings app by tapping General > About. In the top section, you’ll either find the model number (e.g., A2995) or a “part number” indicated by a mix of numbers and letters with a slash (in the form of XXXXXXX/A). If you see the latter, tap to reveal the one-letter, four-digit model number.

    You can also find the model number etched on the back of your iPad. 

    Apple iPad Pro: 11 and 12.9 inches (2022)

    Apple 2022 iPad Pro showing the home screen with app icons.
    New iPad Pros were a part of Apple’s latest tablet release.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider

    Apple’s most premium tablet got a minor update in October 2022 with the sixth-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro and fourth-generation 11-inch iPad Pro. The 12.9-inch Pro is the largest tablet in Apple’s lineup, and the only iPad to use Apple’s mini-LED display that boasts improved brightness and contrast. 

    Among the updates from 2022 was Apple’s computer-grade M2 processor, also in the 2022 MacBook Air, and support for the new Hover feature with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which offers better accuracy and new interactions.

    Both tablets include optional 5G connectivity with support for mmWave 5G networks, Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, Face ID, high-refresh-rate 120Hz ProMotion displays, dual-lens cameras, and a Center Stage feature that keeps the selfie camera centered on the subject despite movement. 

    Taken together, these changes make Apple’s iPad Pro tablets more powerful and tailored for productivity than ever before. But they’re still best suited for professional creatives and multimedia editors since multitasking for most other work is still easier on a desktop operating system like macOS or Windows.   

    Read our full iPad Pro (2022) review.

    Apple iPad: 10th generation (2022)

    Apple’s 10th-gen iPad with the home screen showing.
    Apple also released a new standard iPad in the fall of 2022.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider

    Apple released the 10th-generation iPad in October 2022. It starts at $449, a significantly higher price than the ninth-generation iPad that’s still available for $329.

    The 10th-gen iPad adopts Apple’s modern design language with slim bezels around a larger 10.9-inch screen, and it can be easily mistaken for the fifth-gen iPad Air at a glance. It has a USB-C port instead of Lightning. The Touch ID sensor is now integrated into the power button, and the rear camera sees an upgrade from 8 megapixels to 12 megapixels. But the best upgrade is that the ultra-wide FaceTime camera has been repositioned in the landscape position for a better angle of yourself during video calls. 

    In terms of power, the 10th-gen iPad uses Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, the same processor as the iPhone 12. It’s worth noting that this new version of Apple’s basic iPad only supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which requires an adapter to charge. The 10th-gen iPad also supports mouse input and a Magic Keyboard Folio designed exclusively for it.

    Despite its positives and the fact that it’s an exceptional tablet, the 10th-gen iPad’s $449 price tag makes it a hard tablet to recommend when the $329 ninth-gen iPad is still in the lineup. 

    Read our full 10th-generation iPad review.

    Apple iPad Air: 5th generation (2022)

    The 2022 iPad Air’s blue metal back in a dark gray room.
    The most recent iPad Air model arrived in March 2022.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Insider

    While the 2022 basic iPad is powerful, the 2022 iPad Air, released in March 2022, steps it up a notch with Apple’s computer-grade M1 processor that also powers the 2020 13-inch MacBook Air, Mac Mini, and 24-inch iMac. That’s a significant bump in power compared to the A14 Bionic processor in the fourth-gen iPad Air.

    In terms of design, the fifth-gen iPad Air shares many similarities with its predecessor, with the same 10.9-inch screen, USB-C port, and Touch ID integrated into the power button. The front camera was upgraded to 12 megapixels, with support for Center Stage, which automatically focuses the camera on you while you move around during a video call.

    Other upgrades include 5G connectivity in the WiFi + Cellular models and an enhanced USB-C port for faster transfer of big files between the iPad Air and storage devices. Starting at $599, Apple’s iPad Air sits in the current lineup as a step up from the basic iPad and iPad Mini and a worthy alternative to the iPad Pro. 

    Read our full fifth-generation iPad Air review.

    Apple iPad: 9th generation (2021)

    The 2021 iPad sitting up, resting against a wall with blue tiles.
    The 2021 standard iPad remains an excellent option.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Insider

    While a new entry-level iPad is available, we think the 2021 ninth-generation iPad is still a great tablet for most people. At its $329 starting price, it’s currently the most affordable iPad you can buy. 

    With a 10.2-inch touchscreen and A13 Bionic chip, the ninth-gen iPad offers enough power to get you through your basic needs. However, you may want to upgrade to the 256GB model for a bit more storage space if you’re planning on using the iPad to download many videos, store many pictures, or play many games.

    Like the 10th-gen iPad, the ninth-gen iPad supports the first-gen Apple Pencil, but it doesn’t require an adapter as it can plug right into the iPad’s Lightning port to recharge. The ultra-wide FaceTime camera supports the Center Stage feature that follows you as you move around on video calls or when recording a video, but it’s in portrait position. The display also has Apple’s True Tone feature that automatically adjusts the screen to the color temperature of the room you’re in. 

    Read our full ninth-generation iPad review.

    Apple iPad Mini: 6th generation (2021)

    The 2021 iPad Mini held in the author’s hands showing the screen on the home screen.
    It’s been more than two years since we’ve seen a new iPad Mini.

    Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider

    The most recent iPad Mini model is the sixth-generation iPad Mini, which Apple released in September 2021. Starting at $499, the 2021 iPad Mini sits among more premium models like the iPad Air. If you’re looking for the perfect balance between portability and performance, the iPad Air could be calling your name. 

    The 2021 iPad Mini marks a total redesign over previous generations, making for a look that’s closer to the iPad Air with narrower borders. The 2021 iPad Mini features a larger 8.3-inch Liquid Retina touch display with True Tone color technology versus the 7.9-inch screens of previous generations. Apple’s A15 Bionic processor that’s running the iPhone 13 series is also present, and storage is available in 64GB or 256GB.

    The latest iPad Mini supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, a USB-C port for charging and connecting accessories, an ultra-wide FaceTime camera with Apple’s Center Stage, an improved 12-megapixel rear camera, and a Touch ID sensor built into the power button on the top edge. The WiFi + Cellular models also support 5G networks. 

    Read our full iPad Mini sixth-generation review. 

    How to figure out which iPad you own

    All the latest iPads look similar now that Apple has updated its basic iPad with its modern iPad design language. If you’re not sure which iPad model you own, you can either find your iPad’s model in the Settings app, or find the model number etched on the back of the iPad. 

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • LG just launched preorders for its highly anticipated C5 and G5 OLED TVs — here’s a breakdown of prices and how to buy

    When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

    An image of the LG B5, C5, and G5 OLED TVs on display at an LG event.
    LG’s new C5 (left) and G5 (right) OLED 4K TVs are now available to preorder.

    Steven Cohen/Business Insider

    LG’s newest OLED TV models for 2025 are the C5 and G5. Both displays made their debut at CES in January, and the company has now announced pricing and availability. Sizes range from 42 inches to a massive 97-inch option, and prices start at $1,399. Preorders are now available, and the TVs are set to ship this month.

    Both models deliver impressive image quality with deep black levels and high contrast. The C5 is a midrange option, while the G5 is a high-end model with a brighter picture and a flush wall mount. New and upgraded AI functions have also been integrated, including voice recognition for user profiles and optimized image and audio modes.

    I recently got an early look at both TVs during a visit to LG’s headquarters in New Jersey. Though full reviews will have to wait until our team gets more hands-on time with each display, I was impressed by what I’ve seen so far. LG displays consistently rank among the best TVs you can buy, and the C5 and G5 are set to be top contenders for the best OLED TVs in 2025.

    Below are full details on each model, including prices, sizes, specifications, and my first impressions.

    LG C5 4K TV price and specs

    An LG C5 playing a demo reel video at an LG event.
    The C5 is available in a range of sizes from 42 to 83 inches. (The 65-inch mode is pictured above.)

    Steven Cohen/Business Insider

    • LG 83-inch C5 OLED 4K TV ($5,399.99) – See at LG
    • LG 77-inch C5 OLED 4K TV ($3,699.99) – See at LG
    • LG 65-inch C5 OLED 4K TV ($2,699.99) – See at LG
    • LG 55-inch C5 OLED 4K TV ($1,999.99) – See at LG
    • LG 48-inch C5 OLED 4K TV ($1,599.99) – See at LG
    • LG 42-inch C5 OLED 4K TV ($1,399.99) – See at LG

    LG’s C5 is the brand’s latest midrange OLED TV. It can’t get as bright as the pricier G5, but it still delivers all of the key image quality benefits that OLED TVs are known for, like an infinite contrast ratio, wide viewing angles, and perfect black levels. You can learn more about the pros and cons of OLEDs in our OLED vs. QLED comparison.

    The C5 replaces the C4 from 2024. Based on what I’ve seen so far, the C5 looks like an incremental improvement over its predecessor. That’s not a bad thing, however, as the C4 is an excellent TV. People don’t upgrade their TV models as often as other tech products like smartphones, so there’s no reason to reinvent the wheel every year.

    LG says the C5 will still be a bit brighter than the C4 (which has a peak of around 1,000 nits), but it isn’t getting a huge bump. Instead of brightness, LG is boasting the C5’s improved 4K upscaling capabilities. This is a cool feature since a lot of live TV content is still presented in high definition (HD). Good upscaling can improve the clarity of HD sources, making them look more like sharp 4K videos.

    To demonstrate the C5’s upscaling, LG had two C5 models set up side-by-side. They were both playing the same clip of a baseball game, but one was in native 4K, and the other was in 720p HD. I was astonished to realize I couldn’t tell the difference between them. The 720p clip was upscaled so well that it looked virtually indistinguishable from the 4K video. Of course, it’s likely that this was an especially high-quality 720p video with minimal compression. My hunch is that a typical YouTube HD stream or live cable feed would probably yield less dramatic results, but even so, the C5’s upscaling is undeniably impressive.

    You can preorder the LG C5 on LG’s website now in sizes ranging from 42 to 83 inches. Availability will expand to more stores like Best Buy and Amazon in the coming weeks. Pricing is similar to what we saw when the C4 launched last year, so we expect similar discounts to pop up during deal events. It’s important to note, however, that the 2024 C4 will likely remain in stock for much of the year, and it’s currently selling for more than $1,000 less than the C5. Based on my initial time with the C5, I think most buyers will be better off snagging the cheaper C4 while it remains available.

    LG G5 4K TV price and specs

    An LG G5 OLED TV displaying a demo video at an LG event.
    The G5 is LG’s brightest OLED TV so far.

    Steven Cohen/Business Insider

    • LG 97-inch G5 OLED 4K TV ($24,999.99) – See at LG
    • LG 83-inch G5 OLED 4K TV ($6,499.99) – See at LG
    • LG 77-inch G5 OLED 4K TV ($4,499.99) – See at LG
    • LG 65-inch G5 OLED 4K TV ($3,399.99) – See at LG
    • LG 55-inch G5 OLED 4K TV ($2,499.99) – See at LG

    The G5 is LG’s new flagship OLED, and it’s the best-looking consumer TV LG has ever manufactured. This is poised to be one of the top high-end displays to beat in 2025. It’s the successor to last year’s G4 4K TV, and while that display was already impressive, this new model offers a solid bump in image quality.

    Most notably, the G5 can get up to 45% brighter than the previous model. That’s no small feat, considering the G4 was already one of the brightest OLED TVs I’ve ever tested. To accomplish this, LG relies on a new four-stack OLED panel design. Without getting too into the weeds, a four-stack design optimizes how the panel produces color and light to create a brighter image and a wider range of colors. Until now, competing Samsung and Sony OLED models have used quantum dots to achieve an edge in color volume, but the G5 could close that gap without quantum dots.

    To prove this point, LG set up a side-by-side demo with the G5, G4, Sony A95L, and Samsung S95D OLED models, all set to their most accurate picture modes. Several scenes from different movies were shown on each TV at the same time, and LG measured the brightness of highlights on each set. In every instance, the G5 measured higher and closer to the intended level for which the filmmakers had mastered their content. This gave the G5 the most impactful image of the four TVs, with a noticeable edge in high-dynamic-range (HDR) performance.

    Exact measurements will have to wait until I get more one-on-one time with the G5, but I expect the TV to hit at least 2,000 nits. That’s a big accomplishment for an OLED display, since just a few years ago, OLEDs had trouble pushing beyond 800 nits. Such high brightness makes the TV an excellent fit for viewers who want the most accurate HDR quality and those who want to overcome glare and reflection in a room with lots of windows. Just note, that the 97-inch G5 is not capable of achieving the high brightness levels of its smaller counterparts. This is likely due to manufacturing limitations that prevent LG from incorporating the four-stack design in such a large panel.

    The G5 also improves upon its predecessor when it comes to gaming performance. The G4 maxed out at a refresh rate of 144Hz, but the G5 will be one of the first 4K TVs to support a 165Hz refresh rate. This feature is only beneficial to PC gamers with powerful computers, but it enables smoother gameplay with the right gear.

    Like previous G-Series OLEDs, the G5 uses a uniformly thin panel so it can be mounted flush on your wall. All sizes come with a no-gap wall mount but the TV does not include a traditional pedestal stand. If you don’t want to wall mount the G5, you’ll need to buy a stand separately.

    The G5 is now available to preorder from LG’s website in sizes ranging from 55 to 97 inches. In the coming weeks, the TVs will also be available at additional retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. Launch pricing is similar to what we saw when the G4 first hit stores last year, and we expect good discounts during deal events like Prime Day.

    Smart TV and AI features

    An image of an LG C5 OLED using its voice ID feature to switch profiles.
    The C5 and G5 can recognize your voice and automatically switch to your user profile.

    LG

    LG is going all in on AI for its 2025 TV models, so much so that it’s now calling its TV remote the “AI Magic Remote” and the remote’s voice search button the “AI” button.

    Though I find those superficial changes to be gimmicky, both the C5 and G5 do support a host of new and refreshed AI features, with varying levels of usefulness. This includes picture modes that use AI to optimize the TV’s image automatically. LG has been supporting this feature for several years now, and based on various demos I’ve seen, it typically adds enhancements that I find unnecessary. However, some users may like the adjustments, so it’s nice to have the option.

    You can also set up a custom image and audio mode through an easy-to-use personalization wizard. This process presents you with different sample images with varying colors and sharpness levels, as well as audio clips with different tones and frequencies. Based on which images and clips you like the most, the wizard learns what kind of picture and audio settings suit your tastes and then creates a specific mode for you. Again, I’d rather just use Filmmaker mode to get an accurate image, but this is an interesting function for more casual users.

    LG also has a new generative AI wallpaper feature that lets you create images based on text prompts and then use them as screensavers. Other TV and streaming device brands have similar features, and while they’re cool to play around with for a bit, I don’t see them as major selling points.

    More noteworthy is LG’s voice-recognition technology for different user profiles. You can set up multiple profiles on the TV, each with its own custom content recommendations and homepage layout. Once you set yourself up as a user, if you pick up the remote and speak a command, the TV will automatically recognize your voice and switch to your profile.

    LG is also set to launch Microsoft Copilot integration later this year. Copilot is Microstoft’s generative AI chatbot designed to assist you with various tasks. The company says this will enable the TV to handle tasks like creating a personalized travel itinerary for an overseas trip. Though that sounds cool enough, those kinds of AI functions are so widespread on computers and phones, so I’m not sure what benefit there is to a TV handling them instead.

    Finally, LG is adding two smart TV features to its 2025 lineup: Google Cast and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Google Cast allows you to seamlessly stream content from an Android device to a TV. With Xbox Cloud Gaming, Game Pass members can stream Xbox games on the TV without a console. This feature was previously exclusive to Samsung TVs. Xbox Cloud Gaming isn’t available just yet, but LG says it will launch soon. Both Google Cast and Xbox Cloud Gaming are much-welcomed features.

    <div>LG just launched preorders for its highly anticipated C5 and G5 OLED TVs — here's a breakdown of prices and how to buy</div>
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