Looking at the broader range of tests I ran, probably the most representative of overall performance is CrystalDiskMark with default settings, where read performance was 597MB/s and write 653MB/s. Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Without those ports, this drive isn’t any quicker than its predecessor, as the 5MBits of USB 3.1 Gen 1 (aka USB 3.0) will cap performance at around 550MB/s. He started writing in 1986 and had contributed to MicroMart, PC Format, 3D World among others. Now: $69.99 ($29.99 off) Anyone with a PS5 can store and launch PS4 games from this device, as they can from any external USB drive, but they can’t run PS5 titles from it.

Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices That indicates that this is the same technology used in the SATA SanDisk Extreme Pro drives, and in the original version of that device, it didn’t offer encryption. No mention is made of hardware encryption in any documentation, which begs the obvious question. The quoted speed of the drive is 1050MB/s reads and 1,000MB/s writes, making it identical to the Pro version of the original Extreme Portable SSDs. I should say that IP55 water resistance is much less than the IP67 and IP68 standards, and the V2 won’t handle being submerged. He started writing in 1986 and had contributed to MicroMart, PC Format, 3D World among others.

SanDisk must be confident that the V2 is more robust as it has extended the warranty period from three years before to five years now. It does have a flashing LED that indicates activity, but in terms of features, there aren’t any more to talk about here. Now: £1,499.97 (£400 off) Only the best deals on the best products handpicked by our expert editors What they Toyota Platz both share is two-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance. Alternatives with similar performance levels but sharper pricing include the Samsung T5 and SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD (also made by Western Digital). Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you.

Now: $24.98 ($24 off off) Subjecting it to the ignominy of digital callipers, the new Extreme is also a tiny bit longer, wider, and thicker. However, it is important to talk about compatibility, especially if you’re going to use the D30 with a next-gen console. Only the best deals on the best products handpicked by our expert editors The problem for SanDisk here is that there is a slew of rival portable SSDs, most notably the Crucial X8, that offer the same performance for less outlay. But the patterning on the enclosure, placement of the USB-C port and protective rubberised coating all look the same, although I didn’t have a previous model on hand to directly compare them. It is perfectly stable on its side without any support, but users with limited space might find it useful.

So if you see it at cheaper prices, it’s an even better deal. To be clear, this isn’t the old box, since it mentions the new speeds that only the V2 can achieve. A small plastic foot attaches to make the drive stand upright. The new design has double the speed and encryption baked in. Now: £649 (£150 off) A short cable is annoying and console owners, as per other drives, will have to be ok with storing and not launching games.

Only the best deals on the best products handpicked by our expert editors A much better option than the previous Extreme Portable SSD. They were repackaged SATA SSDs bundled with a SATA to USB 3.0 adapter, capping their performance at the same level as SATA-connected internal drives. A deeper dive into the various IDs that this hardware generates when connected to a PC revealed the SSD hardware inside has the designation ‘SanDisk SDSSDXPS960G SCSI Disk Device’. Currently, the excellent Crucial X8 1TB sells for £128.39/US$134.99), direct from the makers, but can be found cheaper with online retailers. Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices So PS5 and Xbox Series X/S owners will have to be ok with simply storing games here rather than launching them.

Now: £679 (£120 off) Now: Up to $550 off (With free Galaxy Buds 2) But, WD Security and WD Drive Utilities aren’t offered at this time. Out of the box I immediately had déjà vu because, ostensibly, this SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 looks just like the previous product and has an almost identical name. What compounds this opacity is that the box doesn’t mention V2 at all, only ‘SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD’, precisely the same name as the product it replaces. And, that’s about it.

From: Laptops Direct In the US, it’s on WD, Amazon, Newegg and BestBuy. Not sure what to buy? Check out our chart of the best portable hard drives and SSDs.

As the D30 is inherently another WD external drive that might be used by PC owners for numerous tasks, the reasonable expectation might be that the owner would be directed to get the same utilities that Western Digital provides with the My Passport series. Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Now: $599 ($360 off) Equally, Microsoft doesn’t allow Xbox Series X/S games to run from external drives or Xbox One games that have been upgraded. The drive and cable combination are remarkably light, at just 80g, making this one of the most lightweight external drives we’ve tested at Tech Advisor.

By Mark Pickavance, Contributor | 13 Aug 2021 Now: £37 Clubcard Price (£13 off) And, at a similar price point is the Sabrent Rocket Pro. For those with only USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a bandwidth capped ceiling of around 500MB/s should be expected. Interestingly I noticed in testing that the D30 is better at writing than reading, hinting that the cache is biased towards write operations. Overall, performance on this drive is decent if you have USB 3.2 Gen 2, and almost identical to the first generation Pro drives.

These are priced at £99.99, £164.99 and £304.99 respectively and are available direct from Western Digital’s store – WD owns SanDisk, in case you weren’t aware. He also covers storage including SSDs, NAS drives and portable hard drives. Now: £899.90 (£100 off) The original version of the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD had a quoted speed of 550MB reads, and 500MB writes, as tested by the often optimistic CrystalDiskMark. Putting aside the confusion between old and new models, the hardware in the V2 is worth purchasing for those with 10Mbit/s USB-C ports.

I’m not sure where I fall in that spectrum, but for those who like it, the small size of the D30 does make it more charming than the larger D10 model. The quality of construction is good but not exceptional, and it is not as robustly made as a Crucial X8 or any of the G-Technology drives. It’s highly portable, has unique styling, and comes ready to be deployed. Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you.

When compared with other USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives, it’s also on the expensive side. The drive comes exFAT pre-formatted, making it ready to use with a wide range of systems and games consoles. Out of the box, you get the drive, a noticeably short 20cm long cable and a small adapter. The top-end 2TB costs $354.99 direct from the Western Digital Store, but was $249.99 in the sale.

Was: £596.33 upfront or £49.94 p/m Though, if extra space is your only concern, and not speed, the WD_Black D10 with 8TB for £214.95/US$259.99 is dramatically cheaper per GB. The V2 weighs less, but I’d contest it is less damage resistant than the X8. Now: $99.99 ($50 off) Now: £899.90 (£100 off) For comparison, the previous Extreme 1TB sells for £135 or $139.99, so could be a money-saving option for those who need the space and are less interested in the speed and encryption advantages of the V2 model. Plus, for those that don’t have a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, the original SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is still available, and more affordable.

Retailers such as Amazon and Ebuyer haven’t picked up the V2 yet but you can still buy the older model. I’m reviewing the Extreme here, a drive that looks remarkably like the one it replaced until you run some benchmarks. However, some of its potential value has been royally undermined by both Sony and Microsoft, at least for console owners.

Although, note this isn’t WD’s fault and is the same for rival drives. Learn more. Now: £679 (£120 off) Mark is an expert on displays, reviewing monitors and TVs. The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD V2 has already dropped in price a bit since I started this review and I hope this continutes as the external SSD storage market is becoming increasingly competitive, and this is a well-engineered device that performs admirably.

For the D30 1TB in my tests, the optimal port is USB 3.2 Gen 2, an interface that enables a maximum of 10Gbps transfers, or 1200MB/s in alternative currency. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence. But those are both more expensive choices, and to get the outstanding performance of the Pro V2 requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port, something that very few computers have, or ever will have. Along with the drive are some installation notes, a single 20cm cable that is USB-A at one end and USB-C at the other. Depending on how you view the WD_Black aesthetic, this might evoke the do-anything attitude of military equipment trunks or remind you of a repurposed shipping container.

Mark is an expert on displays, reviewing monitors and TVs. If you like what you’ve seen here, just make sure you’re getting the V2 when buying and that the listing quotes 1050/1000MB/s and not 550/500MB/s. And, using the same synthetic benchmark I achieved 1,027MB/s reads and 958MB/s writes, almost exactly double. Encryption is new for this range and, along with the extra speed, is one of the virtues of choosing the new model. Therefore, when USB 4.0 becomes available, this drive won’t go any faster, as it will still be connecting using the USB 3.2 Gen standards.

Now: $24.98 ($24 off off) Now: Up to $550 off (With free Galaxy Buds 2) Those prices make the larger capacities proportionally cheaper per GB, and the 500GB the least cost-effective purchase. Now: $59.95 ($40 off) Now: £362.21 upfront or £30.34 p/m (Up to £234.12 off) Benchmarking USB SSD drives isn’t without a few critical caveats since to get the maximum speeds available requires the correct port on a system that can fully resource that interface. That makes sense, as disconnection during a write could corrupt the drive, where the consequences during a read are much less hazardous. For a system with NVMe main drives, external storage can be the bottleneck in any transfer between the two, and SanDisk has set out to address this with new Extreme and Extreme Pro variants of its portable drives.

Now: $99.99 ($50 off) For PC owners, more cost-effective solutions are available, and for those with Thunderbolt ports, even higher levels of performance are possible. Those prices make the V2 more expensive than the similarly specified Crucial X8 and Samsung T7. Most external SSDs usually include an adapter or dual function cable, but Western Digital chose not to.

From: Laptops Direct Overall, the D30 offers respectable performance that justifies using USB 3.2 Gen 2, but we’ve seen faster drives that could sustain optimal performance for longer. Is there anything genuinely special about the WD_Black D30, or it is a by-the-numbers external USB SDD with a cosplay makeover? As part of a potential solution, the company has been focusing some storage niches towards specific sub-brands, like the gaming orientated WD_Black devices.

Now: From £21 per month You can only run Xbox One games that aren’t upgraded, Xbox 360 games, and original Xbox titles. The documentation provided and the box doesn’t mention either, but those who go looking for support at wd.com will find that Acronis True Image is available for both PC and Mac to use with the D30. At that time, fewer PCs and laptops had NVMe M.2 storage, but these days it’s the norm, rather than the exception. Now: $69.99 ($29.99 off) It has a total bandwidth allocation of 10Mbits, and once the various packaging protocols and error checking overheads are removed, around 1,100-1,000 Mb/s is the absolute limit.

From: Virgin Media He also covers storage including SSDs, NAS drives and portable hard drives. Now: $599 ($360 off)

SanDisk Extreme Portable SDD V2 review

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p>By Mark Pickavance, Contributor | 16 Dec 2020 Now: £362.21 upfront or £30.34 p/m (Up to £234.12 off) On close inspection, and we’re talking near-forensic, it appears that on the new design the hole on the top right of the unit is marginally larger on the new model. The drive has a USB-C port, and an adapter for a USB Type-A socket, if you don’t have USB-C on your computer. Peak performance was a more impressive 934MB/s reads, and 838MB/s writes, but these high levels can’t be sustained over large file operations.

The D30 is a good product that provides much-needed external storage that operates at the top end of what USB 3.2 can do, without resorting to uncommon technologies like USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. Only the best deals on the best products handpicked by our expert editors And, WD quotes 900MB/s without saying if that’s for reading or writing. Back in 2018, SanDisk launched a new generation of portable SSDs under the ‘Extreme’ branding, and they were generally well received. Learn more.

What confuses reviewers and customers alike is that often these devices compete with each other, along with those brands not owned by Western Digital. Those that want ultimate performance can buy a Thunderbolt 3 SSD if they have that port. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence. Or, the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD V2.

Now: $59.95 ($40 off) The performance limitation here isn’t the NAND modules inside, but the USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface. As these types of activities are what people buy these drives for, that hardware makers don’t provide the software to exploit them properly is disappointing. You can buy it direct from WD as well as Amazon, while Ebuyer says it’s coming soon. Now: £649 (£150 off) However, ports with Gen 2×2 are rare, and it isn’t a mode that will be supported under USB 4.0 when that arrives.

Western Digital has entered a slightly odd period as a creator of external storage, where it makes many drives under the three tentpole brands of WD, SanDisk and G-Technology. It’s an assumption, but those companies that product carry cases might need to make only small if any, adjustments to cope with both designs. Those with Apple Mac systems or Linux can easily reformat it to an appropriate structure if required.

Now: From £21 per month In the USA, the 500GB model is $119.99 (but discounted to $94.99 when I checked), and the 1TB version is $199.99 (on sale at $149.99). It needs saying that the technology behind the port is the critical factor, not that it is USB-C or USB-A. Where the previous version of this product came with a 250GB option, the ‘V2’ comes in just 500GB, 1TB and 2TB options.

The drive comes pre-formatted using the exFAT structure and on the drive are utilities to access the encryption features from Windows 8 and 10, and also the Apple Mac OS. Depending on how many games you need to cache, the D30 costs from £94.99/US$99.99 for the 500GB option, increasing to £159.99/$169.99US for the 1TB and £269.99/US$289 for the 2TB capacity unit. The D30 has more potential for PC users, although regardless of what you’re plugging it into, a longer cable would be much appreciated along with a USB-C to USB-C option as well.

Hopefully, that will change in the future. The D30 is a solid enough external SSD and is ready to go from the box for a range of tasks. Was: £596.33 upfront or £49.94 p/m Now: £37 Clubcard Price (£13 off) But a little cheaper than the LaCie Portable High Performance External SSD, and G-Technology G-Drive Mobile. While I didn’t test the Pro version, that design offers 20Mbit USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 mode, with double again the bandwidth and resulting performance. It is an external USB drive that you can connect and use as you would any other, and it can be used with desktops, laptops, and even some mobile devices.

And the previously mentioned console restrictions on where titles can be stored generally don’t apply. Due to the vagaries of USB, error correction, and the background tasks that run on any computer, a more realistic transfer speed is somewhere between 850MB/s and 1050MB/s. We’ve got our hands on the latest WD Black SSD, the D30, designed for PC and console gamers that need extra storage that performs like an internal SSD. With a recent update, you can now put PS5 games on the D30, freeing space on the internal storage for other games to live, and move them back to play later, but that’s not what PS5 owners want, is it?

From: Virgin Media The cable is doubly disappointing in that it is remarkably short, especially for those using it with a desktop PC, and no USB-C to USB-C option included. What you don’t get are any tools to sync the contents of folders on the PC to the drive, although it should work with any third-party applications designed to achieve this task. Unless both of these console makers become more attuned to their customers, perhaps enabling a test that an external drive can perform to prove it’s fast enough to be used to hold launchable titles, then the D30 (and others) is just a console themed external drive.

Now: £1,499.97 (£400 off) Now: $499.99 ($50 off) Now: $499.99 ($50 off) It’s certainly worth checking if the devices you plan to use this drive with support Gen 2, otherwise you won’t see transfer speeds this fast.

So act quickly if you want it. Oh, and you’ll also get a one-month subscription to Microsoft Xbox Game Pass, thanks to a free digital token that’s included in the purchase. Black Friday deals are shaping up to be epic this year, with retailers already discounting even the most expensive gaming hardware ahead of the big day. While you’d hardly expect a financial results call to mark an official hardware unveiling, Nintendo did include one slide referencing a follow up to the Switch. This particular model sports a vibrant 15.6-inch QHD display, AMD Ryzen 9 CPU, RTX 3070 graphics card, 16GB of RAM and an entire 1TB of SSD storage.

If that’s the case, then perhaps 2023 is a more realistic prospect. In the end, Nintendo did produce a new premium version of the hardware, but the main selling point was an OLED screen rather than faster internals. This particular configuration packs a 15.6-inch QHD display with an impressive refresh rate of 165Hz, an AMD Ryzen 9 5000 Series processor, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card, 16GB of RAM and a whole 1TB of SSD storage.

Whether that was always the plan, or if 4K support was intended and then scrapped due to the chip shortage is something we may never know. The arrival of the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 has made the Nintendo Switch and even newer Nintendo Switch OLED look underpowered, but anybody hoping that this means a successor is imminent is going to be sorely disappointed, according to Nintendo’s latest discussions with investors. As mentioned above, the Zephyrus G15 is one of the freshest additions from ASUS, having arrived just earlier this year. Right now, Best Buy has the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 on sale for $1,549. And if you want to check out other options first, feel free to browse through our gaming laptop Black Friday deals page for more guidance.

Handhelds — which given the Switch’s hybrid design is a relevant data point here — have been less consistent httpss://jiji.ug/wakiso/company/hobbies-art-sport, with only three years between the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS, but seven between the DS and 3DS. It also comes with Windows 11 already pre-installed, meaning your machine will be ready to use straight out of the box. Obviously the word “middle” is quite flexible, so you can probably give or take a year either way. And just because hardware is in the middle of its life, it doesn’t mean that it can’t coexist with its successor. Nintendo Switch is in ‘middle phase’ of life — so what about Switch 2? Hurry!

Our favorite gaming laptop just hit lowest price ever for Black Friday deal. In short, the Zephyrus G15 boasts stellar performance while maintaining its sleek and lightweight aesthetic. Is that plausible?

If past form is anything to go by, then probably not. For Nintendo’s recent home consoles, there was a gap of roughly five years between each release — or six between the Wii and Wii U. But a number of developers were reportedly sent 4K development tools, and if that wasn’t for a Switch Pro, then there’s always the chance it was for the Switch 2, or whatever the successor is ultimately called. You can now save a whole $300 and score one of the best gaming laptops out there.

And 1TB of SSD storage leaves plenty of space for an impressive games library. You’ll also get a digital token for one month of Xbox Game Pass free-of-charge! Hurry, though, as demand is high and stock is limited. It weighs just 4.21lbs and is a mere 0.78 inches thin, meaning it stands out from most bulky gaming laptops. With the Zephyrus G15, gaming on the go will be easy, thanks to its lengthy battery life. update: Track on Twitter, GameStop and more What should you buy?

Nintendo Switch OLED vs. In fact, our sister-site TechRadar concluded that this machine can lasts for up to eight hours, and then some. During a subsequent Q&A transcribed by analyst David Gibson, the company wouldn’t be drawn further on what this meant, stating only that the Switch is in the “middle phase of [its] cycle”.

Thanks to its powerful GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card, you can enjoy graphically intensive games such as Cyberpunk 2077 on "Ultra" settings at 1080p resolution and get away with it. There’s also the question of what’s happening with the Nintendo Switch Pro, which was long rumored to be a version with a faster chip for docked 4K support. The Zephyrus G-series is also our number one choice for gaming laptops overall, and this offer is for the latest G15 model, featuring an AMD Ryzen 9 CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card. This deal saves you a whopping $300 and brings it down to the lowest price we’ve ever seen. The Switch is set to celebrate its fifth birthday in March 2022, so if we take those words completely literally, that would suggest that whatever Nintendo is planning next might not be here before 2025.

But with a release date of “20XX”, a Nintendo Switch 2 could theoretically arrive any time up to 2099, which doesn’t exactly narrow the release window down. Zephyrus G15: was $1,849 now $1,549 @ Best Buy This deal saves you a whole $300 on one of the best gaming laptops out there. So if you’re keeping an eye out for killer savings on gaming laptops, we’ve got good news for you.

The only problem with all of this? It’s such a good deal that there’s no guarantee stock will last long. Nintendo formally discontinued the Wii in 2012 in an ill-fated attempt to push the doomed Wii U, but it continued to produce the Wii Mini for years afterwards.

Switch PLUS: Amazon is killing useful Alexa feature — but this new one is awesome.

Our top pick ExpressVPN does this and whole lot more. Reasons to buy. However, just because you’re mostly using a VPN on your TV doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the other privileges a VPN can offer. What really puts Express head and shoulders above the rest, though, is its dedicated app for routers. The app is much like the one you might install on your mobile device, and gives one-touch functionality alongside great in-depth features.

NordVPN – powerful unblocking and great security NordVPN is a big deal in the VPN industry, and it’s almost a household name at this point. However, not all Smart TVs support VPNs in the same way. That’s why it’s so important that ExpressVPN supports Smart DNS. ExpressVPN can provide just about everything you need, with Netflix, Amazon Prime, iPlayer, Hulu, and tons more on offer.

Reasons to avoid. If you use Roku or any other OS that doesn’t support VPN or Smart DNS, having a router VPN app will be very useful. This month, you can get Sophos Home for up to 10 Macs or PCs for one year for just $41.

Kaspersky Total Security: was $99 now $49 @ Newegg Kaspersky Total Security combines excellent malware protection with a truckload of useful extra features, including a VPN client and backup software. Then, you’ll be protected and get access to tons of content – all on one subscription. If your TV uses Samsung’s Tizen or LG’s WebOS you should definitely prioritise Smart DNS, because true VPN apps aren’t available for these systems.

Get three months free of the best Smart TV VPN ExpressVPN is currently offering Tom’s Guide readers three free months – that’s 15 months for the price of 12 . The best Smart TV VPN 2021. Specifications. If you’re using your Smart TV VPN to access blocked content (you almost certainly are if you’re here), you’ll need a provider that can actually access the streaming sites you want.

Norton 360 Deluxe: was $89 now $29 @ Amazon Antivirus software doesn’t get much better than Norton 360 Deluxe, and you shouldn’t pass up this offer. We’ve got several of the best here, tailored to different needs. 1. So, if you’re in the UK but want to watch US Netflix, you can do that by selecting a US server. Not bad for the best Smart TV VPN.

You’ll also get a password manager and file encryption. Every other VPN in this guide requires manual set up for routers, but ExpressVPN’s router app makes it relatively straightforward. 1. Plus, at just $3.71 a month , it’s great value.

The best Smart TV VPNs today. With support for five individual devices, you’ll be able to install the VPN on your PC, smartphone, tablet, and Smart TV with one left over. Comprehensive guides on the ExpressVPN site explain how to get the Smart TV VPN up and running with Smart DNS, and while it could seen intimidating, the guides are clear and concise. Best antivirus deals right now. Best antivirus deals in February 2021.

McAfee Total Protection: was $90 now $19 @ McAfee This amazing deal on McAfee’s flagship antivirus software gets you one year of protection for up to three PCs, Macs or Android or iOS devices. If you’re confident with what you’re looking for, below are the best Smart TV VPNs on the market. It’s marked down by 55%, from $90 to just $39.95. ExpressVPN.

How do I choose a Smart TV VPN? At less than $2.50 a month it’s a bargain, but you’ll still be able to unblock just about every service with VPN or Smart DNS, and the apps are intuitive enough for absolute newbies. ESET Smart Security Premium: was $59 now $41 @ ESET One of the top antivirus vendors in Europe, ESET offers fast scans, a small system-performance impact and a generous supply of useful extra features. Surfshark – a premium service for a bargain price If you want to save your cash, Surfshark is a great-value option. Put simply, a VPN reroutes your connection away from your ISP’s servers and through its own.

Sophos Home Premium: was $60 now $41 @ Sophos Sophos is well known in the enterprise security market, but its consumer antivirus products are fast, efficient and affordable. If you want to watch blocked overseas content on your Smart TV, a Smart TV VPN is the only solution. If you do have kids and want a jack-of-all-trades package, try Norton 360 Deluxe. 2. 3. However, if you want to learn a little more about Smart DNS and other differences between TV operating systems, just head to the bottom of the page and browse our FAQ.

Tom’s Guide readers can now claim three months free , and you’ll have a 30-day guarantee to trial before you commit. In essence, a great Smart TV VPN needs to be fast, be able to unblock a wide range of streaming services, have router support and, ideally, offer Smart DNS. Able to provide access to multiple Netflix libraries and other restricted services wherever you are in the world, the best VPN can make your subscriptions go much further. All of these packages offer excellent protection against malware on Windows and macOS, and most throw in Android and iOS software as well. The best Smart TV VPN for any device.

And, in the rare event that it’s not for you, you’ll also have a 30-day money-back guarantee keeping you safe. You can choose which server to use, in any country, and you’ll appear to be located wherever that chosen server is. Power users with many devices on different platforms should opt for Kaspersky Total Security, McAfee Total Protection, Sophos Home Premium or Trend Micro Maximum Security. However, we understand not everyone has an Android TV, and apart from VPN support, it’s not necessarily the best TV OS around.

This is far easier than using the router’s dashboard to install software. You’ll have Android support, access to tons of content, and Smart DNS too. If you’re a Windows user without small children, Bitdefender Antivirus Plus might be the perfect thing for you. For Android TV owners, it couldn’t be simpler. Many of the best antivirus makers, including Bitdefender, ESET, Kaspersky, McAfee, Norton, Sophos and Trend Micro have great deals for you this month.

This package gets you protection for up to 5 PCs, Macs and Android or iOS devices, plus an unlimited VPN, LifeLock dark-web monitoring of your personal data and 50GB of cloud-backup storage. It covers five or 10 PCs, Macs and mobile devices. Want to watch more?

Check out the best streaming VPN. Trend Micro Maximum Security: now $39 @ Trend Micro Trend Micro’s premium suite has excellent protection and a ton of features for five devices. No matter what TV you have – whether it’s Roku, Samsung, Android or any other – ExpressVPN can get you restricted content with ease. Android TVs are most compatible, but Samsung devices, for example, use the proprietary Tizen OS which doesn’t support VPN connections, and Smart DNS is absolutely necessary. (Briefly, Smart DNS is a tool for changing your location on devices that don’t support VPNs.) ExpressVPN – the best Smart TV VPN available With powerful true VPN performance on Android, quick and easy Smart DNS features, and an excellent router app, ExpressVPN can do it all, no matter what TV you’ve got. Android and Fire Red Cars TV have access to an app store that stocks true VPN apps, so things are more straightforward there – but these are limited in other non-VPN-related ways.

For the moment, you can get ESET Smart Security Premium for one PC or Mac for $41.

Atlas VPN climbs the rankings in speed, but lags behind elsewhere. While Atlas VPN will continue to act independently, this does mean it will have to comply with Nord Security’s "principles of transparency and trustworthiness", alongside presumably benefitting from Nord’s resources and authority in online security. This laptop comes in several configurations, including a latest-generation Intel Core i3 and Core i5. Atlas VPN brands itself as a "fremium VPN service".

In the US this saw half-decent results, recording a range of 260-320Mbps. If you don’t like the display of the Chromebook–perhaps it’s a bit washed out, or you realize it’s uncomfortable for your child–you can always invest in the USB hub mentioned above to tack on HDMI and connect to an external monitor. In simple terms, this means it has both a free VPN and paid-for tool, offering better online safety for all. Lenovo Chromebook Duet. Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook.

Still, it’s one small hoop to jump through before bingeing the latest US-exclusive title to the Bezos platform. Lastly, since Chromebook models aren’t typically refreshed annually, be keen on whether or not the Chromebook model you choose will receive software and security updates down the line. Unfortunately, though, US Netflix didn’t make the cut.

The Duet’s 10.1-inch display is impressively sharp for a tablet at this price, and the speakers are loud enough that your child can hear instructions without headphones. Streaming Amazon Prime Video’s US library did prove a touch more troublesome, prompting us to complete a CAPTCHA before giving us access. It’s fair to say, though, that very few VPN have been able to do this as Netflix continues to crackdown on the use of VPN to access its services.

There’s also its kill switch, which admittedly had a few issues in terms of alerting us when a connection failed on its Windows client. These low-maintenance laptops are reat for kids, and getting more popular with all ages as Chromebook makers roll out models with larger screens and more capabilities. Specifications.

The best 2-in-1 Chromebook for kids. Atlas VPN price: how much is it, and is there a Atlas VPN free trial? It’s safe to say Atlas VPN does have potential , especially now it has come under Nord Security ownership.

Tom’s Guide Verdict. In terms of its security features, you’ll find its IP-jumping SafeSwap, malware and ad blocking, a data breach monitor, private DNS, and a no-logging policy to boot. Kids don’t need all the bells and whistles of a premium Chromebook. What are the best Chromebooks for kids? For something with a little more power still in the Asus family, there’s the Chromebook Flip C434.

Opt for its annual plan and it’ll essentially cost $3.99 a month. When it comes to carrying out our performance tests, we used a Windows 10 machine to connect Atlas VPN to the nearest location in both the US and UK. Specifications.

Much the same can be said for the iOS app, aside from the absence of a kill switch and WireGuard support. This particular version pairs the processor with 4GB of RAM, which is enough for Google Docs, Google Chrome, and shuffling between YouTube videos. This entry-level Chromebook is $70 off right now. That puts it in the same range as CyberGhost (760-860), and just behind the likes of IPVanish (750-900Mbps) and NordVPN (760-880Mbps).

It goes on to state the kind of data its apps do collect, but we determined this did not include any user online activity. By Alice Marshall 10 November 2021. That’s good news for those looking to stream while connected to their VPN, especially as Atlas VPN was able to add BBC iPlayer, Prime Video, and Disney+ to its unblocking prowess. The best Chromebooks for kids you can buy today.

Acer Chromebook 714. Reasons to buy. That said, with the aforementioned acquisition by Nord Security, we expect Atlas VPN to be put under scrutiny through a number of regularly carried out privacy audits, which will hopefully allow for any security qualms to be ironed out. Chromebooks are a natural fit for students and classrooms, as they’ve long been heralded for their kid-friendliness and simplicity.

How fast is Atlas VPN? If you wish to contact Atlas VPN’s support team, it promises a 24/7 service, though this is currently only through email – there’s no live chat function as of yet. Above average speeds Unblocks Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ Very affordable Unlimited connections. Whichever hardware configuration you choose, you’re getting the same all-aluminum, aesthetically-pleasing chassis on the Chromebook 714 along with a backlit keyboard and a responsive touchpad. We expect to see great deals on Chromebooks through Black Friday and into Cyber Monday, so make sure to bookmark our best Cyber Monday deals page and check back often to find the best sales.

While it’s covered by the basics with AES-256 encryption, its WireGuard protocol, and privacy features like SafeSwap – which allows you to you hop from multiple IP addresses at one time – Atlas VPN has only carried out an independent security audit on its iOS app. If your child prefers a mouse to navigate, select one with a standard USB input. With a small offering of 750 servers across 27 countries, it’s loaded with both WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols, the former of which sees it joining ranks with some of the best performing VPNs, delivering speeds of 650-800Mbps. The exterior is also fingerprint-resistant, so it stays looking smooth, and there’s a fingerprint scanner for locking up the device from the prying eyes of nosy parents. To test speeds, we utilize a number of speed test sites and tools, noting down at least five results.

Of course, this is simply what Atlas VPN states, with no official audit to back these claims. – Doesn’t unblock US Netflix – Kill switch issues – Support site needs improvement. When it comes to Atlas VPN and its privacy, it has a little room for improvement. Reasons to avoid. Specifications. You’ll also be able to find articles and guides on the ‘Help’ section of its website with the ability to search your query or click through its four hubs ‘Get started’, ‘General info’, ‘Billing and account’, or ‘Troubleshoot issues’.

People like this one for its premium design, featuring thin display bezels and a sleek aluminum exterior. These are a reliable choice if you’re a parent in a bind looking for a school-approved computer that can grow with your child into their later years. Latest updates.

Some are more rugged, while others convert from laptops to tablets. Although it was able to perform its function of protecting us when our connection dropped, there is certainly plenty of room for improvement in keeping users notified of its current status. The Samsung Chromebook 4 offers up to 10.5 hours of battery, which makes it great for kids who don’t want to sit at the table, with their laptop plugged into a power outlet, while trudging through their work.

Our Verdict. Not all Chromebooks are the same. Atlas VPN review. The 13.3-inch 1080p screen is both touch-sensitive and stylus-friendly, and its keyboard offers a satisfying click for older kids tasked with writing essays. For a child who is mostly stuck at the desk doing schoolwork, a traditional laptop-type Chromebook will suffice, though you’ll want to choose an exterior that’s easy to wipe down when messes occur.

The Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook is also available at this price point, and it proves you can get a worthy convertible computer for your child without breaking the bank. How good are the Atlas VPN desktop apps? You may have to perform some manual parenting maintenance to ensure the device stays up to date. The Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook also comes flush with ports, featuring two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and a combination audio jack.

While there are certainly areas it can improve upon – its support center and desktop apps being two such instances – Atlas VPN has strong potential to really polish its rusty parts and deliver a tool that could become something of an underdog hit. The Chromebook 4 is much lighter and thinner than comparative 11.6-inch Chromebook models. Hopefully that’s all in due course as it further integrates with Nord Security best practice.

Affordable and P2P-friendly, too, there are a few niggles that need ironing out, but since its acquisition by NordVPN it could soon be climbing the rankings. It’ll also include regular third-party audits. Atlas VPN 1-minute review. At the very least, you won’t have to worry about discrepancies in battery life between the models mentioned here because education-focused Chromebooks run on the least-taxing specifications. It simplifies the process of connecting a mouse, and you don’t have to worry about buying a compatible USB-C dock.

Based in the US, it’s got a small network of 750 servers based across 27 countries, three of which you can have access to at no extra cost with its free plan. And because they’re all priced so differently, what you’re paying for will ultimately determine what your child is capable of doing with the machine. Another drawback in terms of Atlas VPN’s privacy are the persistent issues with its kill switch.

What customer support does Atlas VPN offer? The only caveats to consider here is the Chromebook 714 doesn’t have the most vibrant display or boomy speakers. The ideal Chromebook can offer your child a full computing experience (even for older kids), with optional Linux integration as well as Android apps.

If you need more power, Asus offers this model with either a Core i5 or Core i7 processor with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 128GB of storage for $650 and $700. On the flipside, there is very little to it in terms of configuration, which could also very easily be a turn off. Offering a bunch of nifty security features, P2P support, and unlimited connections to boost, Atlas VPN will continue as an independent provider – one that could prove to pack some power. Number of servers: 750+ Number of countries: 27 Platforms supported: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android Simultaneous connections: Unlimited Split tunneling: No Kill switch: Yes Supported protocols: WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec Country of registration: Delaware, USA Support: 24/7 support via email, online articles and guides.

When it comes to screen size, an 11-inch display is ample enough for younger kids. The best Chromebooks for kids are the ones you can afford, which is why we’ve collected the top Chromebooks across multiple price ranges. + Above average speeds + Unblocks Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ + Very affordable + Unlimited connections. It comes with a detachable keyboard with a touch-sensitive trackpad, just like on traditional laptops. It has also run an independent security audit on httpss://jiji.ug/mubende/company/home-garden its iOS VPN app, though we’d like for it to have a full privacy audit – something we’re sure to see under its new ownership. For students, children, or anyone looking for an extremely portable machine that gets the essentials right, the Spin 311 is a solid choice that can compete with some of the best Chromebooks of comparable price.

However, it doesn’t offer touchscreen support, which can limit the intended functionality of the Chromebook (but it’s not a huge deal if you don’t need Android apps). WireGuard is where Atlas VPN truly impresses though, with speeds averaging at 590-600Mbps in the UK, and a whopping 650-800Mbps in the US. With few features to tinker with and those connection prospects, it certainly won’t take long to get up and running. Anything over $500 tends to steer further away from the category of "barebone basics" and into performance Chromebooks, with laptops running on Intel Core M3 and i5 processors and at least 8GB of RAM. How good is Atlas VPN for streaming and torrenting?

In our recent round of tests, ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN soared to the top as the best Netflix VPNs, the only two providers to manage accessing US and international Netflix libraries. You might consider budgeting for a compatible adapter for this particular Chromebook or an external mouse, as its touchpad is a bit too finicky to be precise. You can also install and use it on an unlimited number of devices, and won’t be restricted by speed caps. More interestingly, it was acquired by Nord Security in October 2021, which could bode well for a bright future. When testing out the effectiveness of the feature, we found the VPN didn’t notify us when our VPN failed to connect, or attempt to reconnect either.

And while the dim, low-resolution screen isn’t exactly a joy to watch movies on, that may not be a big problem when it’s primarily intended for school use. Affordable and P2P-friendly, too, there are a few niggles that need ironing out, but since its acquisition by NordVPN it could soon be climbing the rankings. Of course, with a paid plan you’ll get your pick of its fairly modest 750+ servers, including those that are optimized for streaming, as well as other features like ad blocking and detecting malicious websites.

Specifications. With no Favorites or Recently Used system in place, this eyesore will likely have you scrolling back and forth to find the server you want to connect to. Specifications. However, if you’re an Android or iOS user in search of a VPN for your smartphone or tablet, you’re in luck, as Atlas seems to deliver a far better experience here.

The introduction of a 24/7 live chat feature would also be good, though when we sent an email we did receive a response two hours and 15 minutes later, which isn’t terrible. Also, its snappy Intel Celeron N4000 processor and comfortable keyboard will help your kid get through their classwork. Reasons to avoid.

How good are the Atlas VPN mobile apps? The Flex 5 Chromebook is available with different processor configurations, so you can go faster if your kid pushes their tech to the limit. Best Black Friday deals on Chromebooks for kids.

Reasons to buy. Most of the Chromebooks featured here are set for updates until 2026. (Google offers a helpful support page if you want to look up a specific model.) This ensures compatibility with software and that your child’s laptop isn’t exposed to any major security vulnerabilities. For those kinds of features, you’ve got a choice of three plans.

Reasons to buy. Atlas VPN has bags of potential with some incredible WireGuard speed results and an ability to unblock almost all major streaming services. For classwork, your child can get by with a Chromebook as basic as the Samsung Chromebook 4, which hails an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. Acer Chromebook Spin 311.

Reasons to buy. The best Chromebook for kids overall. Connection time was fairly average at 5-6 seconds. However, the screen — built with tough, antimicrobial Gorilla Glass — should be durable enough to handle some heavy use, making it a great choice for kids. However, as a company, it was acquired by Nord Security in October 2021, the company behind top-tier VPN service NordVPN – so it doesn’t feel premature to say Atlas VPN will therefore be in good hands.

4. The real winner in terms of affordability is its three year plan, though, which works out as just $2.19 a month – that’s cheaper than our top-rated cheap VPN, Surfshark. Acer’s Spin 311 is exactly what many people expect of a Chromebook: Small, inexpensive, and capable enough to handle work and light play every day. Atlas VPN specs. With Atlas VPN’s privacy credentials somewhat lacking, this will be another string to the provider’s bow that’ll see it hopefully continue to climb up our rankings in the future. For something more powerful and capable of flying through several Chrome tabs at a time, plus Android apps where applicable, 8GB of memory is a minimum requirement.

This follows other shortcomings for this particular app, which isn’t the best in terms of usability. Open it up and you’ll be presented with the barebones of any VPN, including a Connect/Disconnect button, a list of locations to connect to, as well as the option to toggle on or off the kill switch, and to choose between its WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols. In this instance, Atlas VPN doesn’t offer OpenVPN support, so we ran our tests on its IKEv2 protocol.

When it comes down to the Atlas VPN Windows app, how good it is really depends on how you look at it. Asus Chromebook Flip C434. In the UK things were a touch slower at 170-210Mbps, but still fairly mid-range. If your child needs a big screen, a powerful processor, and 8GB of RAM, consider going all-in on the Acer Chromebook 714. The Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook is flexible in its abilities and multitasking capabilities, especially if you opt for the 10th-generation Intel Core i3 configuration.

If it can get its act together in other areas and offer a fuller package, this could see Atlas VPN enter the game as one of our choices for a fast VPN. The best Chromebook for kids with a lot of Chrome tabs open. Regardless, that’s enough to get your child through their daily lessons and a bit of leisure screen time.

They don’t all have touchscreens, either. In terms of usability, there’s no particular rhyme or reason, which is a bit disappointing. Reasons to avoid.

It states, "we do not collect details on our users’ activities, DNS queries, or other data that could be linked to our users." Reasons to avoid. That’s plenty of memory for sifting through tabs in Chrome and launching multiple apps at a time. Reasons to buy. In terms of logging your data, Atlas VPN claims to have a no-logging policy.

We were able to access both Disney+ and BBC iPlayer (one that has been known to be quite difficult to circumvent with even the best streaming VPN in the past) with ease. While the former prove fairly straightforward, clicking through ‘Troubleshoot issues’ conveys some largely unhelpful and vague issues with little explanation or depth. It a shocking turn of events, the Atlas’ Android VPN client is actually better than its Windows counterpart. Coupled with nearly 13-hours of battery life, the Chromebook Duet is an affordable double-duty performer.

The HP Chromebook 14A G5 is a primo pick for $350. Atlas VPN is a promising up-and-coming VPN service that offers some of the cheapest plans on the market, speedy WireGuard protocol results, and a good track record of unblocking top streaming services. They need something functional enough to check them into class and help facilitate participation.

The interface here makes far more sense with countries sorted alphabetically in the location list, and dedicated categories for servers optimal for streaming. Chromebook prices range from $150 to $1,000, going from the most basic models to laptops with all the trimmings of mom and dad’s laptops. Doesn’t unblock US Netflix Kill switch issues Support site needs improvement. 1. Samsung Chromebook 4. Don’t plan on co-opting this device when your child is done with it, though—the keys are most definitely kid-sized. Its audio isn’t impressive, so be sure to pair the Samsung Chromebook 4 with headphones, since online learning requires following along with audible instructions.

Specifications. Reasons to avoid. Across each of these plans there’s no Atlas VPN free trial (you’ve already got a whole free plan, for goodness sake!), but each of its paid-for plans comes with a 30-day money back guarantee period, allowing you time to give it a try. In terms of its promised malware and ad blocking features, there were no setting options present, and we didn’t always have success connecting to the free Atlas VPN servers – though that makes sense if they’re overloaded with. freeloaders.

Against. Atlas VPN: Final verdict. The tablet mode is so capable that your kid can finally have their own and you won’t need to share yours with them anymore. Unblocking streaming services is a pretty common use of a VPN beyond its obvious security attributes – and it’s something Atlas VPN does pretty well at.

Port selection, for plugging in peripherals like an additional keyboard and mouse, varies as well. The Lenovo Chromebook 100e is also a formidable choice if you’re looking for something specifically made for online learning, and it’s often priced as little as $100. They tend to have larger screens and mirror the look and feel of more traditional Windows laptops. The best deals go in and out of stock, and won’t always last long, so keep an eye on our Chromebook Black Friday deals page for the most up-to-date discounts. The best Chromebook for kids who want more speed.

There is a USB-A port and two USB-C ports, as well as a microSD card insert. Plus, in tablet mode, the Chromebook Duet has a great optimized version of Chrome that makes it easy to see what’s in your other tabs. The best premium Chromebook for kids. For squirmier tykes, a 2-in-1 Chromebook tablet has the same functionality as a desk-bound Chromebook, but with the flexibility of doing schoolwork in a beanbag chair or another extremely comfortable situation. How to choose the best Chromebook for your kid.

The Flex 5 Chromebook’s display swivels backward to transform into a tablet-like device. Unfortunately, you’re not gaining anything in ports with the price uptick, since the slim design of the Chromebook Flip C434 takes precedence. Reasons to buy. In terms of its support system, then, Atlas could definitely brush up a few more helpful resources.

It’s pretty basic, which may appeal to those who don’t want to be overwhelmed with too many techy features. 5. Reasons to avoid. The Samsung Chromebook 4 is the best Chromebook for kids that’s under $300. All of the best Chromebooks : What’s best for you?

If your kid has modest needs, check out the Samsung Chromebook 4 for $129. In terms of those looking to torrent, it supports P2P, allowing you to share large files "safe and sound". Atlas VPN has begun to see some intriguing, potentially exciting developments, not least because it is now owned by the same company that runs the powerful NordVPN, which rides highly on many of our VPN buying guides. Already proving to be a potential powerhouse in terms of performance and, for the most part, streaming unblocking, it really needs to focus on ironing out its desktop app issues and get a privacy audit or two under its belt to join the big players. Atlas VPN has bags of potential with some incredible WireGuard speed results and an ability to unblock almost all major streaming services.

Chromebooks running lesser-known processors such as the MediaTek Helio P60T and the Intel Celeron N4000 are undoubtedly able, but they’re not workhorses akin to the Intel Core M3 and Core i5 processors. Some laptops even have solid-state hard drives. The one we suggest for older kids is priced at $650 for the Core i3 and 64GB of storage, though you can get the $500 variant with a 2.3GHz Intel Pentium 4417U and still get it bundled with 8GB of RAM. On the other hand, Atlas VPN would be able to create a pretty illustrative user profile.

This process is repeated three times using WireGuard and OpenVPN to get a broad picture on the kind of power each VPN can offer. The Chromebook 4’s aluminum build makes it premium-feeling, too, which could get your kid excited about using their laptop. The rush to find the best Black Friday deals always includes a hunt for the best deals on Chromebooks.

If you’re looking for a device that doubles as a tablet, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is a solid choice for under $300. The best Chromebooks for kids in 2021. Atlas VPN hasn’t seen many significant developments in terms of infrastructure.

It’s important to point out that you’ll need to email Atlas VPN support in order to cancel before it auto-renews, as, frustratingly, there isn’t the option to do so within your account. It’s a highly functional unit with one of the best laptop keyboards we’ve yet seen on a Chromebook. If you want a more durable Chromebook in the $250 – $350 price range, the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is a great choice.

Its monthly rate will set you back $9.99. Rather than being listed in alphabetical order or sorted in some other logical way, the location list is an amalgamation of cities and countries. Be sure to check out all of our guides to get you ready to go back to school: With its free offering, you’ll be loaded up with 400MB of data a day across three of its 27 locations – Los Angeles, New York, and Amsterdam.

Unfortunately, Atlas VPN fell at the last hurdle when it came to unblocking US Netflix. As previously mentioned, the kill switch also presented its own list of issues with no alerts pushed to the user when the VPN failed to connect to the desired server. When you consider the fact that’s faster than ExpressVPN – the best overall VPN in our eyes – these results are not to be sniffed at. The best Chromebook for kids who need a durable laptop. Kid-friendly Chromebooks tend to jump in price from there.

The 14-inch touch screen is large and vivid and can last up to 10 hours on a full charge. You can pay for your Atlas VPN subscription with a number of credit cards, Google Pay, or PayPal. 2. 1-minute review Updates Specs Price Privacy Speed Streaming & Torrenting Desktop apps Mobile apps Support Verdict. 7. Older kids and middle-schoolers will benefit more from a larger display, or anything 13-inches and over. 3. You’ll also find access to settings for the tracking blocker and the Data Breach Monitor under the ‘Assistant’ section of the app, both of which seemed to prove effective.

How private is Atlas VPN? There’s a microSD slot if you need more storage space, or you can spend an extra $30 for the Lenovo Chromebook Duet, which also doubles as a tablet and features a touchscreen for interactive educational content (or for comfortably snuggling up to watch a video after class is over). The more tabs you open, the slower the system goes, however—that’s why many budget PCs come with at least 8GB of RAM to manage this kind of usage.