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Top 10 Apple Smartwatch Alternatives Under $500

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Apple has been the go-to brand for wearable technology, preferred by most tech enthusiasts and fitness aficionados. But for those seeking cross-platform compatibility, more customization options, or just getting the most value for money, they look for alternatives. We’ll help you find one with this list of the best Apple smartwatch alternatives under $500:

1. Galaxy Watch6 Classic

five snartwatches

With its timeless and iconic look, the Galaxy Watch6 Classic is an excellent Apple Watch substitute at around $370. It has a rotating bezel lets you scroll through your apps, text, menus, tiles, and others. It operates on Android Wear OS 4 and has 16GB 2GB RAM on a Li-Ion 425 mAh, non-removable battery.

While its sibling, the Galaxy Watch6, costs less than $100, the difference is well worth it. The classic is made with durable stainless steel and a sapphire crystal front. It is water resistant up to 50 m, ECG certified, and comes with a blood pressure monitor, among many other features.

2. Google Pixel Watch 2

three smartwatches

Claiming to provide you with personalized help for your health, safety, and productivity, the Google Pixel Watch 2 steps up to its promise. It has three sensors that give you precise info on your heart rate, skin temperature, and signs of stress.

It runs on Android Wear OS 4 and has an accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, thermometer, skin conductance, and more. At around $350, this is an Apple watch substitute that you’ll want to wear day and night, thanks to its sleek and stylish appearance. 

3. Garmin Instinct® 2X Solar

five smartwatches

For those who thrive on adventures, the Garmin Instinct® 2X Solar is an excellent Apple smartwatch alternative. At only around $350, it has all the bells and whistles for people who lead rugged and adventurous lives. It comes equipped with an expansive solar charging lens that keeps it going for longer. 

The Instinct is feature-packed with a built-in flashlight, health and wellness monitoring sensors, multi-band GNSS, and many others. Its patented Tracback Routing feature, reference point, and ABC sensors make it a watch built to last.

4. Fitbit Sense 2

gray fitbit sense smartwatch

Fitbit’s most advanced health and fitness smartwatch is the Sense 2. It can help you manage stress, understand sleep, and track your heart rate, among many other unique features. It has a sleek and slim design with raised band attachments for comfort.

Sense 2 can track your health and fitness stats for over six days without charging. At around $250, it offers access to Alexa, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Fitbit Pay, and many more. It has a color touch screen and is compatible with iOS and Android devices.

5. Huawei Watch GT

green huawei gt smartwatch

With its chic and polished look, the Huawei Watch GT is an affordable alternative to the Apple smartwatch at around $197. But don’t be fooled by its price, it is packed with features that make it worth every penny. It has a variety of sensors, such as an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and many others.

The Huawei Watch GT 4 46 mm has a 14-day battery life for maximum usage. It can help you manage your calorie intake, monitor your workout heart rate, and track your routes.

6. Fossil Gen 6 Wellness Edition Smartwatch

pink fossil gen 6 smartwatch

Inexpensive doesn’t necessarily mean poor quality. The Fossil Gen 6 Wellness Edition Smartwatch is proof of this. At just around $179, you’ll get a trendy and feature-rich Apple smartwatch alternative. This model is equipped with a lilac silicone strap that provides comfort, whether swimming or sleeping.

This Apple substitute provides wellness metrics such as heart rates, sleep insights, SpO2, and VO2 Max. It operates on Wear OS by Google and works with phones using the latest version of Android or iOS. It has 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage.

7. Amazfit Active

pink amazfit active

If you think smartwatches are expensive, you’re very much mistaken. At around $150, Amazfit Active has the looks and features of a watch similar to Apple, but not its price. It has one of the longest-lasting battery life at two full weeks on a single charge. 

Amazfit Active is equipped with Zepp Coach™, an AI-powered training feature. It works with five satellite systems to help you track your route and health and wellness apps to help you on your fitness journey.

8. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5

mobvoi ticwatch pro 5

With a classic look, excellent battery life, and a powerful processor, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 will surely give Apple fierce competition. At around $350, this is a cost-effective alternative to an Apple smartwatch. It has a Corning Gorilla Glass and a recessed screen to keep scratches and shattering at bay.

This watch is responsive and fast, thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 wearable platform, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. It can go up to 80 hours on its 628mAh battery.

9. Skagen Falster Gen 6

gray skagen falster gen 6 smartwatch

If you want to track your heart rate, sleep, and GPS, the Skagen Falster Gen 6 is an excellent alternative to an Apple smartwatch. It is affordable, costs about $295, and has many beautiful features. It is compatible with both Android and iOS platforms.

What makes this Apple watch alternative is its ability to charge faster. You can get 80% of your charge in just around 30 minutes. It comes equipped with the latest Snapdragon Wear 4100 Plus chipset, which makes its battery more efficient.

10. Polar Ignite 3

white polar ignite 3 smartwatch

Track and monitor your fitness and wellness journey in style with the Polar Ignite 3. It comes with many exclusive features such as Nightly Recharge™, SleepWise™, and Nightly Skin Temperature, to name a few. It has a heart rate monitor, GNSS, 24/7 activity monitoring, and an ultra-long battery life.

The Polar Ignite can help you train and recover with its calorie counter, fat, protein, carbs breakdown, and many other valuable features. At approximately $330, this Apple alternative is a steal.

Conclusion

If you think Apple is the end-all and be-all of smartwatches, this list of the best Apple smartwatch alternatives list will prove you otherwise.

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Gaming

Top 10 Handheld Gaming Devices Under $300

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yellow handheld gaming console

Handheld gaming devices are all the rage for online gamers. Some want to recapture the magic of the old days, where you could play a game anytime anywhere. However, some want to experience the portability of playing PC or desktop games without losing significant game progress. Whatever your reason for buying a handheld gaming device, we’ve narrowed down your options in buying the best handheld gaming devices under $300!

1. Retroid Pocket Flip

red retroid pocket flip

If you’re looking for a handheld gaming device that’s light on your pocket, literally and figuratively, why not go for Retroid? The Android-powered gaming device lets you play your favorite games anytime or launch an emulator, too! But you can dock the Retroid to your TV or PC to play your game on a bigger screen! The Retroid company offers three devices:

  • 2S Handheld
  • Pocket 3+ 
  • Flip

However, the best option for any gamer is the Flip. Its active cooling system lets you play games for a long time. It has 128GB of storage, allowing you to store all your favorite games on one device. Plus, it has a touchscreen and customizable buttons!

Pricing: $164.00

2. Retroid Pocket 3+

white retroid pocket 3

The Retroid Pocket 3+ is another handheld gaming device under $300 to consider. Like the flip, it also has a touchscreen and a game launcher with emulator. Unlike the Pocket Flip, this one has passive heat dissipation, which doesn’t fully cool your device. However, it’s still worth a try since it’s slightly more affordable than the Flip. Plus, with the Retroid Pocket 3+, you have color variants to choose from!

Pricing: $149

3. Playdate

yellow playdate

If you want an old-school gaming experience, check out Playdate! It’s reminiscent of the old Nintendo Gameboy devices. You can only play 8-bit games, but it’s still enjoyable! So far, you can play up to 24 games, which you can purchase on the official store. One advantage of this handheld device is storing it in your pocket! Plus, it has a pull-out analog controller from the side to help characters move and do other actions on selected games!

Pricing: $199

4. Anbernic RG552

gray anbernic

Here’s another option to consider if you want old-school-style gaming devices. Anbernic has various models and gaming models to choose from! Most devices are compatible with emulators, allowing you to play games from the past. 

But if you want their state-of-the-art device under $300, you can buy the Anbernic RG552. This device has Linux and Android systems, allowing you to play simulators, Android games, and other simulators! Plus, you can expand the storage to play more games.

Pricing: $226.99

5. Analogue

white analogue

Here’s another device paying homage to the old Game Boy models. Their Analogue Pocket model is compatible with your beloved Game Boy games! You can stick a cartridge and play like the old days. Unlike other devices on this list, they don’t have emulators.

Despite the 8-bit gaming style, it boasts a high-res screen (1600×1440). Plus, the Pocket is protected by Gorilla Glass, too! However, Analogue isn’t just a gaming system. You can also create music and connect it to your other devices! Additionally, they have a multi-player option, letting you play with your friends!

Pricing: $249.99

6. Powkiddy Max2

pink powkiddy

If you also want to select from various models, Powkiddy also offers them to avid gamers like you! Powkiddy has designs that will remind older gamers of their child. Meanwhile, their devices could also be great to let kids know about handheld gaming devices.

Most of their handheld gaming designs have smaller screens but can accommodate simulators. Additionally, some of their handheld devices have a fast-charging option, allowing you to play games for four hours, even on an hour’s charge. But you have to go with one of their bestsellers, the Max 2.

It has an ergonomic grip, providing comfort when you play for long. It’s compatible with various simulators. Plus, it’s expandable to 128 GB.

Pricing: starts at $154.99

7. Ayn Odin Lite

white ayn odin lite

The Odin Lite is the affordable option of their flagship, Odin. However, it’s still a powerful handheld gaming device. You can customize the game launcher and set the screen mapping. Additionally, you can have fun playing your favorite online games from the Xbox and PS5 with integrated gaming apps to bring them anywhere. Finally, you have two options when buying the Odin Lite: the 4+64GB model or the 6+128GB version.

Pricing: starts at $237

8. Nintendo Switch Lite

turquoise nintendo switch

Nintendo Switch Lite is a must-have for gamers who grew up playing the Nintendo consoles. Even if you didn’t play the original Nintendo games as a child, it’s also one of the best handheld gaming devices under $300, especially if you want to play various games with friends. You can browse their library with thousands of games compatible with the Switch Lite. Moreover, you can get the latest updates and store screenshots to share with friends.

Pricing: $199

9. Portal Retro

white portal retro

Pimax also has a handheld gaming device under $300. They specialize in VR gaming, but if you don’t need it, the Portal Retro is the best device. It’s decent with an LCD 2K screen and is lightweight, weighing around 306 grams. Plus, it has a storage capacity of 128 GB with 8GB memory.

Pricing: $299

10. Evercade EXP

white evercade

The Evercade EXP is another handheld gaming device to consider, especially if you’re a fan of cartridge-based gaming systems. This is the best gaming console for Capcom fans since it has 18 built-in games from the video game company. However, it’s not only 8-bit games you can play. In fact, you can also play 3D games with this device! Plus, you can turn it vertically for games meant for vertical gaming. Finally, you can play for up to 5 hours and have 4GB built-in RAM.

Pricing: $149

Final Thoughts

Nintendo’s handheld gaming consoles aren’t the only ones dominating the market. Your gaming experience can still be exciting when choosing any of these handheld gaming devices under $300. They provide value for money. Plus, some devices make you look back with nostalgia. Nevertheless, you have various options to choose from, considering some have 8-bit capabilities while others have RGB and 3D options!

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Gaming

Top 10 Handheld Gaming Devices in 2023

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nintendo switch

Don’t lose your gaming progress when you’re out and about or nowhere near your PC. Use a handheld gaming device to play anytime and anywhere. Check out selections for the best handheld gaming devices in 2023!

1. Nintendo Switch

white nintendo switch oled

Nothing beats the good ol’ reliable Nintendo Switch. It’s one of the best handheld gaming devices in 2023 and beyond! You can choose from three models and gaming modes when playing.

The original Nintendo Switch and the OLED models have the following features:

  • Play modes – TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
  • Joy-con controllers available
  • Handheld device size
  • Battery life is 4.5 to 9 hours

However, the OLED model has a leg up over the original model since it has a LAN port and a bigger storage space (64GB).

Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch Lite is available handheld only with a 7-hour battery life.

If you’re buying the Nintendo Switch Lite, it doesn’t come with the Joy-con controllers. However, if you decide to buy the original or OLED models, you can customize your Joy-con controllers and bring them along with you.

As for buying games, you can buy a physical copy or buy online in the Nintendo store. However, not all games are compatible with the Nintendo Switch Lite.

2. Steam Deck

black steamdeck

The online game distribution service has also released its handheld gaming device, so you don’t have to stay on your PC all day.

The Steam Deck has three storage options with two screen types, two being OLED (512GB and 1TB) and the other one being LCD (256GB). It comes with an advanced AMD chip, allowing you to enjoy performance on the best online games on the market. 

The service guarantees faster downloads on your handheld gaming device, so there are fewer wait times! Plus, you don’t have to worry about overheating it since it has a fan to cool the device during gameplay. Finally, the trackpads provide comfort, so your hands don’t strain all day long!

3. Logitech

white logitech game cloud

Logitech is no longer just a computer peripherals company. It has also tapped the gaming market with the Cloud Handheld Gaming device. This is ideal for multi-console gamers since they integrate the Xbox and Steam Link apps without losing gameplay on any consoles. 

Like other handheld gaming devices on the list, you can play AAA games without fail or delay. Play anytime, anywhere, without losing progress! You could also play it for up to 12 hours if you keep it under optimal conditions (50% battery and brightness). It has an internal 64 GB storage, but you can expand it to add more games! Plus, it comes with the state-of-the-art Quantum Snapdragon 720G chip and boasts an Octa-core CPU!

4. ONEXPLAYER

black onexplayer

If you’re looking for a Windows-operated handheld gaming device, ONEXPLAYER is one of the best options for avid gamers. ONEXPLAYER offers three different devices:

  • ONEXPLAYER 2 Pro
  • ONEXPLAYER MINI PRO
  • ONEXFly

The MINI PRO comes in three models with the processor being different. This model offers affordable options among the others. However, if you want more than just a gaming device, The 2 Pro model will also help you get work done! Finally, the ONEXFly promises performance and personalization to help you get the most out of this device.

It’s one of the most expensive handheld gaming devices on this list, but if you want a supercharged gaming experience, investing in this isn’t a bad idea.

5. GPD

gpd handheld

If you want various gaming device options from one company, GPD should be on your radar. One notable feature of this device and its models is the attached keypad. This allows you to browse the internet and play games without switching devices. Additionally, you can dock your GPD device to a computer for enhanced gameplay.

Like ONEXPLAYER, GPD is on the expensive side. However, you can opt for the Android-powered modular device to play your favorite games anywhere for a cheaper price.

6. Pimax Portal

gray pimax

Are you looking for an all-in-one 4K and VR handheld device? Pimax Portal devices should be on your list! The Portal boasts 4K LCD screens on two devices. On the other hand, the QLED has additional MiniLED lighting, providing better contrast and color to your gaming experience. The storage space is at a maximum of 256GB for the Portal and Portal QLED devices.

You can play games supported by cloud, Android, and VR games. Plus, go back to your childhood to play retro games!

7. Ayn

black ayn odin

Ayn is a gaming device that resembles other handhelds on this list. However, it packs a punch with the processor and the operating system. One advantage of Ayn over some devices listed here is customization. Plus, their flagship, Loki MAX, can store up to 512GB worth of games, making it the most expensive device in their catalog. 

However, there are cheaper Loki models. Plus, you can also consider the Odin models with the same capabilities as the Loki MAX, but the processor makes it two distinct models.

8. Ayaneo

white ayaneo pocket air

Do you want diverse options on how you want your handheld gaming device to appear? Ayaneo has you covered with various models. They have five models, with some having variations.

All Ayaneo models are powered by AMD Ryzen, the best of the best in gaming processors, except for the Pocket AIR. You can check out the various models and see for yourself which is the best handheld device that fits your needs.

9. Evercade

white evercade

Evercade will take you down memory lane because this is a nostalgic handheld gaming device on this list. You insert cartridges, similar to old Gameboy models. It doesn’t have high-resolution screens, but it’s an ideal device for those who want to relive their childhood by playing games. You can play over 300+ games that will transport you back in time.

10. ASUS ROG Ally

white asus rog ally

The ASUS ROG Ally is another Windows-operated handheld gaming device that will enhance your gaming experience and let you play all day long. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about playing hours, considering they have an ergonomic playing set-up. 

One advantage of ASUS ROG Ally over other handhelds on this list is you can connect it to your TV and play multiplayer games with friends and loved ones! Or, you can even plug it into your computer for an even better experience. Finally, you can play games from Epic, Xbox, Steam, GOG, and other major publishers to get updated with the latest games.

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Technology

Top 10 Digital Cameras for Beginners

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While digital cameras are fairly easy to use, finding one suitable for beginners is still a good recommendation. If you’re in the dark about where to find them, here is a list of the best digital cameras for beginners:

1. KODAK SMILE Instant Print Digital Camera

red kodak camera

Small and lightweight, the Kodak Smile Instant Print digital camera is ideal for those new to photography. It lets you shoot good-quality photos in daylight and bright scenes. It has a controllable or automatic flash, focus, and exposure, making shooting easy for first-time photographers. 

The Kodak Smile Classic has a sliding mechanism that turns it on and opens the lens and the controls. It has four filters: normal, vintage, monochrome, and aqua. Its prints are good enough to practice on as its quality isn’t for professional use.

2. Fujifilm FinePix XP140

yellow fujifilm camera

An excellent option for beginners, the Fujifilm FinePix XP140 will also see you through as you get more experienced taking photos. It is ruggedly built as it is waterproof, freezeproof, shockproof, and dustproof. It features a 5x optical zoom and 4K movie recording capabilities.

This digital camera has a 16.4 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor that lets you shoot images underwater or in low light settings. Its advanced SR auto mode automatically optimizes the settings as it detects the subject. Its battery allows for up to 240 images on a single charge. 

3. Ricoh GR IIIx

black ricoh camera

Small enough to fit in your pocket, the Ricoh GR IIIx is another great option for beginners. If you want to move forward with your photography journey, this camera is the ideal choice. It is simple for beginners but has advanced features that professionals can appreciate.

Its intuitive design will train you to use manual controls and produce high-quality images with its large APS-C sensor. This camera is perfect for street photography and casual walking as it does not feature weather sealing. Its built-in stabilizer and ND filter make it a good choice for landscape and travel photography.

4. Nikon D3500

black nikon camera

Described as similar to shooting with your phone’s camera, the Nikon D3500 suits beginners wanting to become pros. It has a Guide Mode that you can turn on for simple on-screen guidance. It has an auto mode feature that delivers fantastic results, whatever the situation is. 

The D3500 has simple controls that won’t confuse newbies. You can just point, shoot, and, voila, pictures ready for sharing! You can download Nikon’s SnapBridge app to get your images to instantly appear on your smartphone or tablet. 

5. Sony W800 Compact Camera

black sony camera

One of Sony’s most affordable digital cameras is the W800. At around $99, this camera is ideal for beginners because of its basic features and small and lightweight build. However, it has an impressive auto mode, several scene modes, panoramic shooting, and an ‘Easy’ mode that enlarges the icons to make it even easier to use. It has a 5x zoom lens, a 20mp CCD sensor, and a maximum video recording resolution of 720p (1280×720 pixels).

This budget option from Sony does not have some of the advanced features of other models, but it still has features not found on most smartphone cameras. 

6. GoPro Hero10 Black

black go pro

A good action camera, the GoPro Hero10 Black is another excellent option for those new to the photography scene. It has a user-friendly interface and easy-to-navigate menus that quickly prepare you for those once-in-a-lifetime shots. It has slow-mo frame rates and small image quality, making it a perfect camera for b-roll footage and outdoor adventures. 

It has a 23MP 1/2.3 inch sensor and is waterproof for up to 10 meters, thanks to its hardier lens cover and water-repelling coat. Its small and compact size is excellent for helmet mounting. 

7. Leica SOFORT 2

red leica camera

Designed to be easy to use, the Leica SOFORT 2 is a hybrid camera that looks stylish and sophisticated. It can take instant film pictures, so this is a great way to learn if you want to experience loading film to your camera. It lets you save images permanently through the Leica Fotos app.

The SOFORT 2 has a 1/5-in CMOS sensor and a printer that uses Fujifilm’s Instax Mini prints. It is equipped with a very thin pancake lens that is ideal for shooting wide-angle street scenes and pictures of large groups. It also has a second shutter button for quick and easy selfies.

8. Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS25

orange panasonic digital camera

If you’re a beginner who wants to take pictures in wet and dirty conditions, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS25 digital camera is your best bet. It has a dustproof, shockproof, freezeproof, and waterproof compact and portable build. It has a 25-100 mm F3.9-5.7 4× zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f3.90 at 25mm. 

The TS25 has optical image stabilizers ideal for low shutter speed scenarios. Its proprietary battery will give you a battery life of up to 250 shots. It also lets you record videos at a resolution of 1280 x 720 at 30 fps and save them in MPEG-4 formats.

9. Sigma fpL

black sigma camera

A high-resolution, compact, full-frame camera, the Sigma fpL is a user-oriented camera that is easy and fun to use. It has a flexible, adaptable, and lightweight build. It comes with a 61MP BSI-CMOS full-frame sensor, an on-sensor phase detector, a full-time silent electronic shutter, and twin control dials.

The fpL is packed with features that can be good if you don’t want to upgrade once you become more experienced in photography. It is well-equipped with features that allow you to record high-quality videos.

10. DJI Osmo Action 3

gray dji camera

An excellent action camera, the DJI Osmo Action 3 has a rugged build quality ideal for shooting outdoors. It has horizontal and vertical mounting, front and rear parameter and playback controls, and a full-color touchscreen to take fast-action images. It has a wide field of view, long battery life, and is waterproof for up to 16m.

The Osmo Action 3 offers solid low-light performance, 4k resolution video recording capabilities, and color temperature calibration. It is also cold-resistant to up to -20° C (-4° F).

Conclusion

Starting your photography journey is easy with these top cameras for beginners. With the many options out there, finding the right one can be a tedious task. This list narrows down your options and helps you make an informed decision.

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