Ah. April Fools Day. This is the day publishers like The verge have to second guess every tip or news story that lands in their Gmail inbox. Deals are rarely as they seem. Today’s Apple sixth-gen iPad Mini discount is matching its record low of $399.99 (100%) at Amazon. It comes in 64GB configuration with Wi Fi
Dan Seifert, my colleague, recently praised Apple’s new iPad Mini as one the best tablets to read. But it can do a lot more than simply reading the latest BookTok craze (spoiler: it’s still Colleen Hover). This tablet is basically a smaller version of the iPad Air, but it has an 8.3-inch screen which makes it easier to hold than its 10.9-inch counterpart. The 2021 Mini also features a USB-C port and a fast A15 Bionic chip. It is compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which is something that Apple’s lowest-priced tablet has yet to offer.
Apple’s iPad Mini has been redesigned to remove the home button. Instead, it features a wider edge-to-edge display. It features a faster processor and USB-C support. The top-mounted power button doubles as a Touch ID sensor.
There have been many earbud deals in the last few weeks. These range from Google’s Pixel A-Series ( currently $79 to Jabra’s Elite 3 ( now under $60). We think the Sony WF-1000XM4 discount of $82 is the best. They are now $198 at Amazon or Best Buy. The XM4 features wireless charging, noise cancellation almost as good as Bose’s, and warm sound that delights in the low frequencies. Our biggest complaint about the flagship Sony model is now officially resolved by Sony.
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Sony’s WF1000XM4 has excellent noise cancellation and a lively, enjoyable sound quality. They are a top pick overall because they offer wireless charging and additional features such as LDAC support.
The Google Pixel 6A is still one of the most affordable smartphones on the market. You can get it in an unlocked configuration starting at $299 (150 off), from Amazon and Target. Best Buy also has an option. The retailer offers an additional $50 discount when you activate your device on any of the three major carriers: AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon.
The Pixel 6A has been a popular choice because Google keeps lowering its price. It offers great value for money, despite having a somewhat dated camera system and the same Google Tensor processing power as the Pixel6. The phone’s 6.1 inch display feels very friendly to . The Pixel 7A will likely make its debut next month at Google I/O, but the 6A is still a great deal at the current promotional price.
Google’s Pixel 6A has a 6.1-inch OLED display, but it is a great performer with a high camera and long battery life.
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The Era 100 smart speaker from Sonos might be the default choice for many, but there are cheaper options for those who want to get into smart home without spending $249. Amazon’s fourth generation Echo can be purchased at Amazon and Best Buy for $64.99 (25 percent off).
Although the sound quality isn’t as good as a high-end speaker, it sounds remarkable. There’s a lot of stereo separation, and a great deal of bass for such a small size. The Echo also includes all the Alexa-based smarts that we have come to associate with Echo devices. A recent OTA update added the ability to serve as an Eero mesh Wi Fi extender .
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The new Echo is a spherical design and has better sound quality than its predecessor.
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Other weekend highlights
- The spring season is upon us, and the Ranger Essential bundle 2.0is is on sale now for $195 ($230). Solo Stove’s 15-inch fire pit is one their most portable models, but it comes with a carry case and an ashtray so cleanup is easy.
- Amazon is offering 25 percent off top-tier Pro6E mesh Wi-Fi routers A single router is available for $186.99 ($63 discount), a 2-pack for $299.99 ($100 savings), and a 3-pack for $411.99 ($138 reduction). These routers are Wi-Fi 6E capable and can run at speeds up to 1.3Gbps in a 6GHz band. This allows for less network congestion on devices supporting it. Read our review.
- Eneba currently offers a $100 Apple gift certificate for $84.99 (or $15 off) by using the offer code 100Tunes during checkout. These digital gift cards are called iTunes gift cards and can be used for just about any Apple product, including apps, hardware, and subscriptions.
- The 8BitDo Ultimate Wired Controller For Xbox and Computer is on sale for $24.99 (or $20 off) at Woot. Although the USB cable is not removable, it is a high-quality controller that has two buttons at the rear and allows for software customization.
- The Sony InZone H3 is a wired gaming headset that offers decent sound quality, comfort, and value. It’s currently available at Amazon as well as Best Buy for $78. This is the lowest price we’ve seen for a low-end headset.
- Garmin’s inReach Mini currently on sale at Amazon for $269.99 ($80) . This is its second-best selling price. This rugged, two-way satellite communicator makes a great companion for hikers and backpackers. It allows you to send text messages to loved ones, or anyone else, even if you aren’t within range of your phone.
