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#383a42;line-height:80px;position:relative;z-index:2;font-weight:600}.c-siteAccordionMenu.c-sitePrimaryMenu_subNav{position:fixed;top:0;bottom:0}.c-siteAccordionMenu_content{width:100%;max-height:100%;overflow:auto}.c-siteAccordionMenu_content::after{content:"";padding-bottom:2rem;display:block}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section .c-siteAccordionMenu_item{opacity:0;visibility:hidden;max-height:0;line-height:20px;margin:0;transition:opacity .3s ease,max-height .3s .3s ease,margin .3s .3s ease,visibility 0s .3s}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section.is-expanded{border-bottom:1px solid #383a42}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section.is-expanded .c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle>svg{transform:rotateX(180deg)}.c-siteAccordionMenu_section.is-expanded .c-siteAccordionMenu_item{visibility:visible;max-height:80px;margin:2rem 0;opacity:1;transition:opacity .3s .3s ease,max-height .3s ease,margin .3s ease}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item{color:#fff;font-size:13px;padding:0 calc(2rem/2)}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item small{font-size:inherit;font-weight:400}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item small::before{content:" | "}.c-siteAccordionMenu_itemArrowIcon{width:15px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:5px;fill:#fff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item:hover{color:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_item:hover svg{fill:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_link{-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);display:block;color:inherit}.c-siteAccordionMenu_link:hover{color:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton{border-bottom:1px solid #383a42;line-height:46px;padding:0 calc(2rem/2);cursor:pointer;display:block;text-align:right;box-sizing:border-box;-webkit-tap-highlight-color:rgba(0,0,0,0)}.c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton>svg{width:17px;height:17px;fill:#fff;vertical-align:middle}.c-siteAccordionMenu_closeButton:hover>svg{fill:#3f8eff}.c-siteAccordionMenu_sectionToggle{position:relative;border-bottom:1px solid #383a42;padding:0 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.c-dynamicHeader_title{font-size:3rem;line-height:3.25rem;margin:0;padding:0;text-transform:initial;border:none}@media(max-width: 767px){.c-dynamicHeader_title{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.75rem}}.c-dynamicHeader_desc{width:65%}@media(max-width: 767px){.c-dynamicHeader_desc{width:100%}} .c-listingCarouselHorizontal{border-top:1px solid #080a12}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal{width:100%}}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator{width:100%;height:4.8px;display:block;position:relative;background:#fff;overflow:hidden}}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator::after{content:""}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingCarouselHorizontal_loadingIndicator::after{box-sizing:border-box;width:0;height:4.8px;background:#d0ff4b;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;animation:animFw 10s linear infinite}}@keyframes animFw{0%{width:0}100%{width:100%}}.c-listingCarouselHorizontal 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.VueCarousel-inner--center { justify-content: center; } .VueCarousel-slide { flex-basis: inherit; flex-grow: 0; flex-shrink: 0; user-select: none; backface-visibility: hidden; -webkit-touch-callout: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); outline: none; } .VueCarousel-slide-adjustableHeight { display: table; flex-basis: auto; width: 100%; } .c-cmsImage{display:block;width:100%;background:rgba(0,0,0,.05)}.c-cmsImage img{display:block;width:100%;height:auto}.c-cmsImage img[src=""]{visibility:hidden} .c-dynamicListing_listing h3{margin:0}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-dynamicListing_listing h3{margin:0 0 1.5rem}} .c-listingLatest{position:relative}.c-listingLatest_heading{margin:.5rem 0 0 0}.c-listingLatest_item{padding:1rem 0;border-bottom:1px solid #e1e0e3}.c-listingLatest_item:nth-child(9){border-bottom:none}.c-listingLatest_itemLink{display:block;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem;color:#080a12;font-weight:600}.c-listingLatest_itemLink:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingLatest_pubDate{font-size:.813rem;color:#505259}.c-listingLatest .c-listingLatest_showAll{margin-bottom:1.5rem;margin-right:0}.c-listingLatest .c-listingLatest_showAll svg{display:inline-block;width:15px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:10px}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingLatest_heading{margin:1.5rem 0}.c-listingLatest_item{padding:1.5rem 0}.c-listingLatest_item:nth-child(1){padding-top:0}} .c-listingFiveStory_heading{grid-gap:1.25rem}.c-listingFiveStory_heading .c-sectionHeading{border:none;margin-bottom:.5rem}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingFiveStory_heading .c-sectionHeading{margin-bottom:1.5rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_titleWrapper{grid-gap:0;margin-bottom:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingFiveStory_titleWrapper{flex-direction:row;align-items:center;grid-gap:1.25rem;margin-bottom:0}}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll{margin-left:auto;font-size:.813rem;font-weight:400;color:#080a12;grid-gap:.25rem}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll-topic{display:none}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll-topic{display:inline}}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll svg{width:1rem;aspect-ratio:1}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingFiveStory_seeAll:hover svg{fill:#0058d5}.c-listingFiveStory_container{margin-bottom:1.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_container{flex-direction:row;gap:0 1.5rem;margin-bottom:2rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_first-item-container,.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{width:100%}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_first-item-container,.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{width:50%}}.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{display:grid;gap:1rem;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_additional-items-container{gap:1.5rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_image{display:block;width:100%}.c-listingFiveStory_item{position:relative;color:#080a12;flex-direction:column}.c-listingFiveStory_item span{color:inherit;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.375rem;margin-bottom:0}.c-listingFiveStory_item--first span{margin-bottom:.5rem}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingFiveStory_item--first span{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:2.275rem}}.c-listingFiveStory_item:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingFiveStory_item:hover img{opacity:.8} .c-listingDefault_itemLink{color:#080a12}.c-listingDefault_author,.c-listingDefault_topic{color:#080a12}.c-listingDefault_author:hover,.c-listingDefault_topic:hover{color:#0058d5}.c-listingDefault .u-grid-columns{grid-template-columns:1fr 4fr}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingDefault .u-grid-columns{grid-template-columns:2fr 4fr}}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingDefault_title{font-size:1.375rem;line-height:1.75rem;padding-top:5px}}.c-listingDefault_description{display:none;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;overflow:hidden;color:#080a12}@media(min-width: 768px){.c-listingDefault_description{display:-webkit-box}}.c-listingDefault_itemImage{margin-top:5px}.c-listingDefault_item:hover .c-listingDefault_itemImage{opacity:.9}.c-listingDefault_item:hover .c-listingDefault_title{color:#0058d5}.c-listingDefault_pubDate:hover{color:#080a12} .c-loadMoreButton_svg{display:inline-block}.c-loadMoreButton_svg svg{display:inline-block;width:15px;height:13px;vertical-align:middle;margin-left:10px;transform:rotate(90deg)}.c-loadMoreButton_link{height:64px;display:flex;justify-content:center;align-items:center;margin:auto;max-width:416px;width:100%}.c-loadMoreButton_text{display:inline-block} .c-globalSticky{display:initial;overflow:initial;flex:1;margin-bottom:calc(var(--mpu-margin-bottom, 0)*1px)}.c-globalSticky:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.c-globalSticky:nth-child(1 of .c-globalSticky){padding-top:calc(var(--first-elem-padding-top, 0)*1px)}.c-globalSticky_element{position:sticky;top:calc(var(--toc-height, 200px) + var(--toc-top-margin-sticky, 0px) + 32px)} .c-siteFooter{z-index:1;position:relative;background:#20222a;overflow:hidden}.c-siteFooter .c-siteFooter_background{width:0}.c-siteFooter .c-siteFooter_background img[src=""]{opacity:0}.c-siteFooter .c-siteFooter_background img{transition:opacity 1s ease;opacity:1;object-fit:cover;position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;left:0;top:0}@media(min-width: 1024px){.c-siteFooter{padding:0 3rem 3rem 3rem}}.c-siteFooter_container{position:relative}.c-siteFooter_logoLink{display:block}.c-siteFooter_logo{left:50%;margin-left:-50vw;right:50%;margin-right:-50vw;max-width:100vw;position:relative;width:100vw;fill:#fff;aspect-ratio:814/150}@media(min-width: 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href="/article/the-biggest-challenge-with-increased-cybersecurity-attacks-according-to-analysts/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> The biggest challenge with increased cybersecurity attacks, according to analysts </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> It's time for organizations to wake up to the cyber threat as new vectors, including generative AI, increase in importance. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 year ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/eileen-yu/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Eileen Yu </a> in <a href="/topic/security/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Security </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/microsoft-inks-pact-to-train-singapore-smbs-in-ai/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="AI fusing a block together" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/microsoft-inks-pact-to-train-singapore-smbs-in-ai/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Microsoft inks pact to train Singapore SMBs in AI </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> The tech giant is working with government agencies to help 2,000 smaller businesses adopt AI tools, including Copilot. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 year ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/eileen-yu/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Eileen Yu </a> in <a href="/topic/artificial-intelligence/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Artificial Intelligence </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/ai-leaders-urged-to-integrate-local-data-models-for-diversitys-sake/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="global-data-gettyimages-1337196402" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/ai-leaders-urged-to-integrate-local-data-models-for-diversitys-sake/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> AI leaders urged to integrate local data models for diversity's sake </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> Incorporating the SEA-LION large language model, for instance, will help ensure Gen AI-generated responses more accurately reflect the Southeast Asian population. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 year ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/eileen-yu/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Eileen Yu </a> in <a href="/topic/artificial-intelligence/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Artificial Intelligence </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/linuxone-4-express-how-ibms-budget-mainframe-could-be-right-for-you/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="ibm-linux-main-screenshot-2024-02-12-111312" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div 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class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/singapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="man-ai-gettyimages-1337227407" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/singapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Singapore SMBs offered handbook on training their workforce for GenAI </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> The resource guide includes use cases on how to incorporate generative artificial intelligence and acquire the skillsets to support such initiatives. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 year ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/eileen-yu/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Eileen Yu </a> in <a href="/topic/artificial-intelligence/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Artificial Intelligence </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/singapore-urged-to-fund-support-for-ai-adoption-and-decarbonization/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="Singapore government buildings" width="306" height="172" fetchpriority="low"></picture></div></a> <div class="c-listingDefault_itemContent"><a href="/article/singapore-urged-to-fund-support-for-ai-adoption-and-decarbonization/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><h3 class="c-listingDefault_title g-text-small-bold g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall"> Singapore urged to fund support for AI adoption and decarbonization </h3> <span class="c-listingDefault_description g-text-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-small"> A new report calls on the Singapore government to provide financial support that will help companies accelerate their digital transformation and sustainability programs. </span></a> <div class="g-text-xxsmall c-listingDefault_meta"><span class="c-listingDefault_pubDate">1 year ago</span> by <a href="/meet-the-team/eileen-yu/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_author"> Eileen Yu </a> in <a href="/topic/digital-transformation/" class="g-text-bold c-listingDefault_topic"> Digital Transformation </a></div></div></div> </div><div class="c-listingDefault_item g-outer-spacing-bottom-large"><div class="u-grid-columns"><a href="/article/generative-ai-by-istock-lets-users-create-commercially-safe-images/" class="c-listingDefault_itemLink"><div class="c-listingDefault_itemImage"><picture class="c-cmsImage" style="aspect-ratio:306/172;"> <img src alt="istock-ai" 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companies are rewriting tech buying rules with a penchant for the cloud."}},{id:"232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87",meta:{componentName:"232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87",componentDisplayName:"Product Research",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=232d4b76-a7b3-43f7-8729-bb376f425c87"}},items:[{author:{id:"35e7efdb-10d7-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Mark Samuels",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Mark",lastName:"Samuels",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"a31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57",filename:"marksamuels.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-11-18 11:27:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F11\u002F18\u002Fa31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57\u002Fmarksamuels.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Mark Samuels is a business journalist specialising in IT leadership issues. Formerly editor at CIO Connect and features editor of Computing, he has written for various organisations, including the Economist Intelligence Unit, The Guardian, The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Higher Education.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003ECRM software can be just what a growing small to mid-sized business (SMB) needs. If you want to make the most of your sales pipeline, then customer relationship management software allows your firm to monitor customer interactions, track deal progress, and analyze financial performance. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom marketing automation to advanced analytics, CRM tools include a range of features tailored toward small business buyers. Most of the providers that offer CRM solutions allow a free trial of their products. Some even offer 'free-for-life' versions of their products. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPaid-for versions of these cloud-based CRM tools come with increasingly advanced features and allow SMBs to manage a large number of sales contacts. Here are some of the main CRM solutions available to SMBs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fb296fec-5302-4a89-92c2-79502e658e88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECapsule CRM describes itself as "Simple yet powerful CRM". That's a big plus for SMBs that are looking to give their sales teams \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fit-executives-take-a-more-modular-approach-to-crm-software\u002F"\u003Ethe benefits of CRM software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E without an overly technical approach. What's more, the company says it has spent the past 12 months \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcapsulecrm.com\u002Fblog\u002Fcapsule-2020-what-we-shipped\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Edeveloping new features\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, including for filtering, nofications and reports.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECapsule CRM makes it easy to track and trace opportunities and a starter version of the CRM solution, with basic features for up to two users and room for 250 sales contacts, is available for free. Both the Professional version of the software ($18 per user per month), which allows 50,000 sales contacts and 10GB storage per user, and the Teams version of the software ($36 per user per month), which allows 100,000 sales contacts and 20GB storage per user, can be trialed free for 30 days.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECapsule CRM includes \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcapsulecrm.com\u002Ffeatures\u002Ftasks-and-calendar\u002F"\u003Estraightforward contact management features\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, allowing sales staff to segment their audiences. The CRM solution includes strong customization and personalization. Advanced sales reporting is an additional feature in the Teams version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Capsule CRM\" data-superlative=\"Simple yet powerful\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"capsule.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"68f596d7-582a-4e53-be17-989288d07958","title":"capsule-best-crm","filename":"capsule-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F68f596d7-582a-4e53-be17-989288d07958\u002Fcapsule-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":450499,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:03:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:03:41","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"capsule-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"68f596d7-582a-4e53-be17-989288d07958","imageAltText":"capsule.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"capsule-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Capsule CRM","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fcapsulecrm.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fcapsulecrm.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ae977ef3-1bbf-4880-b804-afe61a0e1c7f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESalesmate CRM boasts that it powers 4,000 sales teams across 70 countries, and its software offers an intuitive approach to customer relationship management. The company says&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsalesforce-updates-sales-cloud-with-ai-based-productivity-features\u002F"\u003Eits smart features use analytics and integrations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to save your business time at all stages of the sales cycle. Salesmate CRM intergates with more than 700 business apps. It can be trialed free for 15 days.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesmate.io\u002Fpricing\u002F"\u003EStarter subscription for Salesmate CRM\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;costs $12 per month on an annual basis and the price rises to $15 per month if you pay monthly. The same is true for the Growth plan, which is a version of the CRM solution that is set up for growing teams -- subscription costs here are $24 per month on an annual subscription and $30 per month if you pay monthly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESalesmate refreshes its offering regularly. It recently made what it refers to as "\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesmate.io\u002Fblog\u002Fjuly-2021-updates\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esmall but valuable updates\u003C\u002Fa\u003E" that aim to increase sales team efficiency. Customers can benefit from smoother ways to deal with both emails and chat. If you want to learn more about how to make the most of Salesmate CRM, you can also \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fapp.livestorm.co\u002Fsalesmate\u002Fsalesmate-weekly-product-webinar?type=detailed" target="_blank"\u003Ejoin a weekly product webinar\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESalesmate CRM offers strong features for sales pipeline and contact management. The Growth version of the software also includes some unique elements. These features include goal management for tracking the sales pipeline; email reminders, schedulers and metrics; and custom reports and analytics for checking sales results.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Salesmate CRM\" data-superlative=\"Analytics and integrations\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"salesmate.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"fba182be-fba8-42b8-b681-fb6437042042","title":"salesmate-best-crm","filename":"salesmate-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002Ffba182be-fba8-42b8-b681-fb6437042042\u002Fsalesmate-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":538056,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:03:55","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:03:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"salesmate-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"fba182be-fba8-42b8-b681-fb6437042042","imageAltText":"salesmate.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"salesmate-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Salesmate CRM","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesmate.io\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesmate.io\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"29333969-6657-488e-bfd7-558afe5c66a9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Dynamics 365 is a broad suite of cloud-based tools. The software giant offers versions of the tool for all manner of departments, from sales through to commerce and HR.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to CRM, Microsoft says Dynamics 365 can help sales and marketing teams to&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnet.com\u002Fhow-to\u002Fis-crm-essential-for-your-small-business-probably\u002F"\u003Ecreate seamless customer experiences\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;through marketing automation, shared data, and connected business processes. Microsoft says Dynamics 365 for CRM works as a customizable, flexible service. SMBs can choose a stand-alone application to meet the needs of a specific line of business, or use multiple CRM tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft Dynamics 365 boasts some big-name customers and the tool is highly rated by market analysts, including Gartner, which positions Microsoft in the Leaders Quadrant of its CRM Magic Quadrant. Microsoft also understands how the world of work changed recently, and has made it possible for anyone in an organization to view and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcloudblogs.microsoft.com\u002Fdynamics365\u002Fbdm\u002F2021\u002F07\u002F14\u002Fbring-dynamics-365-into-the-flow-of-work-with-teams-at-no-additional-cost\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ecollaborate on Dynamics 365 records within the Teams platform\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft offers&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fus-partner-blog\u002F2020\u002F01\u002F29\u002Fgame-changing-productivity-with-microsoft-office-365-and-microsoft-dynamics-365-sales\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea huge range of pricing options\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;that vary according to business function and number of users. Price per month for the Dynamics 365 app starts from $65 for the first sales professional user; subsequent sales users can expect to pay $20.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Microsoft Dynamics 365\" data-superlative=\"Huge range of pricing options\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"dynamics365pricingchanges.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Credit: Microsoft","imageData":{"id":"8a7200aa-a13d-4654-807d-b5074fa17eef","title":"dynamics365pricingchanges-best-crm","filename":"dynamics365pricingchanges-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F8a7200aa-a13d-4654-807d-b5074fa17eef\u002Fdynamics365pricingchanges-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":424317,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:11","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"dynamics365pricingchanges-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"8a7200aa-a13d-4654-807d-b5074fa17eef","imageAltText":"dynamics365pricingchanges.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Credit: Microsoft","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dynamics365pricingchanges-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Credit: Microsoft\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Microsoft Dynamics 365","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"632fc8a6-7972-4b0f-a861-a4d513ade2d5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFrom lead generation to scoring and conversion, Zoho says its CRM software allows SMB sales teams to focus their efforts remotely on the hottest leads. The&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.techrepublic.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-connect-zoho-docs-to-your-google-drive-account\u002F"\u003Ecloud-based CRM is maintained by Zoho\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, rather than being run on-premise. And instead of requiring many customizations, Zoho says SMBs can dive into its CRM software quickly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company says it boasts more than 50 million users for its products globally, with Zoho CRM used by a global network of more than 250,000 businesses in 180 countries. The company offers a 15-day trial and a free edition of its CRM product for up to three users. Standard pricing&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zoho.com\u002Fcrm\u002Fzohocrm-pricing.html"\u003Estarts at $14 per user per month\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, if billed annually.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENucleus Research has named Zoho as a leader in the CRM Technology space, recognizing its ability to drive long-term value for businesses. Gartner, meanwhile, has named Zoho CRM as a visionary for its robust solution, exceptional customer experience, and increased market presence.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFeatures include, Sales Force Automation, which allows staff to automate routine sales, marketing, and support functions, and SalesSignals, which sends customer-facing teams real-time notifications when a customer interacts with your company on social media. Zoho CRM works with other popular products, including G Suite, Office 365, MailChimp, and Dropbox.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Zoho\" data-superlative=\"Cloud-based CRM\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"zoho.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"ddcadd67-5bc5-4497-9b8b-c94a0094126b","title":"zoho-best-crm","filename":"zoho-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002Fddcadd67-5bc5-4497-9b8b-c94a0094126b\u002Fzoho-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":361062,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:26","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"zoho-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"ddcadd67-5bc5-4497-9b8b-c94a0094126b","imageAltText":"zoho.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"zoho-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Zoho","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zoho.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zoho.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"bfeece9f-5766-4433-b197-81ce574d03dd\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOne of the key benefits of using Salesforce is that you're using a popular, well-known product.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesforce.com\u002Fsolutions\u002Fsmall-business-solutions\u002Foverview\u002F"\u003EThe firm refers to researcher IDC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, who suggests Salesforce is the "world's most trusted solution and #1 CRM". Over 150,000 companies, both big and small, use Salesforce.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESalesforce's CRM platform gives users across all departments — including marketing, sales, commerce, and service — a single,&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.techrepublic.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-salesforces-einstein-call-coaching-uses-ai-to-help-sales-reps-be-top-performers\u002F"\u003Eshared view of every customer\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Salesforce&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesforce.com\u002Fsolutions\u002Fsmall-business-solutions\u002Fpricing\u002F"\u003Eoffers a number of pricing options\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to SMBs. It's Essentials package, which is good for up to 10 users, is an all-in-one sales and support app that costs $25 per user per month, if billed annually.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIts Sales Professional and Service Professional solutions both cost $75 per user per month, if billed annually. The top option -- Pardot Growth -- offers a suite of marketing automation tools for any size team. The cost here is $1,250 a month, billed annually, for up to 10,000 contacts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Salesforce\" data-superlative=\"Shared view of every customer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"salesforce.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"df30a6b6-271b-431a-90bb-18388560cccf","title":"salesforce-best-crm","filename":"salesforce-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002Fdf30a6b6-271b-431a-90bb-18388560cccf\u002Fsalesforce-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":541171,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"salesforce-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"df30a6b6-271b-431a-90bb-18388560cccf","imageAltText":"salesforce.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"salesforce-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Salesforce","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesforce.com\u002Fsolutions\u002Fsmall-business-solutions\u002Fresources\u002Fquickbooks-crm-business-accounting-software\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesforce.com\u002Fsolutions\u002Fsmall-business-solutions\u002Fresources\u002Fquickbooks-crm-business-accounting-software\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7acec857-4c2c-4e35-9a8c-fff196891165\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAgile CRM says there are&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.agilecrm.com\u002F"\u003Ethree top reasons to use its product\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: it's all-in-one, next-generation, and affordable. The all-in-one nature of Agile CRM allows SMBs to manage sales, marketing, and service in one platform. One of the key benefits of Agile CRM is&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.agilecrm.com\u002Fmarketing-automation-software"\u003Eits Marketing Automation capability\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, allowing firms to run multiple campaigns in a timely manner.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.techrepublic.com\u002Farticle\u002F10-ways-adopting-agile-can-improve-business-performance\u002F"\u003Enext-generation definition of Agile CRM\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;comes from the fact it's a cloud-based service that the software firm says is "trusted" by more than 15,000 customers. As for the third main reason to choose Agile CRM -- affordability -- then&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.agilecrm.com\u002Fpricing"\u003Ethe tool is free for up to 10 users\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Development work continues: Agile CRM says it has added 20-plus applications to the service during the past few years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Free edition of Agile CRM, which is good for up to 10 users, can hold up to 50,000 contacts and includes email tracking. It's Starter product -- offering email campaigns, analytics, and marketing automation -- is $8.99 per user per month, so long as you sign up to a two-year deal. Monthly payment costs for Starter are $14.99. It's Regular (from $29.99 per month) and Enterprise products (from $47.99 per month) offer increasingly advanced features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Agile CRM\" data-superlative=\"Free for up to 10 users\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"agile.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"708c142d-45a1-4e16-84bf-24dc7a1623cf","title":"agile-best-crm","filename":"agile-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F708c142d-45a1-4e16-84bf-24dc7a1623cf\u002Fagile-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":346903,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:46","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:47","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"agile-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"708c142d-45a1-4e16-84bf-24dc7a1623cf","imageAltText":"agile.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"agile-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Agile CRM","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.agilecrm.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.agilecrm.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4e40e6ca-acf7-45c9-9dc5-341323edd001\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOne of&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.convergehub.com\u002Fabout-us"\u003EConvergeHub's core values as an organization\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is helping small businesses grow -- so the company should be well-suited to the CRM software demands of SMBs. ConvergeHub's cloud-based tool allows SMBs to manage sales, marketing, service, and billing from one platform.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company draws attention to its&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcloud-computing-employed-at-one-third-of-small-and-medium-businesses-study\u002F"\u003Eenterprise-grade features\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, including security. It's a scalable platform based on more tham 900,000 lines of code that includes advanced features, around sales pipeline management and workflow automation, that will help SMBs to keep track of deals in a secure manner.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECovergeHub Starter is&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.convergehub.com\u002Fpricing"\u003Epriced at $9 per user per month\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, if billed annually ($11 quarterly). The Pro edition is $29 per user per month, if billed annually ($35 quarterly), while Premium is $59 annually ($65 quarterly). Like other specialists, it also \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.convergehub.com\u002Fsignup" target="_blank"\u003Eoffers a free trial\u003C\u002Fa\u003E – this time for 14 days.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"ConvergeHub\" data-superlative=\"Enterprise-grade security\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"convergehub-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"39b2b598-cb98-4d88-9f20-a82a3dd7f447","title":"convergehub-best-crm","filename":"convergehub-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F39b2b598-cb98-4d88-9f20-a82a3dd7f447\u002Fconvergehub-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":379236,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:55","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:04:59","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"convergehub-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"39b2b598-cb98-4d88-9f20-a82a3dd7f447","imageAltText":"convergehub-3.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"convergehub-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"ConvergeHub","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.convergehub.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.convergehub.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f4bbc9cf-1978-4092-bafb-3b65a1d195e8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESugarCRM believes its&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnet.com\u002Fnews\u002Fthe-intersection-of-open-source-and-cloud-computing\u002F"\u003Esoftware allows sales teams\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to deliver more meaningful experiences. As well as awards from major publications, SugarCRM suggests proof of its success is the fact&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sugarcrm.com\u002Fuk\u002F"\u003Eits Net Promotor Score ranks higher\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;than its major competitors. The company was also \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sugarcrm.com\u002Fpress-releases\u002Fsugarcrm-named-a-leader-in-2021-nucleus-research-crm-value-matrix\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Erecently named a leader\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in the 2021 Nucleus Research CRM Value Matrix.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESugar CRM offers a range of plans for marketing, sales, and service teams. Professional&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sugarcrm.com\u002Fuk\u002Fpricing\u002F"\u003Estarts at $52 per user per month\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which is billed annually and for three users minimum. Sugar is designed to meet the needs of fast-growing small businesses. The firms' other plans range from $85 per user per month and include a range of additional features, such as advanced workflow, SQL reporting, and accelerated support services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company says more than two million users in 120 countries are using SugarCRM to -- in the company's words -- "fuel extraordinary customer experiences". Those experiences are powered by&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sugarcrm.com\u002Fpress-releases\u002Fsugar-integrate-cloud-based-integration-platform\u002F"\u003Ethe firm's commitment to innovation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, including the delivery of AI-based predictive insights, which is a feature that has been expanded during 2020 and 2021.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"SugarCRM\" data-superlative=\"Meaningful experiences\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sugarcrm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"9663b8a1-fecd-4bbd-bcdd-1016cf9f6511","title":"sugarcrm-best-crm","filename":"sugarcrm-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F9663b8a1-fecd-4bbd-bcdd-1016cf9f6511\u002Fsugarcrm-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":413520,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"sugarcrm-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9663b8a1-fecd-4bbd-bcdd-1016cf9f6511","imageAltText":"sugarcrm.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"sugarcrm-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"SugarCRM","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sugarcrm.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sugarcrm.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"efbdb8a3-5271-46f1-899a-4c2b32deb1d3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPipedrive started in 2010 and claims to have created "the first CRM platform made for salespeople, by salespeople". Pipedrive's visual sales pipeline&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmodernizing-b2b-sales-heres-a-formula-for-winning-the-race\u002F"\u003Eprompts staff to take action\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Data-led reporting, meanwhile, gives a view of both scheduled and completed activities. With backing from Vista Equity Partners, the company continues to invest in product innovation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPipedrive says its CRM software is used by more than 95,000 companies in 179 countries around the world. Reference customers like the ability to customize data fields and workflow, and it's well-designed interface. The company also boasts 93% customer satisfaction rates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike other providers, Pipedrive offers a free trial. Prices start from $12.50 per user per month, billed annually, for Pipedrive Essentials. The Advanced plan starts at $24.90 per user per month, billed annually.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Pipedrive\" data-superlative=\"For salespeople, by salespeople\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"pipeline.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"678d43b6-6808-4ce7-8dd9-5589f8f87c5f","title":"pipeline-best-crm","filename":"pipeline-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F678d43b6-6808-4ce7-8dd9-5589f8f87c5f\u002Fpipeline-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":408935,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:23","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"pipeline-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"678d43b6-6808-4ce7-8dd9-5589f8f87c5f","imageAltText":"pipeline.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"pipeline-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Pipedrive","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pipedrive.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pipedrive.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b160fd83-e81c-4533-ab9a-20456850bbb4\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFounders Girish Mathrubootham and Shan Krishnasamy begin work on creating&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffreshworks-aims-to-court-smbs-scale-and-deliver-consultant-free-saas\u002F"\u003Ea user-focused cloud-based customer service\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;software in 2010. The company launched its Freshsales CRM product in 2016. Today's version - known as Freshworks CRM - allows sales teams to use AI-based lead scoring, phone, email, and activity capture.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore than 40,000 customers use Freshworks, from smaller to larger enterprises, including Dyson and Best Western. The company says&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.freshworks.com\u002Fsecurity\u002F"\u003Erobust data-security and privacy practices\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;form an integral part of its product-engineering and service-delivery principles.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFreshworks CRM comes in various flavors. For smaller teams, its Growth product starts from $29 per user per month, billed annually. The Pro product -- which offers multiple views on sales piplelines and aims to help sales teams boost their efficiency -- starts from $59 per user per month, billed annually. The company also offers a 21-day free trial.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Freshworks CRM\" data-superlative=\"Robust privacy practices\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"freshworks.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"21ccde89-2ada-4103-b668-06a885173b6d","title":"freshworks-best-crm","filename":"freshworks-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F21ccde89-2ada-4103-b668-06a885173b6d\u002Ffreshworks-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":313562,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:36","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"freshworks-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"21ccde89-2ada-4103-b668-06a885173b6d","imageAltText":"freshworks.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"freshworks-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Freshworks","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.awin1.com\u002Fcread.php?awinmid=18171&awinaffid=423585&clickref=[subid_value]&ued=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.freshworks.com\u002Ffreshsales-crm\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.awin1.com\u002Fcread.php?awinmid=18171&awinaffid=423585&clickref=[subid_value]&ued=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.freshworks.com\u002Ffreshsales-crm\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"268dca4d-1ec1-486d-8a90-fb0f8cfd03f1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to CRM software for SMBs, Vtiger offers something very different. Vtiger CRM is a complete open-source CRM application with one key bonus: SMBs&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.techrepublic.com\u002Fblog\u002Ffive-apps\u002Ffive-free-virtual-appliances-geared-specifically-for-human-resources-and-sales\u002F"\u003Edo not have to pay for commercial licenses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. That's a potential boon for cost-conscious small business owners.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVtiger is proving a popular option for firms in all sectors. The provider says there have been more than five million downloads of its open-source CRM software. With in-depth features and thousands of developers working on the product, Vtiger CRM offers a marketplace with hundreds of plugins.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore than 400,000 businesses use Vtiger. The company's Pilot edition, which holds up to 3,000 records, is free forever. For SMBs that want the benefits of continuous updates and software support, there's also the paid-for Vtiger CRM versions. Prices for&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.vtiger.com\u002Fpricing\u002F"\u003Ethe One Professional version\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which includes multiple sales pipelines, start at $30 per user per month, billed annually ($42 monthly).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Vtiger (open source)\" data-superlative=\"For cost-conscious SMBs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"vtiger-open-source-crm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"91df8cbe-e02c-4f17-9078-55cce79170bf","title":"vtiger-open-source-crm-best-crm","filename":"vtiger-open-source-crm-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F91df8cbe-e02c-4f17-9078-55cce79170bf\u002Fvtiger-open-source-crm-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":402472,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:47","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:48","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"vtiger-open-source-crm-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"91df8cbe-e02c-4f17-9078-55cce79170bf","imageAltText":"vtiger-open-source-crm.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"vtiger-open-source-crm-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Vtiger","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.vtiger.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.vtiger.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9ebfeebc-2094-4004-a909-961f19f8118d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf your company is a big Google user, then cloud-based Copper offers a distinct advantage: it's&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F9-awesome-features-of-g-suite-that-its-designers-wish-more-people-knew-about\u002F"\u003Ea CRM application\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;that intergates with Google Workspace and Chrome. Integration with key productivity apps, such as Google Calendar and Gmail, means your team can manage all their contacts, deals, and files from a single location.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter a free 14-day trial, paid-for packages start with Basic -- which is for up to three users -- and is&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.copper.com\u002Fpricing"\u003Epriced at $25 per user\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;per month, billed annually ($29 monthly). Professional -- which offers more tracking, automation, and reporting functions for growing SMBs -- is priced at $59 per user per month, billed annually.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs well as Google Workspace integration, Copper includes strong sales productivity features, such as lead, contact, and opportunity management.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Copper (Google-based)\" data-superlative=\"A CRM application for Google Workspace\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"copper-for-gmail-1.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"4b4a3f5f-23a6-46cf-aee5-032bb85da506","title":"copper-for-gmail-best-crm","filename":"copper-for-gmail-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F4b4a3f5f-23a6-46cf-aee5-032bb85da506\u002Fcopper-for-gmail-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":253627,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:05:59","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"copper-for-gmail-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4b4a3f5f-23a6-46cf-aee5-032bb85da506","imageAltText":"copper-for-gmail-1.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"copper-for-gmail-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Copper","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.copper.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.copper.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8b14b920-c3fe-464c-b654-16834fb5fc55\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EReally Simple Systems says its CRM software is&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcrm-reaches-the-heart-of-small-business-metaphorically-of-course\u002F"\u003Edesigned specifically for SMBs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;and includes everything you need to manage business-to-business sales and marketing. Really Simple Systems boats 3,000-plus customers from a diverse range of sectors, from the British Red Cross to technology and engineering firms.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReally Simple Systems' Salesforce-automation feature gives SMBs visibility of its sales team's pipelines. All versions of Really Simple Systems CRM come with contact management and custom reports. The amount of storage available to your business varies depending on the package you select.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reallysimplesystems.com\u002Fcrm-pricing\u002F"\u003Ecompany says its Free tier\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;offers everything an SMB needs to get going with CRM -- although you're limited to two users. Growing SMBs can opt for the Starter package, which is priced at $14 per user per month, billed annually. Professional, which offers advanced features, comes in at $30 per user per month, billed annually. Key features include two-way email integration, custom settings, user permission levels, and quotations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Really Simple Systems CRM\" data-superlative=\"Salesforce-automation feature\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"reall-simple.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"898f3b28-c991-4cff-a172-cb4a2f852ffc","title":"reall-simple-best-crm","filename":"reall-simple-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F898f3b28-c991-4cff-a172-cb4a2f852ffc\u002Freall-simple-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":449078,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:06:15","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:06:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"reall-simple-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"898f3b28-c991-4cff-a172-cb4a2f852ffc","imageAltText":"reall-simple.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"reall-simple-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Really Simple Systems CRM","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reallysimplesystems.com\u002Fcrm-pricing\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reallysimplesystems.com\u002Fcrm-pricing\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2f769370-133f-4aa5-bdf3-58be71754599\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWith more than 1.5 million users globally, SMBs can use Insightly to create multi-step business processes with workflow automation. Built-in business intelligence allows users to create data visualizations and&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finsightly-brings-back-social-media-integration\u002F"\u003Emonitor the sales pipeline\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. New automation features, released in 2020, make it easier for businesses of all sizes to execute integrated and measurable marketing campaigns.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore than 25,000 organizations use Insightly, from SMBs through to household names, such as Bloomberg, Sanofi, and Bosch. Like other CRM applications, Insightly offers a 'no-frills' plan where two users at a small business can manage sales and contacts for free.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.insightly.com\u002Fassets\u002Fdocuments\u002F191025-insightly-pricing-plans-comparison.pdf"\u003EInsightly Plus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which includes 100 custom email templates and 10GB file storage, starts at $29 per user per month, billed annually ($35 monthly). Insightly Professional, which offers more features for finding and managing leads and full access to the firm's business intelligence platform, is priced at $49 per user per month, billed annually ($59 monthly).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Insightly\" data-superlative=\"Built-in business intelligence\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"insightly.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"33bcbc57-5e14-45e7-ad4c-b95197868c27","title":"insightly-best-crm","filename":"insightly-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F33bcbc57-5e14-45e7-ad4c-b95197868c27\u002Finsightly-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":358004,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:06:43","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:06:44","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"insightly-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"33bcbc57-5e14-45e7-ad4c-b95197868c27","imageAltText":"insightly.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"insightly-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Insightly","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.insightly.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.insightly.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"230e9559-0f58-433d-b0f8-b81200fb1f6e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESage is one of the big players in the cloud software market, offering a range of applications for business functions.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsage-crm-joins-microsoft-salesforce-in-the-cloud\u002F"\u003ESage CRM is a platform for small businesses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to manage various elements of their customer relationships. SMBs can choose from fully integrated CRM or pick Sage Sales, Marketing, and Service modules to suit their business needs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESage says the aim of its CRM software is to help SMBs make informed business decisions. It expects sales and marketing professionals to use its data-led cloud software to help identify leads and opportunities. SMBs can send email campaigns in MailChimp and track their success with Sage CRM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's very little in terms of pricing on the Sage web site. The company says it's keen for interested SMBs to get in contact to find out more about its deals. &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Sage CRM\" data-superlative=\"Data-led cloud software\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sage-crm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"65c7fea3-f5d0-4cc8-b95e-79d58186c2f7","title":"sage-crm-best-crm","filename":"sage-crm-best-crm.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F65c7fea3-f5d0-4cc8-b95e-79d58186c2f7\u002Fsage-crm-best-crm.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":387133,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:06:58","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-08-03 16:07:00","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"sage-crm-best-crm.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"65c7fea3-f5d0-4cc8-b95e-79d58186c2f7","imageAltText":"sage-crm.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"sage-crm-best-crm.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F08\u002F03","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Sage CRM","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fsage.qumg.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F577463\u002F9554?u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sage.com\u002Fen-us\u002F&subid1=[subid_value]&sharedId=zdnet","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fsage.qumg.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F577463\u002F9554?u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sage.com\u002Fen-us\u002F&subid1=[subid_value]&sharedId=zdnet"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5b7ddbfc-e484-459c-9d02-45bfeaf1f70b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt's always tempting to stick with what you know. If you've got a strong partnership with a provider, and a good relationship with an account manager at that company, then it's easy and convenient to bolt on additional CRM services. This account manager might also be able to give you a good deal. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's also worth noting that some of the world's biggest software firms are players in the CRM market, such as Microsoft and Salesfore, as well as a whole host of niche operators. But bigger doesn't necesarilly mean better. If you're making your first moves into CRM software, then it makes sense to tread carefully. As you can see above, the different providers offer a range of features with all kinds of integration options, so it makes sense to shop around.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"If I already use one of the above CRM suppliers for another area of software provision, should I use them for CRM, too?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"61d48e1f-0361-4f44-80d3-24579d9b8061\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe marketing hype around data analytics means it's easy to think of automation and AI as the most important features for a CRM product, or maybe any application full-stop. However, caution should be the watchword here. IT decision makers regularly moan that \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-will-take-construction-robotics-from-hype-to-reality\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eproviders are making the most of the hype around big data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, with some suggestions that tools are often badged as AI and automation tools when – in reality – they're nowhere near as exciting. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBe wary of the hype. Analyse the CRM products and ask for a deonstration of the data-led features. Get some of your end users to test these features, too - if it works for them, it's likely to work for your business and its customers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Should I focus on the companies that offer the best automation and AI features?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4cc317ae-aa02-424b-aa27-083ea0a273f1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWith competition intensifying and increased global uncertainty, Gartner suggests \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gartner.com\u002Fen\u002Fcustomer-service-support\u002Finsights\u002Fcrm-strategy-customer-experience" target="_blank"\u003Etreating customers well is more important than ever\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The analyst says CRM systems will play a crucial role in this process, so expect to see a big focus on technologies that allow companies to deliver personalized experiences based and a high level of customer insight. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EResearcher Forrester says \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fgo.forrester.com\u002Fblogs\u002Ftop-crm-trends-for-2020\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EAI and automation will continue to improve CRM outcomes\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. AI-fueled CRM guides agents through the right actions and provides them with insights to help customers. Forrester also expects big data to power hyper-personalization through CRM. Customers expect engagement, tailored to their history, preferences, context, and intent – and that's where future CRM services will use data to help companies succeed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Where's the CRM marketplace going next?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e85023b1-b7de-47d2-a1bd-779082343c1f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EHaving searched the market for some of the key providers in the market, we've used our expert knowledge to find the CRM services that are best-suited to SMBs – and the features they include. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these CRM solutions?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"178ac177-ebee-4468-818e-34e7571c0622\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThink carefully about what features your business needs. SMB CRM offerings vary from the cheap (or even free) to the more expensive, with ever-increasing levels of support and\u002For automation. Most providers offer free trials, and most can be upgraded to allow for more users and customer records, with increased storage size and features, when the business need arises. As with all technology purchases, don't buy CRM as a solution looking for a problem. Before you make the plunge, work out what your end users need and scope out the available services. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which CRM software is right for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2021-08-03 15:53:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"If you want to make the most of your sales pipeline, customer relationship management software allows your business to monitor customer interactions, track deal progress, and analyze financial performance.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"47b2a767-2089-4445-a650-df158aa546ca",image:{id:"68f596d7-582a-4e53-be17-989288d07958",filename:"capsule-best-crm.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-08-03 16:03:38",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"customer-relationships.png",credits:b,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F03\u002F68f596d7-582a-4e53-be17-989288d07958\u002Fcapsule-best-crm.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Enterprise Software",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best CRM software: Top solutions for SMBs",section:c,slug:"best-crm",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best CRM software 2022: Top solutions for SMBs",topic:{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003E3D printers have come a long way in the past few years.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInitially relegated to large industrial processes, they experienced a bit of a boom in the mid-2010s, when the technology became affordable to small offices, design firms, and hobbyists. Since then, 3D printers have evolved along with several vectors. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELow-cost, high-resolution resin printers have joined filament-based (or FDM) printers in the home and hobbyist market. Printers with large print areas have become available at both the low and high end, with lower-end printers optimizing for the very basic heated plates needed for large prints, while the higher-end solutions add sealed chambers, temperature management, touchscreens, and cameras. Printers with dual extruders are becoming more common, and the slicing software needed to prepare prints is becoming more sophisticated. We're also starting to see more full color and metal printing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this guide, we award best-of-show for a range of printer categories. We're spotlighting the machines based on where they're best used. We're starting with the most expensive offerings and ending with our favorite under-$200 printer. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89cea0ae-1b81-4343-9b80-d109f125ff2a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EStratasys is a well-known name in the industrial 3D printing space, and Fortus 450MC has been around for a while. So while it's not the most recently introduced 3D printer, this $100K+ printer makes its place on our list because its fully enclosed 406 x 355 x 406 mm print area can reliably produce carbon fiber, nylon, carbon fiber-infused nylon, and advanced resin-based filament night and day, without breaking a sweat.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're building prototypes you intend to use rather than just show off, this printer can produce tough parts with tight tolerances for use in industrial applications. Our friends at Fargo 3D Printer Repair tell us, "Overall a solid machine from a reputable company, we like the additional size of the 450mc over the 380mc."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELarge range of industrial materials\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EU.S. DOD STIG compliance data protection built into machine\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGrabCAD Print software\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EHigh price\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESmallish build area for the price\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENo Wi-Fi\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Stratasys Fortus 450MC\" data-superlative=\"Best exotic plastics industrial printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"stratasys-fortus-450mc.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Stratasys","imageData":{"id":"e4e4405b-a633-43fc-bb73-308dc4e6e944","title":"stratasys-fortus-450mc","filename":"stratasys-fortus-450mc.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002Fe4e4405b-a633-43fc-bb73-308dc4e6e944\u002Fstratasys-fortus-450mc.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1158806,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:11:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:11:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"stratasys-fortus-450mc.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"e4e4405b-a633-43fc-bb73-308dc4e6e944","imageAltText":"stratasys-fortus-450mc.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Stratasys","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"stratasys-fortus-450mc.png","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Stratasys\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Stratasys.com","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.stratasys.com\u002Fen\u002F3d-printers\u002Fprinter-catalog\u002Ffdm-printers\u002Ffortus-450mc","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6167911e-b92c-4a35-8efe-d74dfc25f55d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMost 3D printers melt or fuse plastic to produce 3D objects. The Desktop Metal Studio System+ is a fascinating offering because it can produce 3D metallic parts made of steel, aluminum, copper, and even titanium. Physically, the machine can fit onto a desk or a workbench and doesn't require an entire factory environment to create prototypes the company says are the equivalent in strength and characteristics as injection molded parts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's some serious materials science going on here. Using a process called Bound Metal Deposition, the printer uses bound metal rods that are analogous to filament in FDM plastic printers. The source material contains a mix of metal, wax, and polymer binders, which allows the object to be printed on the build plate. Once the object has been printed, it needs to be placed into a tank where a solution dissolves the primary binding agent and creating a series of open channels within the object. The final stage of post-processing involves the use of a sintering furnace, which heats the finished object to a point before liquefaction, causing the object to become a solid mass.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat intrigues us most is the office setting this printer can function in. The company says there's no need for respirators or external ventilation, which means this $120,000 device can coexist in a design environment without special environmental accommodations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt 3D prints \u003Cem\u003Emetal\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMake complex, metal replacement parts on-demand\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFits on a workbench\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPrice is up there\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETwo-step printing and sintering process\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe strengths...and weaknesses...of cast metal\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Desktop Metal Studio System+\" data-superlative=\"Best office-sized metal printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"desktop-metal-studio-system.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Desktop Metal","imageData":{"id":"5fb87c24-c609-4b9e-9318-42cadfd77db8","title":"desktop-metal-studio-system","filename":"desktop-metal-studio-system.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002F5fb87c24-c609-4b9e-9318-42cadfd77db8\u002Fdesktop-metal-studio-system.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":809838,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:11:42","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:11:46","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"desktop-metal-studio-system.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5fb87c24-c609-4b9e-9318-42cadfd77db8","imageAltText":"desktop-metal-studio-system.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Desktop Metal","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"desktop-metal-studio-system.png","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Desktop Metal\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Desktop Metal","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.desktopmetal.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fstudio","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1ad8ec9b-c3d0-4499-8abf-10f2a0ffd2d3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWith the ability to extrude layers as fine as 0.5mm, the 7X is quite capable of fine detail. We didn't award it our best-for-fine-detail 3D printing prize because the Formlabs Form 3 (see below) can produce even finer resolutions. Where the 7X really shines, however, is its rock-solid reliability when it comes to producing flexible parts. Because it supports direct extrusion (rather than bowden-style), the filament has little opportunity to bind up before being laid down on the print bed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt approximately $15,000, this is a large format printer, with a build area of 370 x 390 x 450mm. It supports Ethernet and wireless connectivity and uses filament print cartridges that allows an ease of use when swapping of filament without the hassle of fighting with the extruder. Our friends at \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fargo3dpr.com\u002F"\u003EFargo 3D Printer Repair\u003C\u002Fa\u003E tell us, "A fantastic printer for flexibles and fine detail work."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EReliable flexible part production\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDual nozzles allow you to mix flexible and rigid plastics in one part\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVoice-based user guide on-machine\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVoice-based user guide on-machine\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENo internal camera\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOnly one available nozzle size\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Sindoh 3DWOX 7X\" data-superlative=\"Best industrial 3D printer for flexible objects\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sindoh-3dwox-7x.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Sindoh","imageData":{"id":"44eba152-d02d-4ded-bc64-970ceed2ead7","title":"sindoh-3dwox-7x","filename":"sindoh-3dwox-7x.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002F44eba152-d02d-4ded-bc64-970ceed2ead7\u002Fsindoh-3dwox-7x.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":130421,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:01","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"sindoh-3dwox-7x.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"44eba152-d02d-4ded-bc64-970ceed2ead7","imageAltText":"sindoh-3dwox-7x.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Sindoh","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"sindoh-3dwox-7x.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Sindoh\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Sindoh","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002F3dprinter.sindoh.com\u002Fproduct\u002F7x","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4dd85bea-e153-4ff7-9bb9-2c279efd5441\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe product's name says it: The $10,999 Stacker S4 is an industrial-grade 3D printer with the ability to print huge prints and use up to four extruders at once. The build plate is an absolutely enormous 345 x 520 and you can print objects as tall as 650 mm (that's more than 25-inches for those of us more familiar with imperial measurements).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the stand-out feature of this made-in-America printer is the four print heads. It's possible to print with 1, 2, 3, or all four print heads, and if you print with fewer heads, you can remove them to increase the overall build area. This allows for tremendous low-volume production gains and manufacturing efficiencies. Our friends at Fargo 3D Printer Repair tell us, "This printer's multi-head capabilities are fantastic for a wide variety of uses depending on the application."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPrint four filaments at once\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERemove unused print heads to increase print capacity\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELarge available print capacity\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERequires Raspberry Pi to add network connectivity\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECan be as loud as a washing machine or air conditioner\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESpool support is a simple bar on the back of the machine\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Stacker S4 Industrial\" data-superlative=\"Best four-head industrial 3D printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"stacker-s4-industrial.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Stacker 3D","imageData":{"id":"a4afa564-d3f1-453c-8265-874fc2a883d9","title":"stacker-s4-industrial","filename":"stacker-s4-industrial.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002Fa4afa564-d3f1-453c-8265-874fc2a883d9\u002Fstacker-s4-industrial.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":261226,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:18","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:22","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"stacker-s4-industrial.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a4afa564-d3f1-453c-8265-874fc2a883d9","imageAltText":"stacker-s4-industrial.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Stacker 3D","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"stacker-s4-industrial.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Stacker 3D\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Stacker 3D","offerPrice":"11000","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fstacker3d.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fstacker-s4-industrial-3d-printer\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"4af75951-5d5d-4fa4-96f0-479583d56167\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe BCN3D Epsilon W50 is an industrial-level plastic FDM printer designed for heavy production use and additive manufacturing. With a price tag of 6,995€ (or $7,995 in the US), the machine has an enormous 420 x 300 x 400mm build area.&nbsp; This model also comes in a smart cabinet variant that manages the materials in a climate-controlled environment. For that SC model, add about 3,000€ or $3,000. Normally, it's difficult to 3D print parts this large because the temperature variations from the center to the edges tend to cause warping and layer failure. But because the BCN3D Epsilon has a fully-enclosed build area, it's able to maintain even heat throughout the build process, substantially increasing the reliability and predictability of large part printing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat makes this product a standout is not that it has two extruders. Other best-of-show products we're spotlighting do as well. Instead, it's the company's Independent Dual Extrusion System (or IDEX) printing technology, which allows both extruders to work independently of each other. The printer has duplication and mirror modes where two identical (or mirrored) objects can be extruded simultaneously. The printer is capable of printing a wide range of industrial-grade materials developed by BASF and Mitsubishi Chemical. It also has HEPA and carbon filters, so the printer can be safely used either in an office environment or on a factory floor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDual extruders\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPrint two duplicates at once\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPrint two mirrored items at once\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESmart cabinet is a pricy upgrade\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECustomer support forum questions left unanswered\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"BCN3D Epsilon W50\" data-superlative=\"Best fully-enclosed, filtered large format printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"bcn3d-epsilon.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"BCN3D","imageData":{"id":"48846a89-af2b-4a8b-bd72-e51c8cf414fc","title":"bcn3d-epsilon","filename":"bcn3d-epsilon.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002F48846a89-af2b-4a8b-bd72-e51c8cf414fc\u002Fbcn3d-epsilon.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":279117,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"bcn3d-epsilon.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"48846a89-af2b-4a8b-bd72-e51c8cf414fc","imageAltText":"bcn3d-epsilon.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"BCN3D","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"bcn3d-epsilon.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"BCN3D\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"BCN3D","offerPrice":"11495","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bcn3d.com\u002Fbcn3d-epsilon\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5cac9972-f7d2-4f12-b030-e927654e197d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThere's a lot to like about the $6,000 flagship Ultimaker with its 330 x 240 x 300 mm build volume. Although the entire build chamber isn't sealed, the S5's glass front doors seal in quite a bit of the heat, contributing to excellent print quality every time. You can also get two add-ons that fully heat seal the S5 - an enclosed cover and a filament feeding system that protects a small library of filament spools as they feed in from the bottom of the machine.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-the-ultimaker-s5-the-ultimate-ultimaker-3d-printer\u002F"\u003EIs the Ultimaker S5 the ultimate Ultimaker 3D printer?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy favorite aspect of the S5 is how easy it is to load filament. The filament feed system simply slots open, you feed in your filament, and close the latch. It's rock-solid reliable and virtually zero hassle. The S5 comes with a heated bed, it auto-trams by testing a grid of points along the bed surface, has a dual extruder system with removable and customizable print heads and has a built-in camera. You can control one or a fleet of Ultimaker either via Ethernet or wirelessly via Ultimaker's Cura slicer and printer control environment. I often transfer models straight from my Fusion 360 computer-aided design environment right to the Ultimaker, which saves both time and steps. This is an ideal machine for rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEasiest filament loading system of any printer\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EReliable prints nearly all the time\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEasily replaceable printheads\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECura slicer still not updated for Apple Silicon Macs\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFilament spool holder doesn't easily hold wider spools\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMachine shows occasional cryptic error messages\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Ultimaker S5\" data-superlative=\"Best large format dual-extruder professional printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ultimaker-s5.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Ultimaker","imageData":{"id":"bd7d302b-43c6-4c20-b113-875cf1b9a8df","title":"scxultimaker-s5","filename":"ultimaker-s5.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002Fbd7d302b-43c6-4c20-b113-875cf1b9a8df\u002Fultimaker-s5.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":728061,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:51","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:12:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"AADHOOGENDOORN","alt":"ultimaker-s5.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"bd7d302b-43c6-4c20-b113-875cf1b9a8df","imageAltText":"ultimaker-s5.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Ultimaker","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ultimaker-s5.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Ultimaker\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FULTIMAKER-Ultimaker-S5-3D-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB07CQCWFWQ?tag=zdnet-deals-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"6355","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FULTIMAKER-Ultimaker-S5-3D-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB07CQCWFWQ","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FULTIMAKER-Ultimaker-S5-3D-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB07CQCWFWQ?tag=zdnet-deals-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2076bae3-f68d-4ed2-8843-23af2961febc\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMakerBot -- a pioneer in desktop 3D printers -- has had its ups and downs over the years. The \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3d-printing-hands-on-getting-started-with-my-desktop-makerbot\u002F"\u003Every first 3D printer I ever used\u003C\u002Fa\u003E was a MakerBot Replicator 5th Generation. A few years later, the redesigned Replicator+ arrived in my testing lab - and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbattle-of-the-makerbots-the-new-replicator-versus-the-5th-generation\u002F"\u003Edisappointed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It took the company more than a year to get their software house in order and bring the Replicator+ back to the standard of their previous machines.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-makerbots-new-method-3d-printer-ready-enough-to-save-the-company\u002F"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIs MakerBot's new Method 3D printer ready enough to save the company?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince then, the company has been hard at work on an all-new printer: the Method. This printer has a full-enclosed, climate-controlled heated print area, sealed and climate-controlled filament storage, a redesigned extruder, and an onboard camera. What's more, the company seems to have learned from its rushed release of the Replicator+. The Method has had more than a year of testing before it's being released into the market. At $4,999, MakerBot bills the Method as a manufacturing and prototyping workstation. The Method can maintain a chamber temperature of 60°C. The new Method X model can maintain a chamber temperature of 100°C, allowing for reliable printing of more exotic and troublesome filament types.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFully temperature-managed chamber for filament extrusion\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERemovable, replaceable extruders\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETop-end printers support wide range of materials\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EExpensive base model doesn't support ABS\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EProprietary filaments\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"MakerBot Method\" data-superlative=\"Best printer redesign\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"makerbot-method.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"MakerBot","imageData":{"id":"a9f39b69-bfcb-415d-a43d-18afbaa6f42b","title":"makerbot-method","filename":"makerbot-method.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002Fa9f39b69-bfcb-415d-a43d-18afbaa6f42b\u002Fmakerbot-method.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":735930,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:13:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:13:16","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"makerbot-method.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a9f39b69-bfcb-415d-a43d-18afbaa6f42b","imageAltText":"makerbot-method.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"MakerBot","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"makerbot-method.png","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"MakerBot\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMakerBot-Method-3D-Printer-Amazon\u002Fdp\u002FB07WD4CTQY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"5300","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMakerBot-Method-3D-Printer-Amazon\u002Fdp\u002FB07WD4CTQY","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMakerBot-Method-3D-Printer-Amazon\u002Fdp\u002FB07WD4CTQY?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.shopyourlikes.com\u002Fpi\u002Fa5515136de392e2ee1f9c0b49145c796078115fb?afId=614548&afCampaignId=[subid_value]&afCreativeId=2993","offerMerchant":"B&H Photo","offerPrice":"4500","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bhphotovideo.com\u002Fc\u002Fproduct\u002F1510968-REG\u002Fmakerbot_900_0001a_method_3d_printer.html","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.shopyourlikes.com\u002Fpi\u002Fa5515136de392e2ee1f9c0b49145c796078115fb?afId=614548&afCampaignId=[subid_value]&afCreativeId=2993"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d16faa12-72fa-4b94-8b2f-f120ba9ce967\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe $3,499 Form 3+ is the latest generation of Formlabs well-respected resin printers. The Form 3+ uses a laser to solidify resin with a high degree of accuracy and reliability. It also has a flexible imaging surface, which helps minimize the adherence problems often common to SLA resin printers. The Form 3+ can be controlled via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and the company's software allows for the central management of a full fleet of printers. The precision of this machine is mind-blowing. With an X\u002FY precision of 25 microns and a layer height that as fine as 25 microns, you can't see layer lines, period.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut what we like best about the Form 3+ SLA printer (and the earlier Form 2) is the resin cartridge and post-processing system offered by Formlabs. Resin printing is generally an unpleasant task, requiring a great deal of attention is spent to avoid coming in contact with toxic resins. Rather than pouring resin into an open vat, users of the Form 3+ merely insert a resin cartridge (like a big ink cartridge) and start printing. Formlabs also offers a post-processing 3D printing system consisting of a cleaner and UV chamber, both of which are automated, making post-processing a mostly hands-off process.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EResin cartridge removes much of the resin mess challenge\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECleaning system helps to remove toxic resin from finished prints\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFlexible quick release system for removing parts from plates\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVery high quality, lower-priced resin printers make the added price difficult to justify\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECartridge system, while convenient, causes vendor lock-in\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Formlabs Form 3+\" data-superlative=\"Best industrial-quality fine-detail desktop 3D resin printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"formlabs-form-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Formlabs","imageData":{"id":"ddb2e21d-3805-415f-9815-1ae9497febf0","title":"formlabs-form-3","filename":"formlabs-form-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002Fddb2e21d-3805-415f-9815-1ae9497febf0\u002Fformlabs-form-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":622819,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:13:58","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:14:02","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"formlabs-form-3.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"ddb2e21d-3805-415f-9815-1ae9497febf0","imageAltText":"formlabs-form-3.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Formlabs","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"formlabs-form-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Formlabs\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Formlabs","offerPrice":"3500","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fformlabs.com\u002F3d-printers\u002Fform-3\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"17d726eb-e076-463f-bbd3-fd763ec9479c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe Creator Pro 2 from \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.flashforgeshop.com\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFlashforge\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is a no-nonsense machine that gives the 10 times more expensive Ultimaker S5 a run for its money. Don't get me wrong; the S5 is still my favorite printer due to its incredibly easy filament loading mechanism. But that's $6,000, and this is under $700.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Creator Pro 2 also does something the the S5 doesn't: it lets you run each extruder independently. That means you can use one for one color and one for another. You can use one for supports and one for the object. You can even use one extruder to print one object while simultaneously using the other extruder to print another object. Or you can have the printer print two of the same objects at once, without having to modify the original 3D model file. This makes for an incredibly flexible printer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe machine has a solid metal frame. That solidity reduces vibrations and makes your prints come out better. The build plate is fixed in the machine, however, which is a bit of an annoyance. I found that painter's tape was the best solution for build plate adhesion that doesn't weld the print to the surface.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt does use a non-standard slicer, so it takes time to come up to speed. But once you've figured it out, you'll have a workhorse that won't give up.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThose independent dual extruders\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EExtremely solid metal frame\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFor what it does, the price is impressive\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EManual leveling is a bit tedious\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFlashPoint slicer is cumbersome\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBuild area could be bigger\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Flashforge Creator Pro 2\" data-superlative=\"Best under-$1,000 dual-extruder 3D printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"51crfqrie7l-ac-sl1000.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon","imageData":{"id":"9426890b-4643-4b7d-96f8-481cded87d6e","title":"flashforge-pro2-printer","filename":"flashforge-pro2-printer.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F25\u002F9426890b-4643-4b7d-96f8-481cded87d6e\u002Fflashforge-pro2-printer.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1050553,"width":2640,"height":1400,"dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-25 15:48:02","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-03-25 15:48:29","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":"Amazon","alt":"flashforge-pro2-printer.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":["3d printer","flashforge","hardware","printer"],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9426890b-4643-4b7d-96f8-481cded87d6e","imageAltText":"51crfqrie7l-ac-sl1000.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Amazon","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"flashforge-pro2-printer.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F25","imageWidth":2640,"imageHeight":1400,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FFlashForge-Independent-Extruder-Structure-Optimized\u002Fdp\u002FB08L7C48C6?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FFlashForge-Independent-Extruder-Structure-Optimized\u002Fdp\u002FB08L7C48C6","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FFlashForge-Independent-Extruder-Structure-Optimized\u002Fdp\u002FB08L7C48C6?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5498f321-61be-4ee7-abdf-af92a5ba4143\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou can't fully appreciate the Original Prusa i3 MK3S without knowing the story of Josef Průša, a Czech maker and inventor. Průša was an active participant in the open-source RepRap community back in the early hobbyist 3D printing days. He designed two upgraded Mendel printers, each time simplifying the design and improving reliability. His last hobby project was the i3, a substantial improvement on earlier designs. Based on the i3 (which has been cloned by many companies around the world), Průša began producing parts for hobbyists to buy and assemble. And thus was born the original Original Prusa i3.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFast forward nearly a decade and Prusa Research is one of the fastest-growing tech companies in Central Europe, and the Original Prusa i3 series (which has had three major design iterations) and in 2016 was the most-used 3D printer in the world. What we like about the i3 MK3S+ is how reliable and robust it is, how smartly the device trams the build plate, and how inexpensive the machine is for all it does. Fully assembled, the Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ is $999, but those with a little more time on their hands and a hankering for adventure, there's a $749 kit if you're willing to assemble it yourself.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're on a budget, hop on over to our \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-3d-printer-under-500-for-beginners-2020\u002F"\u003Ebest budget 3D printers list\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and check out the Prusa MINI+. It's one of our top picks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESave $200 (and learn a lot) if you're willing to build it yourself\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EHugely popular, constantly updated\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOpen source design\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELong 3-4 week lead time on orders\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDirect sales only\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Original Prusa i3 MK3S+\" data-superlative=\"Best all-around prosumer hobby printer under $1,000\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"original-prusa-i3-mk3s.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Prusa Research","imageData":{"id":"05107440-34aa-4e42-8d6d-14313017f9d5","title":"original-prusa-i3-mk3s","filename":"original-prusa-i3-mk3s.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002F05107440-34aa-4e42-8d6d-14313017f9d5\u002Foriginal-prusa-i3-mk3s.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":291560,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:14:32","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-02-13 19:14:36","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"original-prusa-i3-mk3s.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"05107440-34aa-4e42-8d6d-14313017f9d5","imageAltText":"original-prusa-i3-mk3s.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Prusa Research","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"original-prusa-i3-mk3s.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F02\u002F13","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Prusa Research\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Prusa Research","offerPrice":"999","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.prusa3d.com\u002Fproduct\u002Foriginal-prusa-i3-mk3s-3d-printer-3\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5260a5a9-c54c-40e7-881e-71e36200b8f3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThere is a constant stream of 3D printers arriving at the Fab Lab for review. I've had the opportunity to do hands-on testing with many of them, and my recommendations are based on my experience. I've also kept track of what machines the other top 3D printing reviewers are impressed with, and included some of them in my list as well.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile I have a lot of experience with desktop-level 3D printers, I haven't had much of an opportunity to use industrial 3D printers. So I turned to the folks at&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fargo3dpr.com\u002F"\u003EFargo 3D Printer Repair\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;who not only have experience with these printers but have a daily view into the reliability and failure points for a wide range of printer brands. They were kind enough to take the time to provide us with their recommendations, which I included in the listings above.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these 3D printers?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3f85a980-d032-415d-95f3-576220fd5fa9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESo now that you've seen our selection of printers, which should you buy? That depends entirely on what you're doing. If you're a factory or production shop doing low-volume manufacturing, some of the industrial printers at the top of the list are for you. If you're a design house, you'll need to make a price\u002Fperformance determination and decide if added convenience is worth a few thousand more dollars. If you're a hobbyist, your choice depends on what you're making. Makers and tinkerers will like FDM printers, but if you're a miniature gamer, jewelry designer, or model railroad enthusiast, the resin SLA printers will probably catch your eye.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChoose this 3D printer…\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you want...&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStratasys Fortus 450MC\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA 3D printer that can reliably produce carbon fiber, nylon, carbon fiber-infused nylon, and advanced resin-based filament night and day.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDesktop Metal Studio System+\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA 3D printer that can fit onto a desk or a workbench and produces 3D metallic parts made of steel, aluminum, copper, and even titanium.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESindoh 3DWOX 7X\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA 3D printer with rock-solid reliability when it comes to producing flexible parts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStacker S4 Industrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn industrial-grade 3D printer with the ability to print huge prints and use up to four extruders at once.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBCN3D Epsilon W50\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn industrial-level plastic FDM 3D printer for heavy production use and additive manufacturing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUltimaker S5\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA 3D printer that is easy to load filament with virtually zero hassle.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMakerBot Method\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA 3D printer that can maintain a chamber temperature of 100°C, allowing for reliable printing of more exotic and troublesome filament types.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFormlabs Form 3\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA 3D printer that uses a laser to solidify resin with a high degree of accuracy and reliability.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELulzBot printers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPersonal, small form-factor 3D printers. (I recommend the LulzBot Mini 2.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOriginal Prusa i3 MK3S\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn affordable and reliable yet robust 3D printer that smartly trams the build plate.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this guide, we've presented 3D printers with a price range from over $100,000 to under $200. Amazingly, all will actually create a good-quality 3D object from a foundation material. But how do you choose? Are there any good guidelines for bringing 3D printers into your office, shop, factory, or studio?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes, yes there are. First, I'm going to point you to an explainer I wrote last year:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Feverything-you-need-to-know-about-3d-printing-and-its-impact-on-your-business\u002F"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEverything you need to know about 3D printing and its impact on your business\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat will give you a solid overview of the various technologies and trends with 3D printing.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right 3D printer for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"83116ce3-e9e3-47e6-82cb-d1a10618e3c3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen choosing a 3D printer, a good place to start is understanding the material you want to use to create objects. At its most basic, you'll need to choose between producing plastic or metal objects. 3D full metal object fabrication will place you in a high-cost category and reduce your choices considerably.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPlastic opens up your options wide. There are plastic filaments that embed metallic flecks or wooden fibers, allowing you to 3D print objects that have metallic or wooden characteristics but are still fundamentally made of plastic. The metallic objects can rust, be shined up, or be ferrous enough to attract a magnet. The wooden objects can support wood stains and finishes.\u003Cbr\u003EAlmost all of the FDM (fused deposition modeling) filament printers we've proposed above will print a wide variety of plastic filaments. In addition to the wood fiber and metallic filaments, you can print carbon fiber, nylon, ABS plastic, flexible plastics, and more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGenerally speaking, the more exotic the filament, the hotter the hot end (the part that melts the plastic) will need to get. Look at the material specs for the filaments you want and compare them to the max temperatures of the hot ends. Generally, if a printer says it supports multiple filament types, you're good. If a printer only supports PLA or does not have a heated bed, you're limited to a more simple plastic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFIlament printers have a range of key features that you will want to consider. Heated beds allow for better object adherence while printing, but large heated beds on open-framed printers will dissipate the heat at the edges, reducing the reliability of those prints.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome filament printers have auto-alignment, which sets the distance between the bed and the print head. Personally, I hate aligning printers by hand, so I always look for the automatic alignment feature. It's usually on the more costly printers, but it's worth it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome filament printers support multiple filaments. This can be useful both for printing multiple colors or for mixing filament types, like printing a flexible hinge between two rigid hard plastic elements or printing supports in a dissolvable filament, making it easier to create a finished object. We even spotlight a filament printer that comes with a CMYK ink cartridge and it sprays ink on every layer to impart full color.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to create highly-detailed objects for miniatures or jewelry, you'll want to look at a resin printer. These use light to harden plastic resin in thin layers. They're messy, but their detail is often second to none.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How do I choose materials?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0afb1d66-ee2a-4b34-8a51-f4609f585a1e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAs you start digging through the material characteristics you want in a 3D printer, you'll probably notice that you will almost automatically drop into certain price\u002Fpoint categories. Metal printers are very expensive. Dual filament printers tend to cost more than printers with one hot end. Fully-enclosed and climate-controlled printers will cost more than open, inexpensive printers. And so on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuying a printer will often involve cost\u002Fbenefit trade-offs and you'll need to decide which features are must-have, and which are merely nice-to-have. That, along with your budget, will help drive your choice.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI often tell folks that 3D printers are a lot like sewing machines, in that you can buy a fabulous sewing machine, but if you don't know the difference between stitches, techniques, and fabrics, you'll still wind up with a mess. 3D printers do have a learning curve, but if you're willing to learn how best to use them, each of the machines we've recommended above will do a decent job for the market they're intended for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGo out there and build something cool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How should I decide what to budget for a 3D printer?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"40420340-3313-4c3d-b4c8-7cd14b323d66\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDo you want to get started in the wonderful world of 3D printing technology, but don't want to spend too much money? Well, you're in luck. You can get started for as little as $100 (although things start to get better over about $200). In the guide below, we present a batch of really great 3D printer options for beginners that will have you cranking out Baby Yoda replicas in no time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-3d-printer-under-500-for-beginners" target="_blank"\u003EThe best 3D printers under $500 for beginners\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, here are a few other options to look into:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative 3D printers worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"4c5b09ba-f207-4ef6-8305-96e96e8df755\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"Monoprice Select Mini 3D Printer v2\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"monoprice-mini-3d-printer.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon","imageData":{"id":"2c12156c-fee4-497e-8fe3-f0a1c1b8c09d","filename":"monoprice-mini-3d-printer.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F25\u002F2c12156c-fee4-497e-8fe3-f0a1c1b8c09d\u002Fmonoprice-mini-3d-printer.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-25 16:00:14","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"2c12156c-fee4-497e-8fe3-f0a1c1b8c09d","imageFilename":"monoprice-mini-3d-printer.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F25"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FMonoprice-Select-Mini-3D-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB01FL49VZE\" data-offerprice=\"187\" data-offermerchant=\"Amazon\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"8d29927e-17ff-409e-a1cf-b2b0d6d911e0\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"ELEGOO Resin 3D Printer Mars 2 Pro\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"better-elegoo.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Amazon","imageData":{"id":"ff986d56-8c05-480e-b616-d58543faad36","filename":"better-elegoo.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F25\u002Fff986d56-8c05-480e-b616-d58543faad36\u002Fbetter-elegoo.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-25 16:03:45","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"ff986d56-8c05-480e-b616-d58543faad36","imageFilename":"better-elegoo.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F25"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Amazon\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB08F7L945C\u002F\" data-offerprice=\"255\" data-offermerchant=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB08F7L945C\u002F\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-03-25 17:07:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"If you're in the market for a 3D printer, you'll find one here that fits your needs.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"d1d68c0c-bc80-424f-a429-3f2ba0d6c995",image:{id:"eceeb22c-eecc-4464-84bf-808e902fabd8",filename:"ultimaker-s5.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2020-02-13 19:15:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"3D Printing Machine",credits:"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EThree dimensional printing machine\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F13\u002Feceeb22c-eecc-4464-84bf-808e902fabd8\u002Fultimaker-s5.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1068,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Computing^Makers^3D Printing",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best 3D printers: From FDM to resin, the top printers compared",section:c,slug:"best-3d-printer",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best 3D printer 2022: FDM, resin, and more compared",topic:{id:"8eb243cb-04b7-4eb3-b0cb-a4941a7021ac",slug:"3d-printing",name:"3D Printing",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"8eb243cb-04b7-4eb3-b0cb-a4941a7021ac",slug:"3d-printing",name:"3D Printing",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"215d7367-be20-47d4-b5b7-df52b8983962",slug:"makers",name:"Makers",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"3edc0faa-226b-4980-9b4a-f614df49135d",username:"tiernan1",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Tiernan",lastName:"Ray",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"c2f70f95-253a-47e8-969f-8313ff044e89",filename:"tiernan-ray.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 17:33:23",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fc2f70f95-253a-47e8-969f-8313ff044e89\u002Ftiernan-ray.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Tiernan Ray has been covering technology and business for 28 years. He was most recently technology editor for Barron's where he wrote daily market coverage for the Tech Trader blog and wrote the weekly print column of that name. He has also worked for Bloomberg and SmartMoney, and for the prestigious ComputerLetter newsletter covering venture capital investments in tech. His work has been published in the New York Times, Fortune magazine, and CNN Money. He is a graduate of Princeton University and a native of New York City.",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"reviewcard\" data-id=\"77db9b94-3b19-4abb-bc86-ebfbcf5e0582\" data-edition=\"us\" data-productname=\"TurboTax\" data-rating=\"4\" data-like=\"TurboTax has put a lot of thought into how to guide you through the paperwork process, offering helpful explanations of the steps involved. It also turns tax jargon into plain-English.\" data-dislike=\"It can be hard to find some features of the program, such as the ability to snap a picture of a 1099-NEC. It's as if some features are not ready for users yet.\" data-editorschoice=\"false\" data-editorsmonth=\"12\" data-editorsyear=\"2021\" data-editorsdate=\""2021-12-02T16:49:55.456Z"\" data-innovationaward=\"false\" data-innovationmonth=\"12\" data-innovationyear=\"2021\" data-innovationdate=\""2021-12-02T16:49:55.456Z"\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"0d630b16-18ae-457f-b60e-ecf0d92287a7","filename":"turbotax-screen-shot-2022.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F01\u002F03\u002F0d630b16-18ae-457f-b60e-ecf0d92287a7\u002Fturbotax-screen-shot-2022.png","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-01-03 13:33:16","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"0d630b16-18ae-457f-b60e-ecf0d92287a7","imageFilename":"turbotax-screen-shot-2022.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F01\u002F03"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002Fsubid_value\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fturbotax.intuit.com\u002Fpersonal-taxes\u002Fonline\u002F","offerMerchant":"Intuit","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fturbotax.intuit.com\u002Fpersonal-taxes\u002Fonline\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002Fsubid_value\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fturbotax.intuit.com\u002Fpersonal-taxes\u002Fonline\u002F"}]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best software can't take all of the pain out of tax filing, but it may come close.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFiling 2021 taxes will become more complicated this year for people with pandemic-related tax credits for sick leave, small business grants, and other new considerations. Some of that complexity can be smoothed over by using the dominant package in tax reporting, TurboTax, created by financial software powerhouse Intuit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-file-your-taxes-if-you-received-unemployment-benefits-in-2021\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to file your taxes if you received unemployment benefits in 2021\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program can guide you step by step through the question and answer process of adding up your income, your expenses, and your special deductions. Then, the software can either electronically file your return or give you printable forms to send by mail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome government tax forms are not finalized -- and may not be for another month -- but TurboTax will let you get very far along in the process in just a couple hours' time. That is, assuming you have at least a rough idea of what is going to show up on your W-2s and 1099s.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's an extra incentive to get started now, which is that TurboTax offers discounts on the software price for those who start early. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe offerings\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETurboTax has three product categories: online filing using a web browser; a human-assisted online version called TurboTax Live, where a CPA will field questions and also chat with you via video session; and the old-fashioned download route, where you get a desktop app that runs the software outside of the browser. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETurboTax has expanded the Live offering with a Full Service version, which is akin to hiring an accountant to do all the work for you (albeit for a more affordable price).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe prices range from free using the online option, to $120 for the Home & Business CD\u002FDownload version that will handle such forms as 1099s. State filings are free with the free online product option, but extra for all other online products.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe CD\u002FDownload products are priced based on both the preparation of the state paperwork and the actual electronic filing charge -- that is if you decide to file electronically rather than mail in your paperwork. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe online products, including the Live versions, let you start out your work without any charge and pay only when you file. The free product is free to file, including the state filing charge. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBear in mind, TurboTax has add-ons that you can purchase as an à la carte offering, including something called \"Max Benefits\" that adds features such as \"Full audit representation\" that will enlist a \"dedicated expert\" to represent you to the IRS if such an event befalls you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F5-ways-youre-asking-for-an-irs-audit-this-tax-season\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFive ways you're asking for an IRS audit this tax season\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you choose to add Max Benefits during the process, it's an additional $59 versus the $125 cost of adding it à la carte.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to the main programs, TurboTax has quite a roster of mobile apps. Not only does the TurboTax Mobile App for iOS and Android let you do all the work from your phone, but there are two more companion mobile apps: TaxCaster, which is a quick-and-dirty program for getting a rough estimate of your potential tax refund, and ItsDeductible, which is a program for keeping track of your charitable gifts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERemember that when you are ready to file, there is an option to choose to have the cost deducted from your refund in cases where you are entitled to a refund.   \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe online experience\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe online versions whisk you right into the process once you decide which of the four versions you want to use: Free, Deluxe, Premier, or Self-Employed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you are a returning user, the program will prompt you to login with a previously established user ID and password. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program then asks about life-changing events, such as buying a home, and new situations in the tax year, such as having sold cryptocurrencies or changing employers. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe question-answering funnels you into a series of document preparation steps, with encouraging verbiage on-screen along the way, such as \"You're speeding toward the finish line!\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fheres-how-2021-tax-brackets-actually-work\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHere's how 2021 tax brackets actually work\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn interesting aspect is the information pop-ups that accompany some screens, such as financial relief options to consider to get money back. These appear as a sidebar to the main content in the window, so they're helpful without taking you out of the flow of what you were doing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause it's part of Intuit, a number of extra possibilities pop up during the course of the online exercise. For example, you can import your financial data from Intuit's Quicken program or QuickBooks. And the program will ask if you want TurboTax to allow Intuit to access your filing data for the purpose of giving you feedback, such as \"analysis to help you understand where you stand financially across your income, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio, and tips to help you improve and get more of what you want.\" (You can choose not to use the extra options.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you walk away from the web site, TurboTax will log you out after a while. Sometimes the program may take you back to a step you've already done when you return; it doesn't always pick up exactly where you left off. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong the best aspects of TurboTax's online offering is how it gives you a sense of what's coming up next, such as an overview of the income reporting process. It's a little thing, but having plain-English web pages that preview the coming steps is helpful in an already psychologically fraught process. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company does a good job of walking you through the categories of expenses you will have to itemize, giving you a sense of where you are in the journey. A nice feature is a constantly updating estimator at the top of the page showing how much you owe for both federal \u003Cem\u003Eand\u003C\u002Fem\u003E state taxes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fto-itemize-or-not-to-itemize-that-is-the-question\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETo itemize or not to itemize? That is the question\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can, at any point, click on the Live option button in the upper right corner of the site to chat with a CPA, for the additional fee mentioned above. A person appears in a video window, so you can see them but they cannot see you. They introduce themselves and ask for permission to view your screen. What they can see is only a single browser window, and only the open tab of that window, so the engagement is kept focused. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn ZDNet's experience, talking with the tax pro was a pleasant and helpful experience.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETurboTax is also very forgiving when you fail to fill in something, such as missing the dollar amount when noting what's in your 1099-NEC. However, one wonders why such things are not more automated, such as transferring your 1099-NEC info right out of the actual stub. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, TurboTax Online does offer an ability to snap a picture of a 1099-NEC and have it automatically populate your filing, a new feature this year in the Self-Employed version. That feature is mentioned prominently both on the site and in the mobile app, but ZDNet searched in vain to find the place to snap a picture of the NEC. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is a potential problem of the online edition. New features are updated at various times, and within TurboTax's very rich offering, some features seem to be either not available early in tax season or buried, like the 1099-NEC photo option.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZDNet called technical support -- twice -- to inquire about the missing 1099-NEC upload feature. Both times, an automated support response tried to redirect to some online literature, but that didn't solve the problem. The key in this case is to tell the automated attendant, \"I want to speak to a person,\" whereupon you'll be passed to a tax pro. The tax pro was not, in this case, able to solve the mystery of the 1099-NEC feature, suggesting that it has yet to be rolled out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESomehow, TurboTax needs to do a better job of surfacing these kinds of features and making sure they're available when they're heavily marketed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EConclusions  \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETurboTax has the most comprehensive selection of products, from a free online form that lets you do federal and state filings for free up to a $389 product that basically has an accountant take over everything.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe presentation of the user interface in the online product is one of the best around, with simple, straightforward descriptions of tax concepts, such as depreciation versus expensing, that can clarify some of the mystery of the process.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company needs to be careful, however, not to advertise a million features that don't easily show up when people expect to use them, such as automatically scanning 1099-NECs. Also, some of the costs are buried in the fine print and can be confusing, so scroll through the entire page and read carefully.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"691c538a-dc9c-48ba-9eeb-4425962fb52b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"TurboTax\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"8e1b8098-8f17-41d9-8d55-4c0c53a7d6fd","filename":"shutterstock-1908087805.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F01\u002F12\u002F8e1b8098-8f17-41d9-8d55-4c0c53a7d6fd\u002Fshutterstock-1908087805.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-01-12 19:22:29","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"8e1b8098-8f17-41d9-8d55-4c0c53a7d6fd","imageFilename":"shutterstock-1908087805.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F01\u002F12"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fturbotax.intuit.com\u002Fpersonal-taxes\u002Fonline\u002F\" data-offermerchant=\"Intuit\" data-monetizedurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.jdoqocy.com\u002Fclick-9041660-13547334-1638228706000?sid=[subid_value]\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"54e22bf9-9793-4e75-8a5e-a64e30aaf5b4\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F54e22bf9-9793-4e75-8a5e-a64e30aaf5b4\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-01-06 22:47:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Intuit's tax-prep software offers everything from simple mobile apps to filing with the assistance of a human CPA.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"e2f68ab6-dcb4-4c7f-bd7f-fd8977468ded",image:{id:"8e1b8098-8f17-41d9-8d55-4c0c53a7d6fd",filename:"shutterstock-1908087805.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-01-12 19:22:29",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:": The TurboTax Tax Return App icon is seen on an iPhone atop the form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.",credits:"shutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F01\u002F12\u002F8e1b8098-8f17-41d9-8d55-4c0c53a7d6fd\u002Fshutterstock-1908087805.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"review-single",hubTopicPathString:"Finance^Taxes",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"review-turbotax-2022",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"TurboTax review: The broadest options from an industry staple",topic:{id:"54ddfe1c-d6bf-40f6-9cec-488a5d0c5705",slug:"taxes",name:"Taxes",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"54ddfe1c-d6bf-40f6-9cec-488a5d0c5705",slug:"taxes",name:"Taxes",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9c20cf52-798b-46f0-9742-01999d97a167",username:"Lena Borrelli",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Lena",lastName:"Borrelli",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"302892f5-e22d-48c6-91a3-5d45643222c9",filename:"lena-borrelli-author.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-07-06 17:17:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F07\u002F06\u002F302892f5-e22d-48c6-91a3-5d45643222c9\u002Flena-borrelli-author.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Lena Muhtadi Borrelli has several years of experience in writing for insurance domains such as Bankrate, allconnect, Healthline, Reviews.com, HomeInsurance.com, My Slumber Yard and MYMOVE. She is a financial expert who previously worked for Morgan Stanley and now specializes in all forms of insurance. Her work has also recently been published on sites like TIME, ADT, Fiscal Tiger, Bankrate, The Simple Dollar and Home Advisor, as well as many other websites and blogs around the world.",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003E2020 was a record year in holiday sales, totaling \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fedex.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fecommerce\u002Fholiday-consumer-spending-trends.html\"\u003E$789.4 billion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. In 2021 retail e-commerce sales have already totaled more than \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.census.gov\u002Fretail\u002Fmrts\u002Fwww\u002Fdata\u002Fpdf\u002Fec_current.pdf\"\u003E$222 billion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E by just the second quarter, and it is only expected to continue. In a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fedex.com\u002Fcontent\u002Fdam\u002Ffedex\u002Fus-united-states\u002Fecommerce\u002F2021\u002F2021_Ecommerce_Trends_to_Look_For_Report.pdf\"\u003Enew FedEx report\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, 53% of North American buyers said that the pandemic has changed the way they will shop going forward. What's more, over 95 million consumers stick to online shopping exclusively for their shopping needs. For small businesses, that means huge demand. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe COVID-19 pandemic has brought an enormous rise in e-commerce, significantly increasing the amount of shipping that businesses do. Suddenly, small businesses are doing far beyond normal shipping levels, and it can be a struggle to keep up. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBig business requires a fast, reliable shipping service, and while we all know the big names, which shipping services are best for small businesses? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShipping services compared\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EService\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest for\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDomestic Delivery Time\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInternational shipping\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFreight shipping\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDHL \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInternational shipping\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext-day available\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E220+ countries and territories\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✔\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFedEx\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFast deliveries\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1 to 5 business days \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E220+ countries and territories\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✔\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESendle\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEco-friendly shipping\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1 to 4 business days \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E220+ countries and territories\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✗\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShipBob\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFragile items\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2-day delivery \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E55 countries\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✔\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUPS\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELarge items\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1 to 5 business days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E220+ countries and territories\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✔\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUSPS\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall shipping volume\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2 to 8 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E190+ countries and territories\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✔\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d36551df-3c3c-4e16-a01e-6043fab4e714\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAt a glance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dhlexpress.nl\u002Fen\u002Fsmall-business-solutions"\u003Einventor of the air express business\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in 1969, today, DHL is a powerhouse. It is equipped to successfully work with multiple sectors, including the most sensitive ones, like chemicals, energy, healthcare, and technology. With over&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fmydhl.express.dhl\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fship\u002Fdelivery-services.html#\u002Fexport"\u003E431 million shipments\u003C\u002Fa\u003E each year to over 220 countries, DHL manages 84,000 DHL service points and over 360 TAPA-certified facilities for cargo safety with over 260 aircraft, 36,300 vehicles, 3,200 aircraft and over 3,200 flights per day. DHL also offers green logistics to reduce emissions, thereby minimizing your footprint through eco-friendly shipping solutions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDHL works with customers and packages of all sizes. Businesses with less than 250 people are considered a Small or Medium Enterprise (SME), perfect for small businesses in need of domestic and international shipping services. DHL has shipping solutions with available air, ocean, road, and rail services. If you need freight shipping, DHL can accommodate all cargo types, including pallets and containers. There is end-to-end tracking so you can keep tabs on your shipment every step of the way.&nbsp; Businesses can also enjoy popular digital integrations, including Shopify, Adobe Commerce, WooCommerce, and PrestaShop, allowing seamless transition from sales to shipping. For even more support, several exporting resources are available through DHL's joint partnership with the U.S. Commercial Service (USCS) from the Department of Commerce.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EServices over 220 countries\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMultiple freight shipping options\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EU.S. Chamber of Commerce partnership for educational resources&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeveral fees and surcharges may apply\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELimited U.S. presence\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPricey shipping costs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping timelines\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dhl.com\u002Fus-en\u002Fhome\u002Fship\u002Fparcel-and-document-shipping.html"\u003EPricing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for shipping is based on several factors, including shipping destination, export or import rating zone, and weight of your shipment. However, a DHL Express business account can receive up to 30% off regular shipping prices.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are several plans available for small business shipping needs:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlan type\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMaximum weight\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping times\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDomestic\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EExpress\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E154 lbs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext possible business day\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInternational mail\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E4.4 lbs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E4-8 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInternational\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDHL Packet International\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E4.4 lbs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E4-8 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDHL Parcel International Standard\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E44 lbs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECanada &amp; Europe: 4-8 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWorldwide: 8-14 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDHL Parcel International Direct\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E44 lbs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3-10 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"DHL Express\" data-superlative=\"Best for international shipping\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"dhl-express.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"DHL","imageData":{"id":"54e39d87-e895-4e0a-8214-b3d06848b909","title":"dhl-express","filename":"dhl-express.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F21\u002F54e39d87-e895-4e0a-8214-b3d06848b909\u002Fdhl-express.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":7881,"width":512,"height":379,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-10-21 14:49:31","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-10-21 14:50:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":"DHL","alt":"dhl-express.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"54e39d87-e895-4e0a-8214-b3d06848b909","imageAltText":"dhl-express.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"DHL","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dhl-express.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F10\u002F21","imageWidth":512,"imageHeight":379,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"DHL\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"DHL","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dhl.com\u002Fus-en\u002Fhome.html","url":""}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5bed841e-b979-4505-9eee-7401005099ce\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAt a glance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEstablished in 1973, FedEx is one of the largest shipping services in the U.S. It ships to more than 220 countries and territories with over 570,000 team members and more than 40,000 convenient drop boxes. In fact, FedEx makes it very easy to ship your packages with several locations that can assist with packing and international shipping. You have your choice of the local FedEx Office, FedEx Ship Center, FedEx Authorized ShipCenter®, Office Depot and OfficeMax. There are also self-service options that include FedEx drop boxes, as well as one-time and recurring pickup services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor international shipping, you can calculate&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fedex.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fonline\u002Frating.html#"\u003Equotes online\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, plus benefit from virtual customer support. When you open a new FedEx account, you can receive up to 60% off eligible shipments with flat-rate shipping for smaller packages. FedEx has a simple system for returns with customizable return labels and print or email distribution. You can also use the FedEx International Shipping Assist tool to streamline your shipping logistics with a tool to calculate duties and taxes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditional member discounts\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMultiple chat support options\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEasy online account management\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPricey for small shipments\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EProne to shipping delays\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECharges for pickups\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping timelines\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx has several&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fedex.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fecommerce\u002Fshipping-options.html"\u003Eshipping options\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that you can choose from:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDelivery type\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EService type\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping times\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDomestic\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx Home Delivery\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGround deliveries to residences\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1-5 business days, up to 70 lbs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx Ground\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECommercial deliveries\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1-5 business days, up to 150 lbs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx Express Saver\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThird-business day delivery\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThird-business-day delivery by 4:30 p.m. or 8 p.m., depending on the area\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx 2Day\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecond-business day delivery\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecond-business-day delivery by 4:30 p.m. or 8 p.m., depending on the area\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx Priority Overnight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEarly next-business-day delivery\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecond-business-day delivery by 10:30 a.m., noon, or 5 p.m., depending on the area\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx Standard Overnight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfternoon next-business-day delivery\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecond-business-day delivery by 3:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m., or 8 p.m., depending on the area\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInternational\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx International Ground\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDay-definite delivery to Canada\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2–7 business days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx International Economy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFaster international shipping&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECanada, Mexico and Puerto Rico: 2–3 business days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther areas: 2–5 business days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx International Priority\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFastest international shipping\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECanada and Mexico: 1 business day\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEurope, Asia and Brazil: 2 business days Other areas: 1–3 business days&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFreight\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx First Overnight® Freight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDomestic&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext-business-day delivery by 9 a.m. or 10:30 a.m.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx 1Day® Freight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDomestic\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext-business-day delivery by 10:30 a.m.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx 2Day® Freight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDomestic\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2 business days by noon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx 3Day® Freight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDomestic, except Alaska and Hawaii\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3 business days by 3 p.m.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx Freight®Priority\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFast-transit domestic delivery of LTL Freight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10:30 a.m. or 5 p.m.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFedEx Freight® Economy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECost‑effective domestic delivery of LTL Freight\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10:30 a.m. or 5 p.m.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"FedEx\" data-superlative=\"Best for fast deliveries\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"fedex.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"FedEx","imageData":{"id":"2e2c0206-bd53-4463-b863-ff9142ffe81b","title":"fedex","filename":"fedex.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F21\u002F2e2c0206-bd53-4463-b863-ff9142ffe81b\u002Ffedex.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":10102,"width":512,"height":250,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-10-21 14:58:26","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-10-21 14:58:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":"FedEx","alt":"fedex.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2e2c0206-bd53-4463-b863-ff9142ffe81b","imageAltText":"fedex.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"FedEx","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"fedex.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F10\u002F21","imageWidth":512,"imageHeight":250,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"FedEx\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"FedEx","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fedex.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fhome.html","url":""}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d384e5d3-11f6-4018-b231-3f2f5127e855\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAt a glance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESendle is a newer service, having been established in 2014, but it has grown quickly, thanks to an all-in-one approach to its shipping service. Because it partners with so many shipping services, Sendle is able to offer bulk discounts commonly reserved for high-volume companies. However, as a company based in Australia, Sendle does not offer international shipments from the U.S. Instead, you can ship across the U.S., as well as Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Shipments are also available to P.O. Boxes and domestic military bases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESendle offers simple management for all of your shipments. To calculate pricing, you can use the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Ftry.sendle.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fquote-tool"\u003Eonline quoting tool\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for easy estimates. There is also the ability to schedule and book online, as well as label printing and scheduling for free pickups. Several integrations are available, including Shopify, eBay, WooCommerce, Etsy, and ShipStation for advanced management and tools. Pricing begins at $2.45 for flat-rate domestic shipping that is also carbon neutral. Sendle claims that its prices are up to 79% off normal retail rates. There is also the added benefit is Sendle Cover -- a free insurance protection that covers lost goods up to $150.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPartners with multiple services\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFree shipping pickups\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECarbon-neutral shipping\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBased in Australia\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo international shipping from the U.S.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmaller service\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping timelines and pricing\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESendle offers three plans, Standard, Premium, and Pro, which feature special rates based on total volume. There is upfront, detailed&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Ftry.sendle.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fpricing"\u003Erate information\u003C\u002Fa\u003E based on size and destination. Regardless, there are no contracts, hidden fees, or membership requirements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlan\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStarting price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMinimum order quantity\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESendle Standard\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$4.14\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo minimum\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESendle Premium\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$3.45\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E20\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESendle Pro\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$3,40\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E200\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Sendle\" data-superlative=\"Best for eco-friendly shipping\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sendle.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Sendle","imageData":{"id":"b89e12b3-0745-4675-8413-3ed81bc4741c","title":"sendle-logo1","filename":"sendle-logo1.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F21\u002Fb89e12b3-0745-4675-8413-3ed81bc4741c\u002Fsendle-logo1.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":16879,"width":445,"height":224,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-10-21 17:49:30","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-10-21 17:49:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"sendle-logo1.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"b89e12b3-0745-4675-8413-3ed81bc4741c","imageAltText":"sendle.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Sendle","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"sendle-logo1.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F10\u002F21","imageWidth":445,"imageHeight":224,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Sendle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Sendle","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sendle.com\u002F","url":""}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5801c205-3e35-454a-b3c4-f7adca9ddb0d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAt a glance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike Sendle, ShipBob was established in 2014. Over 900 employees service ShipBob's headquarters and fulfillment centers with over 5,200 e-commerce business accounts. It partners with companies like UPS, FedEx, DHL, and USPS to ship worldwide. By using ShipBob's services, the company claims you can increase your average order value by 97% while saving your team an estimated 120 hours per week. It also claims to reduce cart abandonment by 18% while reducing your bottom line with 13% savings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShipBob works differently than most other services because it combines fulfillment services with shipping. It has taken a page out of Amazon's book by combining inventory management with order fulfillment and shipping services. As a global logistics platform, it can store inventory so that when your customers place an order, ShipBob can fulfill them, packing them with 99.95% accuracy before shipment. It also boasts a 99.96% success rate for on-time shipments. With this support, the staff is free to focus on other parts of the business. ShipBob will even track the order until it is received so any issues can be handled immediately. There is also available order management software, allowing you to manage subscriptions, adjust orders, and change shipping options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFlexible rates\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditional inventory tools\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEasy integration with Amazon\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConfusing price structure\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomer service outsourced\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELengthy resolution process\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping timelines and pricing\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShipBob ships worldwide to over 220 countries and territories with international fulfillment centers in Canada, the UK, Australia, and Europe. ShipBob's algorithm searches ground, air, and regional carriers to find the best delivery rates to meet your schedule. For domestic shipping, there is ShipBob's 2-Day Express Shipping Program, which offers a standard 2-day shipping for your orders. Returns incur a $3&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.shipbob.com\u002Fen\u002Farticles\u002F3948827-standard-b2c-pricing"\u003Eprocessing fee\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for every returned order. Labels are additional and may be provided independently or purchased from ShipBob.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETask\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EType\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated timeline\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECost\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFulfillment\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReceiving inventory\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFlat rate\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3 business days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$25 first 2 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$40 per man hour thereafter\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStorage\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMonthly&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EN\u002FA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$40\u002Fpallet\u002Fmonth\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$10\u002Fshelf\u002Fmonth\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$5\u002Fbin\u002Fmonth\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPick and Pack\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPer order\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EN\u002FA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$0 Up to 4 picks\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$0.20 ea. for 5+ picks\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStandard packing\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPer order\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EN\u002FA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIncluded with free packing supplies\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShipping\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPer order\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EN\u002FA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVaries\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReceiving&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFlat rate\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EN\u002FA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$25 First 2 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$40\u002Fhour after 2 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you prefer a self-service program, the Growth plan is available for shipments of 400 or less each month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"ShipBob\" data-superlative=\"Best for fragile items\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"shipbob.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"ShipBob","imageData":{"id":"b386ea6e-81dd-47da-887a-56e61e2c71d4","title":"shipbob","filename":"shipbob.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F21\u002Fb386ea6e-81dd-47da-887a-56e61e2c71d4\u002Fshipbob.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":18814,"width":512,"height":512,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-10-21 15:14:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-10-21 15:14:16","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":"ShipBob","alt":"shipbob.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"b386ea6e-81dd-47da-887a-56e61e2c71d4","imageAltText":"shipbob.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"ShipBob","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"shipbob.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F10\u002F21","imageWidth":512,"imageHeight":512,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"ShipBob\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"ShipBob","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.shipbob.com\u002F","url":""}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e260c97e-389c-42ec-91c8-65cca8b77d47\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAt a glance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS is one of the best business shipping services in the U.S. and also one of the most popular. A number of services are available, including e-commerce, order fulfillment and international shipping. One standout feature about UPS is its free virtual brainstorming session, which is offered by the UPS small business solutions team. It makes it easy to set up and streamline your business operations to offer the best shipping services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can test-drive additional services, like a 60-day free trial for UPS eFulfillment. This allows for easier inventory management and shipping, integrating with more than 21 platforms. Several other types of support are available, as well:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS My Choice® features an interactive dashboard detailing estimated delivery times and critical notifications regarding both inbound and outbound shipments.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS Mail Innovations is an affordable solution for a large volume of letters and lightweight packages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWorldShip® is great to streamline high-volume shipping.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ups.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fservices\u002Fshipping\u002Fimport-control.page?"\u003EUPS Import Control® allows you to track and manage international shipments.\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS CampusShip® allows your employees to access shipping with an easy web-based platform.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMyFreight helps you ship and track truckload shipments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConnectShip allows for integrated, multi-carrier shipping solutions for more intricate needs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour local UPS store can help with everything from packing and package receiving to notary services. There is also a&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.upsstoreprintshop.com\u002F"\u003E30% discount\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for online printing projects, like business cards, mailers, and brochures.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPro:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHelpful tracking tools\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAffordable for heavy items\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall business tools\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECan have added fees\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo free pickup services\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EExtra charges for weekend delivery\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping timelines and pricing\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ups.com\u002Fassets\u002Fresources\u002Fmedia\u002Fen_US\u002Fdaily-rates-preview.pdf"\u003E2021 UPS Rates\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are incredibly detailed with domestic shipping timelines and&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fupscapital.com\u002Fproduct-services\u002Fmerchant-services\u002F"\u003Esmall business payment\u003C\u002Fa\u003E solutions.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShipping by air is available in three options: overnight, two-day, and three-day delivery.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ups.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fservices\u002Finternational-shipping.page"\u003EInternational shipping\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is also available with several options:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInternational service&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated delivery\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS Express Critical\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt depends on order placement\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS Worldwide Express Plus\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1-3 business days, typically by 8:30 or 9:00 a.m.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS Worldwide Saver\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1-3 business days, by end of day\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS Worldwide Expedited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2-5 business days, by end of day\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUPS Standard\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDay definite, by end of day\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"UPS\" data-superlative=\"Best for large items\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ups.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"UPS","imageData":{"id":"ebd7ef4c-37d8-4969-9a79-16c7569231c7","title":"ups","filename":"ups.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F21\u002Febd7ef4c-37d8-4969-9a79-16c7569231c7\u002Fups.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":37153,"width":211,"height":239,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-10-21 15:27:23","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-10-21 15:27:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":"UPS","alt":"ups.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"ebd7ef4c-37d8-4969-9a79-16c7569231c7","imageAltText":"ups.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"UPS","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ups.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F10\u002F21","imageWidth":211,"imageHeight":239,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"UPS\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"UPS","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ups.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002FHome.page","url":""}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"68408519-558a-472a-9f87-23aaa0f216b5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAt a glance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUSPS has small business solutions that go beyond the typical shipping service, such as USPS Loyalty Rewards. Shipping is easy with the Click-N-Ship® service that creates labels for Priority Mail® and Priority Mail Express® packages. With&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fgateway.usps.com\u002FeAdmin\u002Fview\u002Fknowledge?securityId=WHITELABELELIGIBLE"\u003EClick-N-Ship® Business Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you can use exclusive USPS desktop software to make domestic and international shipments totaling 10 or more.&nbsp; There are additional integration and reporting features so you can see your company's performance over time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBusinesses have the option to reserve a dedicated PO Box, and there is also a free shipment pickup that can be scheduled in advance using the easy online interface. Meanwhile, your business has the opportunity to earn loyalty reward credits on the shipments you make anyway. There are also marketing support services. An example is USPS Marketing Mail, which arms you with the tools to elevate your company's direct-mail initiatives through the Every Door Direct Mail® (EDDM®) and Direct Mail Advertising programs. Also available are Business Solutions Associates that can ship you a starter kit and work with you to create the right program for your company's specific shipping needs.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECan add mailbox or PO box rental\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAutomatic address verification\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFree Flat Rate boxes and supplies\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMinimal tracking tools&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPricey for international shipping\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETransit times are often longer\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEstimated shipping timelines and pricing\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUSPS provides a clear-cut estimated timeline for several types of deliveries. Rate details are available in the in-depth&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.usps.com\u002Fship\u002Fpriority-mail.htm"\u003Eprice schedule\u003C\u002Fa\u003E:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDomestic Service\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShipping time\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDomestic\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPriority Mail Express\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext day - 2 day by 6 p.m.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPriority Mail\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1 - 3 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUSPS Retail Ground\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2–8 Days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMedia Mail\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2–8 Days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst-Class Package Service\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1 - 3 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInternational\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGlobal Express Guaranteed\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1–3 Business Days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPriority Mail Express International\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3–5 Business Days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPriority Mail International\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E6–10 Business Days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst-Class Package International Service\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVaries\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"USPS\" data-superlative=\"Best for small shipping volume\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"usps.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"USPS","imageData":{"id":"51281801-ecda-4e3f-9033-8c652bf07ae3","title":"usps","filename":"usps.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2016\u002F04\u002F20\u002F51281801-ecda-4e3f-9033-8c652bf07ae3\u002Fusps.jpg","caption":"","size":89715,"width":768,"height":474,"dateCreated":{"date":"2016-04-20 16:03:16","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2016-04-20 16:03:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"usps.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"51281801-ecda-4e3f-9033-8c652bf07ae3","imageAltText":"usps.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"USPS","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"usps.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2016\u002F04\u002F20","imageWidth":768,"imageHeight":474,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"USPS\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"USPS","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.usps.com\u002F","url":""}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow did we choose these products?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, many companies offer online shipping services, but not all may be best suited for your business needs. In order to find the best shipping services for small businesses, we consider several factors, such as these:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDelivery estimates: While all deliveries are subject to interruption, the estimated delivery time for your shipments is important to coincide with any shipping promises your company has made.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPackaging: While some companies offer free shipping supplies, others may offer alternate solutions, such as carbon-free shipping materials.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EType of shipments: The size, weight, and dimensions of your shipments will greatly affect cost.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrder volume: Cost savings often apply for bulk shipping volume. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETracking tools: Not all companies may offer detailed tracking information for your peace of mind.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFragile possessions: Some items are extremely fragile and can easily break without the popular precautions.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBased on these criteria and more, we offer 2021's best shipping services for small businesses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhich is the right one for you?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith so many shipping services for small businesses, it is not always easy to identify the right pick for your needs. Here are our best recommendations for the best shipping services for small businesses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChoose this product...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhen...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDHL Express\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou do a lot of international business\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFedEx\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou don't have time to waste\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESendle\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour business wants to go green\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShipBob\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou need extra care for your packages\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUPS\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou ship big and bulky items\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUSPS\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou ship small or lightweight items\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShipping service for small business FAQ\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cc0dc619-d62c-4b7f-b4fd-797959b007e2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPricing for shipments is based on a series of specific factors, including the destination, weight, and requested delivery time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How is the price for business shipping services calculated?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3283e3ea-f028-420c-9d3a-73954340adc5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETypically, a small package weighs less than 150lbs.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is considered a small package?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6ee2d3c2-86de-4b06-8a2c-1a960c19dd94\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EEvery country is different, just as every company handles international rates differently. To find the best pricing, you can talk to a team member for a quote and important details regarding applicable fees and tariffs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How much does it cost to ship internationally?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAre there alternatives worth considering?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are just a limited number of proven, experienced shipping providers in the U.S. However, if you are looking for more options for your business needs, consider some of our other features:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-best-small-business-credit-cards-for-big-shipping-budgets-2021\u002F\"\u003EThe best small business credit cards for big shipping budgets 2021\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ftopic\u002Fit-innovation-for-small-businesses\u002F\"\u003EIT Innovation for Small Businesses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Feasiest-cost-saving-measures-for-small-businesses\u002F\"\u003EEasiest cost-saving measures for small businesses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2021-10-21 19:11:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Flexible, affordable shipping solutions that grow with your small business.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"7146657b-7f2e-4ca8-9136-40903bef94be",image:{id:"5df2094c-971e-49ea-9c83-2b9595d9b378",filename:"shipping-services-for-small-businesses.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-10-21 15:50:27",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"replace-this-image.jpg",credits:"By Freedomz -- Shutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F21\u002F5df2094c-971e-49ea-9c83-2b9595d9b378\u002Fshipping-services-for-small-businesses.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best shipping services for small business in 2021",section:c,slug:"best-shipping-service-for-small-business",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best shipping services for small businesses 2022",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Blue Host on a MacBook screen\" data-image-filename=\"20240409-124438.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"4000\" data-image-height=\"2252\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt seems like there are an almost unlimited number of web hosting providers who will serve your website for a monthly fee. In our tested list of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-web-hosting\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest web hosting services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, we spotlighted providers that offer a wide range of plans. When doing a full review of a single hosting provider, I set up the most basic account possible and run the service through a barrage of tests. In this article, I'll dive into \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"431e2cf7-e1ef-405b-a105-ca3d5e140155\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002F\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbluehost.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F795082\u002F11352?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bluehost.com%2F&subId1=subid_value\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost's\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E offerings based on my hands-on testing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwp-engine-review\u002F\"\u003EWP Engine review: A solid managed-hosting provider for WordPress\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause there are so many variables among plans and offerings, not only among hosting providers, but within the plans offered by any one provider, it can be difficult to get a good comparison. I've found that one of the best ways to see how a provider performs is to look at the least expensive plan they offer. You can expect the least quality, the least attention to detail, and the least performance from such a plan. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBluehost at a glance\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"147d4c36-7c0c-4e5c-88a4-78166d5f4bb9\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Shared hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting a $2.95 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"12325339-4ff2-4185-aa10-06e55165bceb\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Online store hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $9.95 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c5a32168-2421-4a0e-889c-4a7dd5a7e88c\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Virtual private server (VPS) hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $31.99 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b2ed79a4-dd42-4556-ba79-5e65d562826f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Dedicated server hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $91.98 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"d47664c6-bd82-446b-82b2-f1fe05003476\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Cloud hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $29.99 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPrice bump after end of period: Yes\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \t \tHow web hosting provider pricing really works \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor this series of hosting reviews, I'm testing the most basic, most entry-level plan a vendor is offering. In the case of Bluehost, it's their appropriately named Basic plan. To get pricing information, I went to the company's main site at \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b3ecfeac-22af-4f32-ba64-e9a55f126406\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost.com\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8670469b-00ca-4295-a57f-34485c91b895\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ERegular, non-incognito window in Chrome\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"shared-web-hosting-plans-fast-secure-shared-hosting-bluehost-2021-04-24-19-03-38.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-26-412x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2500\" data-image-height=\"2138\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with most every hosting provider, Bluehost's published pricing is somewhat misleading. There is no option to get billed only $2.95 per month. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile it looks like you can get the Single Shared Hosting plan for $2.95 per month, that's only if you prepay for a full year, which means you're actually paying $35.40. There's a gotcha though. When you renew, you're going to pay more. Four times more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0e81a2b0-2bef-4e7f-9033-a11011256891\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-25-432x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-25-432x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1134\" data-image-height=\"832\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt is weird, though, because if you sign up for just a year, you're paying less per month for that first year. But then your price will jump by more than quadruple what you paid when you signed up. I talked a lot about \u003Cem\u003Elock-in\u003C\u002Fem\u003E and \u003Cem\u003Eswitching costs\u003C\u002Fem\u003E in my \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-build-a-website\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to create a website: The step-by-step guide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E overview. Read it, because Bluehost (and many other hosting providers) have business models that count on the switching costs being so painful that you'll suck up a huge upcharge simply to avoid moving your site.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the other hand, if you pay for three years (and this is not just a commitment, you're paying that $178.20 upfront), the company implies you're paying more per month for the first year. Of course, you're not. You're either plunking down $178.20 for three years or $35.40 for one year -- and then paying big to continue.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-web-hosting\u002F\"\u003EThe best web hosting services of 2024: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAgain, this is not unusual -- I focus on these pricing gimmicks in my reviews because it can be really unpleasant to suddenly get a bill that's hundreds or even thousands of dollars (depending on the plan) more than you expected. Second, switching from one hosting provider to another hosting provider can be a very time-consuming and possibly expensive job, fraught with hassles and potential points of failure. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt least half of the hosting vendors I've looked at over the years do these promo deals, with big jumps in renewal fees, so Bluehost isn't alone in this somewhat predatory practice. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn any case, let's move on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \t \tWhat the Bluehost Basic plan includes \u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost bottom-end plans are for one website, and Bluehost is no different. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore we move into the details, let's spend a moment talking about what a base plan really is. All websites are not created equal. While you might be able to pay under three bucks a month to run your website, I pay about a hundred bucks each month to run \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fanatomy-of-a-wordpress-site\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emy small fleet of sites\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA base site is designed for a business or an individual who wants a basic online presence. That's a bunch of pages, some product or service images, and a lot of text. If you want to run complex web applications, or you expect a lot of traffic, a basic site is not for you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-cheap-web-hosting\u002F\"\u003EThe best cheap web hosting services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're just trying to establish an online presence, starting simply is a good way to go. In this series, we're reviewing the least expensive program each hosting provider offers. That's going to be what the majority of buyers will want, and it will give us a good insight into the company. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost offers a number of pretty solid features in their Basic plan. The base plan includes 10GB website space, one website, and a basic SSL certificate, and what they describe as unmetered bandwidth. This \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4fc61bc2-d4cc-4ccf-ba77-6dbf7c47be71\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fhelp\u002Farticle\u002Fshared-hosting-prices#shared-hosting\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Help Page\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E provides more details:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"62a7a249-3553-439a-9ade-32c2409681c6\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-19-262x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-11-at-13-07-092x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"2616\" data-image-height=\"1920\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBe careful, though. In practice, if you push your account near the limits, or use an excessive amount of bandwidth, it's likely that the service will throttle you back. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FBluehost\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBluehost was one of the earliest providers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to institute server throttling when \"unlimited\" resource usage got to be too much. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are some wins, most notably that even the basic plan is hosted on SSDs. Even if a site is using caching (which reduces the load on a server), having fast drives is always a plus. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company does have 24\u002F7 chat and phone support, and Bluehost offers a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fhelp\u002Farticle\u002Frefundpolicy\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E30-day money-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It's not as long as some competitors, but it is a fair amount of time for you to get a simple site up and running and see how things work. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \t \tGetting started with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce your account is created and you log in, you're immediately presented with an upsell:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"02ac1f74-531b-453c-9d7a-f4a2fd00d482\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-22-382x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-22-382x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2594\" data-image-height=\"1516\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter that, I was presented with this installation status window:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4247b1cb-f9ea-4ab5-ad0c-cdffc70446b6\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-25-132x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-25-132x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1256\" data-image-height=\"968\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI went ahead and clicked Log In To WordPress. I got the following screen. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a30b9bc0-18fa-42e0-b50e-1274f9d59976\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-28-082x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-28-082x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2618\" data-image-height=\"1470\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI have to admit that I'm getting a little impatient. I want to see the dashboard so I can see what I can do with this service. Since there is no option to simply go to the dashboard, I guessed that \"I'm following a tutorial\" might imply that Bluehost was going to let me do something not pre-scripted.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStrangely enough, I now have two tabs open, with two dashboards. Here's the first, which is a panel inside the actual WordPress site dashboard:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"05983cb4-b02e-422c-aced-483be3ca990e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-33-242x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-33-242x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2882\" data-image-height=\"1726\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd here's the second:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"185181f6-8201-4f9c-8a48-914b967a9e87\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-34-392x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-34-392x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2874\" data-image-height=\"1666\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere does not appear to be anything that allows full site customization through something like cPanel. The cPanel email option shown above is for setting up email. But there's not full cPanel interface, which is disappointing. However, I did eventually find a more advanced dashboard. You get to it in the second dashboard shown above, by hitting Settings under the Welcome statement:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0b9110ab-7c6d-47f1-8303-78248734d7fb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-02-122x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-02-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2854\" data-image-height=\"1882\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tBasic WordPress access with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI decided to work in the version of the Bluehost dashboard presented inside the WordPress dashboard. There are options to... wait... nope. Can't look at them yet. Another upsell just popped up and blocked my access to the dashboard:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f704452b-e7d3-4538-b595-ac40c970ef5b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-44-192x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-44-192x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2858\" data-image-height=\"2006\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's actually driven by a WordPress plugin, so that means there are probably a ton of unnecessary WordPress plugins preinstalled. I'll check on that in a bit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBack in settings, there's an option to install WooCommerce to add an online store. There's a $9.95 a month Online Store plan, so I'm guessing that somewhere along the installation and configuration process for WooCommerce, there will be an option to upgrade the plan. There's a performance tab, which basically allows you to turn on and off site-wide caching.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-taking-on-more-work-doesnt-mean-it-replaces-you-here-are-12-reasons-to-worry-less\u002F\"\u003EAI taking on more work doesn't mean it replaces you. Here are 12 reasons to worry less\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's a very simple settings option, where you can turn off the Coming Soon page status, enable automatic WordPress updates, specify the number of revisions to save, and manage comments. Most of these can also be managed from the WordPress dashboard, so this seems like just another way to control the same thing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOoh, this is interesting. Bluehost provides a staging site, even in the base plan. They get some big points for that. It's always nice to having a staging site, and many more expensive plans don't come with one. Granted, this is a staging site managed inside the main WordPress install (which can be a bit dicey when things go waaaay bad), but it's still a great feature for a bottom-level plan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a13db3f6-f1a8-4148-b992-79669e04b6b2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-49-492x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-49-492x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2540\" data-image-height=\"1074\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, let's switch over to the WordPress Plugins dashboard. There's a lot installed here. Many of these are popular WordPress plugins, all offer upsells, and many of them add a lot of overhead to a WordPress installation. Many plugins, once installed, leave a lot of cruft in the WordPress database, so even if they're unistalled, the database winds up with a  lot of former plugin pollution. Fortunately, in that hidden advanced settings panel I found above, there is an option to delete the entire site and start over.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere is a partial list of everything that's preinstalled:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f91d8fd8-2d37-461e-843b-c0697c4a3193\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPartial list of installed plugins\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-51-232x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-51-232x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2852\" data-image-height=\"2000\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of them are also flashing red notifications, begging for attention.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tQuick security checks with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecurity is one of the biggest issues when it comes to operating a website. You want to make sure your site is safe from hackers, doesn't flag Google, and can connect securely to payment engines if you're running an e-commerce site of any kind. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the scope of this article doesn't allow for exhaustive security testing, there are a few quick checks that can help indicate whether Bluehost's most inexpensive platform is starting with a secure foundation. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first of these is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbetter-than-the-best-password-how-to-use-2fa-to-improve-your-security\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emultifactor authentication\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (MFA). It's way too easy for hackers to just bang away at a website's login screen and brute-force a password. In the past, many of my sites have been pounded on by some hacker or another, but because I have some relatively strong protections in place, the bad actor hasn't been able to get in. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsaving-hours-of-work-with-ai-how-chatgpt-became-my-virtual-assistant-for-a-data-project\u002F\"\u003ESaving hours of work with AI: How ChatGPT became my virtual assistant for a data project\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnfortunately, the basic Bluehost plan doesn't appear to support multifactor authentication at the dashboard level. Any WordPress site can add an MFA plugin to support authentication at the website level, but it would be nice for Bluehost to offer MFA at the hosting level. They do allow you to set a PIN code, so if you're contacting support for help, they can verify that you're you. But that's not the same as real MFA.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost includes a free AutoSSL certificate, which is configured and enabled by default. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs my last quick security check, I like to look at the versions of some of the main system components that run web applications. To make things easy, I chose four components necessary to safe WordPress operation. While other apps may use other components, I've found that if components are up-to-date for one set of needs, they're usually up to date across the board. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere are my findings (using the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwordpress.org\u002Fplugins\u002Fhealth-check\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHealth Check & Troubleshooting plugin\u003C\u002Fa\u003E), as of the day I tested, for Bluehost's Basic plan: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable class=\"MsoNormalTable\" style=\"border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;border:none; mso-border-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-yfti-tbllook:1536;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-border-insideh:1.0pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:1.0pt solid black\" width=\"624\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"1\"\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EComponent\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVersion Provided\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECurrent Version\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow Old\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:1\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPHP \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.3.4 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.3.4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:2\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMySQL \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5.7.23-23\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5.7.44\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E68 months \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:3\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EcURL \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.7.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.7.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:4;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenSSL \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1.1.1w\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3.2.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnsupported\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn general, these results are fairly good -- especially considering how out of date some of Bluehost's competitors have been when I checked their versions. That said, you kind of need to know the component to know how to read these results. Bluehost has current versions of PHP (the language that runs WordPress) and cURL, a library used for many supporting services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMySQL can be confusing. The current version of MySQL is 8.0.23, but the production MySQL release process jumped from 5.7 to 8.0. While the MySQL 8.x branch is being updated, so is the MySQL 5.7.x branch. In that branch, at 68 months out of date, Bluehost's MySQL is getting a quite long in the tooth. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESSL is far worse. This is the security environment that provides encrypted communications to your website. It's what's indicated by that little lock in your browser's address bar. Bluehost is running an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.openssl.org\u002Fblog\u002Fblog\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F11\u002Feol-111\u002Findex.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eunsupported and obsolete version of OpenSSL\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This is not new news. It's now seven months since the entire OpenSSL 1.1.1 track has been end-of-lifed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost says that it's not really a problem, because they \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.cpanel.net\u002Fknowledge-base\u002Fsecurity\u002Fpci-compliance-and-software-versions\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebackport\u003C\u002Fa\u003E security code into their implementation. Brent Lundell, senior director of hosting infrastructure at Bluehost told me this:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenSSL is commonly backported by various software packages and operating systems, leveraging an older version (such as 1.1.1) while backporting the security patches to prevent regular rewrites of other portions of the software base. In Bluehost's case, OpenSSL 1.1.1 is compiled upstream by WebPros, which will backport security patches into v1.1.1 and ensure we're running a fully secured version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's a credible statement, but I still don't like it. If a security product has been obsoleted, it just raises the hairs on the back of my neck to still keep running it, even if a separate team is keeping it secure. I'd be far more comfortable moving to the actively supported code. Based on Lundell's response and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.redhat.com\u002Fen\u002Fblog\u002Fexperience-bringing-openssl-30-rhel-and-fedora\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esome reading I did on the topic\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it's quite likely their implementation is safe. Still, it seems wrong somehow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EBluehost performance testing\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, I wanted to see how the site performed using some online performance testing tools. It's important not to take these tests too seriously. We're purposely looking at the most low-end offerings of hosting vendors, so the sites they produce are expected to be relatively slow. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-used-chatgpt-to-write-the-same-routine-in-12-top-programming-languages-heres-how-it-did\u002F\"\u003EI used ChatGPT to write the same routine in 12 top programming languages. Here's how it did\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat said, it's nice to have an idea of what to expect. The way I test is to use the fresh install of WordPress with the standard theme TwentyTwenty. I then performance test the \"Hello, world\" page, which is mostly text, with just an image header. That way, we're able to focus on the responsiveness of a basic page without being too concerned about media overhead. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, I ran two \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftools.pingdom.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPingdom Tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E tests, one hitting the site from San Francisco and the second from Germany. Here's the San Francisco test rating: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7a50c4fb-59e4-4bbf-b467-88cab2d5d3e8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"website-speed-sf-pingdom-tools-2021-04-25-22-08-30.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-25-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1510\" data-image-height=\"630\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not stellar, but a good solid B rating is all you can really expect from a bottom-of-the-barrel plan. It's certainly workable and shouldn't incur any Google juice SEO penalties. Here's the same from Germany: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0ec42934-2b3a-4f45-b1a9-432ddb43fe90\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"website-speed-germany-pingdom-tools-2021-04-25-22-09-47.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-26-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1494\" data-image-height=\"644\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlso, definitely good enough for a small site. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tSupport responsiveness \u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's not much to say here. I had only one interaction, late on a Sunday night. I did get connected with human via chat within about five minutes. The individual was nice and clearly wanted to help. I particularly liked how they let me know that some of the information would take a few minutes to dig up, so I wasn't left hanging, wondering if they'd gone home for the night. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \tZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"1326d8bb-1401-4c7c-a96c-bad011ffb321\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is a workable web hosting provider, but certainly not spectacular. Having out-of-date and discontinued security libraries, even for a basic plan, even if it's been kept secure by a different team, makes me nervous. The offering of two different dashboards, opened at just about the same time, was confusing. The packing of the site with a ton of upsell plugins was just plain annoying. But performance was good enough, especially for the base price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-04-12 12:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"There's a reason Bluehost is one of the most popular web hosting providers around. I look at what it's like using the service and dig deep inside its implementation.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"77667c37-b21f-4b95-ac6a-0a83c039af03",image:{id:"a6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463",filename:"20240409-124438.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-04-09 17:07:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"shared-web-hosting-plans-fast-secure-shared-hosting-bluehost-2021-04-24-19-03-38.png",credits:"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F09\u002Fa6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463\u002F20240409-124438.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4000,height:2252,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Web Hosting",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"bluehost-review",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Bluehost review: Good performance, integrated dashboard, and solid support",topic:{id:"f6a63221-9e83-4e81-b4de-9c5396dbcbe2",slug:"web-hosting",name:"Web Hosting",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f6a63221-9e83-4e81-b4de-9c5396dbcbe2",slug:"web-hosting",name:"Web Hosting",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003ENow that you're serious about backing up your Windows PC or Mac, you've probably figured out that the backup software included with your preferred operating system just isn't going to cut it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESure, you can use the built-in tools (Time Machine on a Mac or File History on Windows 10), if you're willing to settle for a limited feature set with few options outside the standard settings. But replacing those default utilities with one of these third-party alternatives unlocks a wide range of useful features and capabilities. These can save you time, disk space, and stress.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fpc-and-mac-backup-how-to-protect-your-data-from-disaster\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPC and Mac backup: How to protect your data from disaster\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"48958988-8630-4a3e-a764-3a8106504348\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe free version of Macrium Reflect 8 is surprisingly robust, offering solid imaging and cloning capabilities that are licensed for use in home and business environments. The resulting images can be browsed in Windows Explorer or mounted instantly in a Hyper-V VM.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll need to upgrade, though, if you want to add file\u002Ffolder backups to the mix, encrypt your backups, or create space-saving incremental backups. The Home and Workstation versions also add protection against ransomware attacks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company also offers Server and Server Plus editions as well as a specialized Technicians edition that allows IT pros to create snapshots of an unlimited number of PCs or servers using a USB flash drive instead of installing the software to each PC. &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Macrium Reflect 8 Free Edition\" data-superlative=\"Best free version with imaging and cloning capabilities\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"macrium-reflect.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free version of Macrium Reflect is surprisingly capable\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"562b4453-1eb5-4081-b61f-d8b6fe135f63","title":"Macrium Reflect 7 Free Edition","filename":"macrium-reflect.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F24\u002F562b4453-1eb5-4081-b61f-d8b6fe135f63\u002Fmacrium-reflect.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free version of Macrium Reflect is surprisingly capable\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":74994,"width":770,"height":541,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-24 23:42:22","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-04-22 14:27:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"Macrium Reflect 7 Free Edition","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"562b4453-1eb5-4081-b61f-d8b6fe135f63","imageAltText":"macrium-reflect.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free version of Macrium Reflect is surprisingly capable\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"macrium-reflect.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F24","imageWidth":770,"imageHeight":541,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe free version of Macrium Reflect is surprisingly capable\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Macrium","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.macrium.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"01a6a34f-c6da-4c6f-a28e-fbb48d85b66b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAcronis is one of the best-known names in backup. The latest version, Cyber Protect, is available on Windows PCs and MacOS and offers a wide range of anti-malware features -- in addition to the familiar backup tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyber Protect is offered in multiple editions that include disk imaging and file backups to local and network destinations. For the cloud backup options, you'll get cloud storage in Acronis's protected data centers. All editions include incremental and differential backups as well as non-stop backups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAcronis doesn't offer a free version, although you can try it out for free for 30 days without having to supply a credit card.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acronis Cyber Protect\" data-superlative=\"Best backup with security software\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"acronis-true-image.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EAcronis True Image adds antimalware features to basic backups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"16daa2d6-0a84-49df-9fd6-4e6c572524e0","title":"Acronis True Image","filename":"acronis-true-image.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F24\u002F16daa2d6-0a84-49df-9fd6-4e6c572524e0\u002Facronis-true-image.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EAcronis True Image adds antimalware features to basic backups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":66765,"width":921,"height":582,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-24 23:54:54","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-04-22 14:27:53","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"Acronis True Image","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"16daa2d6-0a84-49df-9fd6-4e6c572524e0","imageAltText":"acronis-true-image.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EAcronis True Image adds antimalware features to basic backups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acronis-true-image.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F24","imageWidth":921,"imageHeight":582,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAcronis True Image adds antimalware features to basic backups.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.acronis.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fproducts\u002Fcloud\u002Fcyber-protect\u002Fbackup\u002F","offerMerchant":"Acronis","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.acronis.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fproducts\u002Fcloud\u002Fcyber-protect\u002Fbackup\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.acronis.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fproducts\u002Fcloud\u002Fcyber-protect\u002Fbackup\u002F"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8818603a-06fc-49c0-a7fa-75bac8a2efad\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EEaseUS Todo Backup comes in three editions, including a free offering that covers most of the backup bases. You can back up an entire system, a specific disk, or data locations of your choosing. And you can send that backup file to a local drive, a network location, or one of three popular cloud locations: Dropbox, OneDrive, and Google Drive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you choose the free option, however, be ready for constant reminders that the company really wants you to upgrade to one of its paid products. Those reminders include pop-up notifications and orange reminders in the user interface that specific features aren't available to you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose paid upgrades are primarily available as subscriptions; you'll lose the upsells and get the ability to transfer a system to a new PC. Some editions even have a feature that runs every half-hour to capture recent changes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"EaseUs Todo Backup\" data-superlative=\"Best for convincing you to upgrade\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"easeus-todo-backup.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"6504bec5-2674-404f-bc10-83ee42184168","title":"easeus-to-do-best-backup-software","filename":"easeus-to-do-best-backup-software.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F25\u002F6504bec5-2674-404f-bc10-83ee42184168\u002Feaseus-to-do-best-backup-software.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":217191,"width":1910,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2022-04-25 18:12:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-04-25 18:12:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"easeus-to-do-best-backup-software.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6504bec5-2674-404f-bc10-83ee42184168","imageAltText":"easeus-todo-backup.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"easeus-to-do-best-backup-software.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F04\u002F25","imageWidth":1910,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"EaseUS","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.easeus.com\u002Fbackup-software\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f7af94de-df69-41b0-96ea-62fdab57f0d2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EParagon's Backup &amp; Recovery Community Editions are free for home use, but you'll need a license if you want to use them for commercial purposes or as part of a business network joined to a domain. The free edition includes versions for Mac and Windows as well as Backup for Hyper-V Host, which does full backups and one-click restores of virtual machines in non-production environments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Backup &amp; Recovery version 17 interface is easy to use, with options to schedule full system backups with incremental or differential updates as well as data backups focusing on key locations. Those backup features are part of a larger paid productt, and the full product also includes advanced partitioning tools, drive migration features, and disk wiping methods.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Paragon Backup & Recovery\" data-superlative=\"Best for home use\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"paragon-backup-recovery-mac-pm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"ac88b2cc-3693-4571-8bc2-53ff69b08fff","title":"Paragon Backup & Recovery 17","filename":"screen-shot-2021-03-25-at-12-32-36-pm.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F25\u002Fac88b2cc-3693-4571-8bc2-53ff69b08fff\u002Fscreen-shot-2021-03-25-at-12-32-36-pm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":452273,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-25 16:33:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-04-22 14:28:42","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"Paragon Backup & Recovery 17","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"ac88b2cc-3693-4571-8bc2-53ff69b08fff","imageAltText":"paragon-backup-recovery-mac-pm.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"screen-shot-2021-03-25-at-12-32-36-pm.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F25","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.paragon-software.com\u002Fhome\u002F","offerMerchant":"Paragon Software","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.paragon-software.com\u002Fhome\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.paragon-software.com\u002Fhome\u002F"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"21d62f6e-6185-44f4-b359-eb38096a5e20\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENTI's website has the old-school look you'd expect from a company that has been around since Windows 95 was new. For Windows, you can take your choice of NTI Backup Now Pro and NTI Backup Now EZ. For Mac users, the complete backup solution is NTI Shadow 5 for Mac. There's no free edition, but you can get a 30-day trial, and the company is aggressive with discounts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENTI Backup Now Pro offers a full range of backup options, with file backups, drive imaging, and cloud backups using Microsoft Azure. A Continuous Backup option (not available on Backup Now EZ) ensures that work you do between scheduled backups is protected.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's worth noting that NTI has a warning on its product page that its complete system restore operation isn't compatible with "some tablet PCs (e.g. Microsoft's Surface Pro tablets)." This warning appears to be outdated, but it should be a red flag for anyone whose primary PC fits that description.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"NTI Backup Now\" data-superlative=\"Best for continuous backups\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"nti-backup-now.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"b25dbad4-37ff-4e1f-a73b-439c5549b358","title":"NTI Backup Now","filename":"nti-backup-now.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F25\u002Fb25dbad4-37ff-4e1f-a73b-439c5549b358\u002Fnti-backup-now.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":94643,"width":758,"height":535,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-25 12:46:38","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-04-22 14:29:03","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"NTI Backup Now","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"b25dbad4-37ff-4e1f-a73b-439c5549b358","imageAltText":"nti-backup-now.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"nti-backup-now.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F25","imageWidth":758,"imageHeight":535,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"NTI Corp","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.nticorp.com\u002FNTI-Backup-Now-Pro.html","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"03676d3a-574c-43e6-8765-8396a9c69772\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou might be startled by just how many third-party backup products there are to choose from. We were even more surprised by the sheer number and complexity of purchase and subscription options for those products.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose that offer a free version try (sometimes very aggressively) to upsell you to one of their paid plans, which typically come in multiple tiers, in home and commercial versions, and with varying discounts for longer subscription terms and multiple licenses. Getting all the bells and whistles you think you need, especially if you have multiple devices to protect, can run up a pretty hefty bill.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur focus in this guide is on backup software for home and small business environments, where there's no IT staff and no managed network. That means ease of use is paramount.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll the products we've included here have a good reputation, as evidenced by comments on public forums and reviews from trusted sources. It's worth noting that backups can fail for a variety of reasons, usually at the worst possible time, so we've given extra marks to companies that offer easily accessible support options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe most important feature we looked for is the ability to create a backup image that can be stored on a local drive (typically USB or network storage). Some programs also offer the ability to back up to the cloud. We've highlighted those programs for the benefit of those who have that combination of manageable data sets and high bandwidth that make an all-cloud option feasible. We didn't include products like Carbonite, which are exclusively focused on cloud-based backup.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther important features we looked for included easy options for restoring a single file or folder from a backup set, as well as robust scheduling and reporting options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs always, this listing doesn't represent a full, hands-on review. We didn't stress-test these apps, and we encourage you to do your own testing to ensure that the backup and restore features (especially the latter) meet your standards for ease of use and robustness.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these backup software options?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a0ed654a-ed6f-496c-8b48-8eaacc487a62\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOur list of best backup softwares includes Macrium, Acronis, and Paragon, due to their reputation, ease-of-use, and safety features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best backup software?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7f602afa-e0fc-492c-bbe7-c2b9cbcaf80d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThese are the features that matter most:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe ability to create a disk image that can restore the entire contents of a PC or Mac, so you can recover quickly after a disk crash or other data disaster\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOngoing backups that can save your work daily, hourly, or in real-time, so you never risk losing important work\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EProtection from ransomware attacks\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe option to save backup files on a local drive, on a network server, or in the cloud\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd when the day arrives that you have to call on those backups to recover your files, a good backup program will allow you to quickly mount that backup image as a virtual drive to retrieve individual files or folders. Or you can boot from recovery media to restore an entire image.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose backup files come in handy even if you don't have a data catastrophe. Good backup software offers an effortless way to migrate your PC or Mac when you upgrade to a new device, allowing you to be productive immediately without having to reinstall apps or recreate settings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What backup software features should you look for?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-04-22 19:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"What is the best backup software? Our list includes top software brands like Macrium, Acronis, and Paragon among others. We analyzed each product's interface, ease-of-use, options, and safety features to protect the data on your Windows PC or Mac.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"ffec18a2-21eb-4aad-9969-1190f3b2a3a8",image:{id:"705760b7-377d-4d38-aeda-6a13df1b757c",filename:"backup-and-restore-signs.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-03-25 14:28:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"backup-and-restore-signs.jpg",credits:b,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F25\u002F705760b7-377d-4d38-aeda-6a13df1b757c\u002Fbackup-and-restore-signs.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:5000,height:3500,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best backup software: Top picks for Windows and Mac",section:c,slug:"best-backup-software",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best backup software (2022)",topic:{id:"96093490-341e-45e4-b27a-bf297aa2c5bb",slug:"services-software",name:"Services & Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"96093490-341e-45e4-b27a-bf297aa2c5bb",slug:"services-software",name:"Services & Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"2f73224c-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Larry Dignan",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Larry",lastName:"Dignan",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"eb462fe7-e39e-43ba-abbd-c4ca2442306e",filename:"larry-dignan-eic.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2017-04-26 18:17:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2017\u002F04\u002F26\u002Feb462fe7-e39e-43ba-abbd-c4ca2442306e\u002Flarry-dignan-eic.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Larry Dignan is the former Editor in Chief of ZDNET. He was most recently Executive Editor of News and Blogs at ZDNET. Prior to that, he was executive news editor at eWeek and news editor at Baseline. He also served as the East Coast news editor and finance editor at CNET News.com. Larry has covered the technology and financial services industry since 1995, publishing articles in WallStreetWeek.com, Inter@ctive Week, The New York Times, and Financial Planning magazine. He's a graduate of the Columbia School of Journalism and the University of Delaware.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"dba6e7ff-780a-4823-975e-4aa2e021e4d1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fdba6e7ff-780a-4823-975e-4aa2e021e4d1\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyber insurance is quickly becoming a must-have amid cybercrime, ransomware, and daily threats. But wading through insurers can be a bit daunting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor large enterprises, cyber policies are increasing the cost of doing business. Large firms such as Equifax, Marriott, and SolarWinds all had coverage to cushion their hits from high-profile data breaches. Smaller enterprises may not have the coverage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith that in mind, I went shopping. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-cyber-insurance-everything-you-need-to-know-about-what-it-covers-and-how-it-works\u002F\"\u003EWhat is cyber insurance? Everything you need to know\u003C\u002Fa\u003E | \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fvideo\u002Fcyber-insurance-roundtable-why-cyber-insurance-has-a-supply-issue\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECyber insurance roundtable: Why cyber insurance has a supply issue\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0519de4e-86ff-47bc-9593-2f086d3a1443\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAccording to NAIC, AXA is the cyber insurance market share leader based on standalone policies. AXA's cyber insurance covers North America and writes policies for data breach response and crisis management, privacy and security liability, business interruption, data recovery, cyber extortion and ransomware, and PCI among others.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAXA also provides risk mitigation resources via partners, as well as an online service called \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcyberriskconnect.com\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ECyberRiskConnect\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Faxaxl.com\u002F-\u002Fmedia\u002Faxaxl\u002Ffiles\u002Fpdfs\u002Finsurance\u002Fcyber-north-america\u002Fcyberriskconnectpolicyform_axaxl_trd-050-0619.pdf?sc_lang=en&amp;hash=8E1AC2226AA2330E5A9276F3A49E332F" target="_blank"\u003EHere's a sample policy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"AXA\" data-superlative=\"Features risk mitigation tools\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"istock-1242991138.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"51af678f-0f58-44ed-8656-ee935859415f","title":"axa-cyber-insurance-review","filename":"axa-cyber-insurance-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F01\u002F51af678f-0f58-44ed-8656-ee935859415f\u002Faxa-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1667266,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:05:01","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:05:03","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"axa-cyber-insurance-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"51af678f-0f58-44ed-8656-ee935859415f","imageAltText":"istock-1242991138.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"axa-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F01","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Axa cyber insurance","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Faxaxl.com\u002Finsurance\u002Fproducts\u002Fcyber-insurance","url":"https:\u002F\u002Faxaxl.com\u002Finsurance\u002Fproducts\u002Fcyber-insurance"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"48f76d07-19c1-45fe-9295-6803db07901b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAIG's cyber insurance can be used standalone, or added to an existing policy as an endorsement. AIG also offers three cyber insurance products:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECyberEdge, which covers the financial costs due to a breach, as well as first-party costs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECyberEdge Plus, which covers physical world losses caused by a cyber event, including business interruption and property damages. \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECyberEdge PC, which can be added to traditional property and casualty policies.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAIG also offers threat scoring and analytics, as well as tools to prevent attacks. AIG has a network of vendors to restore and recover, too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"AIG\" data-superlative=\"Three flavors of cyber insurance\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"screen-shot-2021-03-01-at-9-55-03-am.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"81e948a8-4351-481c-a46b-7f251183531a","title":"aig-cyber-insurance-review","filename":"aig-cyber-insurance-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F01\u002F81e948a8-4351-481c-a46b-7f251183531a\u002Faig-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1511562,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:02:09","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:02:11","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"aig-cyber-insurance-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"81e948a8-4351-481c-a46b-7f251183531a","imageAltText":"screen-shot-2021-03-01-at-9-55-03-am.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"aig-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F01","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"AIG cyber insurance","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.aig.com\u002Fbusiness\u002Finsurance\u002Fcyber-insurance","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.aig.com\u002Fbusiness\u002Finsurance\u002Fcyber-insurance"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"dc5c6ce9-966f-4009-bfaa-8f355cf5179c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECowbell Cyber aims to automate data collection with its cloud platform, provide observability and monitoring, and then combine it all with risk scoring, actuarial science, and underwriting. The company recently \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcowbell-cyber-raises-20-million-aims-to-build-out-its-ai-drive-cyber-insurance-platform\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eraised $20 million in venture funding\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EThe company's portfolio includes cybersecurity awareness training, continuous risk assessment, and pre- and post-breach risk improvement services. Cowbell Cyber also has a free risk assessment service called Cowbell Factors, which adds a freemium element to selling cyber policies.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Cowbell Cyber\" data-superlative=\"Next-gen cyber insurance provider\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cowbell-cyber.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"97811314-d322-4663-83bc-ef6ba804ca72","title":"best-cyber-insurance-cowbell-cyber-review","filename":"screen-shot-2021-04-02-at-1-10-15-pm.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F04\u002F02\u002F97811314-d322-4663-83bc-ef6ba804ca72\u002Fscreen-shot-2021-04-02-at-1-10-15-pm.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":920698,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-04-02 17:12:17","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-04-02 17:16:13","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"best-cyber-insurance-cowbell-cyber-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"97811314-d322-4663-83bc-ef6ba804ca72","imageAltText":"cowbell-cyber.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"screen-shot-2021-04-02-at-1-10-15-pm.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F04\u002F02","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Cowbell Cyber","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fcowbell.insure\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fcowbell.insure\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6b3ad840-4f9b-42f6-96eb-0f995717a199\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECorvus has a host of&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.corvusinsurance.com\u002Fproducts\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebusiness insurance products\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but also has a bevy of first-party cyber insurance offerings for business interruption, system failure, cyber extortion and ransomware, and breach response and remediation, just to name a few.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company, which recently \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcorvus-insurance-raises-100-million-aims-to-broaden-business-cyber-insurance-reach-ai-platform\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eraised $100 million in venture funding\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, uses a broker-focused approach to use AI to analyze data to predict and prevent loss. The data Corvus brings together helps policyholders, underwriters, brokers, and reinsurers address market requirements. Phil Edmundson, CEO of Corvus, said that artificial intelligence and data science can simplify the cyber insurance workflow. "If you try to read a cyber policy, even knowledgeable people would find it challenging," he said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Corvus\" data-superlative=\"AI and data science can simplify cyber insurance\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"corvus-risk-exposure.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"47e6e247-b86b-44a2-afe5-caabec7d3d5d","title":"best-cyber-insurance-corvus-review","filename":"best-cyber-insurance-corvus-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F04\u002F02\u002F47e6e247-b86b-44a2-afe5-caabec7d3d5d\u002Fbest-cyber-insurance-corvus-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1690746,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-04-02 17:17:43","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-04-02 17:17:45","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"best-cyber-insurance-corvus-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"47e6e247-b86b-44a2-afe5-caabec7d3d5d","imageAltText":"corvus-risk-exposure.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"best-cyber-insurance-corvus-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F04\u002F02","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Corvus","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.corvusinsurance.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fcoverage-appetite\u002F#smart-cyber-uw","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.corvusinsurance.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fcoverage-appetite\u002F#smart-cyber-uw"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1990faec-9435-4fda-8a37-dd2567e16a9f\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETravelers takes a broader approach to cyber insurance, with plans designed to mitigate risks for companies of all sizes. The insurer has cyber insurance plans for technology companies, public entities, and SMBs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company bundles pre- and post-breach services provided by Symantec, as well as a hub to evaluate risks.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETravelers'&nbsp;policies fall into these categories:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.travelers.com\u002Fcyber-insurance\u002Fcyberrisk" target="_blank"\u003ECyberRisk\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a broad policy for companies of all sizes that can be standalone or part of another liability policy.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.travelers.com\u002Fcyber-insurance\u002Ftechnology" target="_blank"\u003ECyberRisk Tech for Technology Companies\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, designed for tech firms.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.travelers.com\u002Fcyber-insurance\u002Fpublic-sector" target="_blank"\u003ECyberRisk for Public Entities\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a policy aimed at municipalities, counties, utilities, and transit authorities.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.travelers.com\u002Fsmall-business-insurance\u002Fdata-breach-insurance" target="_blank"\u003ECyberFirst Essentials\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a policy for small businesses that can be standalone or part of a broader business owner policy.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Travelers\" data-superlative=\"Options for SMBs too\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"travelers-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"4f458400-5eb3-4c9d-b45b-d5bbf3c70bef","title":"travelers-cyber-insurance-review","filename":"travelers-cyber-insurance-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F01\u002F4f458400-5eb3-4c9d-b45b-d5bbf3c70bef\u002Ftravelers-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":932560,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:40:04","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:40:06","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"travelers-cyber-insurance-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4f458400-5eb3-4c9d-b45b-d5bbf3c70bef","imageAltText":"travelers-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"travelers-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F01","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Travelers cyber insurance","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.travelers.com\u002Fcyber-insurance\u002Fcoverages","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.travelers.com\u002Fcyber-insurance\u002Fcoverages"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fc74cf97-0c90-4e38-9906-431fe1850e56\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECompared to the big insurers, Beazley isn't a household name, but NAIC rates the firm No. 4 with 11.2% market share just behind Travelers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeazley's headliner is \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.beazley.com\u002Fusa\u002Fcyber_and_executive_risk\u002Fcyber_and_tech\u002Fbeazley_breach_response.html" target="_blank"\u003EBeazley Breach Response\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which is a customized policy based on a company's situation. Beazley claims to be the "world's best designed cyber insurance solution." Beazley also covers breach response services for up to five million people.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor companies in specific industries, Beazley looks like an option. Beazley counts healthcare, higher education, hospitality, financial services, and retail as target industries.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Beazley\" data-superlative=\"Big in cyber insurance\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"beazley-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"d5e9da81-d810-4fd9-bfa7-d4f0ad261b1d","title":"beazley-cyber-insurance-review","filename":"beazley-cyber-insurance-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F01\u002Fd5e9da81-d810-4fd9-bfa7-d4f0ad261b1d\u002Fbeazley-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1086456,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:42:29","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:42:32","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"beazley-cyber-insurance-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"d5e9da81-d810-4fd9-bfa7-d4f0ad261b1d","imageAltText":"beazley-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"beazley-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F01","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Beazley cyber insurance","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.beazley.com\u002Fusa\u002Fcyber_and_executive_risk\u002Fcyber_and_tech\u002Fbeazley_breach_response.html","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.beazley.com\u002Fusa\u002Fcyber_and_executive_risk\u002Fcyber_and_tech\u002Fbeazley_breach_response.html"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"956d1296-5ecc-43c8-beee-f6c3c13fdba6\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAllianz provides cyber insurance on a standalone basis, but is now partnered with Google Cloud along with Munich Re under a program called Cloud Protection +. The pairing is likely to move Allianz, as well as partner Munich Re, up the cyber insurance rankings.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Allianz\" data-superlative=\"Partnership with Google Cloud\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"allianz-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"ef0a9f6e-6ac3-4089-b468-c9d5f6c671c7","title":"allianz-cyber-insurance-review","filename":"allianz-cyber-insurance-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F01\u002Fef0a9f6e-6ac3-4089-b468-c9d5f6c671c7\u002Fallianz-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1188490,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:46:11","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:46:13","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"allianz-cyber-insurance-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"ef0a9f6e-6ac3-4089-b468-c9d5f6c671c7","imageAltText":"allianz-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"allianz-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F01","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Allianz cyber insurance","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.agcs.allianz.com\u002Fsolutions\u002Ffinancial-lines-insurance\u002Fcyber-insurance.html","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.agcs.allianz.com\u002Fsolutions\u002Ffinancial-lines-insurance\u002Fcyber-insurance.html"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fe0bf6cf-86bc-4fe4-b5de-29f6020e8b32\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile the big-name insurers are going after the large enterprises, mid-market companies may gravitate toward a specialist. Mid-market companies often have their own tech providers, since they are often ignored by large enterprise vendors.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyber insurance companies may also shortchange the mid-market. Resilience offers cyber insurance with a few interesting perks. First, it combines insurance and expertise like the large players. And second, Resilience includes a program where customers can earn credit to put toward security services and products.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Resilience\" data-superlative=\"Targeting the mid-market companies\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"reslience-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"98928163-907b-45e4-815e-03f3bbec872c","title":"reslience-cyber-insurance-review","filename":"reslience-cyber-insurance-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F01\u002F98928163-907b-45e4-815e-03f3bbec872c\u002Freslience-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":857630,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:50:16","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:50:43","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"reslience-cyber-insurance-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"98928163-907b-45e4-815e-03f3bbec872c","imageAltText":"reslience-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"reslience-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F01","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Resilience cyber insurance","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.resilienceinsurance.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.resilienceinsurance.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3a7536e9-f85d-4256-9951-5ba7533891b7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EHiscox specializes in cyber insurance for small businesses. The firm is spending heavily on marketing, but is worth a look. The company offers a training academy to shore up small business defenses, or what it calls the "human firewall."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Hiscox, its cyber insurance covers lost business revenue and data recovery costs, money lost to phishing, defense against fines and privacy lawsuits, and breach response. The Hiscox policies also include digital media upgrades. However, they do not cover criminal action, fund transfer, infrastructure interruption, or prior acts of knowledge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Hiscox\" data-superlative=\"Specializes in small businesses\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"hiscox-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"6c66b961-e34b-49db-b646-9afa4dff4faf","title":"hiscox-cyber-insurance-review","filename":"hiscox-cyber-insurance-review.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F03\u002F01\u002F6c66b961-e34b-49db-b646-9afa4dff4faf\u002Fhiscox-cyber-insurance-review.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":938775,"width":1600,"height":1069,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:56:16","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-03-01 15:56:18","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"hiscox-cyber-insurance-review.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6c66b961-e34b-49db-b646-9afa4dff4faf","imageAltText":"hiscox-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"hiscox-cyber-insurance-review.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F03\u002F01","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1069,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Hiscox cyber insurance","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.hiscox.com\u002Fsmall-business-insurance\u002Fcyber-security-insurance","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.hiscox.com\u002Fsmall-business-insurance\u002Fcyber-security-insurance"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe future of cyber insurance\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI have a few working theories about the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-cyber-insurance-everything-you-need-to-know-about-what-it-covers-and-how-it-works\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecyber insurance\u003C\u002Fa\u003E market:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThis year -- 2021 -- will be the year that cyber insurance evolves significantly. It's possible that cyber insurance will become a requirement for businesses, much like home and auto.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe market is dominated by massive insurers targeting large enterprises, but there will be segments of the market targeting mid-sized and smaller businesses.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECyber insurance could be part of a cloud services stack. For instance, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgoogle-cloud-allianz-munich-re-team-up-on-cyber-insurance-program\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGoogle Cloud's partnership with Munich Re and Allianz is a start\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but cyber insurance could be resold by cloud providers, web hosting, and other parts of the business technology stack.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWhile cyber insurance may become part of a tech bundle, or at least easier to acquire, there will be multiple players gunning for policies in a fragmented market. Reportlinker projects that cyber insurance will be a $70.6 billion global market in 2030, up $5.6 billion in 2019.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn any case, cyber insurance scouting needs to commence for businesses. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the top 20 cyber insurance providers accounted for 92% of the market in the US.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMore notable providers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is a bevy of other providers -- and many insurers offer cyber insurance as part of a broader package of business offerings. Among those that looked interesting:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.chubb.com\u002Fus-en\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fprivacy-network-security.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EChubb\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fthreeinsurance.com\u002Fcyber-coverage\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBerkshire Hathaway Group's Three small business insurance portfolio\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.libertymutualre.com\u002Fproduct\u002Fcyber\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELiberty Mutual\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cna.com\u002Fweb\u002Fguest\u002Fcna\u002Fproducts\u002Fcyber\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECNA\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2021-04-02 17:21:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The cyber insurance industry is likely to go mainstream and is a simple cost of doing business. Here are a few options to consider.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"b2ca47a4-42e0-4452-be57-22344e2f8da0",image:{id:"db3c0325-2b86-435b-8efa-93828deb6b56",filename:"cybersecurity-lock-resized.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2020-10-27 13:05:22",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"cybersecurity-lock-resized.jpg",credits:"Shutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F10\u002F27\u002Fdb3c0325-2b86-435b-8efa-93828deb6b56\u002Fcybersecurity-lock-resized.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1000,height:698,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best cyber insurance in 2021: Protect your business",section:c,slug:"best-cyber-insurance",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best cyber insurance 2022: Protect your business",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EOne of my most popular posts last year was a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fed-botts-home-office-two-of-everything\u002F\"\u003Etour of my home office\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. That story focused on hardware (and a particularly distinctive piece of furniture), but it left out the other half of the equation: The software that actually does most of the work in my office.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"57761dea-b6bc-4578-9a5f-4e9aac5a4551\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F57761dea-b6bc-4578-9a5f-4e9aac5a4551\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this post, I offer a behind-the-scenes tour of the full-strength apps I use in my office every day for productivity and entertainment. (The list doesn't include a dozen or so utilities that I keep on hand for specialized tasks; I'll save that story for another day.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA few of the entries on this list are genuine old-timers that I've been using on Windows PCs for a decade or more, but most are more modern and are built for a cross-platform world. One thing that surprised me as I assembled this list is the sheer number of subscription-based apps and services I use. I know that's a hot button issue for some readers, who are adamant about their distaste for paying monthly or annual fees. I prefer the predictability of those arrangements instead of the big jolt to the budget that comes with major upgrades.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, this selection reflects my work habits and my personal preferences. Your needs are probably different, so your list will undoubtedly be different from mine. I encourage you to share your favorite software in the comments section below.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10-my-five-favorite-free-utilities\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMy five favorite free Windows 10 utilities\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EProductivity\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"506564e5-9ee0-47ad-a7bd-6f9d81aea6ad\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe four desktop apps that make up the core of what used to be Microsoft Office are an absolutely essential part of my working day, and not much has changed despite the rebranding to Microsoft 365. Outlook is the first app I open in the morning, and I cannot remember the last day where I didn't use Excel and Word. (I typically only use PowerPoint a few times a year.) These apps are available for Windows and MacOS as part of my Microsoft 365 Business Standard (formerly Office 365) subscription, for which I pay $150 annually. The package also includes support for my custom email domain and a terabyte of cloud storage. (For more on what's included, see:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Foffice-365-vs-g-suite-which-productivity-suite-is-best-for-your-business\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EMicrosoft 365 vs Google Workspace (formerly G Suite): Which productivity suite is best for your business?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the olden days, the Office brand name was basically a branding gimmick to help bundle a bunch of vaguely related productivity programs. Today, there's far more glue that ties the apps together, including OneDrive for Business, which I use for every document I create. And though the desktop apps represent the overwhelming majority of my usage, I call on the very capable web apps occasionally as well. (That option was especially welcome recently when I was at a car dealership and needed to quickly check a calculation from a spreadsheet I had done earlier. The quick lookup saved me several hundred dollars.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Microsoft 365 apps for Business\" data-superlative=\"It's not just a bundle anymore\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Microsoft 365 Apps for Business product information dialog box","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"c61e126f-c32a-47e3-93f4-ec450233b4b4","title":"Microsoft 365 Apps","filename":"snag-df583a4.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002Fc61e126f-c32a-47e3-93f4-ec450233b4b4\u002Fsnag-df583a4.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":19121,"width":492,"height":414,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 15:54:31","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 15:56:21","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"Microsoft 365 Apps for Business product information dialog box","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"c61e126f-c32a-47e3-93f4-ec450233b4b4","imageAltText":"Microsoft 365 Apps for Business product information dialog box","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"snag-df583a4.png","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":492,"imageHeight":414,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe click-to-run Microsoft 365 apps can be installed from the web on up to five PCs or Macs, no product key required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Microsoft","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fmicrosoft-us.evyy.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F434427\u002F3327?u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\u002Fbusiness\u002F\u002F&subid1=[subid_value]&sharedId=zdnet","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fmicrosoft-us.evyy.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F434427\u002F3327?u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\u002Fbusiness\u002F\u002F&subid1=[subid_value]&sharedId=zdnet"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"93838090-f9ad-4706-9a30-b340b76d4383\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe problem with Twitter is that it's designed to be overwhelming. To get the most value out of this social network, you need to follow lots of other accounts. But following hundreds or thousands of accounts turns your Twitter home page into a river that flows so fast no human can keep up using the web-based Twitter app.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead, I rely on a third-party app called Tweeten. It's based on TweetDeck, which lets you organize accounts into lists, each contained in its own column. It's not just a TweetDeck port, though. It expands the feature set with filters, support for multiple accounts, scheduling options, and the ability to paste graphics from the Clipboard directly into a tweet. You can add Tweeten as a browser extension for Chrome (or any Chrome-compatible browser) or do as I do and install the full-fledged 64-bit Windows or MacOS app. It's free, but I make an annual donation to the developer, Mehedi Hassan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Tweeten\" data-superlative=\"It's TweetDeck on steroids\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"tweeten-settings.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"9e40d002-aecd-4319-aaec-b428564a4ccd","title":"tweeten-settings","filename":"tweeten-settings.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F9e40d002-aecd-4319-aaec-b428564a4ccd\u002Ftweeten-settings.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":72001,"width":820,"height":580,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:01:59","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:02:57","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"tweeten-settings.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9e40d002-aecd-4319-aaec-b428564a4ccd","imageAltText":"tweeten-settings.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"tweeten-settings.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":820,"imageHeight":580,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003ETweeten is incredibly customizable and includes features like a robust GIF search tool.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Tweeten","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Ftweetenapp.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Ftweetenapp.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f827f789-a528-4f81-9407-d9f09869b5e7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI have been keeping my life in OneNote since at least 2003. It is the digital equivalent of a tattered old Moleskine that is, through some sort of ineffable magic, infinitely expandable. I use OneNote to keep track of receipts, meeting notes, important emails, travel documents, recipes, and so many "notes to self" that I've lost count.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOneNote's superpower is its ability to capture content from just about anywhere. You can use the OneNote browser extension to send all or part of a webpage to a notebook, or call on the virtual OneNote printer to capture a fully formatted document for posterity, or scan a scrap of paper using your smartphone. More magic: If that printed or scanned image contains text, OneNote will convert the text in the background and add it to the notebook's index, making graphics fully searchable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOneNote is included with Windows 10 and as a desktop app in the Microsoft 365 family. It's also available as a free web app and on Macs and mobile devices. (Some editing features require a Microsoft 365 subscription.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"OneNote\" data-superlative=\"An infinitely expandable notebook\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you paste an image of a web page in OneNote, the text it contains is indexed, so you can find it easily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"4fbd668d-387e-4c31-8d7d-8445e7a84e26","title":"onenote-search-tools","filename":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F4fbd668d-387e-4c31-8d7d-8445e7a84e26\u002Fonenote-search-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":168573,"width":1075,"height":948,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:15:46","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:15:52","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4fbd668d-387e-4c31-8d7d-8445e7a84e26","imageAltText":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you paste an image of a web page in OneNote, the text it contains is indexed, so you can find it easily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"onenote-search-tools.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1075,"imageHeight":948,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you paste an image of a web page in OneNote, the text it contains is indexed, so you can find it easily.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"OneNote","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.onenote.com","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.onenote.com"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"399ac612-2d07-4c38-9c82-cde19b7ccd48\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI suppose I could use a free PDF reader, but I spend enough time editing and annotating files saved in this format that the extra capabilities of the full-strength Adobe package (especially editing and annotation tools) are worth the $15 a month I pay. I understand the arguments of those who object to software subscriptions, but the perpetual license version is $449, which seems like something less than a bargain. If you don't need the full feature set, a Standard version costs a few dollars per month less.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd here's a money-saving tip I discovered accidentally. Want to cut the cost of your Adobe subscription? Just choose the option to cancel your plan. You'll be offered a discounted price as an incentive to stay.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Adobe Acrobat Pro DC\" data-superlative=\"From the inventor of the PDF standard\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EEveryone uses the PDF format, even the IRS. The editing toolbox on the right is worth paying for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"86c98128-dd26-4453-8656-bac01b979807","title":"acrobat-editing-tools","filename":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F86c98128-dd26-4453-8656-bac01b979807\u002Facrobat-editing-tools.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":504319,"width":1340,"height":963,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:24:46","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:24:49","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"86c98128-dd26-4453-8656-bac01b979807","imageAltText":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EEveryone uses the PDF format, even the IRS. The editing toolbox on the right is worth paying for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acrobat-editing-tools.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1340,"imageHeight":963,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EEveryone uses the PDF format, even the IRS. The editing toolbox on the right is worth paying for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Adobe Acrobat ","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.adobe.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fcatalog.html#category=pdf","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.adobe.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fcatalog.html#category=pdf"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5fcbe889-f30d-4b3f-ac94-2ee8a0c87354\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA gazillion years ago, a famous household brand sold a lot of mouthwash with ads whose tagline went something like: "You hate the taste, but you use it twice a day." That, to me, is the perfect description of Quicken for Windows, which is occasionally infuriating to use, comes with a steep learning curve, and includes a virtual guarantee that you will run into some terribly annoying bug roughly once a quarter. Despite all that, it's better than any of the alternatives. I know. I've tried them all.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that Quicken's support staff is responsive and knowledgeable, and the user base is so large that you can quickly find an answer if you run into one of those quarterly bugs. And the $104-a-year subscription is tax-deductible.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Quicken Home and Business\" data-superlative=\"I hate it, but I use it\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"quicken-add-account.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe secret of Quicken's success is its ability to connect to just about any financial institution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"38377420-b952-44b4-97c8-c3e87b2b3942","title":"quicken-add-account","filename":"quicken-add-account.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F38377420-b952-44b4-97c8-c3e87b2b3942\u002Fquicken-add-account.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":103824,"width":796,"height":606,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:42:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:43:00","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"quicken-add-account.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"38377420-b952-44b4-97c8-c3e87b2b3942","imageAltText":"quicken-add-account.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe secret of Quicken's success is its ability to connect to just about any financial institution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"quicken-add-account.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":796,"imageHeight":606,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe secret of Quicken's success is its ability to connect to just about any financial institution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Quicken","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.quicken.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBrowser and extensions\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e5fbf617-39f8-48cb-804d-1a7c086be555\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFor as long as I can remember, I've used at least two browsers on the desktop. If a site balked at loading in one browser, I switched to the other and carried on. That all stopped last year when Microsoft finally gave up on its dreams of maintaining the ancient Trident rendering engine and decided to embrace the de facto open-source Chromium standard. The new Microsoft Edge browser is, as far as most websites are concerned, just another instance of Google Chrome, with support for all the extensions written for that juggernaut. The big difference is that Edge includes tracking prevention features that keep companies like Facebook and Google and, yes, even Microsoft from building a dossier of your online movements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen I set up my current Windows PC, almost a year ago to the day, I didn't bother to install Chrome. I still haven't found a reason to do that. I also use Edge on my MacBook Pro and on iOS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Microsoft Edge (Chromium)\" data-superlative=\"The only browser I need on the desktop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EYou won't find these tracking prevention features in Google Chrome.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"18ae4279-ac75-4bcf-bc0e-a26dc2b78d77","title":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention","filename":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F18ae4279-ac75-4bcf-bc0e-a26dc2b78d77\u002Fms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":155652,"width":833,"height":642,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:46:06","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 16:46:08","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"18ae4279-ac75-4bcf-bc0e-a26dc2b78d77","imageAltText":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EYou won't find these tracking prevention features in Google Chrome.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ms-edge-tracking-prevention.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":833,"imageHeight":642,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou won't find these tracking prevention features in Google Chrome.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Microsoft Edge","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fedge","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=24542&u1=[subid_value]&murl=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fedge"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5cb27f9d-d207-45f2-8abb-8bc69c34d986\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen I set up a new PC, Mac, or mobile device, the first thing I install, without exception, is the 1Password browser extension. (For a full review, see:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F1password-my-favorite-password-manager-is-an-essential-security-tool\u002F"\u003E1Password: My favorite password manager is an essential security tool.\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) It has every feature you expect from this class of software, including a robust password generator that can create and save truly random, unguessable credentials, as well as support for two-factor authentication. My family plan costs $5 a month and makes it easy to share credentials for online services with my wife.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1Password is also available as an app for iOS, Android, MacOS, and Windows and uses the same synced, encrypted database for all platforms.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"1Password\" data-superlative=\"Everyone needs a password manager\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"1password-app.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E1Password warns you if your password is weak or compromised.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"93267591-fb9c-4362-88a6-065cffb9bc31","title":"1password-app","filename":"1password-app.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fgcp-prod-image-resizer.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F11\u002F23\u002F93267591-fb9c-4362-88a6-065cffb9bc31\u002F1password-app.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":107142,"width":931,"height":793,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-11-23 15:47:15","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-11-23 15:47:18","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"1password-app.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"93267591-fb9c-4362-88a6-065cffb9bc31","imageAltText":"1password-app.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E1Password warns you if your password is weak or compromised.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"1password-app.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F11\u002F23","imageWidth":931,"imageHeight":793,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E1Password warns you if your password is weak or compromised.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"1Password","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002F1password.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002F1password.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"697164a3-d29e-4550-84e8-b518102eb722\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMy favorite solution for keeping browser tabs under control is a browser extension called Workona. (See my full review here: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftoo-many-browser-tabs-this-favorite-extension-is-the-perfect-solution\u002F"\u003EToo many browser tabs? This impressive extension is my favorite solution.\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) It allows me to organize tabs into groups called workspaces, sync those saved workspaces across devices, share them with team members, and connect cloud-based productivity services for instant access. I use it on Microsoft Edge, but it's also available on Chrome and Firefox on all major desktop platforms, with versions for Safari (on MacOS and iOS) coming soon.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause Workona is currently in preview, it's free. After it's officially released later this year, I'll absolutely pay the $6 per month to upgrade to the Pro version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Workona\" data-superlative=\"The cleanest way to organize browser tabs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"workona-overview.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EWorkona is currently in preview.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"4c8787a7-7bd4-4393-8faa-f243c5d8d1f3","title":"workona-overview","filename":"workona-overview.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F4c8787a7-7bd4-4393-8faa-f243c5d8d1f3\u002Fworkona-overview.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":253183,"width":1346,"height":1000,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:32:31","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:56:02","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"workona-overview.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4c8787a7-7bd4-4393-8faa-f243c5d8d1f3","imageAltText":"workona-overview.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EWorkona is currently in preview.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"workona-overview.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1346,"imageHeight":1000,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EWorkona is currently in preview.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Workona","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fworkona.com","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fworkona.com"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EMedia\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a09c5cd2-66bc-49d5-80a7-9ba76a1dd999\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to music, we live in the best of times and the worst of times. I've tried every free and paid music streaming service (for details, see:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-streaming-music-service\u002F#listicle-ac2319a8-78d6-4fea-9569-41035d7ee2a1"\u003EBest streaming music service in 2021\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) and finally settled on Spotify as the best, on balance. Those last two words are key. No streaming service is perfect. There are others (like Tidal and Qobuz) that offer higher-quality downloads, and I grit my teeth every time I try to remember how to upload an album from my personal collection to Spotify's servers. (I finally bookmarked the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.spotify.com\u002Fis\u002Farticle\u002Flisten-to-local-files\u002F"\u003Eofficial Spotify instructions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, Spotify has won a place on the home screen of my devices because of its impressive auto-playlists and its enormous catalog. I pay $10 a month for a premium subscription that eliminates annoying ads and allows maximum control over playlists. The only real competition is Apple Music, which has excellent mobile apps but still requires iTunes (ugh) to work well on a Windows PC.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Spotify Music\" data-superlative=\"No music app is perfect, but Spotify is best all around\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"spotify-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003ESpotify's support for podcasts and its automatic playlists are strengths.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"efc57f84-c68e-40b4-8c85-991d19294327","title":"spotify-main","filename":"spotify-main.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002Fefc57f84-c68e-40b4-8c85-991d19294327\u002Fspotify-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":319037,"width":1252,"height":1120,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:40:26","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:40:29","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"spotify-main.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"efc57f84-c68e-40b4-8c85-991d19294327","imageAltText":"spotify-main.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003ESpotify's support for podcasts and its automatic playlists are strengths.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"spotify-main.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1252,"imageHeight":1120,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESpotify's support for podcasts and its automatic playlists are strengths.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Spotify","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.spotify.com\u002Fus\u002Fpremium\u002F?referral=cbs&utm_campaign=cbs","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.spotify.com\u002Fus\u002Fpremium\u002F?referral=cbs&utm_campaign=cbs"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5c606681-c562-4f8a-8043-43edf5bfca28\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis free, open source tool has been around forever. (I wrote about it nearly a decade ago, when it was the best&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fif-vlc-can-ship-a-free-dvd-player-why-cant-microsoft\u002F"\u003Efree alternative DVD player\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;on the market.) It plays just about every media format (including Blu-ray discs), it doesn't require downloading dodgy codec packs to work, and it runs&nbsp;on every conceivable platform. On Windows 10, make sure to install the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="http:\u002F\u002Fwww.videolan.org\u002Fvlc\u002Fdownload-windows.html"\u003Efull Windows package\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, not the limited-feature variant in the Windows Store.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"VLC Media Player\" data-superlative=\"Free, open source, handles every format imaginable\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free VLC Media Player supports a huge number of formats with no extra downloads required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"a2415af3-2f7a-4288-90e3-5e06dd629ce0","title":"vlc-codec-support","filename":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002Fa2415af3-2f7a-4288-90e3-5e06dd629ce0\u002Fvlc-codec-support.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":118141,"width":788,"height":756,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:47:53","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:47:56","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a2415af3-2f7a-4288-90e3-5e06dd629ce0","imageAltText":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EThe free VLC Media Player supports a huge number of formats with no extra downloads required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"vlc-codec-support.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":788,"imageHeight":756,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe free VLC Media Player supports a huge number of formats with no extra downloads required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"VLC Media Player","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.videolan.org\u002Fvlc\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.videolan.org\u002Fvlc\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"37f159fa-2311-4eb2-9ff3-405bc63cac90\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDespite the ease of streaming tunes from Spotify's servers, I still have a substantial personal music collection in digital format. Some of the tracks in that collection are copies ripped from old CDs that aren't available on any streaming service. Others are live recordings, obtained directly from the artist or from legal online services and also unavailable on Spotify. A few are lossless recordings of favorite albums that I occasionally want to hear in their full, uncompressed sonic glory.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor all those tunes, MediaMonkey for Windows is an indispensable tool. Its built-in player handles just about any audio or video file, including lossless music tracks in FLAC and ALAC formats. It can rip CDs, stream music to external devices, automatically tag MP3 files and add album art, and even sync tracks with my iPhone and Android devices. The free version is perfectly capable, but I paid the $25 upgrade price years ago and have enjoyed regular free upgrades since then.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MediaMonkey\" data-superlative=\"A Swiss Army knife for digital media\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EMediaMonkey can automatically update MP3 tags based on the filename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"0e52f85f-b74a-4304-aadb-7e40b1bbb0a5","title":"mediamonkey-autotag","filename":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F0e52f85f-b74a-4304-aadb-7e40b1bbb0a5\u002Fmediamonkey-autotag.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":229586,"width":1023,"height":617,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:51:15","timezone":"UTC"},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-29 17:51:17","timezone":"UTC"},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"0e52f85f-b74a-4304-aadb-7e40b1bbb0a5","imageAltText":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EMediaMonkey can automatically update MP3 tags based on the filename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"mediamonkey-autotag.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F29","imageWidth":1023,"imageHeight":617,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EMediaMonkey can automatically update MP3 tags based on the filename.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"MediaMonkey","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mediamonkey.com\u002Fdownload\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mediamonkey.com\u002Fdownload\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2021-04-05 12:11:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Here's a list of the apps and services I use day in and day out. It's an eclectic mix of desktop apps and browser-based tools, with some essential media players thrown in for good measure.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"abba3fe9-e532-4c05-ab7d-31fa157584e3",image:{id:"4ba04c49-7bc3-4498-8959-d539db5b6257",filename:"eleven-volume-knob.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-01-29 18:07:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Full Power",credits:"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EBlack and white image of a volume or power control switch on a metal background that goes all the way up to the number eleven.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F29\u002F4ba04c49-7bc3-4498-8959-d539db5b6257\u002Feleven-volume-knob.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:3888,height:2592,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Work Life^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"windows-and-mac-software-my-11-essential-apps-and-services",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Windows and Mac software: My 11 essential apps and services",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5a09f531-5d09-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"windows-10",name:"Windows 10",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.marketwatch.com\u002Fpress-release\u002Flaser-printer-market-2019-industry-size-trends-and-growth-by-2024---mre-report-2019-07-24\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elaser printer market\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is only about 5% of the size of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.prnewswire.com\u002Fnews-releases\u002Fglobal-inkjet-printers-market-outlook-2019-2027-anticipating-a-cagr-of-more-than-7-2-300905199.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Einkjet printer market\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but lasers are growing more than twice as fast as inkjets.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis makes sense. The traditional home computer market has been absorbed heavily by mobile devices, while office computing is still going strong. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-business-inkjet-printers\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EInkjet printers are ideal\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-photo-printer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ephoto printers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and for relatively low-volume printing, while laser printers are masters at big print runs. While the toner cartridges for lasers cost quite a lot, the actual cost-per-print for laser printing is generally much less than that of inkjet-printed pages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fbest-printer\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAlso: The best printers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E All that leads to a vibrant, growing market for laser printers with a wide range of solutions for home offices, small offices, workgroups, departments, and the enterprise. In this guide, we look at 11 of the best laser printers and help you understand why you might choose one over another. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EHere's our recommended list of office printers. We're going to start with a set of less expensive (under $700) small office printers. Then we'll up the game and move into departmental-level larger scale printers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESmall office printers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne thing you learn very quickly when comparing laser printers is that the naming conventions are odd. They often have a very long mishmash of letters and numbers. Sometimes, a printer even has \"enterprise\" in its name, when it's clearly more of a small office printer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen choosing a small office printer, look at sheet capacity, print speed, whether you can print on two sides or one, any added features, and -- of course -- replacement cartridge cost. The printers we've listed below all fall under about $700 and should work well for any office with a relatively small number of people putting them through active use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1471b9ba-c960-47ce-8c14-57fc5f279fdd\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe most exciting feature of this Xerox printer is that it lets you legitimately say you're going to "Xerox" something -- and then do it. But this genuine Xerox printer is more than just a scan\u002Fcopy\u002Fprint\u002Ffax powerhouse, it's a very capable, attractively designed multi-function monochrome printer.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ETo ensure security, this printer supports IPsec, IPv6, IP and Mac address filtering, SNMPv3, Scan to Email with Authentication, Secure Print, and Secure Fax Receive. It also supports AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Mopria, and Android printing. It also supports walk-up printing, has a 50-sheet automatic document feeder, a 250-sheet paper capacity, and prints at 36 pages per minute.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd, hey, let's give Xerox a big ZDNet shout-out of thanks for the mouse and graphic UI that you and I are probably using right now, which originated at the company's PARC research center all the way back in the 1970s.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EQuick scans\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EReasonably quick prints\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThat old-school Xerox name\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELaser toner can be expensive\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESome users report connectivity issues\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Xerox B235\" data-superlative=\"Best home\u002Foffice walk-up multifunction B&W laser printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"xerox.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Xerox","imageData":{"id":"02a496f4-fb91-4a3b-923c-c39a56b0ca7a","title":"xeroxb235","filename":"xeroxb235.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F07\u002F02a496f4-fb91-4a3b-923c-c39a56b0ca7a\u002Fxeroxb235.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":602254,"width":1920,"height":1080,"dateCreated":{"date":"2022-04-07 06:41:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2022-04-07 06:41:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"xeroxb235.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"02a496f4-fb91-4a3b-923c-c39a56b0ca7a","imageAltText":"xerox.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Xerox","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"xeroxb235.png","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F04\u002F07","imageWidth":1920,"imageHeight":1080,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Xerox\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FXerox-B235-Multifunction-Printer-Wireless-dp-B09KJC4WVZ\u002Fdp\u002FB09KJC4WVZ?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"364","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FXerox-B235-Multifunction-Printer-Wireless-dp-B09KJC4WVZ\u002Fdp\u002FB09KJC4WVZ","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FXerox-B235-Multifunction-Printer-Wireless-dp-B09KJC4WVZ\u002Fdp\u002FB09KJC4WVZ?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7576b243-a36f-4bce-b0ae-10970536083d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis HP LaserJet printer takes the walk-up concept to a print-only printer. While many businesses like multi-function printers, the advantage of a print-only printer is that they can be placed where printouts are needed, but where you might not want documents to be scanned or copied. This LaserJet is equipped with a range of embedded security features including instant threat notifications and secure pull printing, so documents remain confidential and only print when you're present, standing in front of the printer. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EOff the shelf, this printer comes with a 300-sheet capacity, but it's possible to upgrade it to support an additional 550-sheet paper tray. It will print both monochrome and color at 28 pages per minute, and supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi Direct connectivity.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis one also exploded in price. It started at $318. A few months ago it was $448. Now, it's $539.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EComes with a complete set of toner cartridges\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDual trays for two different types\u002Fsizes of paper\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESolid Wi-Fi connectivity (plus other options)\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt's a laser, so that toner refill is going to hurt your wallet\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt's print only: no copying, scanning, or faxing\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"HP Color LaserJet Pro M454dw\" data-superlative=\"Best SMB walk-up color print-only laser printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"hp-m454dw.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"HP","imageData":{"id":"3801acdc-0494-446b-8cdd-6dbe135a3d4f","title":"hp-m454dw","filename":"hp-m454dw.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F13\u002F3801acdc-0494-446b-8cdd-6dbe135a3d4f\u002Fhp-m454dw.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":105351,"width":1200,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-13 23:19:00","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-13 23:19:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"HP","alt":"hp-m454dw.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"3801acdc-0494-446b-8cdd-6dbe135a3d4f","imageAltText":"hp-m454dw.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"HP","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"hp-m454dw.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F13","imageWidth":1200,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"HP\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fhp-laserjet-pro-m454dw-wireless-color-laser-printer-white%2F6348959.p%3FskuId%3D6348959&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=[subid_value]","offerMerchant":"Office Depot","offerPrice":"540","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.officedepot.com\u002Fa\u002Fproducts\u002F6767282\u002FHP-LaserJet-Pro-M454dw-Wireless-Color\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fhp-laserjet-pro-m454dw-wireless-color-laser-printer-white%2F6348959.p%3FskuId%3D6348959&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=[subid_value]"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c7abd078-3973-49a5-bf15-a48a6210fda3\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe idea of a walk-up printer may seem like a throwback to the sneakernet days before we had ubiquitous Wi-Fi, fast Ethernet, mobile devices, and Bluetooth. But it's actually an amazingly helpful little productivity feature, which is why we've called it out for a number of our printer nominations. The idea of a walk-up is that you don't need to have a computer connected. You don't even need to have a smartphone-linked via Wi-Fi direct wireless printing. All you need is a USB thumb drive with an Office document. Just plug in the USB drive and print. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EThe time savings in an office environment can be quite considerable, especially if you realize you don't need to spend a half-hour with each new user helping them reconfigure their phones to talk to the printer. Just tell them to copy their file to a thumb drive and print. Even though all my printers are networked, I find walk-up printing can often reduce the friction between needing a document and printing it. In terms of specs, this is an all-in-one color printer with a raft of HP security features, workflow automation options, 28 pages per minute speeds, a 250-sheet input tray, an automatic document feeder, and 2-pass scanning.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen we last looked at this printer, it was $448. Like most home office gear, the price has ballooned. It started at $448, jumped a few months later to $598 -- and now is a whopping $892, a breathtaking jump in less than a year.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EADF scans both side of page as it reads\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EComes with full cartridges\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EQuick print response\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESome color banding on photo printing\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESome users report card stock jams\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPainful price increases\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"HP Color LaserJet Pro M479fdw\" data-superlative=\"Best SMB walk-up color multifunction printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"hp-m479.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"HP","imageData":{"id":"3b491b8c-1cd0-49d5-8c31-eb62b43cdcc9","title":"hp-m479","filename":"hp-m479.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F13\u002F3b491b8c-1cd0-49d5-8c31-eb62b43cdcc9\u002Fhp-m479.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":123779,"width":1200,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-13 23:17:03","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-13 23:17:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"HP","alt":"hp-m479.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"3b491b8c-1cd0-49d5-8c31-eb62b43cdcc9","imageAltText":"hp-m479.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"HP","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"hp-m479.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F13","imageWidth":1200,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"HP\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fhp-laserjet-pro-m479fdw-wireless-color-all-in-one-laser-printer-white%2F6348956.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=[subid_value]","offerMerchant":"Office Depot","offerPrice":"700","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.officedepot.com\u002Fa\u002Fproducts\u002F7808444\u002FHP-LaserJet-Pro-MFP-M479fdw-Wireless\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fhp-laserjet-pro-m479fdw-wireless-color-all-in-one-laser-printer-white%2F6348956.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=[subid_value]"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"42dc00fc-f0c2-499f-93ba-1edc5cc8eeaf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis little printer might look almost identical to the one above it, but it's actually quite different. When I reached out to the folks at HP for which of their own printers they'd most recommend, this is the model they chose. Its stand-out capability is print speed. At up to 49 pages per minute, it's more than double the speed of the M454dw.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe HP product folks I've been working with wanted to tell you this: "The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M455dn, part of the HP LaserJet Enterprise 400 Series, is the world's smallest enterprise-class MFP, fitting to where employees are working, no matter where they are. The HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M455dn is also the most secure enterprise-class printer, featuring advanced technologies such as HP Trusted Platform module, HP Sure Start, Run-time intrusion detection, and more. Plus, individual devices and entire printer fleets come with easy installation, configuration, and remote management capabilities via Embedded Web Server (EWS) and HP Web Jetadmin. Lastly, the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M455dn has double-sided printing by default, reducing paper waste and enabling automatic savings, as well as includes HP low melt EcoSmart toner and HP Auto-On\u002FAuto-Off Technology that reduces user energy consumption."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's undoubtedly some serious marketing hype in their statement, but the fact that it's a very capable, fast printer can't be denied.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESimpler pages print bonkers-fast\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBuilt-in enterprise-level security\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELarge management display\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECan be managed remotely\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENo Wi-Fi\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENo scan, copy, or fax\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"HP LaserJet Enterprise M455dn Color Laser Printer\" data-superlative=\"All-around high-speed printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Image: HP","imageData":{"id":"cee0b46b-58f3-4a3d-9b48-c9963c4fbd4a","title":"hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-1","filename":"hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F04\u002F03\u002Fcee0b46b-58f3-4a3d-9b48-c9963c4fbd4a\u002Fhp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":2209701,"width":3094,"height":3094,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-04-03 00:46:53","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-04-03 00:47:02","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Image: HP","alt":"hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-1.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"cee0b46b-58f3-4a3d-9b48-c9963c4fbd4a","imageAltText":"hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-1.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Image: HP","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F04\u002F03","imageWidth":3094,"imageHeight":3094,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Image: HP\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fhp-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-color-laser-printer-white%2F6449128.p%3FskuId%3D6449128&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=[subid_value]","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"599","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FHP-LaserJet-Enterprise-M455dn-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB08SPSHKK7","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fhp-laserjet-enterprise-m455dn-color-laser-printer-white%2F6449128.p%3FskuId%3D6449128&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=[subid_value]"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Office Depot","offerPrice":"599","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.officedepot.com\u002Fa\u002Fproducts\u002F8937575\u002FHP-LaserJet-Enterprise-M455dn-Color-Laser\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e3842409-a179-4d61-9341-9d89f83807c6\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWith print speeds up to 40 ppm, this is a fast little printer. Or, at least it starts out little. In its base model, you can load 250 sheets in the standard paper tray and an additional 100 sheets in the multipurpose tray. But you can also add an additional 550-sheet paper tray, bringing the capacity of this compact machine up to a full 900 sheets. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EThis is a wireless-only printer, with support for Wi-Fi, Apple AirPrint, and Canon's PRINT business app. With a duty cycle of up to 4,000 pages per month, it's an ideal printer for a small department of five or six professionals.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShockingly, this printer actually went \u003Cem\u003Edown\u003C\u002Fem\u003E in price before it went \u003Cem\u003Eway\u003C\u002Fem\u003E up. It was $286 last year. A few months later, it was $269. Now, it's $439.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EP\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe speed\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESmall without attachments\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECan grow to very large capacity\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EHoly cow, that price jump!\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWireless only, odd for an enterprise printer\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Canon imageCLASS LBP226dw\" data-superlative=\"Best SMB high sheet capacity B&W print-only printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"canonimageclass.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Canon","imageData":{"id":"ee2e90aa-0d42-4fdd-b729-63ef4d15cb61","title":"canonimageclass","filename":"canonimageclass.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F14\u002Fee2e90aa-0d42-4fdd-b729-63ef4d15cb61\u002Fcanonimageclass.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":81163,"width":1200,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-14 00:09:14","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-14 00:09:21","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Canon","alt":"canonimageclass.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"ee2e90aa-0d42-4fdd-b729-63ef4d15cb61","imageAltText":"canonimageclass.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Canon","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"canonimageclass.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F14","imageWidth":1200,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Canon\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fgoto.walmart.com\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F565706\u002F9383?&sharedId=zdnet&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FCanon-U-S-A-CNM3516C005-Wireless-Laser-Printer%2F156875565&subId1=[subid_value]","offerMerchant":"B&H Photo","offerPrice":"299","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bhphotovideo.com\u002Fc\u002Fproduct\u002F1558692-REG\u002Fcanon_3516c005_imageclass_lbp226dw_wireless_mobile.html","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fgoto.walmart.com\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F565706\u002F9383?&sharedId=zdnet&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FCanon-U-S-A-CNM3516C005-Wireless-Laser-Printer%2F156875565&subId1=[subid_value]"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnterprise-level departmental printers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe printers we've categorized below as enterprise-level printers are definitely more expensive. They often add security features, very large paper capacities, and much greater duty cycles.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe duty cycle is a measure of just how many pages a printer can print in a given month before it starts to break down. This is not just a random stat. My company once bought a $13,000 printer (in 1990s money) that we killed inside of two months because we ran roughly 10-times the number of pages through it in the first month than the vendor recommended. We had that thing running 24\u002F7 without giving it a chance to cool down.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKeep in mind these are mechanical devices with many moving parts and a lot of friction. If you're cranking hundreds of thousands of pages through your printer, you'll need an enterprise-level printer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8713eb5f-3406-4180-b533-d0045ae61643\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhat you're looking at here is a print, scan, copy, fax multi-function printer workhorse. Although Lexmark recommends a monthly volume of 8,000 to 50,000 pages, it actually has a monthly maximum duty cycle of 275,000 pages (or 550 reams of paper). Speaking of paper, you can load it up. It starts with two 500-sheet trays, plus a 2,500-sheet feeder. That gets you 3,500 sheets without needing to reload, and you can also add up to 150 pages of "multipurpose" material, like envelopes. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EIn terms of specs, this will actually print up to 11x17-inches. It can print up to 65 pages per minute both copying and printing, has a gigE LAN interface. You can even scan directly to email or FTP with the 600 dpi CCD-based scanning element. Add to that an automatic document feeder, which can hold 100 sheets. For iPhone and iPad users, the printer supports Apple AirPrint as well.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you decide to add one of these to your printer fleet, definitely shop around. We found almost a thousand dollar price difference depending on the vendor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E2,500 sheet feeder\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELarge capacity\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESpeed\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELarge price variability\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EExpensive accessories\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Lexmark CX924DXE\" data-superlative=\"Best high-workload color enterprise printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"lexmark-cx924dxe.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Lexmark","imageData":{"id":"587a5762-4ef1-4f98-ac43-f945b85951d1","title":"lexmark-cx924dxe","filename":"lexmark-cx924dxe.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F13\u002F587a5762-4ef1-4f98-ac43-f945b85951d1\u002Flexmark-cx924dxe.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":87225,"width":1200,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-13 03:34:14","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-13 03:34:23","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Lexmark","alt":"lexmark-cx924dxe.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"587a5762-4ef1-4f98-ac43-f945b85951d1","imageAltText":"lexmark-cx924dxe.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Lexmark","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"lexmark-cx924dxe.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F13","imageWidth":1200,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Lexmark\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"CDW","offerPrice":"12811","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cdw.com\u002Fproduct\u002Flexmark-cx924dxe-high-volt-taa\u002F5626517","url":""},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.officedepot.com\u002Fa\u002Fproducts\u002F657894\u002FLexmark-CX924dxe-Color-Laser-All-In\u002F","offerMerchant":"Office Depot","offerPrice":"11989","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.officedepot.com\u002Fa\u002Fproducts\u002F657894\u002FLexmark-CX924dxe-Color-Laser-All-In\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.officedepot.com\u002Fa\u002Fproducts\u002F657894\u002FLexmark-CX924dxe-Color-Laser-All-In\u002F"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c000d3ac-1b21-4d58-8c84-c1882b26392a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAt 5,000 to 25,000 pages per month, this HP printer has a slightly smaller recommended volume than the Lexmark we just showed you, although it can be pushed to up to 200,000 printed pages. It, too, supports printing, copying, scanning, and faxing (as do most of the multi-function printers we're going to show you). You can load its four paper trays with up to 2,000 sheets. Print directly from mobile devices using built-in Apple AirPrint and HP ePrint support and connect it to your network over gigabit Ethernet. We're also particularly impressed with the built-in security features which include Kerberos and LDAP authentication, PIN codes for up to 1,000 users, and third-party integrations with resources like badge readers. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EThis enterprise-level printer distinguishes itself from other HP devices its 200-sheet ADF (automatic document feeder) and two-sided, single-pass scanning. The scanning capability comes with HP's EveryPage advanced scanning software, which helps detect if there are scanning errors. One of our favorite features is the ability to scan directly to SharePoint with one step. If you want to go all out, add the optional finisher attachment and staple, hole punch, and fold as part of your production cycle.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESolid security protocol support\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPIN codes for up to 1,000 users\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBig ADF and dual-sided, single-pass scanning\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EConsiderable price variability: shop around\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAdd-ons can give it a large footprint\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"HP Color LaserJet Enterprise flow MFP M880z\" data-superlative=\"Best enterprise-optimized departmental printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"mfp-m880z.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"HP","imageData":{"id":"619e4f22-1b01-4824-bd5a-89ba7aaddf08","title":"mfp-m880z","filename":"mfp-m880z.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F13\u002F619e4f22-1b01-4824-bd5a-89ba7aaddf08\u002Fmfp-m880z.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":117733,"width":1200,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-13 03:37:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-13 03:37:41","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"HP","alt":"mfp-m880z.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"619e4f22-1b01-4824-bd5a-89ba7aaddf08","imageAltText":"mfp-m880z.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"HP","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"mfp-m880z.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F13","imageWidth":1200,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"HP\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FHP-LaserJet-Enterprise-Multifunction-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB00INAI6FK?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"8998","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FHP-LaserJet-Enterprise-Multifunction-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB00INAI6FK","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FHP-LaserJet-Enterprise-Multifunction-Printer\u002Fdp\u002FB00INAI6FK?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3306024f-ffc6-4781-8b1c-ed8b34c8a8d8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAs an enterprise laser printer, this Troy printer will do the job. It's a 55-ppm monochrome printer. But when it comes to secure printing, it's special. It offers MICR toner (magnetic ink character recognition) locks (to protect magnetic printing) and paper tray key locks to protect from misuse and theft of laser-printed check stock. In fact, this printer supports a range of MICR-related security features, including precise MICR-alignment controls and a MICR toner cartridge. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EIn terms of capacity, the m806x+ will hold up to 4,600 sheets. and has a monthly duty cycle of 100,000 pages, although the company recommends a monthly volume of 10,000 to 50,000 pages. Connect to the printer over gigabit Ethernet.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's an interesting note. TROY printers are based on HP printers. TROY takes the standard HP printers and add MICR fonts, MICR toner, and firmware for added check printing security.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAdded security features\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMICR capabilities\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELarge sheet capacity\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIt's basically a custom hack of an HP printer\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EYou're paying for the printer plus the customization markup\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"TROY MICR m806x+ Secure Ex\" data-superlative=\"Best MICR locking printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"troy-micr-m806x.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"HP\u002FTROY","imageData":{"id":"32793910-73e8-4bb6-8c57-dd2afa3fddf4","title":"troy-micr-m806x","filename":"troy-micr-m806x.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F13\u002F32793910-73e8-4bb6-8c57-dd2afa3fddf4\u002Ftroy-micr-m806x.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":84206,"width":1200,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-13 03:44:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-13 03:44:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"HP\u002FTROY","alt":"troy-micr-m806x.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"32793910-73e8-4bb6-8c57-dd2afa3fddf4","imageAltText":"troy-micr-m806x.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"HP\u002FTROY","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"troy-micr-m806x.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F13","imageWidth":1200,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"HP\u002FTROY\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"CDW","offerPrice":"8610","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cdw.com\u002Fproduct\u002Ftroy-micr-m806x-secure-ex-printer-b-w-laser\u002F3742620","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e96fde42-1828-4bbc-a2aa-8fd1bb987f6c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe 856 supports an absolute ton of connectivity via gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi. There's a laundry list of networking specs for this thing, including real-time monitoring, TCP\u002FIP, IPv4, IPv6; Print: TCP-IP port 9100 Direct Mode, LPD (raw queue support only), Web Services Printing, IPP 2.0, Apple AirPrint, HP ePrint, FTP Print, Google Cloud Print. Discovery protocols include SLP, Bonjour, and Web Services Discovery. IP config options include IPv4 (BootP, DHCP, AutoIP, Manual, TFTP Config, ARP-Ping), IPv6 (Stateless Link-Local and via Router, Stateful via DHCPv6). Management includes SNMPv2\u002Fv3, HTTP\u002FHTTPs, Telnet, TFTP Config, Syslog. Security protocols include SNMPv3, SSL Cert Management, IPSec\u002FFirewall, and ACL, 802.1x. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EAccording to the marketing materials, this is a color printer that comes with five paper trays but supports up to six. That lets you load up to 2,300 sheets into the printer before you kick off any print runs. Combining the multipurpose tray with the main paper trays means that this printer supports color printing on media types including plain, heavy, extra heavy, glossy, light, recycled, and so-called "tough" paper sheets, envelopes, labels, glossy film, card stock, and transparencies. It can print up to 55 ppm.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EConnectivity extravaganza\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESecurity protocol buffet\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFive paper trays\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDifficult to find\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENo Wi-Fi\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M856x\" data-superlative=\"Best enterprise print-only laser printer\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"hp-856.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"HP","imageData":{"id":"008f17be-5433-4ab9-923c-6ad14458461c","title":"hp-856","filename":"hp-856.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F13\u002F008f17be-5433-4ab9-923c-6ad14458461c\u002Fhp-856.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":58440,"width":1200,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-13 20:16:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-13 20:16:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"HP","alt":"hp-856.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"008f17be-5433-4ab9-923c-6ad14458461c","imageAltText":"hp-856.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"HP","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"hp-856.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F13","imageWidth":1200,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"HP\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.shopyourlikes.com\u002Fpi\u002Fd0fa250a4a0ee30942a097061ae57842407ac60c?afId=614548&afCampaignId=[subid_value]&afCreativeId=2993","offerMerchant":"B&H Photo","offerPrice":"5299","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bhphotovideo.com\u002Fc\u002Fproduct\u002F1542770-REG\u002Fhp_t3u52a_bgj_m856x_color_laserjet_enterprise.html","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.shopyourlikes.com\u002Fpi\u002Fd0fa250a4a0ee30942a097061ae57842407ac60c?afId=614548&afCampaignId=[subid_value]&afCreativeId=2993"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fd9aaaf3-c7db-4351-ac17-10e07779d067\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe started with a list of over 50 printers recommended by followers, colleagues, other reviewers, and IT managers. We had to narrow it down to a list of 11.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile we weren't able to perform hands-on tests with these printers, we did factor in customer satisfaction. In all cases, we looked at and read customer ratings and reviews -- in particular, searching for comments that would disqualify a printer from consideration (like, for example, many users complaining of jams or failures for a given model).\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EFinally, we did a literature review of other reviews on the web, again looking for the printers that were very well reviewed and searching out and eliminating any printers that were described as having characteristics we thought would give you difficulty.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EIf you're not sure whether you want an inkjet or a laser printer, be sure to check out our&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-business-inkjet-printers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest inkjet printers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;guide. We look at Epson, HP, Brother, and more.\u003Cbr\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe result is the list above. Feel free to let us know your favorite printers in the comments below. Do you own any that we've identified here? How do you like them?&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How did we choose these laser printers?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5a1d49e2-0bb3-49e0-b77a-9d933cc3aab4\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe first thing you'll notice if you're researching laser printers is the companies who make them are doing you no favors in your search. All the printers we've found are identified by arcane product numbers rather than distinguishing branding. What's the difference between an LBP226dw and an M454dw? Only a product manager would know.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is an enormous glut of printer models out there. For every level of functionality and price tier, vendors seem to have four or five models with slightly different model numbers and prices separated by $20 to $50, each with some minor feature differences compared to its nearly identical brethren. Worse, Amazon lists printers as new with models going as far back (that I found) as 2011.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConsumables can be quite an issue with laser printers, particularly at the lower end. Most printers come with starter toner cartridges that will print a few hundred to a few thousand pages. Then you have to buy the cartridges, which can be quite expensive. Many of the more popular printers can also use a discount aftermarket toner cartridge, which can save you money but could reduce print quality or damage your printer. We did not test toner cartridges, so pay attention to user reviews when making purchase decisions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe looked at printers that generally fall into three categories: Enterprise printers, workgroup printers, and small\u002Fhome business printers. Enterprise printers are characterized by their much higher price, huge paper trays, and specialized features like folding, stapling, and enterprise integration.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWorkgroup printers are also fast and have great capacity, but they drop in price considerably compared to their enterprise brethren. We generally chose workgroup printers that were capable of printing tens to hundreds of thousands of pages per month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe small business\u002Fhome business printers are generally fast but usually limited to about 250 sheets in the paper magazine. These are much less expensive printers, but they often have replacement cartridge costs that come close to the original purchase price of the printer. In choosing smaller printers, definitely be sure to check out cartridge costs as well as the purchase price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlso, I want to point out that prices are very inconsistent and change regularly. In the week between when I initially chose the products and put them up online in this article, the prices for a few of them changed. If you're interested in a product, look at multiple vendors and perhaps wait a little while. Prices may come down (or they may go back up).&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FCaveat_emptor" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cem\u003ECaveat emptor\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cem\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which laser printer is right for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-04-07 14:24:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"If you have a ton of pages to print in a hurry, you want a laser printer. We look at a variety of printers ranging from enterprise-level monsters to the sleek, high-performance, inexpensive models our editors rely on personally.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"829c2f2e-cb16-4691-9f86-115ea9ee0062",image:{id:"7a7e314f-f876-4957-9d3c-f13132f57779",filename:"hp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m856x-lifestyle.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2020-05-18 16:29:54",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"2020-05-18-at-12-22-32-pm.jpg",credits:b,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F05\u002F18\u002F7a7e314f-f876-4957-9d3c-f13132f57779\u002Fhp-color-laserjet-enterprise-m856x-lifestyle.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:795,height:596,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Hardware",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best laser printers: Find the right printer for you",section:c,slug:"best-laser-printer",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best laser printer 2024: Find the perfect printer",topic:{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EFor very large businesses, building a website is a megaproject, requiring a team of full-time developers who assemble sites the old-fashioned way, with lots of custom code tying together some readymade modules and libraries. That small army of professionals typically uses industrial-strength tools like \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ab983714-f765-4d5c-9781-2fc266e6e7f4\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.invisionapp.com\u002Fstudio\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"InVision Studio\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E to prototype the user experience and \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"850428c2-8d74-4b2e-aad4-18519ad805d4\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.adobe.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fdreamweaver.html\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Adobe Dreamweaver\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E to sling the code.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"05b65014-e574-49c5-af73-a58c04a268a3\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F05b65014-e574-49c5-af73-a58c04a268a3\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor smaller businesses, hiring coders to build a bespoke website is prohibitively expensive. Even hiring a competent freelance designer can be a budget-buster, especially if your business is just getting started and you want to experiment with different online ideas to see what works. And after you get it all designed, you have to worry about hosting and security and ongoing maintenance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's where dedicated website builders come in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EExperienced developers might grit their teeth at the idea of a point-and-click tool for creating a website, but the advantages are irresistible for budget-conscious business owners: You get complete control of the design process, you can update your site anytime, and the cost is a fraction of what a professional developer would charge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor this guide, we zeroed in on commercial services that offer a complete, subscription-based package, with tools for designing a website, fine-tuning its appearance, adding ecommerce features, uploading the results to a custom domain, and handling all the hosting duties.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe descriptions in the following list aren't reviews; our goal is to introduce you to a select group of services and help you decide which ones should be on your shortlist. If one of the services we describe sounds like it might be right for you, we strongly recommend signing up for a free trial to get a feel for how it works and how well its features match your business needs and your skills.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat's included?\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe promise of every service in this guide is that they can help you build and deploy a site that looks great and runs smoothly, without requiring advanced design skills or technical knowledge. Of course, it's helpful if you have the ability to recognize good design when you see it, and it's also a big plus if you've got a keen sense of what you want to accomplish with a website before you get started. (For more on these crucial mechanics, see \"Is a site-building service right for your business?\" later in this guide.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can expect to find the following building blocks at any of the website builders we spotlight below:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETemplates\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery service we profile allows you to begin by choosing a template designed for your business category. Replace the placeholder text and graphics with your own words and pictures to build the basic outline of your site. One noteworthy alternative to this cookie-cutter approach is Wix, whose Artificial Design Intelligence (ADI) option uses your social media information to flesh out a site for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECustomization options\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy definition, the starting templates are generic, and if you accept the design as delivered, you run the real risk of having a website that looks exactly like those of everyone else who used the same template. Which is why all of the services allow you to change color schemes, choose your own fonts, add pages and sections, and integrate with third-party services. Some services offer specialized features, such as tools to create your own logo and integrate it into the site.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEcommerce features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your goal in getting onto the web is to sell stuff, you've come to the right place. Every service we feature here offers ecommerce tools that can turn your simple site into a full-fledged storefront. At a minimum, you should expect the ability to import your product catalog to your new site and to incorporate shopping carts and payment options that make it easy for your customers to buy what you're selling.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn some cases, those features are part of the service's DNA. Weebly, for example, is a part of Block (formerly Square), whose payment capabilities are a key part of commerce in the physical world. But every one of the services we profile offers features that can help you sell goods and services, and if that's a key part of your business, you should study those features carefully.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EIs a site-building service right for your business?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEspecially with services that offer a free trial, it's tempting to jump right in, pick a template, and begin pointing, clicking, dragging, and dropping. We suggest that you set aside those details for now and instead think about the results you want to see at the end of the process. Asking the right questions now can help determine whether one of these services is the right option for your business.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor starters, there are the really big questions: Why do you want a website? What do you want to accomplish with it? What are your goals for your business and your clients or customers? What kind of information do you want to provide for site visitors, and what sorts of choices do you want to offer them?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd then there's the crucial issue of resources -- not just money but also time and energy. Here are four questions to help you define what you can afford.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is your total budget? \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EKeep in mind that the cost of a site-builder service is only one line item in your budget. Options that appear to be a bargain at first glance might not be such a great value when you factor in the time you and your staff will spend working with the software\u002Fservice and, more importantly, the long-term costs and hidden expenses associated with that service. Pay special attention to costs associated with added functionality such as analytics and SEO, social media integration, and e-commerce.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat's the projected lifespan of your website?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E If all you need is a simple online brochure, you don't really need to pay for a full year in advance. You'll be better off looking for one-page templates you can customize and deploy quickly. On the opposite end of the scale is a dedicated e-commerce site that you intend to build into a powerhouse over time; for that, you'll need to budget for updates and maintenance.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDo you have the resources and time available to customize and maintain a website?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Site building tools are easy, but they require an initial investment of time to create the site and an ongoing commitment to maintaining everything. If you're swamped by the details of running a business day to day, you probably want to avoid site builders that have higher learning curves and more complicated interfaces.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow picky are you? (Be honest.) \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EIf you're the kind of person who can't help but fiddle with a design, or if you want to tweak settings and noodle with fonts until everything's \"just right,\" a site builder may not be a good fit. Anyone with ultra-high standards and a critical eye is much better off choosing a platform with the flexibility to customize the code on the backend and then hiring a professional designer to create a custom design.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou might find, after working your way through those questions, that you can make do with the services of a traditional web host. As we noted in our round-up, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbuying-guide-cheap-web-hosting-services\u002F\"\u003E\"The best cheap web hosting services: How to find the right provider,\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E it's increasingly common for these services to offer generic site-building tools that are good enough for even a moderately complex website. But if you've decided that you need a service that can handle the entire job, it's time to make your choice. We've assembled a handful of finalists for your consideration here.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe services\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot all website builders are created equal. Some are targeted at non-technical customers and offer lots of hand-holding. Others, like Duda and PageCloud, are appropriate for skilled designers who just want a well-integrated set of tools without the hassle of managing hosting and security.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur criteria considered services that are well established and offer a broad assortment of website options. We considered but did not include Shopify, which is an e-commerce platform that happens to offer some tools for creating an online store and isn't appropriate for blogs, portfolios, and other non-commerce-related sites.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d53db794-c648-40f7-b7c0-bc2ce05e2fcd\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESquarespace is clearly aiming to be the Apple of website builders, as confirmed by a quick perusal of the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.squarespace.com\u002Fcustomers\u002Foscar-the-grouch"\u003Efeatured customers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;page, which spotlights actress Winona Ryder and features fashion designers, photographers, writers, and other creative types. This is no struggling startup: Squarespace has been around since 2003 and has more than 1,000 employees worldwide.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIndeed, this might be the best choice for podcasters, photographers, and other folks in the content business, thanks to excellent built-in tools like an embedded audio player and photo gallery. The all-in-one platform also offers excellent e-commerce options, including inventory management, shipping tools, tax calculators, and abandoned cart recovery. Email campaign support is an extra-cost option, but analytics and social media integration are built in. A new feature allows you to monetize content by adding members-only features to your site. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESquarespace shipped a major upgrade to its web editor interface in 2020. The new version allows customers to choose color palettes and fonts with global options to maintain brand consistency while also allowing page-specific styles. The new "sections" feature provides pre-built layouts to customize pages beyond the basic template.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Unlike some of its more populist competitors, Squarespace doesn't have a free tier. You can set up a site and tinker with it for up to 14 days, but when that free trial ends you'll need to choose one of the service's&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fsquarespace.syuh.net\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F533949\u002F9084?u=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.squarespace.com\u002Fpricing&amp;subid1=zdnet" target="_blank"\u003Efour plans\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which range in price from $16 a month for the bare-bones Personal plan to $46 a month for the all-bells-and-whistles Advanced Commerce plan. (Significant discounts are available if you pay annually, with the $26-a-month Business plan, for example, shrinking to the equivalent of $18 a month if paid by the year.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll plans except the entry-level Personal plan include the option to attach a Google-powered G Suite account for professional email, with one account free for the first year. This provides the ability to create email inboxes with an @yourname.com domain, rather than a simple @gmail.com account.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch1\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh1\u003E\" data-hed=\"Squarespace\" data-superlative=\"A great choice for creatives\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sitebuilder04-squarespace.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EYou can do a lot with a 14-day Squarespace trial, but some features require a paid plan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"ffaac0c8-2047-431e-9e74-a832e4bc475e","title":"sitebuilder04-squarespace","filename":"sitebuilder04-squarespace.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2019\u002F12\u002F03\u002Fffaac0c8-2047-431e-9e74-a832e4bc475e\u002Fsitebuilder04-squarespace.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EYou can do a lot with a 14-day Squarespace trial, but some features require a paid plan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":246658,"width":1292,"height":1021,"dateCreated":{"date":"2019-12-03 21:39:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2019-12-03 21:40:32","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"sitebuilder04-squarespace.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"ffaac0c8-2047-431e-9e74-a832e4bc475e","imageAltText":"sitebuilder04-squarespace.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EYou can do a lot with a 14-day Squarespace trial, but some features require a paid plan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"sitebuilder04-squarespace.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2019\u002F12\u002F03","imageWidth":1292,"imageHeight":1021,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou can do a lot with a 14-day Squarespace trial, but some features require a paid plan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Squarespace","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.squarespace.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5bacd863-c7d0-41aa-9aaa-fb19787f870a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EUnlike competitors that focus first and foremost on website design, Weebly's core feature set is e-commerce. That might explain why the online payment provider Block (formerly Square) acquired the 12-year-old company in 2018. It also makes Weebly a logical choice for businesses that already use Square for a physical presence and want to expand online.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe site builder tool is straightforward and intuitive, easy enough for even novices to use but also sophisticated. Start by setting up an online store, then choose a layout, change colors, specify fonts, and add a logo to complete the branding. From there, you can use the website builder to add pictures and text, add sections to pages, link to social media, and embed galleries, videos, or documents.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuilt-in functionality includes advertising options and membership management tools. A variety of&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fautomate.io\u002Fintegration\u002Fweebly"\u003Efree and premium\u002Fpaid third-party integrations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;are also available, including Mailchimp, Salesforce, Hubspot, ZenDesk, ActiveCampaign, Convertikit, ClickFunnels, and Gmail. The commerce feature list is extensive, as you'd expect. In addition to Block, you can use Stripe, PayPal, and Authorize.net as payment gateways; direct credit card payment isn't an option. Shipping features in the most expensive plan include real-time calculators and discounts of up to 40% on shipping costs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=358504&amp;u=514792&amp;m=37723&amp;urllink=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.weebly.com\u002Fpricing&amp;afftrack=zdnet" target="_blank"\u003EYou can get a basic plan for free\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but for serious sales, you'll want one of three upgrades, which range in price from $9 a month for the Personal plan to the $29 monthly Performance plan. The most interesting add-on is the Square Photo Studio Service, which allows you to send in your products for professional photography; the cost is $9.95 for each product, including 3 photos, with 360-degree photos going for $29.95.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Weebly\" data-superlative=\"The store's the thing\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"weebly.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"6a07f365-c249-402b-9d62-fc377d0d2ae9","title":"weebly","filename":"weebly.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F12\u002F6a07f365-c249-402b-9d62-fc377d0d2ae9\u002Fweebly.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":184453,"width":1380,"height":1035,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:03:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"weebly.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6a07f365-c249-402b-9d62-fc377d0d2ae9","imageAltText":"weebly.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"weebly.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F12","imageWidth":1380,"imageHeight":1035,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Weebly","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.weebly.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ecd5e5d0-7c94-4cd7-8960-5c86a3149fa0\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EBased in Israel, Wix is a publicly traded company that specializes in site-building tools for small businesses. As of mid 2020, the company reported that it had 4.5 million paying customers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGetting started with Wix offers near-instant gratification. Choose a category and subcategory, answer a few questions, and allow the site's "Artificial Design Intelligence" feature to generate a full-blown website, pulling content from your own LinkedIn feed, among other places. Replace the generic content with your own words and pictures, and you're good to go.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs an alternative, you can start by choosing from a collection of handsome, well-categorized \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.wix.com\u002Fwebsite\u002Ftemplates"\u003Etemplates\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and then customizing it directly in the Wix Editor. There, you'll find lots of options -- perhaps too many. The interface can be overwhelming, and expect some frustration and wasted time as you climb the learning curve.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWix sites support app integration to Google Analytics, MailChimp, Facebook, and a dozen other services, mostly using inline frame (Iframe) elements. Built-in features include live chat and support for booking appointments, managing events, and selling music and photographs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to build an online store, there's a template for that, with support for product categories and SKUs, inventory management, multiple shipping providers, and SSL with PCI. It's a good solution for small stores, but it's not a full-fledged e-commerce solution like Shopify.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EYou can kick the tires with a free, ad-supported site, but connecting a custom domain (and removing the ads) requires an&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.wix.com\u002Fupgrade\u002Fwebsite"\u003Eupgrade to a premium plan\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, at a cost of $14-39 per month (paid annually). To add payment processing options, you'll need to choose one of the company's Business and eCommerce plan, which bumps the cost range to $23-49 per month (also paid annually). Custom tailored Enterprise plans are also available, but with them starting at $500 per month, they're well beyond the scope of what the target readers of this piece are likely looking for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Wix.com\" data-superlative=\"Use AI for near-instant gratification\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"wix-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"23e562ef-81fa-4d14-9f1d-c5e2e4f2d4a7","title":"wix-2","filename":"wix-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F12\u002F23e562ef-81fa-4d14-9f1d-c5e2e4f2d4a7\u002Fwix-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":130003,"width":1251,"height":958,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"wix-2.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"23e562ef-81fa-4d14-9f1d-c5e2e4f2d4a7","imageAltText":"wix-2.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"wix-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F12","imageWidth":1251,"imageHeight":958,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Wix.com","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"http:\u002F\u002Fwix.com","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"fffbfde2-0c9b-43a4-91ab-5b1c6afe86af\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt's easy to confuse this web hosting and site-building service with its cousin, the open-source WordPress project, which lives at \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwordpress.org\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWordPress.org\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. In fact, the founder of WordPress.com's parent company, Automattic, is Matt Mullenweg, a founding developer of the WordPress software.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven that ancestry, it's no wonder that WordPress.com bills itself as "the best way to experience WordPress," and they have a point. Combining the familiar WordPress software with hosting and management from honest-to-goodness WordPress experts feels qualitatively different. (The company's enterprise division, WordPress VIP, boasts some very big brands on its customer roster.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom a design-and-build standpoint, WordPress.com offers few surprises. Answer a handful of questions to build a blog, business site, or online store, and then connect your domain. After you select a plan and provide payment details, you're ready to start customizing your site. The WordPress editor, design tool, and dashboard will feel familiar if you've ever worked with a hosted WordPress site, and the company now offers&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fapps.wordpress.com\u002Fdesktop\u002F"\u003Edesktop apps\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;for Windows, MacOS, and Linux to go with its&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fapps.wordpress.com\u002Fmobile\u002F"\u003Emobile apps\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The free tier at WordPress.com might be good enough for very simple personal sites, but don't even think about running a business here unless you're ready to pay for one of the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwordpress.com\u002Fpricing\u002F"\u003Efour upgraded plans\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;on offer. The Personal tier, at $4 a month, removes ads and allows you to connect a custom domain, while the $8-a-month Premium plan adds advanced customization options (including a CSS editor) and themes that go beyond the basics, as well as the ability to earn ad revenue and collect payments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven modestly ambitious businesses that want to do any kind of sales will need to pony up for at least the Business plan, which costs $25 a month and includes SEO tools as well as the option to upload custom themes and plug-ins. The most expensive tier, eCommerce, runs $45 a month and includes advanced marketing, shipping, and payment features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"WordPress.com\" data-superlative=\"It's not just for blogs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"wordpress.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"408b3e90-4b39-48d8-92e8-81d07fa8ac14","title":"wordpress","filename":"wordpress.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F12\u002F408b3e90-4b39-48d8-92e8-81d07fa8ac14\u002Fwordpress.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":189264,"width":1251,"height":958,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:03:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"wordpress.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"408b3e90-4b39-48d8-92e8-81d07fa8ac14","imageAltText":"wordpress.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"wordpress.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F12","imageWidth":1251,"imageHeight":958,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fautomattic.pxf.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F1900456\u002F22744?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwordpress.com%2F&subId1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Wordpress","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwordpress.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fautomattic.pxf.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F1900456\u002F22744?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwordpress.com%2F&subId1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e9dcca07-5357-4bb3-9cd9-b97696d35fc8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EOf all the website builders we looked at, Strikingly is the only one that includes a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.strikingly.com\u002Fmanifesto"\u003Emanifesto\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, with a fairly straightforward power-to-the-people message: "The Internet's full potential should not be restricted to just those who are tech savvy. Its power should be shared with everyone. It should be simple. It should be meant for the masses."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe selection of templates is small but diverse and handsome, and the editor is easy enough to use once you adjust to Strikingly's single-page sites that contain blocks of contents organized vertically rather than on linked pages. (Upgrade to a Pro plan for the option to add up to 20 of these scrolling pages to a site.)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStrikingly's Simple Store option is serviceable, with support for Stripe, PayPal, and Apple Pay gateways. If your e-commerce demands are more than basic, however, you might be frustrated by the lack of support for multiple tax rates and the inability to integrate with shippers like UPS and FedEx.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Although Strikingly offers a basic free plan, you'll have to upgrade to connect a custom domain, add e-commerce features, or store more than 500 MB of site-related files. The simplest paid plan, called Limited, supports up to two sites, 1 GB of total storage per site, and a store with up to five products for $8\u002Fmonth (billed yearly). The Pro plan, at $16 per month (also on a yearly cycle), allows three sites, increases storage to 20 GB per site, supports up to 300 items for sale, and switches on advanced features like the ability to embed custom code and upload fonts. Both tiers offer discounts for paying a year or more in advance. The top level, VIP, costs $49 per month and includes newsletter support as well as the ability to create multiple membership tiers. It supports five sites, 100GB of storage per site, and listing for up to 500 products.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Strikingly\" data-superlative=\"A strikingly different approach to design\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"strikingly.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"7dc1df5e-bd84-49f8-b3f8-8c7e2a4491b4","title":"strikingly","filename":"strikingly.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F12\u002F7dc1df5e-bd84-49f8-b3f8-8c7e2a4491b4\u002Fstrikingly.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":247681,"width":1251,"height":958,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"strikingly.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"7dc1df5e-bd84-49f8-b3f8-8c7e2a4491b4","imageAltText":"strikingly.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"strikingly.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F12","imageWidth":1251,"imageHeight":958,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Strikingly","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.strikingly.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d32ef3e5-6cbb-4dc0-8e70-4a48ee75d842\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAlthough Duda got its start providing services to small businesses, it's now the site-building option for businesses that already have dedicated freelance or agency design resources. The company, which has five locations worldwide, boasts that 14 million sites have been built on the Duda platform. Oh, and about that name? It's a play on a character from&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003EThe Big Lebowski:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fem\u003EThe Dude.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll Duda websites are hosted on Amazon's cloud. Available templates are sophisticated and modern. The drag-and-drop editor offers slick features like backgrounds, font styles, flexible navigation for desktop and mobile devices, and a shrinking header that remains visible as site visitors scroll. Given the company's focus on professional designers, it's not surprising that everything is built for speed and SEO. You'll find a long list of&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=523421&amp;u=514792&amp;m=49768&amp;urllink=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.duda.co\u002Fwebsite-builder\u002Fplatform-Integrations&amp;afftrack=zdnet" target="_blank"\u003Etop-tier platform integrations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;for commerce, social, and marketing as well.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis platform is ill-suited for amateurs, but technically sophisticated business owners who want an alternative to building a site from scratch will find Duda appealing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;After a 14-day free trial (no credit card required), you'll need to choose one of Duda's&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=523421&amp;u=514792&amp;m=49768&amp;urllink=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.duda.co\u002Fplans&amp;afftrack=zdnet" target="_blank"\u003Ethree plans\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The Basic plan, at $14 a month, covers a single website, and provides email-only support. The Team plan runs $22 a month and also includes a single website, with support for up to four individual user accounts with role-based permissions as well as shared assets and chat\u002Fphone support. Paying $44 a month for an Agency plan gives you four websites, priority support, and advanced design capabilities including API and custom widget capabilities. Duda also offers a custom plan with features like access to its API, Single Sign-On (SSO) support, and other advanced features, but you'll need to contact the company for information on pricing, if you believe your company needs something that advanced, and likely pricy. It should be noted that all monthly prices are based on an annual payment, and&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=523421&amp;u=514792&amp;m=49768&amp;urllink=https:\u002F\u002Fwww.duda.co\u002Fplans\u002Fecommerce&amp;afftrack=zdnet" target="_blank"\u003EE-commerce features\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;cost extra, ranging from $7.25 per month for 100 products to $39 per month for unlimited products.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Duda\" data-superlative=\"Slick, but not for amateurs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"sitebuilder05-duda.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EEvery Duda site starts with one of these templates, after which you can customize extensively.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"6c893fe4-fad6-4fe9-a66d-2af006f53925","title":"sitebuilder05-duda","filename":"sitebuilder05-duda.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2019\u002F12\u002F03\u002F6c893fe4-fad6-4fe9-a66d-2af006f53925\u002Fsitebuilder05-duda.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003EEvery Duda site starts with one of these templates, after which you can customize extensively.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":273666,"width":1292,"height":1021,"dateCreated":{"date":"2019-12-03 21:36:16","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2019-12-03 21:38:31","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"sitebuilder05-duda.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6c893fe4-fad6-4fe9-a66d-2af006f53925","imageAltText":"sitebuilder05-duda.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003EEvery Duda site starts with one of these templates, after which you can customize extensively.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"sitebuilder05-duda.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2019\u002F12\u002F03","imageWidth":1292,"imageHeight":1021,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003EEvery Duda site starts with one of these templates, after which you can customize extensively.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Duda","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.duda.co\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"8a6737ad-42a9-4012-a2cf-a3dd08355a65\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EGoDaddy made its reputation as the domain registrar to the hoi polloi (with the help of pricey but buzz-building Super Bowl ads) and its website builder carries on this tradition. It's a solid offering that checks all the design and editing boxes while adding some interesting marketing and promotion features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGoDaddy DIY website tools date back a few years and have been through several name changes along the way: the old GoCentral Website Builder was relaunched with a much-expanded feature set as Websites+Marketing in 2020. For the most part, that name has disappeared in favor of the generic GoDaddy Website Builder, but the marketing features, including SEO and email marketing tools as well as a social media dashboard, remain.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want e-commerce features, you'll have to pony up for GoDaddy's top tier. The store includes options for selling physical goods, digital content, and services, with connections to third-party marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E GoDaddy offers four paid website builder plans as well as a free option (see this \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.godaddy.com\u002Fwebsites\u002Fwebsite-builder\u002Fplans-and-pricing"\u003Efeature table\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for a full comparison). The $10\u002Fmonth Basic plan ("for personal use") includes a custom domain, access to a marketing and analytics dashboard, and up to 100 marketing emails per month. Upgrading to the business-ready Standard plan ($15 per month) adds SEO tools and increases the email marketing quota to 500 messages per month, while the Premium plan ($20 per month) allows unlimited email marketing and includes a broader range of online appointment options. The Ecommerce plan ($25 per month) is required if you want to sell goods and services. Discounts are available for your first billing cycle for all four plans, with the service going up to the full prices listed above once that initial period ends.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"GoDaddy\" data-superlative=\"Would you like social media and marketing with that website?\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"godaddy.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"26a24848-f1d0-4f77-9540-eeab2f1c6f97","title":"godaddy","filename":"godaddy.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F12\u002F26a24848-f1d0-4f77-9540-eeab2f1c6f97\u002Fgodaddy.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":158278,"width":1380,"height":1035,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:03:55","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"godaddy.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"26a24848-f1d0-4f77-9540-eeab2f1c6f97","imageAltText":"godaddy.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"godaddy.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F12","imageWidth":1380,"imageHeight":1035,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"GoDaddy","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.godaddy.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f8cd40ff-0a6a-416a-a849-1d5831bc841d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis Canadian service, based in Ottawa, Ontario, occupies an interesting niche between the pure point-and-click site builders and those that are aimed at professionals. Its pitch, in fact, should appeal to a fair number of WordPress developers who want a simpler alternative. It also offers much more control over layout than many of its template-driven competitors, which can lead inexperienced designers into trouble.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to a large collection of good-looking templates, it also supports a collection of "wireframes," which allow a designer to build a site from scratch using one of these simple layouts as the starting point and then use the PageCloud infrastructure, hosted on Amazon Web Services, without having to worry about hosting, security, and updates for plug-ins.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat business model also includes an option for PageCloud Pros to offer their services, creating an upgrade path for users who've built a simple site and want to get professional help designing and managing the site.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPricing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E PageCloud's free 14-day trial doesn't require a credit card, but after those two weeks are up you have to choose from one of three plans: Small Business ($19 per month) Business ($29\u002Fmonth) or Pro ($50\u002Fmonth), all of which are billed annually. The Small Business and Business plans are similar in terms of features; the major difference is that the Small Business plan includes a limit of 100 pages and 1,000 submissions per month while the Business plan bumps those to 200 pages and 5,000 submissions. Meanwhile, the Pro plan allows you to build up to five sites with unlimited pages and 5,000 monthly submissions. It also offers priority support.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PageCloud\" data-superlative=\"Pros can skip templates and start with a wireframe\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"pagecloud.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"63796d3d-a191-48aa-b34c-7fdd552182b4","title":"pagecloud","filename":"pagecloud.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F12\u002F63796d3d-a191-48aa-b34c-7fdd552182b4\u002Fpagecloud.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":273228,"width":1607,"height":1142,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-01-12 19:04:24","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"pagecloud.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"63796d3d-a191-48aa-b34c-7fdd552182b4","imageAltText":"pagecloud.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"pagecloud.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F01\u002F12","imageWidth":1607,"imageHeight":1142,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"PageCloud","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pagecloud.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"07099822-9298-41b2-92ba-86dfc2079d94\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou've likely noticed most of the services listed here offer considerable discounts if you're willing to pay for a full year in advance. While this means you'll be paying more per billing period for month-to-month pricing, we would still recommend taking this more expensive short-term option to protect yourself from wasting much more money in the long term.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's say you realize in two or three months that your new website isn't providing the bump in revenue that you'd hoped, or you decide that an expanded social media presence alone is enough for you, or maybe you just leave the field you'd planned to build a website around entirely. If any of these unforeseen circumstances happen, you're still on the hook for whatever remains of that billed year. However, if you chose the monthly option, you may have paid $10 or $20 more per month for those first few months, but you won't have to continue paying several hundreds of dollars, for a service you're no longer using, for the better part of an entire year.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen, and if, you reach a point where you're sure that you're committed to maintaining a long-term web presence, then, and only then, should you commit to a yearly subscription.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Should I commit to a year-long subscription, or pay more for a monthly sub?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"62ba8331-2989-4107-8798-e40be011b231\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThis depends largely on the volume, type, and category of product you intend to sell. Sites like Etsy, eBay, CafePress, and even Amazon can provide cheaper, more hands-off ways to manage your online sales. Some will even produce your goods for you on an on-demand basis, an especially good option for sellers offering products like T-shirts, mugs, or anything else with customized graphics. There's nothing wrong with maintaining a website that showcases your goods or services while selling them on an existing storefront like the ones mentioned above.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, it's also worth keeping in mind that sites like these generally charge you a per-sale commission for whatever you sell through them. If you're expecting to move a low volume of merchandise, this can lead to savings for you versus paying for what even some of the cheaper online commerce options cost. However, if you plan to move considerable numbers of products, those commissions and fees can quickly add up to the point where you could save a lot of money by simply paying a flat fee to offer your own customer-facing web store via one of the providers listed here. Also, don't forget to take into account the related logistical costs associated with the task of delivering all of your goods to customers when deciding which option is best for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Should I use a web commerce service or opt for a third-party selling platform?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a02bc78d-1d87-4ab0-9f4e-e7bdbfc9dd78\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe long version of this answer is far too complex to address here, and likely worth its own article. However, you can get a very useful idea of how much good your website can potentially do your business by taking a look at things from the consumer's standpoint. If you've ever found yourself shopping for an item or service similar to the one(s) you plan to offer, has your mind immediately gone to the idea of visiting the websites of potential sellers or providers? If so, that's likely the reaction reaction and desire your potential customers will have as well.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConversely, is your business the kind of thing that absolutely must happen in a face-to-face situation? The list of businesses and services of this type shrinks every day, but they do still exist. If you find yourself in a situation like that, consider investing lightly in your online presence, maybe even using one of the free options listed here to create a landing page that will quickly direct potential customers to your contact information and social media presences, where the real business will happen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's very important not to leave a vital tool like an official website on the shelf, but it's equally important not to overspend on it either. Consider other avenues that funding can be put to, including online ads, additional inventory, or other investments in your business that have more definite ROI prospects.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How can I estimate what kind of return on investment (ROI) I can expect from my website?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-01-21 17:02:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"A DIY website created with one of these point-and-click tools can look every bit as slick as one built and maintained by a web professional, at a fraction of the cost. Learn how to ask the right questions so you can choose a site-building service that's most appropriate for your needs.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"d0203deb-0f29-4a0b-8eb0-65ec4b5a4ee6",image:{id:"e356637b-183e-49e5-b5f3-9122be9fd18b",filename:"istock-827896866.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2019-12-03 20:11:26",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"website construction concept",credits:"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto",caption:"\u003Cp\u003Eblue background, 3d illustration\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2019\u002F12\u002F03\u002Fe356637b-183e-49e5-b5f3-9122be9fd18b\u002Fistock-827896866.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1068,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"Best website builder in 2022: Your step-by-step guide",section:c,slug:"how-to-build-a-website-for-your-business-your-step-by-step-guide",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best website builder in 2022: Your step-by-step guide",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"bd8bba7a-027c-49e8-8c12-87ca4196b76a",username:"Natalie Gagliordi",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Natalie",lastName:"Gagliordi",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"77b24d5e-1175-11e4-9732-00505685119a",filename:"natalie-gagliordi-author.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-04-25 12:48:12",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F04\u002F25\u002F77b24d5e-1175-11e4-9732-00505685119a\u002Fnatalie-gagliordi-author.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Until 2021, Natalie Gagliordi was a senior writer for Red Ventures based in Louisville, Kentucky, covering business technology for ZDNET.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EMost commonly used in retail and hospitality businesses, a point-of-sale system (POS) combines hardware and software to accept mobile and card-based payments. But with so many POS products on the market, it can be challenging for small business owners to pick the right one for their needs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"dba6e7ff-780a-4823-975e-4aa2e021e4d1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fdba6e7ff-780a-4823-975e-4aa2e021e4d1\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn terms of functionality, a typical POS system provides a way for businesses to accept payments made with credit cards, debit cards, and mobile devices. Best-in-class POS systems will include additional features, such as secure payment processing and integrated software that streamlines accounting and administrative tasks. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo find the right POS system, you should consider which features you need for your business -- whether that's simple transaction processing, accounting and invoicing capabilities, or inventory management functionality. On top of that, you should also think about how much you're willing to spend on a POS system (including the hardware, software, rental fees, and payment processing costs).  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKeep reading to get our picks for the best POS systems of 2022. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f679572c-59a9-48a2-92a3-944dbe3b7936\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESquare's POS system is known for straightforward pricing, minimalist hardware, and a user-friendly interface. Beyond standard payment acceptance, Square's POS product offers a range of additional features including software for customer relationship management, invoicing, customer loyalty, inventory management, and reporting and analytics. Both Square's POS app and its sales-oriented Square Dashboard offer a variety of analytical reports, with statistics such as sales summaries, growth comparisons, busiest hours, and employee sales. The company also offers free phone support Monday through Friday, and additional support via email, social media, and live chat.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn terms of pricing, merchants can get a Square chip card reader for free, or pay $49 for a reader that also takes contactless payments. Square also sells the iPad-compatible Square Stand for $169, and the Square Register (which includes a display, a stand, and a customer-facing display for card and contactless payments) for $799 plus transaction and processing fees. Square charges a 2.6% transaction fee plus 10 cents for in-person payments. Manually entered card payments cost a bit more (3.5% plus 15 cents), as online and over the phone transactions demand a higher fee due to greater fraud risks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESoftware add-ons make it easy to personalize for your business\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMultiple hardware options (including a free reader)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EExtra costs to accept mobile payments\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditional fees for manually entered card payments\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Square\" data-superlative=\"Minimalist POS system with optional software add-ons\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"squarepos3.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"95aaa819-ead5-4de0-b3ef-2faea9aaed34","title":"squarepos3","filename":"squarepos3.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F16\u002F95aaa819-ead5-4de0-b3ef-2faea9aaed34\u002Fsquarepos3.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1799750,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:03:59","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:04:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"squarepos3.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"95aaa819-ead5-4de0-b3ef-2faea9aaed34","imageAltText":"squarepos3.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"squarepos3.png","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F16","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Square","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fsquareup.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fhardware\u002Freader","url":""}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b419aadb-2aa4-4301-8b45-5680026ecb72\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EClover's POS system is known for being highly flexible and deeply integrated with its hardware. Clover has several built-in features for sales and business management, and also offers a range of free apps that extend the capabilities of the software. The system is sold as a standalone POS system, which gives merchants the freedom to choose a payment processor. Alternatively, you can purchase a Clover Account service plan to get access to the company's payment processing software on your phone, laptop, or other device.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClover's all-in-one POS system, Clover Station Solo, starts at $1,349 for the most comprehensive set of products. Clover Mini, another all-in-one POS system, sells for $749, and its Clover Flex card reader retails for $499. In terms of customer service, Clover offers free phone, email and web-based customer support to its existing merchants.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll-in-one bundles available\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E24\u002F7 phone support\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDoesn't offer a free hardware product like some competitors\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECan be expensive to get started\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Clover\" data-superlative=\"Seamlessly combines hardware and software for better business management\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cloverpos2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"a7eef547-c8fb-47fb-822f-89359cbf1f78","title":"cloverpos2","filename":"cloverpos2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F16\u002Fa7eef547-c8fb-47fb-822f-89359cbf1f78\u002Fcloverpos2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":816654,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:02:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:03:02","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"cloverpos2.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a7eef547-c8fb-47fb-822f-89359cbf1f78","imageAltText":"cloverpos2.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cloverpos2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F16","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Clover","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.clover.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.clover.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"06b8e10e-5509-4cef-9121-adaa50fb9928\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELightspeed offers specialized point-of-sale systems for restaurants, retail, and e-commerce operations. Its cloud-based software lets businesses manage inventory and marketing, monitor sales, manage employees, and process payments. The software also works with third-party platforms for additional marketing, customer loyalty, and employee management capabilities. Lightspeed's hardware is all iPad based, save for cash drawers, receipt printers and barcode scanners which are available bundled or a la carte through various hardware providers.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPricing depends on the package or bundle you choose, and for the most part, the company requires a customer quote for exact pricing. For software, its basic retail POS service (called Lightspeed Lean) starts at $69 per month and its Lightspeed Standard plan starts at $119 per month. A Lightspeed Advanced plan starts at $199 per month. In terms of support, the company has a 24\u002F7 support team and is reachable via phone, email and online chat.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn November 2020, Lightspeed \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Flightspeed-to-acquire-point-of-sale-rival-shopkeep-for-440-million\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eacquired\u003C\u002Fa\u003E rival POS provider \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lightspeedhq.com\u002Fshopkeep\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EShopKeep\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which offered an iPad-based point-of-sale system for retailers and restaurants. An earlier version of this list highlighted ShopKeep as one of the best POS providers for businesses. According to Lightspeed's website, the company is still supporting existing ShopKeep merchants and updating ShopKeep's software and hardware offerings.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECloud-based software runs on your existing hardware or Lightspeed products\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHighly effective for inventory management\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERequires a subscription fee\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHigher-tier plan needed for accounting software integration\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Lightspeed POS\" data-superlative=\"Robust POS system with impressive features for retail businesses\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"lightspeedpos2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"3cbe2f83-028b-4ef6-b6c5-bd8805b6f770","title":"lightspeedpos2","filename":"lightspeedpos2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F16\u002F3cbe2f83-028b-4ef6-b6c5-bd8805b6f770\u002Flightspeedpos2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":755506,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:06:02","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:06:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"lightspeedpos2.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"3cbe2f83-028b-4ef6-b6c5-bd8805b6f770","imageAltText":"lightspeedpos2.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"lightspeedpos2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F16","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Lightspeed POS","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lightspeedhq.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lightspeedhq.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"000c83b9-fd49-425b-875d-97c2079b3067\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EVend, also \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lightspeedhq.com\u002Fnews\u002Flightspeed-to-acquire-vend\u002F"\u003Eowned by Lightspeed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is a cloud-based point-of-sale system for retailers known for its ease of configuration and customization. Vend offers a range of reporting and analytics tools to help manage sales, customer data, inventory, and customer experience. Vend offers free customer support via phone, email, and live chat for all plan levels.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVend's POS software is designed to work on various devices including Macs, PCs, and iPads, and is compatible with a range of third-party hardware, including receipt printers, barcode scanners, and cash drawers. Vend does not run its own payment processing network and instead integrates with third-party systems including PayPal, Square, and CardConnect. In terms of cost, Vend offers a Lite plan for $99 per month (when billed annually), a Pro plan for $129 per month (when billed annually), and an Enterprise plan that requires a customer quote.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFlexible plan options\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EExcellent option for small retail businesses\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESoftware-only product means that you'll need to purchase third-party hardware for payment processing\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBasic plan doesn't include certain software integrations\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Vend POS\" data-superlative=\"Highly customizable POS system with several plan tiers\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"vendpos.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"a37b60f9-69e1-413f-9ebb-82dd2742a93a","title":"vendpos","filename":"vendpos.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F16\u002Fa37b60f9-69e1-413f-9ebb-82dd2742a93a\u002Fvendpos.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":368764,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:26:51","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:26:55","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"vendpos.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a37b60f9-69e1-413f-9ebb-82dd2742a93a","imageAltText":"vendpos.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"vendpos.png","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F16","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Vend POS","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.vendhq.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.vendhq.com\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cdff4a21-5fe7-4fc2-acfb-fd48d570c548\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EShopify is known as an e-commerce platform provider, but the company also offers point-of-sale software for its small business merchants with both online and brick-and-mortar operations. The POS product is tightly integrated with Shopify's website platform and offers a range of reporting and analytics features including an actionable dashboard of sales, orders, and traffic, along with retail sales and finance reports.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EShopify's POS software can run either on Android or iOS devices, but the company also sells its own branded hardware for merchants, including a tap and chip card reader. A standard retail hardware bundle sells for $159. On the software side, Shopify POS Lite comes included with all Shopify plans. Otherwise, you'll pay $29 per month for the Basic Shopify plan, which is designed for new ecommerce businesses with few in-person sales. There's also the more robust mid-level Shopify plan for $89 per month, as well as the Advanced Shopify plan that starts at $299 per month. Shopify also offers 24\u002F7 phone and email support for its merchant POS customers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAffordable plan options (especially for existing Shopify customers)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOffers an easy way to integrate physical and online sales\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot suitable for businesses with many physical locations\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBasic plan doesn't include reporting functionality\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Shopify\" data-superlative=\"Designed for businesses with online and physical storefronts\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"shopifypos.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"77e64eeb-c2c7-4ab1-9ada-67d9c2eb6323","title":"shopifypos","filename":"shopifypos.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F16\u002F77e64eeb-c2c7-4ab1-9ada-67d9c2eb6323\u002Fshopifypos.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":431376,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:56:32","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-16 16:56:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"shopifypos.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"77e64eeb-c2c7-4ab1-9ada-67d9c2eb6323","imageAltText":"shopifypos.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"shopifypos.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F16","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Shopify","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshopify.pxf.io\u002F5g9NG2","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshopify.pxf.io\u002F5g9NG2"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"de701bef-bcb5-4f9d-82a5-b0e94f517774\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EToast makes a point-of-sale and management system exclusively for the restaurant industry. Toast's technology platform combines restaurant POS, front-of-house, back-of-house and guest-facing technology with a bevy of third-party applications. The POS software also offers detailed analytics into things like net sales and labor costs, as well as support for loyalty programs, online ordering, and digital gift cards.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToast's proprietary, ruggedized Android-based hardware suite includes a 14-inch terminal, a three-in-one payment processing device, and a terminal hub and printer. In terms of pricing, Toast offers new customers a zero-cost entry bundle that includes a Toast Flex POS terminal, a Toast Tap payment device and router and POS software. The Essentials plan starts at $165 per month and the Growth plan starts at $272 per month. Fees for each plan are charged per terminal and can include additional costs for desired software and hardware add-ons.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToast manages the payment processing for its customers and promises a flat, transparent rate that varies by customer and card mix. Toast is also regarded for its approach to customer support, which is available 24\u002F7 via multiple channels. In addition, the company offers an implementation team that will configure and install Toast for customers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuilt for all types of culinary establishments, including restaurants, bars, and food trucks\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFree starter kit option\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPayment processing fees vary depending on your business\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGift cards, loyalty program, and marketing features only included in highest-tier package\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Toast\" data-superlative=\"Specialized POS and management system for bars and restaurants\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"toastpos.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"c24fb1f6-7914-41fc-a93d-f1a8d44b0a1e","title":"toastpos","filename":"toastpos.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F16\u002Fc24fb1f6-7914-41fc-a93d-f1a8d44b0a1e\u002Ftoastpos.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1217678,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-16 20:02:48","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-16 20:03:01","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"toastpos.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"c24fb1f6-7914-41fc-a93d-f1a8d44b0a1e","imageAltText":"toastpos.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"toastpos.png","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F16","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Toast","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fpos.toasttab.com","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fpos.toasttab.com"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2d01bff2-173a-469d-84f6-c4c8fd82574e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ESince its inception, GoDaddy has been the go-to for over 20 million customers for all things web hosting, domain registrar services, and more. And with its most recent \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgodaddy-launches-payment-processing-services-as-it-aims-to-compete-with-shopify\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eacquisition of Poynt for $320 million\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the company has positioned itself to compete with the likes of Shopify within the e-commerce and in-person payments space. The expanded service, GoDaddy Payments, allows for customers to seamlessly integrate POS, payments processing, invoicing, and more into their existing businesses. The hybrid of the online and offline services makes for an ideal choice if you manage a storefront that utilizes online ordering and in-store pickups. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor offline payments, GoDaddy's POS charges customers a transaction fee of 2.3% + 0 cents. For online payments, transactions are 2.3% + 30 cents, making it one of the most competitive and small business-friendly offerings out there. The service accepts all major forms of payments including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. GoDaddy also sells its proprietary POS terminals with the GoDaddy Smart Terminal for $249 and the GoDaddy Card Reader with Docking Station for $40, both of which offer sleek and modern designs with a slew of nifty features like chip and tap functionality, GoDaddy Mobile app integration, and long-lasting battery life.&nbsp; \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETransaction fees priced among the lowest on the market\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIdeal for existing GoDaddy customers with WordPress and WooCommerce sites \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHardware sold separately\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBenefits an existing GoDaddy customer more than a new one\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"GoDaddy Payments\" data-superlative=\"Seamless online and in-person integration that's priced to compete\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"godaddy-payments.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"5ee38c04-9b92-44a0-b406-7a070ab2c96d","title":"godaddy-payments","filename":"godaddy-payments.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F10\u002F18\u002F5ee38c04-9b92-44a0-b406-7a070ab2c96d\u002Fgodaddy-payments.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1806572,"width":2699,"height":1800,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-10-18 15:10:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-10-18 15:11:02","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"godaddy-payments.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5ee38c04-9b92-44a0-b406-7a070ab2c96d","imageAltText":"godaddy-payments.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"godaddy-payments.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F10\u002F18","imageWidth":2699,"imageHeight":1800,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.godaddy.com\u002Fsell","offerMerchant":"GoDaddy","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.godaddy.com\u002Fsell","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Flinks\u002F9041660\u002Ftype\u002Fdlg\u002Fsid\u002F[subid_value]\u002Fhttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.godaddy.com\u002Fsell"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"233c368b-d5fa-415f-8254-3557040df61d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWix is known as a website-development platform provider, but the company now offers a wider range of commerce services, including point-of-sale hardware and software bundles for business owners who want to accept in-person payments connected to their Wix online storefront. The POS services are integrated with Wix ecommerce accounts, providing fully-synced inventory, orders, fulfillment, CRM, analytics, data, and reports. Sales are automatically reflected across the Wix POS device, Wix Business Manager, and Wix Owner app.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Wix Retail POS hardware kits come with an HP terminal that is pre-installed with the Wix POS software, which Wix develops in-house and provides at no additional cost. Transactions are processed through Wix Payments via the Stripe Terminal card reader, with standard, fixed processing rates for in-person payments (2.6% per transaction + $0 USD).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWix sells its POS services in three different kits. The premium tier is equipped with HP hardware, including a terminal with customer display, cash drawer, barcode scanner, receipt printer and the Stripe Terminal card reader for $750. The Retail Essentials bundle includes a tablet with customer display, Wix POS software, compact card reader and its charging dock and costs $550. The Wix Mobile Card Reader sells for $49.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELower processing fees than other POS providers\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFantastic inventory, fulfillment, and analytics integration for Wix customers\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo free options available\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot as sleek as competitive products\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Wix\" data-superlative=\"Integrated POS and ecommerce management solutions\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"wixpos.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"7deb8e78-b1ac-4b59-ac9b-03edc580c811","title":"wixpos","filename":"wixpos.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2021\u002F06\u002F21\u002F7deb8e78-b1ac-4b59-ac9b-03edc580c811\u002Fwixpos.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":86609,"width":1920,"height":1080,"dateCreated":{"date":"2021-06-21 14:06:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2021-06-21 14:06:11","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"wixpos.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"7deb8e78-b1ac-4b59-ac9b-03edc580c811","imageAltText":"wixpos.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"wixpos.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2021\u002F06\u002F21","imageWidth":1920,"imageHeight":1080,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Wix","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.wix.com\u002Fpos","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.wix.com\u002Fpos"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9e41f2a2-05fa-414f-87d1-c107d90cb9a0\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ENCR Silver is an iPad-based point-of-sale system that touts ease of use, setup, and customization. The system offers robust reporting functionality, along with tools for customer loyalty, email marketing, employee management, and inventory management. Additional services such as accounting and bookkeeping are available via partners such as Intuit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to NCR Silver, there are two NCR Silver Pro POS system bundles, which are designed specifically for restaurants: the Table Service Hardware Bundle and the Fast Casual &amp; Quick Service Hardware Bundle. You'll need to get in touch with an NCR sales representative to get specific pricing for your business.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company does not provide credit processing and therefore works with a range of third-party companies, which will add additional fees. In terms of support, NCR offers 24\u002F7 customer support via phone, email, chat, or text.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESubscription costs include hardware\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECloud-based software offers easy insight into sales, inventory, and more\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDoesn't support all third-payment processing providers\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImplementation not included in Silver Pro upfront costs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"NCR Silver POS\" data-superlative=\"Basic POS system from a global financial software leader\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ncrsilver-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"0c18d570-4232-4e2e-80b1-fbd24e836fbd","title":"ncrsilver-1","filename":"ncrsilver-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F17\u002F0c18d570-4232-4e2e-80b1-fbd24e836fbd\u002Fncrsilver-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":458407,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-17 18:22:16","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-17 18:22:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"ncrsilver-1.jpg","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"0c18d570-4232-4e2e-80b1-fbd24e836fbd","imageAltText":"ncrsilver-1.jpg","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ncrsilver-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F17","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"NCR","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ncr.com\u002Fsilver","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ncr.com\u002Fsilver"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"12acc1df-35b9-460e-a3b9-1c56aeb3a5a8\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EQuickBooks' point-of-sale system integrates tightly with the company's small business accounting platform, making it an attractive option for existing QuickBooks customers. In addition to ringing sales and accepting payments, the QuickBooks POS also offers robust support for managing customers and inventory. With real-time inventory management, users can see what products are selling best, profits made from each sale, and when it's time to reorder merchandise.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EQuickBooks sells its POS software for a one-time, upfront cost. The Basic plan -- which lets users sync with QuickBooks accounting software, accept payments, track inventory, create reports, and ring sales -- starts at $960 and that does not include hardware. Additional plans with more functionality include the Pro plan, which costs $1,360 plus hardware, and the Multi-Store plan, which starts at $1,520. In terms of customer support, QuickBooks provides a variety of online resources but its phone support is limited to business hours Monday through Saturday.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPros\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne-time, upfront cost might appeal to some business owners\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStrong integration gives you comprehensive insight into your business finances\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECons\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnly a good option if you're an existing QuickBooks customer\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHardware sold separately\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Intuit QuickBooks POS\" data-superlative=\"Integrated POS and accounting solutions for small business\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"quickbookspos2.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"b764c3b6-3967-4473-8692-1933f31ed54b","title":"quickbookspos2","filename":"quickbookspos2.png","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fimage-resizer.prod.zdnet.com\u002Fi\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F19\u002Fb764c3b6-3967-4473-8692-1933f31ed54b\u002Fquickbookspos2.png","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1883681,"width":1600,"height":1068,"dateCreated":{"date":"2020-03-19 17:23:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2020-03-19 17:24:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fpng","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"quickbookspos2.png","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"b764c3b6-3967-4473-8692-1933f31ed54b","imageAltText":"quickbookspos2.png","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"quickbookspos2.png","imageDateCreated":"2020\u002F03\u002F19","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":1068,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Intuit QuickBooks","offerPrice":"","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fquickbooks.intuit.com\u002Fdesktop\u002Fpoint-of-sale\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fquickbooks.intuit.com\u002Fdesktop\u002Fpoint-of-sale\u002F"}]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E How did we choose these products? \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe POS vendors included in this list were chosen based on an analysis of popular reviews combined with years of experience reporting on and writing about the payments space and its key players.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Which one is right for you? \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are a number of important factors to consider when comparing point-of-sale providers. For most business owners, it's helpful to narrow things down to the essentials: Cost, hardware and software options, payment method coverage, payment processing options, hardware and software interoperability, and customer support.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E FAQ \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e9bbbd74-a853-4396-aa17-b6e6cd4081f6\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAt a minimum, your POS system should be able to process debit and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-credit-card-reader\u002F"\u003Ecredit card transactions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Ideally, it should also allow you to run sales reports and understand how your business is performing.\u003Cspan class="scribe-editor-marker" style="display: none;"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut on top of that, you'll also want a system that has extra features that are specific to your industry. For example, if you own a clothing store, you'll likely want a POS that allows you to manage your inventory. Or, if you run a restaurant, you might look for a POS that lets you see how many tables you have open. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What do you need in a POS system?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6855e973-9621-4522-9ab3-31f3c7db705a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\" It depends on which provider you choose. With companies like Square, you'll only pay for hardware (and payment processing fees). In comparison, providers like Toast charge a monthly or annual subscription fee for their software.\" data-hed=\"Will I need to pay a subscription fee for my POS system?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5abb9a37-12bf-476e-9f63-35c1bedee9c2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAt a minimum, your POS system should be able to process debit and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-credit-card-reader\u002F"\u003Ecredit card transactions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Ideally, it should also allow you to run sales reports and understand how your business is performing. But on top of that, you'll also want a system that has extra features that are specific to your industry. For example, if you own a clothing store, you'll likely want a POS that allows you to manage your inventory. Or, if you run a restaurant, you might look for a POS that lets you see how many tables you have open.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What do I need in a POS system?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a19dbc62-0735-481b-a64a-4dcaa0e77a9a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"It depends on which provider you choose. With companies like Square, you'll only pay for hardware (and payment processing fees). In comparison, providers like Toast charge a monthly or annual subscription fee for their software.\u003Cbr\u003E\" data-hed=\"Will I need to pay a subscription fee for my POS system? \" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"75d18030-4327-4d5f-96df-c7fb18fe72c1\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"If you have a physical retail store or hospitality venue, you should have a POS system to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-accept-credit-card-payments-as-a-small-business\u002F"\u003Eaccept card payments\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, understand your cash flow, and analyze sales performance. But POS systems also allow you to do much more than basic payment processing, helping you market your business, reward loyal customers, and streamline your accounting.\u003Cbr\u003E\" data-hed=\"Do I need a POS system for my business?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2050da47-64d3-415a-a10c-feddc04c6ce0\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn the list above, we've focused on robust POS systems from recognizable industry brands. But if you want something simpler or less well-known, you might consider one of these options:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.helcim.com\u002F"\u003EHelcim\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: $199 card reader, with no monthly fees and transparent credit card processing fees based on your business\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.touchbistro.com\u002F"\u003ETouchBistro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: iPad required, with monthly fees starting at $69 and transparent credit card processing fees based on your business\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternatives worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \t\u003Cbr\u003E \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \t\u003Cbr\u003E \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2021-10-18 15:42:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Here's a look at 10 point-of-sale systems to consider for your business.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"178400c3-18fe-43f8-a66d-ec1195b909cd",image:{id:"bc89ffa7-bdfe-41e3-8ff1-adb3a9e28676",filename:"istock-1141493516.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2020-03-23 17:34:59",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"friendly waitress swiping bank card on pos terminal in restaurant",credits:"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto",caption:"\u003Cp\u003Efriendly waitress swiping bank card on pos terminal in restaurant during the day\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F23\u002Fbc89ffa7-bdfe-41e3-8ff1-adb3a9e28676\u002Fistock-1141493516.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2120,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Business^E-Commerce",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best POS systems: Get the right one for your business",section:c,slug:"best-point-of-sale-system",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Best POS system 2022: Which is right for you?",topic:{id:"103a5e4f-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"e-commerce",name:"E-Commerce",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"103a5e4f-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"e-commerce",name:"E-Commerce",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"79d67b90-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"charlieosborne",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Charlie",lastName:"Osborne",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0",filename:"charlie-osborne.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:00:38",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0\u002Fcharlie-osborne.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Charlie Osborne is a cybersecurity journalist and photographer who writes for ZDNET and CNET from London. PGP Key: AF40821B",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EYou may worry about your online security but dread adding another subscription to your monthly budget with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-why-do-you-need-one-all-your-virtual-private-network-questions-answered\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Evirtual private network (VPN)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESure, there are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efree VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but they often come with speed and bandwidth limitations. In other cases, free VPN services might be unrestricted, but asking how these VPN vendors make enough money to run their server networks -- such as through user data mining -- leads you to murky, vague answers and a question mark over how secure and private these services are. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want the best protection, consider choosing an option from our tested list of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Or, if you want to keep things as affordable as possible, there are cheap VPN providers that can do the job for as little as a few bucks per month and without requiring you to agree to shady data-sharing policies. These vendors already provide affordable services but occasionally offer genuine deals to compete in the saturated VPN market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-new-vpn-and-why-free-isnt-always-best\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E3 things to consider when buying a new VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best cheap VPN right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the best cheap VPN overall is \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ca6d7643-4dc0-4382-8645-aaae318697d7\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surfshark\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, a stable and low-cost VPN with plans for only $1.99\u002Fmonth. Surfshark is one of our favorite VPNs thanks to its affordable price point, reasonable speeds, and ease of use. It's even better when the occasional promotional deal rolls around, typically during the holidays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt ZDNET, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewe've spent years testing nearly every VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on the market, evaluating them for speed, security, and performance. We conduct frequent tests for DNS leaks and speed and monitor any recent security or performance concerns that emerge. Read on for the rest of our picks for the best cheap VPNs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best cheap VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cd2078cd-18da-4186-92c1-90dc82959613\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn our&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurfshark review\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;and tests, we found this VPN performs well as a top-quality VPN that doesn't break the bank.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark offers unlimited connections, a strong server network, WireGuard compatibility, and solid performance. Our testing confirmed that Surfshark VPN connections are stable, although speed loss is often only in the mid-range of what other providers offer. Despite this, Surfshark has earned a strong user base over the years and is known as a trustworthy VPN with consistently low pricing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpns-for-school\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPNs for school in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cheapest option, a two-year subscription called Surfshark Starter, costs $1.99 per month. Four months of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efree VPN access\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are included. This deal is worth considering, as typically, even at a "deal" rate, you will pay at least $2 per month. Alternatively, you can sign up for a yearly subscription at $2.99\u002Fmonth or pay $15.45 for one month of access.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers say they appreciate Surfshark's consistently cheap pricing and quick, efficient customer service.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurfshark features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;| Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | \u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 100 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | \u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surfshark VPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surfshark VPN Web","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","title":"surfshark-windows-1","filename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F20\u002F792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800\u002Fsurfshark-windows-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1093404,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"surfshark-windows-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","imageAltText":"Surfshark VPN Web","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786","offerMerchant":"Surfshark","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Unlimited connections ~ Reliable network ~ Efficient customer service ~Attractive user interface\" data-dislike=\"~ Can be slower than some competitors\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"820ef425-d1ce-4d09-8081-8a45c8b756cb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is another top choice if you are looking for a cheap or free VPN plan. This Swiss VPN offers a comprehensive free option with support for up to 10 devices -- but you are limited to 10GB of monthly traffic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe user interface is clean and easy to use, and there is a handy button for enabling the kill switch, which protects your traffic if your internet connection drops without warning. However, PrivadoVPN lacks some of the advanced features offered by VPN competitors. There also appears to be little evidence of third-party auditing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrices begin at $1.11 per month for two years of access (with three months free) and $1.33 per month for an annual plan (including three months free), rising to $10.99 if you want to try out the software for a single month. Customers say they like it as a set-and-forget VPN, although some have reported technical issues.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile this option is cheaper than Surfshark, as the server network is far more limited, PrivadoVPN didn't manage to secure the top spot.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivadoVPN features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited, ten on a free plan | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 48 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Android TV, Fire TV&nbsp;| 30-day money-back guarantee |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Free plan (credit card not required)&nbsp; &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PrivadoVPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN runner-up\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"privado vpn","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","title":"privado vpn","filename":"privado.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F20\u002F79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e\u002Fprivado.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":124919,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Privado | ZDNET","alt":"privado vpn","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","imageAltText":"privado vpn","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"privado.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F09\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F","offerMerchant":"PrivadoVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fprivadovpn.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Affordable ~Easy to understand user interface ~Ad blocking\" data-dislike=\"~Little evidence of third-party audits ~ Low country and server numbers\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6e03e37b-7d2b-41de-b670-19149de99937\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is the VPN for you if you want a set-and-forget VPN that will last for years -- and at a very cheap price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is now known as Ivacy Powered by PureVPN after PureVPN purchased controlling stakes in the service. The VPN has servers in 65 countries, a zero-logs policy, split tunneling, and utilizes the WireGuard protocol. It does, however, limit you to 10 simultaneous device connections.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mobile-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best mobile VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is compatible with many devices and operating systems, including Windows, \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mac-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EmacOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Android, iOS, Linux, and Kodi, as well as Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Some user reviews indicate that this VPN is a great option for torrenting, but during testing, we found that speeds were slow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA two-year subscription costs $2.15 per month (three months free), or $15.95 for one month of access. However, the best deal is for a five-year contract, coming in at only $1.69\u002Fmonth. Customers applaud the firm's support team, although some users would like to see improvements to Ivacy's apps.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIvacy VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E10 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, routers, browser extensions |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;65+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: $0.99 for 7 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Ivacy\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for the long term\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","title":"Ivacy VPN","filename":"ivacy.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef\u002Fivacy.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":136497,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"Ivacy VPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ivacy.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Ivacy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ivacy.com\u002Fbuy-vpn\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Available on all major platforms ~ Reasonable server network for the price ~ Very cheap long-term plans\" data-dislike=\"~ Only 10 simultaneous device connections ~ Users report app issues\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c74e6fe8-f09e-4c87-98ad-0c8085acb4e2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable, open-source VPN that is perfect for beginners because it's user-friendly. While the company's six-month plans are expensive, two-year subscriptions are very affordable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fprivate-internet-access-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivate Internet Ac\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ecess: A cheap, powerful, open-source VPN\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe VPN is open-source, so third parties can examine its code, which gives credibility to the company as a secure offering. If you want a VPN provider that takes this approach, PIA might be the best option for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZDNET has consistently found PIA to be a solid VPN; customers say the same. PIA's VPN offers server connections in 91 countries, multi-hopping, split tunneling, ad and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Emalware blocking\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and encryption capabilities. PIA takes security seriously with its \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-no-log-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eno-logs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E policy.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-malware-removal-software\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest software removal software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the best price for this VPN is $2.19 per month, with two months of free access added to a two-year contract. Alternatively, a six-month subscription is equivalent to $7.50 per month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EP\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Erivate Internet Access features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes | \u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, NAS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;91 | \u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E30 days | \u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days, Android and iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Private Internet Access\" data-superlative=\"Best open source cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Private Internet Access VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","title":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","filename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002Fa5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e\u002Fprivate-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1592638,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:03","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","imageAltText":"Private Internet Access VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","slug":"private-internet-access","label":"Private Internet Access","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","name":"Private Internet Access","slug":"private-internet-access","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446046870,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:14:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"PIA","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.privateinternetaccess.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Open source transparency ~ Dedicated IP availability ~ Affordable\" data-dislike=\"~ US-based ~ Limited plan options\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"497723b5-9c4b-4552-b57e-092c2ca52ca7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is an affordable VPN that offers high levels of encryption, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, customizable security options, and a vast network of over 100+ countries. Unfortunately, simultaneous connections are limited to seven devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers find this VPN very easy to use, fast, and stable. We've found this VPN provides reasonable speeds and is a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-streaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egood option for streaming\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-torrenting-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etorrenting\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the company is offering a deal on two-year subscriptions: $2.19 per month with two months free. There's also an interesting option you don't often find with VPN providers -- a six-month plan for $6.99 per month. A one-month contract is $12.99.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for long contracts, which is more than most VPN providers. So, you can sign up for a plan, enjoy it, and you have weeks to decide if you want to commit to the contract.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECyberGhost VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E7 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, NAS routers |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;100+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Payment information only |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 45 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 24 days on macOS and Windows; three days on Android, seven days on iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"CyberGhost\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for money-back guarantee\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cyberghost screenshot","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","title":"Cyberghost VPN Web","filename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1502592,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cyberghost VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","imageAltText":"cyberghost screenshot","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","label":"CyberGhost VPN","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","name":"CyberGhost VPN","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446194960,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:16:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"CyberGhost","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com\u002Fen_US\u002Fbuy","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Expansive server network ~ Fast ~ The best MBG available ~ Good option for streaming\" data-dislike=\"~ Limited simultaneous connections ~ Expensive monthly contract\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b44d34bc-fead-456e-a9e3-17a7df81b564\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest cheap VPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest price\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFree months?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo-log policy?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.99\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFour months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.11\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThree months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited, 10 on a free plan\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.69\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENone\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E7\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Cheap VPNs, compared\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"16208092-bb84-45d9-9f41-c46bc8ec9d93\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN depends on various factors besides price. If you choose a low-cost service but can't unblock the streaming services you want to use, then what did you really save? Start by asking yourself why you need a VPN. Then, test out a reputable provider with high-security standards.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to learn more about how VPNs work and how to choose the best one for you, check out our guide: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-how-does-it-work\u002F"\u003EWhat is a VPN, and why do we need one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChoose this cheap VPN...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN overall. Surfshark provides reasonable speeds and plenty of features wrapped up in an affordable package. Surfshark's VPN has long stood out as a top VPN provider that offers reliable, stable connections and security and is consistently priced to be budget-friendly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is one of the cheapest options and also provides a free plan. You could try out this VPN's free solution, as long as you don't mind the 10GB monthly traffic limit. It's a good option for beginners who want to explore how VPNs work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn affordable, long-term option. Although it's a relatively new VPN service provider, Ivacy provides reasonable speeds and is often able to unblock major streaming services.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access is a cheap, powerful VPN powered by open-source technologies, and well worth it if you want an affordable subscription service with a high security standard.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is another top choice for a fast connection in an extensive server network at a reasonable price. This VPN has a long money-back guarantee and is our top pick&nbsp;if you want longer to decide.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the best cheap VPN for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9ee34014-6e49-4ae9-a563-0ace75fbcb97\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you are deciding what VPN to sign up for, there are several factors you should consider:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlan length\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Before signing up for a new VPN service, consider which subscription length is right for you. Month-by-month plans are considerably more expensive than longer plans, of which you can choose six-month to five-year plans. We find that the longest terms are almost always the cheapest.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: The cost of your VPN subscription should naturally factor into your decision. Choose one that is affordable for you, especially if you are signing up for a year or more.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Some VPN providers, such as those based in the US, may add taxes to the cost of a contract.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUpfront cost\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Most VPNs market their wares at an equivalent monthly price, but they may require a higher upfront cost. You'll still secure a great monthly cost, but you might have to pay for the full plan in one go.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFeatures\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many cheap VPNs don't offer advanced features on their basic or longest plans. You may need to pay more for a specific feature, such as a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Epassword manager\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUse cases\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: If you want a VPN for a specific purpose beyond day-to-day browsing -- such as \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-travel-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etraveling\u003C\u002Fa\u003E -- check whether the VPN is suitable. You may need to opt for a particular VPN if you want to use it in different countries, for example, or you may want to choose a VPN known for great streaming support.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERenewal terms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Automatic renewal and billing might sting you in the future, especially if the VPN's pricing has changed. You might want to turn off auto-renewal and shop around for a new deal instead.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-managers-for-business\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers for business\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Factors to consider when choosing a cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"61247c01-7215-4cf8-b002-15a9a8d5ad88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe tested and analyzed the best cheap VPNs using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We tested most of the VPNs on this list to ensure robust performance in terms of connection and speed. After all, there's no point in using a VPN if your connection continually drops or lags.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smart-tv-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esmart TV you want to connect to a VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESecurity\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cared about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeo-blocks and streaming\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well considering these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps suitable for various hardware. &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries and servers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial length and price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupport\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EVPN testing methodology page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test VPNs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","title":"nordvpn-windows-2","filename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F07\u002F2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659\u002Fnordvpn-windows-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":260894,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:21:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:22:01","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"nordvpn-windows-2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F07","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6008aa9d-c74d-4261-8fcb-de56fe016f48\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFree months, added as an incentive for users to sign up for a VPN service, are typically added to the length of your contract. For example, if you sign up for a two-year contract with three months free, you pay for 24 months of access and then enjoy an additional three months free.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn-trial\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPN trials of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How do free months on a VPN contract work?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9a079617-8387-477b-b8c6-82024836dfe5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you want your data to be secure, then yes. VPNs offer protection no matter what kind of device you use to transmit and receive data. Before you commit to a VPN service, it's a good idea to test it out and see how well it works with all your devices. The \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-android-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for Android\u003C\u002Fa\u003E may not be the same as the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for iOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and vice versa.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Should I use a VPN on my phone or tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e5ab44a0-02f1-48a8-9676-7252946f88d9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA VPN may help you get cheaper flights by connecting you with foreign servers and hiding your IP address. That said, airline prices shift based on various factors, and the impact of changing your location could be negligible or, at the very least, hard to confirm.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's worth trying to use a VPN to save money on flights. We've managed to score slightly cheaper long-haul flights by appearing to come from the destination country, for example, but the discounts haven't been huge.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can using a VPN get you cheaper flights?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"382c19fb-c84f-40d4-b1d6-e5700c540f0e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELet's be clear: Yes. A VPN will slow your connection because your data is encrypted, decrypted, and sent through intermediate servers. Your online gaming experience might suffer. If you're a first-person shooter player, you might have enough lag to miss shots. That said, both computers and VPNs have gotten much faster. Years ago, VPNs caused everything to slow down far more than today's services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENowadays, the negative impact is almost unnoticeable, especially with the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efastest VPN services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Most (but not all) VPN providers also limit the number of devices you can connect to simultaneously, so you may have to pick and choose which home devices to connect to.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a better gaming experience, check out our extensive research on the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest gaming VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does a VPN slow down my connection?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"02282252-d97a-4ba2-a169-641987626a31\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn this article, we've focused on paid services, although some offer a free tier. We don't usually recommend free VPN services because we don't consider them secure, with a few exceptions, such as ProtonVPN and Windscribe.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERunning a good VPN service requires hundreds of servers worldwide and many networking resources -- it's expensive. If you're not paying to support that infrastructure, who is? Probably advertisers or data miners. What's the point of a VPN if it doesn't keep your data secure?&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat said, no tool can guarantee your privacy. First, anything can be hacked. Second, a VPN protects your data when it transits from your computer to the VPN service, but it doesn't protect what you put on servers or whatever cloud-based application you're using. It doesn't typically offer password security or multi-factor authentication unless you pay for these add-ons. Privacy and security require you to be diligent about your digital presence, and VPNs, while helpful, are not a miracle cure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the best free VPN service?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89d1fd4e-f14e-48c4-ba2e-d8daecbe6ab9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile we have found the best affordable VPNs on the market, some VPNs can be expensive. They may still only cost the equivalent of your monthly subscription to Netflix, but VPNs that cost upwards of $10 per month for long-term contracts are unusual.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsually, these VPNs provide something others do not, and if they are known to provide a fast, secure, and trustworthy service, they can bump up the price. An example is Astrill VPN, which starts at $12.50\u002Fmonth. Why? It is one of the best options for Chinese nationals to circumvent the country's censorship and web restrictions.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why are some VPNs so expensive?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"99789d42-5d87-4971-b911-8e508997b288\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou can, but paying for one month will be expensive. To deter customers from doing so, many VPN providers charge over $10 for four weeks of access. A better option could be to sign up for a one- or two-year contract, take advantage of a money-back guarantee -- which is usually 30 days -- and cancel before the month is up.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can I pay for a VPN for one month?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f867a329-6e4f-4bae-81f2-df513a964562\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf what we highlighted here doesn't suit your needs, you can try out other services that may meet your requirements. Below, you can check out other VPNs that are worth your consideration.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative VPNs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"293c5d7c-2d02-462f-a794-3b6effe82ec5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile not cheap at $4.99\u002Fmonth, this current promotional price is the lowest we've seen ExpressVPN. Consider this deal if you want a premium, fast VPN for less.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"ExpressVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","title":"expressvpn-windows-3","filename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F22\u002F4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c\u002Fexpressvpn-windows-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":190112,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","imageAltText":"expressvpn-windows-3","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F22","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best premium VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"ExpressVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.expressvpn.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"741c72e9-0d3b-4903-bf30-579089f7983c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPureVPN is affordable at only $1.16 per month for five years and has a user interface suitable for beginners.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PureVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"surfshark","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","title":"PureVPN","filename":"purevpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F04\u002Ff98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461\u002Fpurevpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":85970,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:18","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"PureVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","imageAltText":"surfshark","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"purevpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F05\u002F04","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best long-term VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder","offerMerchant":"PureVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.purevpn.com\u002Forder","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ba22d8d0-5f58-4178-b10e-d3b56ef99c7e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWindscribe is another free VPN alternative. Custom plans starting from as little as $1\u002Fmonth are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windscribe\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"windscribe","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","title":"windscribe","filename":"windscribe.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F05\u002F4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151\u002Fwindscribe.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":150115,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"windscribe","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","imageAltText":"windscribe","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"windscribe.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F05","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free but VPN alternative with custom plan options\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Windscribe","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwindscribe.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a224b693-f277-45d8-a5b3-d8821eb3afeb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EProton VPN is a free VPN option with high-security levels, albeit some restrictions. Paid plans are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Proton VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ProtonVPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","title":"ProtonVPN","filename":"protonvpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b\u002Fprotonvpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":134307,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:17:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:18:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"ProtonVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","imageAltText":"ProtonVPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"protonvpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Proton VPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-12-10 15:56:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"VPN deals aren't always what they seem. We tested the best cheap VPNs that are consistently affordable while still providing speed and safety.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"9bdd9ab9-ab3d-4ea0-afca-86a646283223",image:{id:"3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64",filename:"surfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-11-07 20:11:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"VPN graphic hovering over laptop",credits:"NicoElNino\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security^VPN",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best cheap VPNs: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-cheap-vpn",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best cheap VPNs of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"fffab326-d9a6-4491-aadb-e18e8e906d5f",username:"cecadenas",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Cesar",lastName:"Cadenas",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4",filename:"1608345669637.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-07-21 15:02:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F21\u002F73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4\u002F1608345669637.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Cesar Cadenas has been writing about the tech industry for several years now specializing in consumer electronics, entertainment devices, Windows, and generative AIs. But he's also passionate about smartphones, GPUs, and cybersecurity.",profile:b,title:"Staff Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EThe past year has been huge for laptops. With so many new models, identifying the best laptop for you can be overwhelming. Our experts have tested some of the best laptops of the year, like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lenovo-laptop\u002F\"\u003Ethe latest Lenovo\u003C\u002Fa\u003E ThinkPad, Dell's XPS lineup, and the creative powerhouse Asus ProArt P16. We reviewed spec sheets to evaluate random access memory (RAM) and storage, build quality, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lightweight-laptops\u002F\"\u003Eportability\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and value, in addition to testing some of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-under-1000\u002F\"\u003Ebest affordable laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing industry-standard benchmarking programs, we test all laptops to measure performance, battery life, and display quality. After going hands-on with dozens of models, we found the best laptop to be the MacBook Pro M4 for its fantastic battery life, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F\"\u003Efast performance\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and sleek, portable form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best laptop right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the overall best laptop is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"681a63f7-5b6d-4438-be3d-caee9b6aa794\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-macbook-pro-14-inch-apple-m4-chip-built-for-apple-intelligence-16gb-memory-512gb-ssd-space-black\u002F6602741.p?skuId=6602741\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-macbook-pro-14-laptop-m3-max-chip-36gb-memory-30-core-gpu-1tb-ssd-latest-model-space-black%2F6534620.p%3FskuId%3D6534620&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"M4 MacBook Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. It possesses nearly everything you could ever want in a laptop: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-battery-life-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea long-lasting battery\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, generation-defining artificial intelligence features, top-tier performance, and a vibrant display. This laptop checks off all the boxes and looks as good as it performs. As great as it may be, the M4 MacBook Pro isn't for everyone, and there are other options worth highlighting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-clear-the-cache-on-your-windows-11-pc-and-why-you-shouldnt-wait-to-do-it\u002F\"\u003EHow to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why you shouldn't wait to do it)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f6c32bf9-e56b-41c2-9d77-a8af2e522882\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETaking the top spot as the best laptop of 2025 is Apple's M4 MacBook Pro. This may surprise some people, as we're sure a few were expecting the M4 Pro or M4 Max version, but there is a good reason why we went with the base model. It perfectly balances the lines between power and affordability.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe M4 is the latest chipset in Apple's silicon line. It comprises a 10-core central processing unit (CPU) and a 10-core graphics processing unit (GPU). Supporting the hardware are 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Kerry Wan, the Senior Reviews Editor at ZDNET, said the base configuration can arguably meet the needs "for 90% of users" and says "most people will be delighted by the... overall computing experience". Whether for photo editing, video work, or light gaming, the M4 handles everything smoothly, even outperforming the old M1 Pro chip.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtificial intelligence also plays a big role in the M4 ecosystem. It enables the new ChatGPT-powered Siri, allowing the AI assistant to "answer... sophisticated queries instead" relying on Google Search. Writing Tools is another notable feature that can craft messages across various tones. Image Playground creates AI-generated artwork, which can be useful for professionals who need an image for work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI also want to shout out the nano-texture display, which is capable of staying "clear and pristine" even "after a week of intensive use". If money is not an issue, you can purchase the MacBook Pro housing the M4 Pro or M4 Max chipset. These two provide an even better user experience, although be prepared to pay much more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-linux-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Linux laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMacBook Pro M4 specs: Display size:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E14-inch&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Liquid Retina XDR |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;3024 x 1964 pixels |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 24GB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 1TB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10-core M4&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to a purported 24 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Pro (M4)\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"A close-up shot of the 16-inch MacBook Pro's keyboard.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272","title":"M4 MacBook Pro","filename":"dsc02534-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F06\u002F5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272\u002Fdsc02534-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":530566,"width":2048,"height":1152,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:43:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:44:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"M4 MacBook 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It succeeds on multiple fronts. This machine has a stunning 4K resolution display surrounded by thin bezels. Being surrounded by a thin frame makes the screen appear significantly more prominent than it is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's more, it's supported by several image-enhancing features like Dolby Vision which delivers "vibrant shades of color" as well as a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. The latter ensures images output high amounts of detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdell-xps-16-2024-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EDell XPS 16 (2024)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder the hood, the XPS 16 houses an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 40-series graphics card. My review unit came with an RTX 4070 GPU. Combine these specs with its 32GB of RAM, and you're looking at a laptop that can easily handle all demanding workloads, from gaming to video editing. It's nothing if not a powerhouse.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe XPS 16 also has a stylish design. The zero lattice keyboard and the function key touch panel give it a distinct look seen nowhere else. On the sides of the keys are the device's room-filling speakers.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-dell-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Dell laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe want to warn you that the XPS 16 is rather heavy and doesn't have a wide array of ports, so you may need a docking station. Be sure to check out ZDNET's list of the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest laptop docking stations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for recommendations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDell XPS 16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16.3 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;4K |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core Ultra 7 155H&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 64GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 4TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell XPS 16\" data-superlative=\"Best Windows laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Dell XPS 17 open on grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6","title":"dell xps 14 - 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This is mainly due to its top-tier hardware: an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, and a solid 32GB of RAM. AMD's Ryzen CPU, as its name reveals, utilizes artificial intelligence to boost performance, while freeing up processing power to allow the Stealth A16 to earn high marks on performance tests.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-desktop-with-this-msi-laptop-for-a-week-and-it-surpassed-my-expectations\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdmittedly, many laptops, including some work machines, have similar hardware, so MSI's machine isn't unique in that regard. What makes it special is that all its components are paired up with a 16-inch QuadHD (2,560 x 1,600 pixels) display running at 240Hz. A high refresh rate ensures smooth on-screen animation: action sequences from video games run smoothly and the whole experience feels more responsive than laptops with slower displays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, the laptop sports unique optimization features. MSIHybrid, for example, is a mode that balances performance and battery efficiency. Its SteelSeries keyboard is another standout feature, offering comfortable typing. If longevity is a concern, the Stealth A 16 comes with Integrated Graphics mode to extend the battery life, pushing the battery to over 11 hours on a single charge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus specs: Display size: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E16 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EQHD | \u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 2560 x 1600 | \u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 9-365&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 1TB SSD | \u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 10.5 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best gaming laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","title":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","filename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F20\u002Fbc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":284938,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"MSI\u002FZDNET","alt":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","imageAltText":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black\u002F6590023.p?skuId=6590023","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Powerful hardware ~ High resolution display ~ Lots of optimization features\" data-dislike=\"~ Expensive ~ Heavy and bulky\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"20487468-34cd-4e6e-b785-65c593bf7616\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15 stands tall as the best budget laptop. For less than $300, you get a portable notebook built to cover the basics. What it lacks in fancy aesthetics or premium features, this device makes up for it by being a solid secondary computer for students or professionals.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPowered by an Intel Core i3-N305 and 8GB of RAM, the device can handle lightweight productivity tasks reasonably well. Its 15-inch 1080p display provides decent viewing angles and sufficient contrast with a modest level of brightness.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company opted for a utilitarian design when creating the Aspire Go 15, featuring a full-sized keyboard alongside a well-placed trackpad. Battery life is another standout feature, lasting over 10 hours straight during our video playback tests. That number does drop down to about eight hours of typical use. What's more, the laptop can be versatile thanks to a humble selection of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-299-windows-laptop-is-my-new-go-to-recommendation-for-budget-shoppers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmazon sells multiple configurations of the Aspire Go 15. If you want a version with more power behind it, the retailer has the 2024 Performance model. It comes with an Intel Core i5-13420H and a touchscreen. There's also the 2023 Browse version if you want to save more money.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;LCD&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1080p&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core i3-N305&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;125GB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 11 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Aspire Go 15\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop under $500\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","title":"acer-aspire-go-15-1","filename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F26\u002F9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572\u002Facer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4885018,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:52","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Acer Aspire Go 15","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","imageAltText":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F04\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Lots of bang for your buck ~Good enough for everyday use ~Full keyboard\" data-dislike=\"~A little bulky ~Limited by its lower-end RAM\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1810c764-9453-4eb8-a30f-80eb2db71b60\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen Asus&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fasus-2025-laptop-lineup-features-a-sleek-understated-design-ethos-and-oleds-all-around\u002F"\u003Eofficially announced\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcc.zdnet.com\u002Fv1\u002Fotc\u002F00hQi47eqnEWQ6T9d4QLBUc?element=BODY&amp;element_label=Zenbook+A14&amp;group_uuid=d3064884-4eb7-4462-888e-c2779fd66d6a&amp;module=LINK&amp;object_type=commerce-link&amp;object_uuid=4ee6e6c1-4c54-4a82-bafb-17b3d5f497bc&amp;position=1&amp;template=article&amp;track_code=__COM_CLICK_ID__&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.awin1.com%2Fawclick.php%3Fmid%3D31828%26id%3D423585%26clickref%3Dzd-__COM_CLICK_ID__-dtp%26ued%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fshop.asus.com%252Fus%252F90nb1502-m00fm0-zenbook-a14-ux3407-copilot-pc.html&amp;view_instance_uuid=2679b2a2-44cb-4e02-b60a-e48548e75d2d" target="_blank"\u003EZenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;at CES this year, I wasn't the only one to be&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptops-of-ces-2025\u002F"\u003Elow-key enamored\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;with it. It's a&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop\u002F"\u003Egreat laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;in its own right, but it stands out with its successful balancing act between performance and affordability while hitting all the right notes that consumers care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMade of Asus' proprietary ceraluminum material, the Zenbook A14 is exceedingly light, weighing just 2.1 pounds. For reference, the 13-inch&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fid-recommend-the-m3-macbook-air-at-full-price-but-this-new-deal-makes-it-a-no-brainer\u002F"\u003EMacBook Air\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is 2.7 pounds. When you set it down, the device opens easily with the lift of a single finger, revealing the brilliant organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-tested-asus-new-ultraportable-laptop-and-its-worth-the-hype-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F"\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's a sleek and lightweight laptop for the modern professional who lives in the cloud, works remotely, and values a nice display. In addition, the Zenbook A14 boots quickly, loads apps swiftly, and navigates the web without lag. It runs silent and cool, generating almost no heat -- even with the slim form factor.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHands down, the best part of this laptop is the outstanding battery life. Asus advertises up to 32 hours on a single charge. Although that's the top end of the estimation, it's not far off from what you can expect with everyday use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus Zenbook A14 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200 (Full HD+) |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16GB or 32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Snapdragon X or X Plus&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Qualcomm Adreno&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to 32 hours of video playback |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EWeight:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;2.1 lbs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus Zenbook A14\" data-superlative=\"Best lightweight laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","title":"Asus Zenbook A14","filename":"dsc03098.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2025\u002F02\u002F11\u002F01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752\u002Fdsc03098.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":5863163,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:17:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:18:31","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","imageAltText":"Asus Zenbook A14","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc03098.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2025\u002F02\u002F11","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray\u002F6616965.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Sleek and lightweight ~Great battery life ~Brilliant OLED display\" data-dislike=\"~Higher-end processor linked to lower RAM ~Not designed for intensive workloads\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2be0b709-340a-4fda-97f4-4e928a3d47be\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAsus' ProArt P16 is a laptop designed primarily for content creators who demand a machine with robust hardware to support their work. Powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU and an Nvidia GeForce 4060 GPU, this device excels at handling tough workloads like \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Evideo editing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-graphic-design\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egraphic design\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The hardware ensures seamless multitasking, while the 16-inch Active-Matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) touchscreen delivers vibrant visuals in crisp detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtists, in particular, will appreciate this display's glossy surface, which responds well to styluses. The Asus DialPad integrated into the trackpads allows users to create customized controls to streamline workflows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-found-a-creators-laptop-that-competes-with-the-macbook-pro-and-more-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther customization options include DialPad and Performance Profiles, which let you prioritize certain aspects of the laptop depending on the situation. For example, if you have a busy workflow and need a performance boost, you could have the hardware prioritize battery life for better longevity or processing power. The MyAsus app also helps on this front, as it offers tools to manage updates or monitor performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, I can't forget to mention Vivobook Pro's top-notch design. It boasts good ergonomics and a sturdy hinge that prevents unnecessary movement. Its keyboard is notably quiet, so you won't disturb the people around you when typing. The ProArt P16 is a good alternative to either the M3 or M4 MacBook Pro, although getting the most out of it requires precise optimization.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus-software-for-windows\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software for Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; 3840 x 2400 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ruzen AI 9 HX 370&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus ProArt P16\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for content creators\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","title":"Asus ProArt P16","filename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F26\u002Fa9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a\u002Fasus-proart-p16-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":2578517,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:22","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus ProArt P16","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","imageAltText":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F26","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black\u002F6584438.p?skuId=6584438","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Many customization features ~ High-end hardware ~ Responsive touchscreen\" data-dislike=\"~ Glossy screen ~ Large trackpad\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"86ad5265-f7dc-4eea-bfd0-105b67f11e7b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELenovo's sixth-generation ThinkPad T14s is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efast laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that can tackle intensive productivity tasks. It performs well thanks to the recently released AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 processor, the integrated AMD Radeon 880M graphics card, and of course, the ample 32GB of RAM. Hardware like this delivers exceptional multitasking capabilities.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBenchmark results highlight its power, scoring over 9,300 points in PCMark 10's Essential Productivity tests. Cinebench results show image rendering is remarkably fast, further demonstrating the efficiency of the Ryzen AI processor. If that wasn't enough, the neural processing unit (NPU) boosts the computer's hardware even further as the component offloads work and stress from the main processor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-thinkpad-checks-all-my-boxes-for-a-solid-work-laptop-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond its hardware, the T14s Gen 6 sports a lightweight design, typical of other models in its line, and a solid 12-hour battery life. I also appreciate how fast the battery charges, reaching 70% in about an hour. Other notable features include a 5MP webcam for clear video calls in 1440p, Thunderbolt 4 ports for quick file transfer, and Dolby Atmos, enabling immersive sound. Lastly, it supports Wi-Fi 7, so users can ensure speedy wireless speeds.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Efeatures: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;WUXGA&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;up to 1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for work\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","title":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","filename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F12\u002F09\u002F442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":457325,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","imageAltText":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F12\u002F09","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Lenovo","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lenovo.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fp\u002Flaptops\u002Fthinkpad\u002Fthinkpadt\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop\u002Flen101t0109","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~High-end hardware ~Full-package ThinkPad ~Great webcam\" data-dislike=\"~No OLED option\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a2e95d2a-7c8f-4a8c-92cf-27ddd1e367ec\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EChromebooks hit their stride last year as third-party manufacturers introduced beefier hardware and cool features to the devices. Once relegated to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-tablet\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etablets\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and devices with very limited use, the upgrades have allowed Chromebooks to become a valid third option alongside MacBooks and Windows laptops.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the better Chromebooks released in 2024 was Samsung's Galaxy Chromebook Plus, a lightweight device with a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-oled-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebrilliant OLED display\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and a handful of AI-powered features. The new Quick Insert key on the Galaxy Chromebook lets users bring up a control panel for mobile devices to help multitask, while the Help Me Read feature scans and summarizes websites, articles, and text files. Even better, these functions are built into the device at the OS level.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-lightweight-laptop-has-one-of-the-best-displays-ive-seen-and-its-very-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Galaxy Chromebook Plus looks great with its vivid 15.6-inch display. It is well-rounded enough for various use cases -- even cloud gaming -- which only a few years ago was not something you'd think about doing on a Chromebook. Praise must be levied at its design, too. My colleague, Kyle Kucharski, complemented Samsung for foregoing the implementation of a touchscreen. Doing so allowed the tech giant to develop a Chromebook that is thin and relatively easy to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best part about all of this is that the device is affordable, at $699, which is a competitive price for a portable workstation, gaming machine, or main driver.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15.6 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1080 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; Intel Core 3 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;256GB eUFS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best Chromebook laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","title":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","filename":"img-7640a.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F30\u002F5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf\u002Fimg-7640a.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1876854,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:20:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:21:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","imageAltText":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"img-7640a.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F09\u002F30","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"f356f332-08ae-4bd1-8569-5150bedd46d5","slug":"samsung-galaxy-chromebook-plus-15-6-with-google-ai-amoled-display-intel-core-3-8gb-memory-256gb-storage-neptune-blue","label":"Samsung - 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This chart breaks down how the laptop stacks up with the top features on other devices, from price to CPU\u002FGPU, screen size, and display resolution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest laptop\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStarting price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u002FGPU\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM\u002FStorage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,399\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EApple M4 SoC\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 24GB, up to 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EDell XPS 16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,699\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core Ultra 7 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 64GB, up to 4TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,999\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAMD Ryzen AI 9-365 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$255\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core i3-N305 | Intel UHD\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E8GB, 128GB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,099\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESnapdragon X Plus&nbsp;| Qualcomm Adreno\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,649\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,401\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EQualcomm Snapdragon X Elite | Integrated Qualcomm GPU\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 32GB, up to 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$699\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core 3\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E8GB, 256GB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best laptop?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"64194be1-5d0d-4f29-b876-8d173339b35d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe main question when buying a laptop is: "What do you want to do with it?" Once you've established that, you can focus your research on finding the right machine for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, if you're on the move a lot, you'll want a good combination of flexibility, sturdiness, connectivity, security, and a long battery life. However, you should opt for a laptop with powerful hardware if you're a largely deskbound graphic designer or content creator. Devices with top-tier processors and graphics cards tend to be heavier than most.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's a well-researched (and tested) list of our favorite laptops for a wide array of use cases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuy this best laptop...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you need...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA powerful, well-rounded laptop for the office and home. The MacBook Pro with the M4 chip brings performance for nearly everything from simple spreadsheets and video calls to video editing.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EDell XPS 16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA Windows-based laptop with seriously powerful hardware and lots of different options for customizing it to your needs.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA top-notch gaming laptop with a fast screen running at a 240Hz refresh rate.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA seriously inexpensive laptop that has all the basics for everyday use.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA lightweight and well-designed laptop with a gorgeous OLED display and marathon battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA laptop designed specifically for content creators with a brilliant OLED display and a ton of customization options.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn ultraportable laptop for work. It houses the latest AI-powered AMD processor and a fast charging battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn affordable, lightweight Chromebook with a gorgeous display\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right laptop for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"dd4dd706-0b03-4fe7-8eed-40a8e1da8d90\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe use a combination of methods to test laptops here at ZDNET. First, we acquire data from benchmarking software to analyze a system's metrics under the hood and compare those to advertised numbers. Then, we spend an extended amount of time with the laptop -- usually a week or two -- using it the same way a normal consumer would, to assess its portability, form factor, and how well the battery&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eactually\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;holds up. For an extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-laptops\u002F"\u003Elaptop testing methodology\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBenchmarking:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;First, we run a series of tests to put the computer's hardware through the wringer in order to see what it's capable of.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.maxon.net\u002Fen\u002Fdownloads\u002Fcinebench-2024-downloads" target="_blank"\u003ECinebench\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is one of the most commonly used hardware testing suites, which tests the laptop's rendering performance on single and multiple central processing unit (CPU) cores.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fbenchmarks.ul.com\u002Fpcmark10" target="_blank"\u003EPCMark 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another powerful program that covers a wide variety of tasks performed in the workplace, and there are many others that we use in tandem to gather as much data as we can. Some components we run tests on include:\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The "brain" of the laptop and one of the most important factors that determines performance. The four biggest manufacturers that make most of the CPUs found in laptops today are Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, and Apple -- in Apple machines only. This is tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe display:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The size of the display -- measured diagonally from corner to corner -- is also what dictates the laptop's overall size and plays a big role in the device's cost. Brightness is measured in "nits," and color spectrums are tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe graphics processor (GPU):\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether it's integrated into the CPU or a dedicated graphics card, how well the machine handles graphics is a key factor when it comes to demanding tasks like video editing, rendering, and of course, gaming. We test the GPU with a combination of benchmarking software, gaming, and media playback.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPhysical form factor:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EFinally, the laptop's overall appearance and physical form factor encompasses its weight, thickness, how the keyboard and trackpad feel, and whether it has a display that can be folded back to form a tablet. We carry the laptop around for at least a week and note how well it commutes.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery testing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We test a unit's battery in a few ways. A handful of benchmarking programs have their own battery testing components, but we also will just let the laptop run for as long as it can under a medium load. We ensure screensavers and hibernation mode are turned off, set the display's brightness and audio at 50%, load up a livestream on YouTube in Chrome, and wait 'til the end.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe human element:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;As we mentioned earlier, metrics and system data is important, but numbers alone don't give you the full picture. This is where we weave in our personal experience with the device and tap into the practical use cases that consumers actually care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, our goal is to break down the capabilities of each and every laptop we test into digestible terms that real people find useful. There is a lot of noise and confusion when it comes to navigating the laptop and computer consumer market, so we hope to bring an intuitive element to the whole process by leveraging our team's decades of experience.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test laptops\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","title":"Asus Vivobook","filename":"dsc01864.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F06\u002F48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0\u002Fdsc01864.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4860831,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","imageAltText":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc01864.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F06","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89037ae6-ef79-4aae-a4ef-e0d6ae59633a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMultiple factors influence the choice of laptops for this list. We look for machines with great designs, performance, and effective storage and RAM. We also considered the different purposes for which you may need or use your laptop and the overall value -- including the price point -- that the laptop promises.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDesign:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether your laptop is your ultimate workstation or source of entertainment, its design, display, and portability determine how you interact with the unit.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;For many, laptops are essential for workflow and communication. The best laptops promise efficient speed and performance, powered by the greatest and latest chipsets -- like the Apple M3 Max.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage and RAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;It's likely you'll use a laptop to store key documents or memories, and the best models have plenty of room for you to do so.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPurpose:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We strive to answer the question, "What laptop should I get if ___" as we know you have different workflow and entertainment needs and preferences, from graphic design to gaming.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EValue:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThe best laptop can be a pricey investment, so we considered qualities that assure you'll get your money's worth.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are some factors to consider when choosing the best laptops?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFAQs on laptops\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0192c3e8-a367-4061-897d-caa9d70dc2ea\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile the desktop form factor, especially in the form of all-in-one (AIO) devices, still exists, laptops come in various sizes and cover many use cases. They range from thin, light, and ultraportable to bulky, powerful, and deskbound. Because of how good laptops are nowadays, most people opt for sticking with a laptop to serve as their main computer. If a small laptop screen is an issue, an external monitor can be connected.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why should you buy a laptop, and not a desktop or a tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"50bb31e2-435e-4126-b36c-492c636e5ece\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile every computing platform has its loyal supporters, most people end up using a particular operating system because of key applications running on it, employer preferences, or budgetary constraints. Windows, which ranges from budget to premium, and Apple's MacOS, which is exclusive to premium devices, cover a broad spectrum. ChromeOS is mostly limited to mid-range devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-anonymous-browsing-these-extensions-are-the-next-best-thing-to-tor\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFor anonymous browsing, these extensions are the next best thing to Tor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll Windows devices listed here meet the requirements for Windows 11. If you purchase a device with Windows 10 installed, you will be able to upgrade to Windows 11 if you choose to do so. Note that after October 14, 2025, Windows 10 support will end, and there will be no further security patches or feature updates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which operating system should you choose: Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, or Linux?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3aeb95bd-eeec-4c6e-b821-c4e92cddc133\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn general, the leading PC vendors have the most extensive range of offerings and the best-documented track records for product development and customer relations. Therefore, if you do not have a specialized use case or budgetary constraints, you will typically consider vendors such as Lenovo, HP, Dell, Apple, or Asus. These vendors currently lead the PC market in terms of shipments, along with several other well-known brands.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What brand of laptop is best?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"474586ca-463c-4daf-a6a4-836135e5d46d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that you don't need to have the biggest, best, newest components to get a decent&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egaming laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. To play most triple-A and indie titles, we recommend a rig with at least 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, a 120Hz refresh rate for the display, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Elso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best budget gaming laptops you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd if you want to try your hand at content creation, something like the Corsair Voyager a1600 is a sure bet. You might also want to consider equipping with accessories. An Elgato Steam Deck integration, for example, can offer streamlined workflows when editing videos, livestreaming, and even setting up video calls with channel moderators or collaborators.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for gaming?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c94ed06c-6b3a-490e-900d-77fabe44e8c5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt really depends on the student, but there are some common factors to consider when shopping for a laptop for school. You'll want something small and lightweight for easier commutes to and from school and between classes.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-college\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for college: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll also want something with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical school day without needing to plug in. This is excellent for younger kids who may be forgetful and leave their charging cable at home. Also, look for a laptop with at least 4GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and cloud-storage backup to create duplicate copies of important files and classwork. You'll also want to avoid laptops with dedicated graphics cards aimed toward gaming to help cut down misuse and procrastination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for students?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6358f23d-22d0-4167-91bf-77d2a99ca607\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhether you're looking for a single laptop for yourself or a fleet for your business, the best laptops for work offer great performance, multiple connectivity options, and durable builds.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll want to look for a model with at least 8GB of RAM, a 256GB storage drive, a quad-core CPU, and a display large enough to work on without being too bulky to travel with. You'll also want a model with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical day of work without needing to recharge constantly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for business?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"603e81b6-a53f-4f47-95a6-f6a7e840fd3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe strongly recommend getting an \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EM4 MacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and purchasing&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffinal-cut-pro-on-the-ipad-a-surprisingly-touching-experience\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFinal Cut Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, an editing software exclusive to the Mac ecosystem. Buying the\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmacbook-pro-m3-max-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E 2023 MacBook Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another good option. It sports an M2 Max chip and offers great performance for content creators. The machine can handle 4TB of footage with ease.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for video editing: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, Apple MacBook Pros are a popular choice as are any laptops with powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and high-resolution displays such as the Dell XPS 13 and 15.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for video editing?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOther laptops we've tested\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d857acd4-fa0e-4867-9d7b-e81384e85292\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe MacBook Air is a great alternative to the higher-end model as it's comparable performance and is more lightweight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Air M2 (2023)\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","title":"Apple MacBook Air M2","filename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F27\u002F91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab\u002Fapple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":168636,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:45","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","alt":"Apple MacBook Air M2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","imageAltText":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F07\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best alternative for content creators\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-air\u002F13-inch-m2","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"35529c48-6ed2-4108-8808-51814690a50e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDell's 2024 Inspiron 14 2-in-1 is a great convertible laptop for the busy professional on the go. It's geared to easily handle office-related tasks like multitasking with documents or hosting video calls, and it only weighs 3.77 pounds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","title":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","filename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F19\u002F7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3\u002Fdell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":356982,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","alt":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","imageAltText":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F19","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best 2-in-1 laptop\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Dell","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fshop\u002Flaptops\u002Famd\u002Fspd\u002Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop\u002Fusei2hbts7445gxcn","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5980fee4-a445-4969-9a3a-7e4b6073d6bf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELaunched earlier this year as part of the new Chromebook Plus series, it's hard to believe this high-performing laptop is a Chromebook at all. The bright, 120Hz refresh rate display, LED keyboard, and Intel Core Ultra 5 processor makes for a solid cloud gaming laptop and fast, lightweight laptop.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","title":"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE2 - 2","filename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F26\u002F334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":3337962,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:49:54","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:50:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","imageAltText":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best Alternative Chromebook\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black\u002F6576961.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EZDNET writer Taylor Clemons also contributed to this list.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2025-03-13 16:34:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"We've gone hands-on with the best laptops available from Apple, Asus, Acer, and more so you can find the best fit.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"c047e1cd-17ec-4b81-89b6-61e04233d0a4",image:{id:"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6",filename:"dell-xps-14-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-08-05 16:01:10",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Person smiling at a laptop",credits:"Maskot\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ESpace Black MacBook Pro (M3 Max) running MacOS Sonoma wallpaper\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F05\u002F14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6\u002Fdell-xps-14-1.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:"4240x2384+0+0",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best laptops you can buy: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-laptop",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best laptops of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:"Deep-dive, compare, decide",description:b,filters:b,paging:b,slug:"dynamic-topic-4-story-carousel-product-research",title:"Product Research",label:b,viewMoreText:b,viewMoreUrl:b,relatedItems:b},{id:"49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32",meta:{componentName:"49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32",componentDisplayName:"How-to Guides",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=49cbd472-fb49-40ab-832b-366ddd22eb32"}},items:[{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EThis article was originally published in October 2014. It has been updated every year or so since then to reflect new tools and workflows.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERemember the old productivity and office suites we all used to use? I don't know about you, but my mix of productivity tools has certainly changed over the years. What I use today is vastly different from my daily productivity \"suite\" of years past.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Foffice-365-vs-g-suite-which-productivity-suite-is-best-for-your-business\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOffice 365 vs Google Workspace: Which productivity suite is best\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore I take you through both the tools and my \"process,\" let me point out that this stuff is different for everyone. My work these days consists far more of educating and communicating, and far less time spent living in spreadsheets than back in the days when I ran startups. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"ac4ad187-9d85-4737-96a8-6caf951dcecf\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fac4ad187-9d85-4737-96a8-6caf951dcecf\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, I coordinate with teams, rather than manage them. I have students rather than employees. I research projects rather than launch products. My daily productivity flow reflects the changes in career as I've evolved from founder to advisor, manager to professor, and publisher to columnist. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI use a tremendous number of tools for my projects, and they often change from project to project. But what I'm going to discuss here are the tools I use on a daily basis to manage my \"flow\". \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat do I mean by my flow? \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI divide my work day into two main chunks of time: Communications and knowledge gathering time, and project time. Every day has pretty much the same communications and knowledge gathering activities, which follows a relatively consistent pattern that has proven to be highly productive for me. These are the daily productivity activities I've been talking about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn my case, morning to mid-afternoon is that daily productivity time. That's when I connect with and follow-up with all my constituents, students, editors, producers, etc., when I do my daily reading to keep up with both news and new technology, and when I manage my schedule, schedule my tasks, make calls, and write and respond to email. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-a-smart-office-make-your-team-more-productive-too\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECan a smart office make your team more productive too?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat whole process is my flow. Over my many various iterations, I've managed to optimize this process so I'm able to get a tremendous amount done in a relatively short amount of time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe other half of my day is project time. This is when I work on everything from academic papers to the presentations, white papers, and webcasts I do for ZDNet to developing code to most of the projects I write about for DIY-IT. I tend to work on projects in the late afternoon and the late evening, with a break in the early evening for family time and lunch or dinner. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EChanges due to the pandemic\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last time I updated this guide was in early 2019. Obviously, a few things have happened since then. In terms of my daily productivity, I go out a lot less than I used to. Back then, I was often running from place to place and had to build up an everyday carry (EDC) that could allow me to dive into any project or work with any team no matter where I was. I had EDC kits for a coffee shop programming run and EDC kits for week long conference work. I even built an EDC for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Froad-tech-how-i-left-florida-to-escape-irma-and-never-went-back\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eemergency evacuation of an indeterminate time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhats-inside-gewirtzs-home-office-20-years-of-refinement-and-evolution\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat's inside Gewirtz's home office? 20 years of refinement and evolution\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhats-inside-gewirtzs-home-office-20-years-of-refinement-and-evolution\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emostly I'm home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. If I'm out, it's a dedicated out-and-back with a specific purpose. There is no meandering, browsing, or schmoozing. Yes, I know other people may feel comfortable going back to the pre-pandemic normal, but I have reasons for playing it a bit more safe than most might.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn any case, what that means is that instead of my escalating ranking of phones, tablets, Chromebooks and laptops, I just carry my \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdont-buy-that-expensive-new-iphone-13-how-used-iphones-can-deliver-huge-savings\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EiPhone 12 Pro Max\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It will keep me up to speed until I get back home and can pick up where I left off.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETools for my daily flow\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow that you understand how my working environment has changed and how I structure my work day, let's discuss the tools I use in my daily flow. It all starts with Gmail... \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFirst morning Gmail\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's been quite a while since \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"link\" data-asset-type=\"article\" data-uuid=\"33872aff-1ed9-11e4-8c7f-00505685119a\" data-slug=\"why-i-bit-the-bullet-and-finally-switched-from-outlook-to-gmail\" data-link-text=\"I made the switch from Outlook to Gmail\"\u003EI made the switch from Outlook to Gmail\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, and I have to tell you, my productivity has improved tremendously, and after more than half a decade of use, I don't regret the move one bit. Having the exact same email interface on all my machines, with tight integration into my iPhone, iPad, and computers, has made all the difference. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI no longer have thousands of unruly items filling my inbox. In fact, that's a big part of what this daily productivity process is all about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhelp-i-have-100000-unread-messages-in-my-gmail-inbox-where-do-i-even-start-ask-zdnet\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHelp! I have 100,000 unread messages in my Gmail inbox. How do I get to Inbox Zero?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy day starts with my alarm going off. From under the covers, I usually reach over to my phone, painfully crack one eye open, tap the Gmail app, and scan to see if there's anything on fire. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EActually, scratch that. I no longer take my iPhone to bed with me. Instead, I wear my \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-apple-fitness-and-how-to-use-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple Watch\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. When I wake up, I can still glance at my notifications, but by leaving the tiny computers outside of the bedroom, I'm not tempted to check on work, read my mail, or play Wordle when I should be sleeping.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0f1152c8-9dbd-4342-aff1-4026e55272df\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe boy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"img-4712.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"thumbnail-img-6788.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1280\" data-image-height=\"752\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe way I have Gmail set up, only the most important messages show up on my watch. Same with Slack notifications. Basically, unless there's something urgent from one of my editors, I can start my day in peace. If there's nothing urgent, I hit the snooze button. After repeating this ritual two or three times, I get up, do my morning necessaries, and zombie-walk to the coffee maker. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"d0d6e607-0e26-4d83-9863-a20084f953f8\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fd0d6e607-0e26-4d83-9863-a20084f953f8\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce I have coffee in hand, I navigate \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"link\" data-asset-type=\"article\" data-uuid=\"f952355c-34cd-11e4-9e6a-00505685119a\" data-slug=\"how-i-crowdsourced-my-puppys-name\" data-link-text=\"the puppy's\"\u003Ethe puppy's\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E tower defense strategy for the morning, trying not to get my toes bit, spill my coffee, or step on one of his well-chewed stuffed animal friends. Eventually, I reach the couch, flip on my couch-side monitor, and once again check my email. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt this point, I tend to take note of what's in my inbox, but I neither process it, nor respond to it. I want to let the coffee take hold. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI also take a quick look at my calendar and my to-do list to make sure I know what's on deck for the day. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EDaily must-reads with Pocket\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext up, I hit my daily most-reads. Of course, this starts with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cem\u003EZDNet\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, then usually \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.drudgereport.com\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cem\u003EDrudge\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cem\u003E \u003C\u002Fem\u003Eand \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.techmeme.com\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cem\u003ETechmeme\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. I do a quick headline scan and anything that seems worth reading, I right-click and save to \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fgetpocket.com\u002F\"\u003EPocket\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"91b0c8c8-826d-4236-8774-ca813d9493ff\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ESome of my reads for later today.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"pocket-2022-05-09-06-11-17.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"pocket-2022-05-09-06-11-17.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1171\" data-image-height=\"838\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore I used Pocket, I used to open all the interesting headlines as new tabs. My browser was often overwhelmed with browser tabs, sometimes to the point of crashing. If I switched computers, I had to try to figure out what tabs I had open, and otherwise somehow coordinate 10-50 open tabs. It was a mess. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, I just save everything into Pocket, for later review. I actually do this in two phases. I use \u003Cem\u003EZDNet\u003C\u002Fem\u003E, \u003Cem\u003EDrudge\u003C\u002Fem\u003E, and \u003Cem\u003ETechmeme\u003C\u002Fem\u003E as a quick way to find out what the big news of the day is. Later in the morning, I'll open up \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Ffeedly.com\u002F\"\u003EFeedly\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and tackle as many sites as I feel I have time for, from my big list of feeds. Or, I might dig into a story that's interesting and trending, and look for more content, which I'll also save into Pocket. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe nice part about this is I can easily do this while drinking coffee. I can get a feel for the day from the headlines, but I don't need to have all my brain cells online quite so early. Then I go and make my oatmeal. I now eat oatmeal for breakfast every day. Why didn't I do this when I was younger. It's \u003Cem\u003Eso\u003C\u002Fem\u003E good for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy this point, I'm somewhere between 30 and 60 minutes into my day, I've had one or two cups of coffee, and I have a pretty solid feel for both what's going on in my own various domains as well as what's going on in the rest of the world. It's a very good, very quick way to come up to speed while waking up.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDepending on the importance and urgency of the messages in my Gmail inbox, I'll either go straight into my morning email cycle or begin my morning reading. I prefer to do morning reading before email, so I'll discuss that next. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Pocket-read-post-archive cycle\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI read. A lot. I need to keep up to date on a tremendous amount of information, both breaking news related and deep technical or academic information. As a result, a good percentage of my morning is spent reading. I also watch a lot of YouTube videos. I'm almost always learning about new stuff, and many YouTube videos provide great introductions to both how those things work and what they do. Without YouTube, I never would have \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhands-on-building-the-next-generation-x-carve-cnc-build-log\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egotten my CNC up and running\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and done \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmy-first-big-cnc-project-a-parts-organizer-rack\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emy first successful build\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause I've already selected the articles from my top sources, I can open up Pocket and start reading. I like this a lot, because I now have all my content in one location. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's particularly nice about Pocket is that it runs on not only my couch-side web browser and on Chrome, but there are versions of Pocket for iOS and Android. As a result, I can read articles anywhere -- even in the \u003Cem\u003Enecessarium\u003C\u002Fem\u003E or when I'm out and about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPart of my morning flow is posting to the social networks. Unfortunately, this has changed. It used to be that whenever I found an article that was interesting in my Pocket collection, I tapped the Share icon in Pocket and then selected \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fbufferapp.com\"\u003EBuffer\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Buffer then took the article, scheduled it, and posted it to Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Two clicks and I used to be able shared something interesting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut Facebook broke that. Facebook no longer allows tools like Buffer and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fhootsuite.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHootsuite\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to to post to personal Facebook pages. I've spent years building up my personal Facebook page following and don't want to start a corporate page (or orphan all my followers), so when Facebook broke auto-posting, it hurt. Now, I hand post to Twitter and then do it again on Facebook. LinkedIn gets a lot less attention, and, frankly, I post less frequently. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F47b1617b-799d-4263-9878-ccc4bc00d4b9\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother aspect of my morning reading that's changed is I no longer save articles to Evernote. I used to save off articles that would serve me for either projects I'm working on or general research resources. While I use \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fevernote.com\"\u003EEvernote\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to write articles, I no longer use Evernote as my hub of everything. Pocket handles archived articles just fine. And Notion (more on that later) handles notes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERinse, wash, repeat. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm relatively holistic about my morning reading process. I do it until I'm bored or hungry, or feel like switching gears and moving on to managing my email and schedule. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe key point to all of this is that ever since I moved to this Pocket-read-post-archive cycle for my daily reading, my productivity and flexibility has gone up tremendously. I'm getting more done, and the quality of the process is far more pleasant. I'm no longer tied to my desktop browser, because all of these tools work on all my devices. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EConnecting and scheduling\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAssuming there's nothing on fire that I've had to handle first thing, at some point during the morning, I'll switch from reading to communicating. I'll switch out of Pocket and into Gmail and work my way through my email. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGmail does a great job of filtering out spam, but I'll go through the Updates and Promotions tabs and delete or mark-as-spam anything that's not necessary. This is usually a pretty fast cleanup. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESometimes, there's something in my Updates section that indicates there's an action item. For example, if one of my websites has pushed out a security warning, depending on the severity I'll either go right to work fixing the problem or sending the email to Todoist as a to-do item. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is where the integration of \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b3e6f6a4-3113-48a0-a580-47cdd28301c7\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftodoist.com\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Todoist\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E and Gmail is so nice. All I need to do is tap the Todoist icon, and I can turn the email message into a to-do item, complete with a link back to the original email message. Once I've scheduled it as a to-do item (either for that day or a later date), I can then archive the message and it's out of my inbox. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-do-vs-google-tasks-the-best-list-manager-app-for-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMicrosoft To Do vs Google Tasks: The best list manager app for you\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI use the same process for the rest of my email. If I can reply immediately to a query from someone mailing me, I do. If not (for example, if it will require additional research or it's really an action item disguised as an email message), I'll send it over to Todoist as a to-do item and clear it out of my inbox. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI do the same with calendar-related items. For example, I'm on the Information Systems and Management Certificate Advisory Board at the UC Berkeley extension, and when I get an email that there's a scheduled meeting, I can right-click on the date right in the middle of the email message and schedule it to the calendar. Once again, the original email is available as a link, so I can remove it from my inbox and archive it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this way, I can power through my inbox, responding, assigning to to-do items, or to calendar. Within a very short time, I have my inbox cleared. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, to be fair, I have a slight email fetish, so I do check back in to my inbox, once or twice (or 20 or 30 times) a day. But now that my inbox is generally clean and empty, that practice doesn't have much to grab onto, and it's only a waste of a second or two. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, now that I have email notifications integrated into my watch, I'm finding I'm actually breaking myself of the habit, because unless I hear the notification tone, I don't have any important emails coming in. I have actually gone a few hours without checking my email inbox, which is something of a record for me. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EManaging my daily teaching opportunities\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs it turns out, supporting users is a lot like teaching online students.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome years ago, I adopted a bunch of WordPress plugins as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-i-code-how-to-think-about-side-projects\u002F\"\u003Ea side-project that helps me keep my coding skills sharp\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. One of the (unexpected) side-effects of that is that I now have users to support. Yep, even free plugins require some amount of support time.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe way I manage this is I've added a support ticketing system to my lab notes website. I use a cloud service called \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.helpscout.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHelp Scout\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Users post their questions and I get an email notification. All the details for each users' situation is kept in one thread on the site, so when I go back to the conversation days or weeks later, I can see what previously transpired, all in one place. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0c40097b-2bec-4619-8e73-f7aba6cdd27e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EHelp Scout also has great team features, but I'm a programming army of one.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"help-scout-2022-05-09-06-12-35.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"help-scout-2022-05-09-06-12-35.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1403\" data-image-height=\"519\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI just think of those users like more of my students. If any questions show up in my inbox, I go into the ticketing system and answer questions. I'm not assigning users letter grades, but otherwise the process is pretty much the same. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy the way, this is also a great way to think about users, which I initially was a bit unhappy about adding to my daily workload. But the reframe is this: I'm an educator and these are more people in need of assistance while they're learning to use these plugins. So, rather than thinking about providing user support as an added workload, I think of the users as more of my students and their questions as simply more teaching opportunities. It's also a great way to keep up on what people are doing out there, and gives me a much more \"on the street\" dialog with users, which is invaluable as a tech journalist.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's another little trick I use: I get a lot of feature requests (which I call \"cool feature ideas\") from the plugin users. The go into \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fnotion-app-review\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethe bug tracking system I manage in Notion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETo-doing my to-do list\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy this point, I'm usually most of the way through the morning. My email has been processed and actions have been moved to my to-do list and schedule items to my calendar. I've done a considerable amount of reading, and I'm up to speed on the various issues I'm responsible for following. I've graded students and supported users (and added any bugs or key follow-up items to my to-do list). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, it's time to tackle the to-do items. Like Pocket and Gmail, Todoist runs on my phone, my tablets, and on my desktop in a browser window. It even runs on my Apple Watch. So I can organize and manage my to-do items from anywhere. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe very first thing I do is go down the list and move items around. Some items are no longer a today priority, while some have increased in priority. I have some repeating tasks (like grading students for each of my sections) that pop up when they need to. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore I go on to the rest of my day, which is doing my to-do tasks and slowly migrating into project time, I'll tell you my newest secret weapon for managing to-do items: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnotion.so\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ENotion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. I used to use \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftrello.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETrello\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to do this, but hit a couple of walls. Notion, which is a bit new and a bit weird, has a whole pile of possibilities. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fnotion-app-review\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENotion app review: Why (and how) I rely on this powerful productivity tool\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENotion solves a classic to-do list problem: Too many items on the to-do lists. We all suffer from this practice, where anything that might have to be done, even someday items and \"I'll get to it when I can\" items, future project ideas, and all the rest all wind up on the to-do list as low-priority items that fill the list to the brim. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome days are spent merely taking all those items that were previously scheduled for the, say, 15th of next month, and moving them to the following month once again. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI gave this problem a lot of thought and realized there are items I need to do, that are actionable in the near term, and items that just need to be on a list somewhere, that have no specific priority. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"33290891-6956-44b9-bc64-4a2c95fe85d3\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EManaging projects in Notion\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"rvzdnet-projects-2022-04-29-03-26-25.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"rvzdnet-projects-2022-04-29-03-26-25.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1066\" data-image-height=\"397\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENotion is a combination whiteboard, list manager, project manager, app engine, and database. It's actually quite odd and quite wonderful. It takes a while to get your arms around all it can do, but once you do, it's incredibly helpful. Unfortunately, it's got a silly name, a relatively uninspiring icon and marketing site, so I worry about its survivability. That said, it does have some serious funding behind it, so I'm hoping for the best.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can create boards of certain categories, and inside those boards, you can make lists. Each list item is a card on a board, and you can write notes and interact with other members of a team on the back of each card. It sounds complex, but it's amazingly intuitive. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENotion is also available on Android and iOS as well as web platforms, so once again, I can work on my work from anywhere. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've set up a bunch of Notion pages and all the items that \"should be on the list\" but aren't actionable this week or next go onto a Notion. I regularly dig into those pages, particularly when I'm working on a corresponding project, and pull items from the page and assign them to Todoist -- but only if I intend to work on them right away, that week. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat, by the way, is the entire key to keeping your to-do list under control. If you actually intend to do an item within a reasonably short period of time, put it on your to-do list. If you expect to do it someday, it's not a to-do list item, not an actionable item, and you should write them on another list somewhere. I use Trello for that. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"4b046cbe-2721-4b5d-abb2-b3102604f9bd\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F4b046cbe-2721-4b5d-abb2-b3102604f9bd\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've also set up Notion pages for each 3D printer, and for managing and tracking my reviews and video projects. It's great as a catch-all for lots of details, but unlike previous catch-alls like Evernote, Notion allows you to assign some structure and layout to the stuff you're working with. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBlocking out time for my projects\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI use Notion for managing the details of my projects, but I visualize them using Google Calendar. I have three special calendars I set up: DG Planner, Planner Tentative, and Project Due.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"937f5b56-b15b-45b2-8f2d-3968645539be\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EI turned off my regular appointments so you can see how I block out chunks of time. This is a busy month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"google-calendar-february-2022-2022-05-09-06-15-01.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"google-calendar-february-2022-2022-05-09-06-15-01.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"1180\" data-image-height=\"771\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI start with Project Due. Each deadline is placed on the calendar in a full-day appointment. Those deadlines are displayed in red, so I can't miss them. These calendar items represent the day I need to turn in a deliverable of one kind or another.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext is DG Planner. I use this to block out a set of days for everything that has a Project Due entry. If a project will take me four days, I use four full-day appointments. If three days, I use three, and so on. This way, I can see how busy I'll get, and I can make sure I don't double or triple-book any of my busiest production times.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, there's Planner Tentative. This is where I block out the approximate time a project I may or may not be working on will probably take. That way, if I'm taking with my team about a bunch of projects, I can block out some tentative time and see how my month is shaping up.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith this system, I rarely lose track of projects and also rarely overbook myself. It's worked quite well for a bunch of years now.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ERethinking your flow\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery few years, I rethink my productivity flow, usually when I find myself getting too far behind, or getting that \u003Cem\u003Ebaaaad\u003C\u002Fem\u003E feeling that I'm letting things slip through the cracks. This latest optimization, where I added Notion, has been working for a few months now, and so far it's the most effective flow I've used. Most of the elements, particularly how I use Gmail and Pocket, have been productive processes for years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs I mentioned earlier, your flow will be different, but I strongly recommend you think about your work processes and optimize your daily activities. You'll find you're more effective and also that your days are more pleasant. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's pretty much a nice win-win, isn't it? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EP.S. Surprisingly enough, there's no Microsoft software in my daily tools, still. Used to be, I lived in Outlook. I still use PowerPoint heavily for presentations, but my daily productivity is now completely non-Microsoft. That wasn't a political decision or statement. I rather like Microsoft. I just looked for and found the best tools for doing my job. If I were at Microsoft, I'd think long and hard about that. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-05-09 14:15:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Do you have too many items on your todo list or in your email inbox? If so, you might want to learn some of the insider techniques and tools our own David Gewirtz has put into practice to keep his very busy schedule under control.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"2d6c1b6b-5829-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57",image:{id:"51ecc831-060e-4c74-b556-cd3375635893",filename:"andrew-neel-308138-unsplash.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2019-01-18 16:13:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"my-top-productivity-tools-and-tricks-for-managing-my-daily-workflow.jpg",credits:b,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2019\u002F01\u002F18\u002F51ecc831-060e-4c74-b556-cd3375635893\u002Fandrew-neel-308138-unsplash.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1067,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"how-to",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Cloud",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"my-top-productivity-tools-and-tricks-for-managing-my-daily-workflow",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"My top productivity tools and tricks for managing my daily workflow (2022 edition)",topic:{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1050fa4d-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"google",name:"Google",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"1aa87593-0f1d-4577-862b-a59b5ec9bc57",username:"DannyPalmerZDNet",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Danny",lastName:"Palmer",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"dd6044cc-7220-4fce-9dce-9343d1d39902",filename:"danny-palmer.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 14:36:11",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fdd6044cc-7220-4fce-9dce-9343d1d39902\u002Fdanny-palmer.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Danny Palmer is a senior reporter at ZDNET. Based in London, he writes about issues including cybersecurity, hacking and malware threats.",profile:b,title:"Senior Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"video\" data-uuid=\"4dc2da6f-215d-4cb5-9d91-46ac48532d18\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor small businesses, cyberattacks might sound like something they don't need to think about. Because cyber criminals only go after big, lucrative targets, right? Why would they target a small business?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe unfortunate truth is that small businesses can make very tempting targets for malicious hackers and cyber criminals because they hold the same kinds of data that large businesses have, such as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fa-security-researcher-told-me-my-passwords-and-more-how-15-years-of-digital-footprints-left-me-exposed\u002F\"\u003Epersonal information, credit card details, passwords, and more\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the nature of small business means that the information could be held less securely than it is within a large organisation, particularly if there isn't a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-jobs-this-is-what-were-getting-wrong-when-hiring-and-heres-how-to-fix-it\u002F\"\u003Especialist information security employee\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on staff.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall businesses can also prove tempting to hackers looking to gain access to a bigger company as part of a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsupply-chain-attacks-are-the-hackers-new-favourite-weapon-and-the-threat-is-getting-bigger\u002F\"\u003Esupply chain attack\u003C\u002Fa\u003E – by compromising a small business that might be a supplier to a larger organisation, the attacker could use that access to help infiltrate the network of a larger business partner.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo matter what kind of cyberattack a small business falls victim to, whether that's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-phishing-how-to-protect-yourself-from-scam-emails-and-more\u002F\"\u003Ephishing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fransomware-an-executive-guide-to-one-of-the-biggest-menaces-on-the-web\u002F\"\u003Eransomware\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-malware-everything-you-need-to-know-about-viruses-trojans-and-malicious-software\u002F\"\u003Emalware\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or any other kind of malicious activity where attackers can access and tamper with data, the results can potentially be devastating. In some cases, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fransomware-attack-and-covid-woes-force-this-150-year-old-college-to-shut-down\u002F\"\u003Ethe cost of falling victim to a cyberattack has even forced organisations to close permanently\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFortunately, it's possible to help keep your business and employees secure online. Here are some basic cybersecurity pitfalls that you should try to avoid.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Don't use weak passwords to secure online accounts\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyber criminals don't need to be super-skilled to break into business email accounts and other applications. In many cases, they're able to get in because the account owner is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-are-the-terrible-passwords-that-people-are-still-using-heres-how-to-do-better\u002F\"\u003Eusing a weak or easy-to-guess password\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe shift towards \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Funsecured-servers-and-cloud-services-how-remote-work-has-increased-the-attack-surface-that-hackers-can-target\u002F\"\u003Ecloud-based office applications and remote working\u003C\u002Fa\u003E has also provided \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fterrible-cloud-security-is-leaving-the-door-open-for-hackers-heres-what-youre-doing-wrong\u002F\"\u003Ecyber criminals with additional opportunities for attacks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERemembering many different passwords can be difficult, which can lead to people using simple passwords across multiple accounts. This leaves accounts and businesses vulnerable to cyberattacks, particularly if cyber criminals can use \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-systems-are-facing-billions-of-attacks-every-month-as-hackers-try-to-guess-passwords\u002F\"\u003Ebrute-force attacks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to quickly run through a list of commonly used or simple passwords.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou should also never base your passwords around easy-to-discover information, such as your favourite sports team or your pet's name, because clues on your public social media profiles could give this information away.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) suggests using a password made up of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwant-a-strong-password-youre-probably-still-doing-it-the-wrong-way\u002F\"\u003Ethree random words\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a tactic that should make passwords difficult to guess.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA different password should be used to secure each account – a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fits-past-time-you-started-using-a-password-manager-whether-you-like-it-or-not\u002F\"\u003Epassword manager\u003C\u002Fa\u003E can help users by removing the need to remember every password.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Don't ignore multi-factor authentication\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not impossible that even a strong password can end up in the wrong hands. Cyber criminals can use tricks, such as phishing attacks, to steal login details from users. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmulti-factor-authentication-use-it-for-all-the-people-that-access-your-network-all-the-time\u002F\"\u003EMulti-factor authentication\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (MFA) provides an additional barrier to account compromise, by requiring the user to respond to an alert – often via a specially designed MFA application – to confirm that it really is them attempting to log in to the account.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat extra layer means that, even if a cyber criminal has the correct password, they can't use the account without the account owner approving access. If a user gets an unexpected alert saying they've attempted to log in to their account, they should report it to their IT or security team and reset their password immediately, so cyber criminals can't continue attempts to abuse a stolen password.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDespite calls for the use of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbetter-than-the-best-password-how-to-use-2fa-to-improve-your-security\u002F\"\u003Emulti-factor authentication\u003C\u002Fa\u003E – also known as two-factor authentication (2FA) – being among the most commonly issued cybersecurity advice, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftwo-factor-authentication-is-a-great-idea-but-not-enough-people-are-using-it\u002F\"\u003Emany businesses still aren't using\u003C\u002Fa\u003E the technique – and that's something that needs to change.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Don't put off applying security patches and updates\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the most common techniques cyber criminals use to breach and move around networks is taking advantage of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-old-security-vulnerabilities-are-creating-new-opportunities-for-hackers\u002F\"\u003Ecybersecurity vulnerabilities in applications and software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. When these security vulnerabilities are disclosed, the vendors who make operating systems will usually release a security update to fix them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe security patch will fix the flaw, thus protecting the system from cyber criminals attempting to exploit it – but only if the update is applied.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnfortunately, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-one-change-could-protect-your-systems-from-attack-so-why-dont-more-companies-do-it\u002F\"\u003Emany businesses are slow to roll out security patches and updates\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, leaving their networks and systems vulnerable to hackers. Sometimes, these vulnerabilities can be left unpatched for years, putting the business – and potentially their customers – at risk from cyber incidents that could easily have been prevented.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, one of the key things a small business can do to improve cybersecurity is to set out a strategy for applying critical security updates as quickly as possible. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis approach can be achieved by setting up the network so that software updates are applied automatically, or they can be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. However, what's vital to recognise is that critical security updates – \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcisa-here-are-66-more-security-flaws-actively-being-used-by-hackers-so-get-patching\u002F\"\u003Eoften detailed by cybersecurity agencies like CISA\u003C\u002Fa\u003E – should be applied as soon as possible.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Don't forget about antivirus software or firewalls \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fantivirus-software-explained\u002F\"\u003EAntivirus software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is there to help protect computers – and people – from cyber threats including malware and ransomware, but these tools can't help anyone if they're not installed or active. To improve cybersecurity, small businesses should install antivirus software across all computers and laptops on the network.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENowadays, antivirus software is often bundled for free within popular operating systems, but there's also the option of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-antivirus\u002F\"\u003Einstalling a product from a dedicated antivirus software vendor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, you can't just ignore antivirus software after installing it. As with other software, it's important to prevent antivirus tools from becoming obsolete against evolving cyber threats, so you'll need to install updates and patches as required.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstalling spam filters and firewalls can also help employees stay protected against cyberattacks – and like antivirus, it's important to have these tools turned on and kept updated in order for them to be effective.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E5. Don't leave employees without cybersecurity training\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven if your small business only has a handful of employees, it's important to provide tools and training around \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-how-talking-about-mistakes-can-make-everyone-safer\u002F\"\u003Ecybersecurity awareness\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, because all it can take to provide malicious hackers with a way into the network is one person inadvertently making an error.\u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E For example, they could mistakenly click on a link in a phishing email and install malware on the network, or they could fall victim to a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fransomware-is-scary-but-another-scam-is-costing-victims-much-much-more-says-fbi\u002F\"\u003Ebusiness email compromise\u003C\u002Fa\u003E scam and transfer a large sum of money to someone claiming to be a business partner – \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-that-email-really-from-your-boss-fbi-warns-fake-ceo-scams-now-3-1bn-crime\u002F\"\u003Eor even their boss\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, providing education and advice to employees on how to recognise phishing emails, suspicious links and other potential methods of attack is vital for helping to keep data, money, personnel and customers secure. It's also important that employees know who they should report potential suspicious activity to, so suspected cybersecurity incidents can be prevented.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E6. Don't ignore backups\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven if there's only a handful of computers on your network, one of the key things you should be doing to make systems more resilient to cyberattacks is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-backup-software\u002F\"\u003Eproducing regular backups of your data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis strategy means that in the event of an incident encrypting, wiping or otherwise bringing the network down, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fpc-and-mac-backup-how-to-protect-your-data-from-disaster\u002F\"\u003Ethere will be a recent copy of all of your data that can be restored\u003C\u002Fa\u003E – and that means a relatively quick return to normal.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe backups should be updated regularly, so that the data stored within them is as recent as possible, and the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fa-nas-is-not-enough\u002F\"\u003Ebackups should be stored offline\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, preventing any attackers who get in the network from accessing and wiping them.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E7. Don't leave your network unmonitored\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESetting up the network with controls to help prevent cyberattacks is useful, but small businesses shouldn't install tools and then just ignore them and hope for the best. Someone in your business should have responsibility for monitoring activity on the network for potential harmful behaviour.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis approach starts with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-key-to-stopping-cyberattacks-understanding-your-own-systems-before-the-hackers-strike\u002F\"\u003Eknowing what computers and other internet-connected devices actually make up your network\u003C\u002Fa\u003E – because you can't defend what you don't know about. Then, you'll need to ensure these devices are protected with the right updates. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIdentifying internet-connected devices on the network might sound like a simple task, but it can get complicated quickly. These devices don't just include computers: there's also IoT devices, point-of-sale machines, security cameras, and potentially much more. All these devices could potentially be exploited and abused by cyber criminals if they are not managed correctly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, taking the time to audit your network and fully understand what's on it is vital. It's also important to be aware of what consists of regular behaviour on the network and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fransomware-even-when-the-attackers-are-in-your-network-its-not-too-late-to-fight-back\u002F\"\u003Ewhat could count as suspicious or irregular\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. If your small business is suddenly seeing logins from the other side of the world, for example, then that could be a sign that something is wrong and needs investigating.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E8. Don't end up facing a cybersecurity incident without a plan\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven if you have a solid cybersecurity strategy, there's still a chance that cyber criminals could breach the network and use their access for nefarious means, whether that's installing ransomware, conducting espionage, stealing credit card information or focusing on countless other malicious attacks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the event of one of these events happening, it's helpful to have a plan that can be put in place – and it should be accessible even if the network ends up offline. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcompanies-are-tired-of-spending-money-on-cybersecurity-heres-how-to-change-their-minds\u002F\"\u003EHaving a plan in place – around how the business will respond to a cyberattack\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, how it could continue operating and which cybersecurity agencies and investigators should be contacted – will help your business to deal with a stressful situation with some semblance of strategy and calm.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you are looking for more advice, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffbi-and-nsa-say-stop-doing-these-10-things-that-let-the-hackers-in\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ENSA and FBI has a list of 10 cybersecurity errors\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that let hackers into your systems.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-06-06 13:51:51",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Cybersecurity is important for businesses of any size - even small ones. Here's some pitfalls to avoid.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"67e28cdf-235f-409a-a095-3c9d482f2789",image:{id:"e46b26aa-2bf3-4a83-99ea-060ca2271199",filename:"istock-two-people-at-a-computer.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2017-12-01 16:46:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"istock-two-people-at-a-computer.jpg",credits:"Image: iStock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ETeaching staff even the most basic cyber security techniques can help protect them in the workplace - and at home.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2017\u002F12\u002F01\u002Fe46b26aa-2bf3-4a83-99ea-060ca2271199\u002Fistock-two-people-at-a-computer.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"guide",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"small-business-cybersecurity-avoid-these-8-basic-mistakes-that-could-let-hackers-in",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Small business cybersecurity: Avoid these 8 basic mistakes that could let hackers in",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a07aa17d-f2f6-483b-adb5-6e8441f7247b",username:"Jessica Walrack",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Jessica",lastName:"Walrack",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"735e2391-6f1c-4b93-ac39-a92d075f3f7a",filename:"walrak-2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-08-26 20:39:39",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F08\u002F26\u002F735e2391-6f1c-4b93-ac39-a92d075f3f7a\u002Fwalrak-2.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Jessica Walrack is a personal finance writer at SuperMoney, Interest.com, The Simple Dollar, and PersonalLoans.org. She specializes in personal finance topics.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003ETax time is drawing near once again and as April 2022 approaches, it's important to take note of all of the changes -- big and small -- that will affect returns this year. Most notably, is that the deadline is not April 15 but \u003Cstrong\u003EApril 18\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. This also means the 6-month extension will move from October 15 to \u003Cstrong\u003EOctober 17. \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"ad8bcf79-0e16-4306-9adb-bc484fa3db21\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fad8bcf79-0e16-4306-9adb-bc484fa3db21\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs you prepare, this comprehensive income guide for 2022 can provide the basics you need to know from tax forms to credits to deductions for the 2021 tax year. Plus, dig deep into topics like what you can do if you can't pay your taxes by the deadline and what happens if you don't file on time. It can be hard to navigate through the many pages of the tax code or IRS website so here you have all you need to know in one convenient place.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe basics of income tax\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDepending on your filing status and yearly income, you may not be required by law to file a return with the IRS. However, even if you don't have to file, it may still be in your best interest to submit a tax return. You may not owe any income taxes but you might be eligible to receive a refundable credit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf your income for the year is above a certain amount, you must file a federal income tax return. This amount for which you are liable is dependent on several factors, including your age and the type of income you received. For instance, for the 2021 tax year, a single, independent adult under the age of 65 must file a return if they earned \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Fp501.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$12,400\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or more gross income during the year.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EImproperly filing your taxes could end up costing you more than you owe. Worse yet, it could even trigger a dreaded IRS audit. Correctly filing your taxes on time can ensure you receive the amount owed to you by the IRS and avoid paying any penalties. And by utilizing the numerous credits, write-offs and other benefits available to certain taxpayers, you can maximize your refund or even reduce the amount you owe. These are the basic ideas to keep in mind to get started.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECalculate your gross income:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E If you're going to do your taxes on your own, start by figuring out your gross income (GI). This is the total amount of money you've made in a year from all sources: wages, dividends, gifts, alimony, etc. If you're going to let a professional handle your taxes, it's still a good idea to know how much you've made, but your tax professional can help you through the process.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECalculate your adjusted gross income:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E After you've determined your gross income, determine your filing status and which tax forms you'll use. Your filing status is based on family and marital status and will determine your standard deduction, which is a set amount you can deduct from your gross income. Subtracting the standard deduction from your gross income will provide you with your \u003Cstrong\u003Eadjusted gross income (AGI)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECalculate your taxable income:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Some individuals are eligible for exemptions that can bring their AGI even lower. Once you or a tax professional determine the tax credits and deductions you qualify for, you'll be able to find your \u003Cstrong\u003Etaxable income\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E. In many cases, deductions and credits can take your taxable income to zero, resulting in refunds from the IRS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENon-taxable income\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are some sources of income that are usually not taxable. Types of income that are exempt from tax include:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChild support payments\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EWelfare benefits\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGifts, bequests and inheritances\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAwards for damage from personal injury and illness\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECash rebates from manufacturers\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EReimbursements for qualified adoption expenses\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are other forms of income that are usually not taxable except in specific instances:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ELife insurance payouts are typically not taxable. However, if you redeem the policy for cash, any amount that exceeds the cost of the policy is taxable. Early withdrawals are also taxable.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EScholarship payments used for tuition and course textbooks are not taxable, but payments used for room and board are\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EModified adjusted gross income:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Your AGI is used to calculate your \u003Cstrong\u003Emodified adjusted gross income (MAGI)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E, which the IRS uses to determine eligibility for certain deductions and credits. This figure is equal to your AGI plus any nontaxable sources of income, such as tax-exempt forms of interest earned or income from foreign investments. For many individuals, their MAGI won't differ much from their AGI. However, things such as student loan interest, tuition, rent losses and retirement contributions can all have an impact.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to file taxes\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are three main ways to file your income tax: through the mail, electronically via tax-preparation software like TurboTax or through a tax professional. The deadline for filing is April 18 unless you request and are approved for a six-month extension which pushes the date to Oct. 17. No matter the method you choose, you'll need to fill out either \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Fi1040gi.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 1040 and Schedules 1 through 3, or Form 1040-SR\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for senior citizen taxpayers age 65 and older, with the necessary information. (Previously, you had the option to file either Form 1040-A or 1040-EZ, but these have been discontinued since Tax year 2018.) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPaper filing\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E is the traditional way of preparing taxes, and many people are still more comfortable handling financial information with pen and paper. This method of filing takes longer for the IRS to process, so returns are slower to arrive. The completed 1040 must be mailed to one of several addresses, depending on your location and whether or not you have included a payment.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax preparation software\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E is the preferred DIY way of handling taxes. Most software is designed to make taxes easier and will help the user identify available tax deductions and credits they might otherwise miss. Built-in databases are usually updated each year to help you remain on top of changes in tax law.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax professionals\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E handle your tax returns for you. Hiring an accountant or going to a professional company takes the work out of your taxes and removes the burden from your shoulders. Of course, the tradeoff is you must pay for the service, as well as provide all of your personal financial information to a stranger.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnless you use the paper filing method, your taxes will be submitted electronically. Electronic submissions are typically safer and see a much faster return than paper submissions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-income-tax-guide-for-2022\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EZDNet's guide to filing taxes 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat happens if you file late\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you missed the April 18 tax-filing deadline, and you owe taxes, there will usually be penalties to pay. If you are owed a refund, you won't be penalized for filing late. However, you must file a return within three years, or the government will keep your refund.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor those who owe the government money, there are two types of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpayments\u002Fpenalties\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Epenalties\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: the failure-to-file penalty and the failure-to-pay penalty.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpayments\u002Ffailure-to-file-penalty\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe penalty for filing late\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E is equal to 5% of the taxes you owe each month that you don't file, up to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Ftaxtopics\u002Ftc653\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E25%\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. After 60 days, the minimum penalty for returns to be filed in 2022 will be \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Ftaxtopics\u002Ftc653\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$435\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or equal to 100% of the tax amount due (whichever amount is less).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpayments\u002Ffailure-to-pay-penalty\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe penalty for paying late\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E is 0.5% of the amount of taxes due, up to 25%. You may still incur this penalty if you applied for an extension of time to file. If the tax remains unpaid for more than 10 days after receiving a notice on the IRS's intent to levy, the penalty rate increases to 1% and if you get on an installment plan, it decreases to 0.25%.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInterest is also charged\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E on any amount of taxes that haven't been paid by April 18. The interest rate is the current Short-term Applicable Federal Rates (AFR) plus 3 percentage points. For example, the interest rate for the first quarter of 2022 is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Finterest-rates-remain-the-same-for-the-first-quarter-of-2022\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E3%\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow to file taxes if you can't pay what you owe\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlways file your taxes as soon as possible\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E, even if you can't pay what you owe. By simply filing your taxes, you avoid a bevy of fees and penalties that will be even harder to pay back.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, if you can't pay, you still have options.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The IRS Official Policy is to collect all possible collectible taxes, interest, and penalties. However, IRS Tax Debt Forgiveness Programs are aimed at tax debt deemed uncollectible or on which collection is doubtful,\" explains enrolled agent Steven J. Weil, Ph.D. and president of RMS Accounting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe adds, \"These programs include extensions of time to pay, installment agreement, currently not collectible status and offers in compromise.\" If you can't pay immediately, one of these programs may be able to help you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApply for an extension of time to pay\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E by submitting \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1127.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 1127\u003C\u002Fa\u003E if you can demonstrate that paying the full amount of taxes you owe would cause \"undue hardship.\" According to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1127.pdf#page=3\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Einstructions on the form\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, undue hardship must be \"more than an inconvenience,\" and must result in a \"substantial financial loss.\" The example given is if the on-time payment forced you to sell a property at a \"sacrifice price.\" The maximum amount of time that is typically granted is six months. If your application is accepted, you won't have to pay a penalty for late payment, but you will still be charged interest.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESet up an installment agreement\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E if you don't qualify for an extension to pay -- this means that you agree to pay a certain amount every month until the tax amount that you owe is paid in full. You can choose from a short-term agreement (repay the debt in 120 days or less) or a long-term agreement (repaying the debt in more than 120 days). Keep in mind that there are fees associated with setting up some of the agreements and you will continue to be charged interest on the amount that you owe.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you owe less than $50,000, you can file an installment agreement \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpayments\u002Fonline-payment-agreement-application\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eonline\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Short-term agreements have no set-up fees while long-term agreements cost $149 if you pay manually each month or $31 if you set up automatic withdrawals. The appropriate fee will be added to your tax bill if you select this option.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECurrently not collectible status\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E may be an option if you can prove to the IRS that you can't pay anything. The IRS can place your account in a temporary \"currently not collectible\" status and collection attempts will pause.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOffer in Compromise:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E In rare situations, you may be able to settle your debt for less than the total amount that you owe to the IRS. If you can't pay (based on income and allowable expenses) and there is little likelihood that you will be able to pay before the collection statute expires, or you are only able to pay a small amount that will never settle the balance owed, an 'Offer in Compromise' might be right for you. However, you can't use this avenue while holding onto assets that have equity and could be liquidated to pay what you owe. Further, if you qualify, it also requires you to commit to paying all taxes when due for the next five years. Any breach in your agreement to file and pay on time can bring the debt right back at you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERequest an abatement or refund\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E of interest charges or fees due to an error made by the IRS or another cause that is either \"reasonable\" or allowed under the law by filing \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff843.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 843\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. You must have a solid reason to use this form. A summary of the typical reasons for filing this form can be found in the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Fi843.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Einstructions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for Form 843.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConsider a low-interest loan\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E if you can secure a lower interest rate than would be charged by the IRS. For instance, some credit cards come with a 0% introductory APR for a certain period of time. Be sure to check with the issuer to verify that the card can be used to make a tax payment, as not all credit card companies will allow that type of usage.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote that all of these options are available directly to you. However, you may encounter tax relief firms that make you big promises to relieve you of your tax problems. Weil warns, \"Don't be fooled into thinking that a tax relief firm can just make your debt go away or settle for pennies on the dollar. This can only happen if you just don't have the income, assets, and ability to borrow to make required payments.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you have further questions about what options may be available for you if you can't afford to pay your taxes, you can visit \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIRS.gov\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or call 800-829-1040. If you cannot resolve your issues by speaking with an IRS representative, you can seek additional help from the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Ftaxpayer-advocate\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ETaxpayer Advocate Service\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow income tax is calculated\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe United States has a progressive income tax scale. The more money you make, the more you'll pay in taxes. However, earning a high wage doesn't mean your entire income will be taxed at the same rate because the progressive income tax scale uses marginal tax rates to determine how your taxes are calculated.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo better understand how your income is taxed, imagine your taxable income is divided into sections. The first section is taxed at one rate, then the next section is taxed at a higher rate, and the section after that is taxed at an even higher rate, and so on. These different portions are called tax brackets. There are seven different tax brackets, and their rates differ based on your filing status (see below for tables of each filing status and their respective marginal tax rates).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarginal tax rate\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E is best defined as the amount of tax you pay on an additional dollar of income and the United States uses multiple increasing rates for specific ranges of income. For example, a single person will pay a marginal tax rate of 24% on $91,900 for tax year 2021. However, that's only on their last bit of income; it is broken down further. They pay 10% on the first $9,950 earned, $995 plus 12% on taxable income over $9,950 and up to $40,525, $4,664 plus 22% on amounts over $40,525 and up to $86,375 and $14,750.66 plus 24% on amounts over $86,375 and up to $164,925. So only $5,524 of the $91,900 is taxed at the 24% marginal tax rate.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEffective tax rate\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E is the percentage of your taxable income that you pay in taxes. Take the above example; if that single person pays a total of $16,076.42 in taxes, divide that by $91,900 and you get 0.175, or a 17.5% effective tax rate.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EState income tax\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EState income tax is required alongside federal income tax, but can often be deducted from federal taxes. State income tax varies widely among states.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are nine states that don't tax income: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming. New Hampshire doesn't tax wages but does tax money made on investments and other forms of income.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe three states with the highest income tax rates in 2021 are California with 13.3%, Hawaii with 11%, and New Jersey with 10.75%.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe three states with the lowest income tax rates in 2021 are North Dakota with 2.9%, Pennsylvania with 3.07% and Indiana with 3.23%.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe five filing statuses\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are five different marital statuses you can choose when filing: single, married filing joint, married filing separate, head of household and qualifying widow(er) with a child.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ESingle\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo file as single, a person must be unmarried, divorced, or legally separated on December 31 of the tax year with no qualifying dependents. The standard deduction for the 2021 tax year for a person filing is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Firs-provides-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2021\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$12,550\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESingle Filer's Income\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax Due\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$0 – $9,950\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$9,951 – $40,525\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E12%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$40,526 – $86,375\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E22%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$86,376 – $164,925\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E24%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$164,926 – $209,425\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$209,426 – $523,600\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E35%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$523,601 +\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E37%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EMarried filing jointly\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you are married by December 31st of the tax year, you can file your taxes with your spouse. However, this is not required. Married couples can file separately from one another but it is often less beneficial than filing together. The standard deduction for the 2021 tax year for couples filing jointly is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Firs-provides-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2021\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$25,100\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarried Filing Jointly Income\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax Due\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$0 – $19,900\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$19,901 – $81,050\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E12%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$81,051 – $172,750\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E22%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$172,751 – $329,850\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E24%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$329,851 – $418,850\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$418,851 – $628,300\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E35%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$628,301 +\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E37%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EMarried filing separate\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMarried filing jointly usually yields better returns, but not always. In instances where unique tax situations may result in more taxes owed, a couple might choose to file separately from one another. The standard deduction for someone filing separately from their spouse for the 2021 tax year is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Firs-provides-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2021\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$12,550\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarried Filing Separate Income\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax Due\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$0 – $9,950\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$9,951 – $40,525\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E12%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$40,526 – $86,375\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E22%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$86,376 – $164,925\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E24%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$164,926 – $209,425\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$209,426 – $314,151\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E35%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$314,152 +\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E37%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EHead of household\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou may file as head of household if you are unmarried and have paid for more than half of the upkeep and maintenance of your home in the past year. You must also have one or more qualifying dependents. The standard deduction for filing head of household for the 2021 tax year is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Firs-provides-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2021\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$18,800\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHead of Household Income\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax Due\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$0 – $14,200\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$14,201 – $54,200\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E12%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$54,201 – $86,350\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E22%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$86,351 – $164,900\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E24%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$164,901 – $209,400\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$209,401 – $523,600\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E35%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$523,601 +\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E37%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQualifying widow(er) with child\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou may file as a qualifying widow(er) with a child if your spouse has died in either of the previous two tax-filing years if you haven't remarried and you have a child. The standard deduction for the 2021 tax year for a qualifying widow(er) with a child is $24,400.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWidow(er) With Child Income\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax Due\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$0 – $19,900\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$19,901 – $81,050\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E12%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$81,051 – $172,750\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E22%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$172,751 – $329,850\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E24%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$329,851 – $418,850\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E32%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$418,851 – $628,300\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E35%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E$628,301 +\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E37%\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ECommon tax forms you need to know\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAside from the W2 and 1040, there are multiple other tax forms you are likely to encounter when filing your taxes. While you don't need to know the specifics of each form, a surface-level familiarity with them will help you understand which form to use when.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax Form\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDetails\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EExample Download Link\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EW-2\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe W-2 is the primary employer-issued tax form. If an employer paid you wages of more than $600 from which income, social security, or Medicare was withheld, you will receive a W-2.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ffw2.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ffw2.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3EW-2%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EW-2\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EW-2G\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EForm W-2G is the \"Certain Gambling Winnings\" form. It is used to report gambling winnings and any taxes withheld on those winnings. If you have won a significant sum from any gambling institution, you'll receive a W-2G.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ffw2g.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ffw2g.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3EW-2G%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EW-2G\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1040\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EForm 1040 is the \"U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.\" It's the primary form used by individuals to file their income tax returns with the IRS. The first page of the 1040 collects information on the taxpayer, any dependents, income and adjustments to income. The second page shows deductions and credits and taxes due.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1040.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1040.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1040%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1040\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1099-MISC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 1099-MISC is similar to a W2 in that it is provided by employers, but to independent contractors who have earned at least $600 over the course of the year in rent, services performed, prizes and awards, medical and health care payments, crop insurance proceeds, cash payments for fish or other aquatic life, payments to an attorney, and more. This form is also given to individuals who have earned at least $10 in royalties or broker payments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1099msc.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1099msc.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1099-MISC%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1099-MISC\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1099-DIV\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EForm 1099-DIV is used to report ordinary dividends, total capital gains, qualified dividends, non-taxable distributions, federal income tax withheld, foreign taxes paid, and foreign source income from investments held by fund companies.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-access\u002Ff1099div_accessible.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-access\u002Ff1099div_accessible.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1099-DIV%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1099-DIV\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1099-INT\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EForm 1099-INT shows interest income from the previous tax year such as that paid from savings accounts, interest-bearing checking accounts, and US Savings bonds. The form is issued by banks, brokerage firms, and other financial institutions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1099int.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1099int.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1099-INT%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1099-INT\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1099-G\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1099-G is the \"Certain Government Payments\" form. It's used to report unemployment compensation, state or local income tax refunds, credits, offsets, reemployment trade adjustment assistance (RTAA) payments, taxable grants, and\u002For agricultural payments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1099g.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1099g.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1099-G%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1099-G\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESSA-1099\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe SSA-1099 reports any social security benefits earned, including retirement benefits, disability benefits, and survivor benefits. Depending on a variety of factors, social security benefits may or may not be taxable. There are two variants of the SSA-1099: the SSA-1099-R-OP1 and the SSA-1099-SM. These forms are handled exactly like an SSA-1099.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpublications\u002Fp915\u002Far02.html#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpublications\u002Fp915\u002Far02.html%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3ESSA-1099%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESSA-1099\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1098-T\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EForm 1098-T is known as the \"Tuition Statement.\" It is used to determine potential education credits, tuition and fee deductions, and other benefits for qualified tuition expenses. This form enables credits like The Lifetime Learning Credit, the American Opportunity Credit, and others.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1098t.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1098t.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1098-T%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1098-T\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1098-E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis form is known as the \"Student Loan Interest Statement.\" Like the name implies, this form displays the amount of interest paid on student loans during the previous tax year. These interest payments are often deductible from your federal tax return, which can lower the amount of taxable income you're liable for.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1098e.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1098e.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1098-E%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1098-E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1095-A\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EForm 1095-A is the \"Health Insurance Marketplace Statement.\" If you purchased health insurance through one of the Health Care Exchanges, you will receive one of these forms showing the necessary information for you to obtain the Premium Tax Credit, a benefit introduced with the Affordable Care Act to offset the cost of healthcare.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1095a.pdf#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1095a.pdf%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22%3Cstrong%3E1095-A%3C\u002Fstrong%3E%22}\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1095-A\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETax credits and how to save money on your return\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe purpose of filing your taxes is to reduce the amount of taxable income you're liable for. You can reduce your taxes by investing in retirement savings accounts, contributing to health savings accounts, using tax credits and itemizing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERetirement savings accounts\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA retirement savings account is similar to a traditional, Roth, or Simple IRA. Contributions to these plans are often tax-deductible, although the amount is based on your filing status and your MAGI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHealth Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHealth savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) are both set up via employers. Employees can contribute a portion of their income to these accounts before taxes are deducted (pre-tax) resulting in significant income tax savings. HSAs roll over into the next year if the contributions are not used, unlike FSAs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EItemizing\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you have a particularly high number of expenses, you can often itemize deductions and receive more than if you had taken the standard deduction. This is useful for self-employed individuals who spend thousands each year on transportation, office expenses and more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETax deductions versus tax credits\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are a few basic differences between tax credits and tax deductions. Tax credits provide a dollar-for-dollar reduction of your income tax liability. This means that a $1,000 tax credit saves you $1,000 in taxes. On the other hand, tax deductions lower your taxable income and they're equal to the percentage of your marginal tax bracket. Tax credits, as a rule, are nonrefundable; they reduce your overall liability. However, there are \"refundable\" tax credits that will get you a tax refund once your liability drops to zero. Tax deductions lower your taxable income as calculated by your marginal tax rate.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETax deductions\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's a look at some of the tax deductions for the 2021 tax year.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EState and local taxes:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E You can take deductions for amounts you've paid to state and local income, sales and property taxes up to $10,000 ($5,000 if you are married filing separately).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHome mortgage interest:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E You can deduct up to $750,000 ($375,000 if married filing separately) of interest on acquisition debt.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECharitable donations:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E You can deduct up to 60% of cash donations to public charities for the 2021 tax year.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPersonal casualty losses:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E You can deduct losses attributable to a federal disaster.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStudent loan interest deduction:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Deduct up to $2,500 in student loan interest paid in 2021 if your MAGI was below $85,000 ($170,000 for joint returns). Note the phaseout starts for taxpayers with MAGI of $70,000 ($140,000 for joint returns).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMedical and dental expense deduction:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Deduct medical and dental expenses that exceed 10% of your AGI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-income-tax-guide-for-2022\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EZDNet's guide to filing taxes 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETax credits\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETax credits reduce the amount you owe. Like the deductions above, this is a list of the most common credits, but not an exhaustive list.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EAmerican Opportunity Credit\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe American Opportunity Credit is an education credit available to a parent or spouse of a student. If no one claims the student as a dependent, then the student can claim the credit for themselves.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWho is eligible?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EA student must be pursuing a degree, have no felony convictions, have been enrolled for at least one academic term and must not have previously claimed the AOTC credit for more than three years. To gain the full credit, the person claiming it must have a MAGI under $80,000 if filing single or $160,000 if married filing jointly. If your MAGI exceeds $90,000 ($180,000 for married filing jointly), you won't qualify for any credit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat qualifies?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe AOTC is one of the more beneficial credits because it allows taxpayers to claim all of the first $2,000 in qualified education expenses per year, per student. It also allows taxpayers to claim 25% of the next $2,000 education expenses per year, per student. Further, the credit is 40% refundable -- up to $1,000.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to apply\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ETo apply for the American Opportunity Credit, you will need to fill out \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff8863.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 8863\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, titled \"Education Credits.\" You'll need a copy of your \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1098t.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 1098-T\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, as well as a list of all qualifying education expenses, to properly fill out Form 8863.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ELifetime Learning Credit\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Lifetime Learning Credit is an education credit available to a parent or spouse of a student. If no one claims the student as a dependent, then the student can claim the credit for themselves.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWho is eligible?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EAnyone taking courses at an eligible institution to improve their job skills, obtain a degree, and is enrolled for at least a single academic period is eligible for the Lifetime Learning Credit. However, if you claim the Lifetime Learning Credit, then you cannot claim the American Opportunity Credit. For full credit, your MAGI must be below $59,000 if filing single or below $118,000 if married filing joint.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat qualifies?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003EThe Lifetime Learning Credit allows you to claim 20% of your first $10,000 in qualified education expenses. Unlike the American Opportunity Credit, it's not refundable; once your tax liability reaches zero, the credit no longer has any benefit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to apply\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003ETo apply for the Lifetime Learning Credit, you will need to fill out \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff8863.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 8863\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, titled \"Education Credits.\" You'll need a copy of your \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff1098t.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 1098-T\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, as well as a list of all qualifying education expenses, to properly fill out Form 8863.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EEarned Income Credit\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEarned Income Credit, commonly abbreviated as the EIC, is a credit available to low to mid-income working individuals, especially those with children. Also, there are other stringent requirements to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Fp596.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Equalify for the EIC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: you must not have any foreign investments, you must have earned at least $1 and your 2021 tax year investment income must be $3,650 or lower.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFiling Status\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENo Children\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1 Child\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2 Children\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3+ Children\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESingle, Head of Household, or Widowed\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$21,430\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$42,158\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$47,915\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$51,464\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarried Filing Jointly\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$27,380\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$48,108\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$53,865\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$57,414\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EChild Tax Credit\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Child Tax Credit was designed to offset the cost of raising children. To qualify for this credit, you must have a dependent who is under the age of 17 on December 31 and is a US citizen with a valid Social Security number. The child must be related to you. Also, the dependent must have lived with you for half the year (183 nights) and not provided more than half of their support. The Child Tax Credit can be worth as much as $2,000 per child. Up to $1,400 of the credit can be refunded for each child. However, the credit begins to phase out once you reach a MAGI of $200,000 ($400,000 for married filing jointly).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EChild and Dependent Care Credit\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you paid someone to take care of your child (under the age of 13) while you were at work or school, you might be eligible for the child and dependent care credit. This credit is available to all those who earned income (or are disabled and unable to work), have a qualifying dependent and paid someone to provide care for a qualifying person. The total expenses used to calculate the credit can't exceed $3,000 for one qualifying person ($6,000 for two). Also, this credit is not refundable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ESaver's Tax Credit\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Saver's Tax Credit, otherwise known as the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fretirement-plans\u002Fplan-participant-employee\u002Fretirement-savings-contributions-savers-credit\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ERetirement Savings Contributions Credit\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is a special break created for low to mid-income individuals saving for retirement. If you qualify, you can claim 50%, 20%, or 10% of the first $2,000 you put into a qualifying retirement account ($4,000 if married filing jointly). The credit maxes out at $1,000 ($2,000 if you are married filing jointly). The amount you can claim depends on your income. Single filers with a MAGI over $33,000 won't qualify (and a married couple filing jointly with a MAGI over $66,000).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EEnergy and Appliance Tax Credits\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you have made improvements that make your home more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, then you may qualify for a tax credit on the cost of those upgrades. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Fenergy-incentives-for-individuals-residential-property-updated-questions-and-answers\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHomeowners can receive a credit equal to 30% of the cost of qualified energy-efficient improvements\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in the case of property placed in service after December 31, 2016, and before January 1, 2020, such as solar electric systems and water heaters, wind energy equipment, and geothermal heat pumps. Those hoping to utilize these credits should get written certification from the manufacturer stating that their product qualifies for a tax credit. This information may be found on the company's website or the product's packaging and should be kept with your tax records. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ETax-free tuition savings plans\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETax-free tuition plans are a way for people to save money for future education expenses. In most cases, distributions from these savings plans are tax-free. These earnings can also continue to grow without being taxed if used for qualified expenses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EQualified Tuition Program\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EQualified Tuition Programs (QTPs) are sometimes called Section 529 plans. These programs allow contributors to prepay education expenses, or to place money into an account that will be used to pay for education in the future. While there are no tax benefits for contributing, any money placed in the account will continue to grow tax-free. QTP earnings are not taxable unless the funds are used for non-qualified education expenses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ECoverdell Education Savings Account\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA) is a trust fund. Each account is paid out to a beneficiary. In most cases, the beneficiary must be under 18; however, those with special needs may also qualify. Contributions to an ESA are not tax-deductible, and you cannot contribute more than $2,000 per year. Distributions are tax-free unless used for non-qualifying expenses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EEducation exception to additional tax on early IRA distributions\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn most cases, you can't withdraw funds from an IRA before the maturation date without an additional 10% penalty. However, for certain qualified education expenses, this penalty may be waived -- but all normal taxes for IRA withdrawals will still apply.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EEducation savings bond programs\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou may be able to exclude the interest from Series EE and Series I bonds issued after 1989 if you use these for qualified education expenses. This benefit can only be claimed fully by taxpayers with a MAGI of less than $82,350 if filing single, or $123,550 if married filing joint. To claim this, you would fill out IRS \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpub\u002Firs-pdf\u002Ff8815.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EForm 8815\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: \"Exclusion of Interest From Series EE and I U.S. Savings Bonds Issued After 1889.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EScholarships\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScholarship funds used for qualified education expenses are usually considered tax-exempt, but only if they meet eligibility requirements. The amount received must be less than or equal to a student's qualified education expenses, the scholarship must not be designated for non-qualified expenses like room and board, and it must not be repayment for services such as teaching.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EScholarships granted for research, travel, room, and board, clerical help or equipment are not tax-free.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-income-tax-guide-for-2022\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EZDNet's guide to filing taxes 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOther potential tax breaks for students\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're a student, there are numerous potential tax breaks you may be eligible for. Remember that tax breaks are often like scholarships: many go unclaimed simply because people don't know they exist.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EStudent loan cancellation\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStudent loan cancellation normally counts as income; however, if your loan contains a provisional clause that the debt will be canceled if you meet certain conditions, it may not be taxable. The loan must be a qualified loan from a qualified lender used to attend an eligible educational institution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ERefinanced loans\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA refinanced loan may be a tax break if it is made from a qualified educational institution or tax-exempt organization to encourage students to work in a specific area. For a refinanced loan to qualify, the one receiving the loan must be provided services for a governmental unit or a tax-exempt 501(c)(3).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EStudent loan repayment assistance\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to the IRS, loan repayment assistance granted by the National Health Services Corps Loan Repayment Program is tax-free.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EPotential military and veteran tax breaks\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETax law is heavily based on the state a person resides in. Because military personnel often live all over the country at different points in the year, their tax situations can be particularly tricky and complicated.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EROTC\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe ROTC program sometimes grants education and subsistence allowances for students enrolled in the program. These allowances are exclusions and are therefore not taxable on your income tax return.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EVA Education Benefits\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EVeterans Affairs benefits provided for things such as subsistence, training, and education are tax-free. However, there may be \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpublications\u002Fp970\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elimits\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to how far this benefit extends.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EService Academy Cadets\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf a cadet or midshipman at a military service academy is paid, this is generally considered personal income and is therefore not tax-exempt. However, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fpublications\u002Fp970\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecertain circumstances\u003C\u002Fa\u003E may make payment for services exempt.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EPotential homeowner tax breaks\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EHome mortgage interest\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you took out a mortgage to finance your home, some of those associated monthly expenses can be deductible if you decide to itemize your deductions. Typically, any interest payments on a mortgage for a main or second home are deductible as long as the mortgage balance is below $750,000 (or $375,000 if married filing separately) and was strictly used to buy, build or make improvements.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EProperty tax deductions\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHomeowners must often pay annual taxes to local and state governments on the value of their property. In 2021, you can deduct up to $10,000 ($5,000 if you are married filing separately) worth of property taxes, state and local income taxes and sales tax.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EMortgage insurance premiums\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMortgage insurance premiums paid or accrued on a mortgage issued after 2006 may qualify for inclusion as itemized deductions. Mortgage insurance premiums associated with funds provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Federal Housing Administration, the Rural Housing Service or qualified private providers are all eligible for deduction. However, this deduction begins to phase out if your MAGI is over $100,000 and completely phases out above $109,000.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EAdvice on tax preparation\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFiling your taxes doesn't have to be a nightmare. Despite the forms, deadlines and endless numbers, tax preparation can be a rather simple process if you approach it the right way.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EGuard against tax identity theft\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETax identity theft (often called tax fraud) has increased in recent years. Thieves will take your name, your social security number and your date of birth and use them to file a tax return in your name. When you file your return, the IRS will kick it back to you -- and leave you with a long, lengthy process to correct the situation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECriminals can get this information from wallets, internet phishing schemes, even misplaced hospital bills. You can take steps to lower your risk. Shred bills when you are finished with them, only browse trustworthy websites, and never enter your personal information online unless you are using a reputable site.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EChoose a tax company with year-round access\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAsk yourself: what would you do if audited? Many professional tax preparers offer assistance in handling the IRS in these situations. H&R Block, for example, sells additional \"Peace of Mind\" insurance which means all you have to do is turn over your audit letter to them and the company will handle it. Tax companies that close at the end of the tax season are unable to provide services like this, as audit letters often arrive in the weeks following the April 18 deadline.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat to do in case of an audit\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first thing to remember is that audits are not always a negative thing. You might be audited as the result of a random screening or because something on your return was filed the wrong way. Audits may be performed via mail or through an in-person interview; all contact information and related materials will be in the initial letter you receive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are a few steps to take:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDetermine why you are being audited:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Did you make a mistake on your math? Did you claim too many donations? Did you forget to include a form? The audit letter will usually inform you of the reason you're being audited. Once you determine the reason the IRS is investigating your return, you'll be able to address the situation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGather all relevant documents related to the audit in one place:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Collect all of your tax forms together, including any W-2s, 1099s or other forms you have received. It may also be a good idea to collect your previous years' tax returns to prove consistency.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMaintain courtesy and politeness in your responses:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Treat an audit like a speeding ticket; if you are courteous and quick with your responses, the process will go much more smoothly.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EDIY taxes vs. hiring a professional\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHiring a professional to do your taxes can be an expensive endeavor, so many people would prefer to handle it themselves. However, you should ask yourself a few things first. Are you comfortable with your tax situation? Do you understand the laws enough to apply them, and are you okay researching tax law if you find something you don't understand?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you aren't comfortable researching tax law, the idea of working with numbers and calculations scare you, or the entire concept of deductions and credits seems like black magic, you might be better off hiring a professional. On the other hand, if you don't mind numbers and tax law holds some interest for you, then do it yourself -- but be sure to double and triple check your calculations before submitting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EAsking for an Extension\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's possible to file your taxes after April 18. Filing Form 4868 will allow you to extend your filing deadline to Oct. 17. However, estimated tax payments are still due on April 18. Even if you file later in the year, you must still include a payment with your estimated total taxes by April 18 to avoid late penalties from the IRS.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe most popular tax software\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFiling taxes on your own doesn't need to be a nightmare. There are plenty of free and paid tax software companies that created products to help Americans file their taxes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, make sure you're not paying for tax software that you don't need. If you don't have complicated taxes -- like real estate, investments or foreign income -- free tax software can usually get the job done. Shop around for the software that gives you everything you need for free before committing to one company to file your taxes for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you do have real estate, investments, foreign income or self-employment income then it could be helpful to pay for an upgraded version to ensure that your deductions, wages and credits are properly filed and accounted for. It would be a bigger pain down the road if filed incorrectly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ELastly, remember\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile tax time can be stressful, it helps when you know what to expect and are proactive about the situation. In this guide, we've covered everything you need to know about income taxes for the 2021 tax year. If you need further help, you can refer to one of the recommended tax software services to guide you through the process and offer personal support. Or, if you prefer, you can seek out an independent tax professional to advise you with filing your taxes. All in all, what is important is that your taxes get properly filed so you can move on with confidence and peace of mind into 2022.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESee also: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-income-tax-guide-for-2022\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EZDNet's guide to filing taxes 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003E[This article was originally published on The Simple Dollar in August 2020. It was updated in January 2022.]\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-04-12 20:23:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Are you ready for income tax time? Here's our ultimate guide to make sure you're prepared for Tax Day on April 18.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"561e7c0c-85c3-40f7-b52d-5f4d80b9b87e",image:{id:"bff460a1-e4e1-46c6-b787-8d45f7ce8740",filename:"income-tax-guide.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-12-13 18:07:35",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"replace-this-image.jpg",credits:"By kenary820 -- Shutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F12\u002F13\u002Fbff460a1-e4e1-46c6-b787-8d45f7ce8740\u002Fincome-tax-guide.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"guide",hubTopicPathString:"Finance^Taxes",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"Income tax guide: What to know for tax season 2022",section:c,slug:"income-tax-guide",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Income tax guide: What to know for tax season 2022",topic:{id:"54ddfe1c-d6bf-40f6-9cec-488a5d0c5705",slug:"taxes",name:"Taxes",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"54ddfe1c-d6bf-40f6-9cec-488a5d0c5705",slug:"taxes",name:"Taxes",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than two decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (scheduled for publication in 2022).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6419e2e3-0bb0-44d2-84b1-51c08c8bf607\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"pile of money dollars\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1327279072-pile-of-money2.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F04\u002F04\" data-image-width=\"5113\" data-image-height=\"3834\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen you're about to make a big purchase, you probably do hours of research to find the best deal. Maybe you save a couple of  hundred bucks along the way. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3f27660f-fa37-417e-ab02-4c2d6088085e\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3f27660f-fa37-417e-ab02-4c2d6088085e\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut what if I told you that you could save just as much -- and maybe a lot more -- every month? All you have to do is take a closer look at the dozens of small purchases you make every month, especially those automatic monthly bills you pay and don't even think about. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe classic example, of course, is a health club membership, where you sign up in January and make your last visit sometime around Groundhog Day. Gym owners count on people paying even if they don't use the service -- and they make it as difficult as possible to cancel your membership.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn this post, I've collected some of my favorite money-saving tips, most of which come down to reviewing those small transactions regularly, with the help of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-do-vs-google-tasks-the-best-list-manager-app-for-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecalendar reminders\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Yes, this stuff can be a hassle, but I prefer to think of it as an investment, just like a stock that pays a dividend. In exchange for a little work now, you get to collect savings every month. At the end of the year, you'll be shocked at how much your total savings will be. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShift your domains to a lower-cost registrar \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you have a small business, even a side hustle, you probably own a few internet domains. Owners of small to medium-sized businesses sometimes have a substantial collection of these web addresses, each of which comes with an annual bill. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"4e352ee7-9e8b-4e2c-a565-83359ecef1db\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F4e352ee7-9e8b-4e2c-a565-83359ecef1db\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELots of businesses still have domains registered with Network Solutions, which used to be literally the only place where you could register a .com domain -- and the legacy registrar still charges like it has a monopoly. For a two-year domain registration, I was quoted a price of $25 for each of the first two years, with a $37.99 annual cost for subsequent renewals. Oh, and privacy protection is $1.99 every four weeks, or $25.87 per year. After five years, you've paid Network Solutions just under $300 for a single domain. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDomain registrars often attract new customers by offering a great deal on the initial registration, then make up for it by jacking up the price for renewals. GoDaddy, for example, offers a .com domain for a penny for the first year; then, in the small print, they confess that a 2-year purchase is required and the second and subsequent years will be billed at $19.99. Privacy protection is free, at least. After five years, you've spent $80 on that domain. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt $12 a year, you'd come out way ahead with \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"bfaad394-7dd3-4625-b1fd-c68afa7754ce\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdomains.google\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Google Domains\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, which also offers privacy protection for free. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, factors like reliability and security should be at the top of your list, but there are plenty of high-quality domain registrars that don't cost an arm and a leg. Switching to a less expensive domain registrar can cut your annual bill dramatically. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECut your cellphone bill down to size \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHow much do you pay every month for cell phone service? Your current plan was probably a good deal when you signed up for it years ago, but you might be able to find a better deal with a little comparative shopping. Given the competition among US carriers, you might be able to lock in savings that add up to hundreds of dollars over the course of a year. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"bcfcf706-c652-429d-98f8-bc8e678e6ca8\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fbcfcf706-c652-429d-98f8-bc8e678e6ca8\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best offers are typically available when you change carriers, because those companies are willing to give new customers big incentives to switch, typically as a prepaid credit card. If you're still paying monthly for a phone you purchased last year, for example, the new carrier might be willing to pay off that device as an inducement for you to switch. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery carrier offers discounts for active military personnel, veterans, and first responders. Some offer discounts for nurses, teachers, and students as well. If the primary account holder in your family is over 55, it's worth checking out \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e22d92ff-9633-49c8-a078-502226a03c34\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.t-mobile.com\u002Fcell-phone-plans\u002Funlimited-55-senior-discount-plans\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"T-Mobile's Unlimited 55+ plans\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E; you can get two lines with unlimited data, calls, and texting for $35 each (taxes and fees included). That Magenta 55+ plan is $50 a month less than the exact same Magenta+ plan for customers under 55, for a total savings of at least $600 a year. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you don't want to change carriers, ask your current carrier if they offer an employee discount. If you have a company email address, it's easy to check. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUse a 0% credit card offer to finance your next major purchase \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHow many big purchases are you going to make this year? Are you planning to replace your computer, buy new mobile phones, or upgrade your video conferencing hardware in your conference room? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ffinance\u002Fcredit-cards\u002Fbest-business-credit-card-zero-percent-apr\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best business credit cards with 0% APR\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven in a small office, that can represent a big expenditure. You could pay for the whole thing in cash, or you could use a line of credit. But why not take advantage of the opportunity to open a new business credit card that offers 0% interest on purchases and balance transfers? This type of offer is available regularly, with no-interest periods that run as long as two years. The result can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in savings compared to the interest you'd otherwise pay. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGet extra perks from your credit card \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're not already getting at least 1% of the purchase price back for every transaction you make using your business and personal credit cards, it might be time to switch. It helps if you know where you do most of your spending, because credit cards can have a dizzying matrix of reward categories. The \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Foc.brcclx.com\u002Ft\u002F?lid=26682604&cr=28296&last_updated=1598579208\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EChase Ink Business Preferred card\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for example, offers 3X points on each dollar for spending on shipping, search engine advertising, internet, cable, phone services, and travel on the first $150,000 spent each year. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"72269cb0-44b0-42aa-9f63-41d8d950d6ff\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F72269cb0-44b0-42aa-9f63-41d8d950d6ff\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd if you do most of your purchases at Amazon or Costco, check out their personal and business cards, which are especially generous in terms of cash back. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut don't stop at cash back. These days, card issuers compete for your business by offering additional discounts, typically offered as statement credits. The \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Foc.brcclx.com\u002Ft\u002F?lid=26681953&cr=28268&last_updated=1598565036\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAmerican Express Blue Business Plus card\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is especially rich in this regard, currently offering 10% back on purchases at Dell, with a maximum statement credit of $1500 per year. You also get 50% off FedEx shipping, up to a total of $1000. And there's no annual fee. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ffinance\u002Fcredit-cards\u002Fbest-amex-business-card\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best American Express business cards\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, look at extra perks like cell phone protection, which reimburses you if your mobile device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Just be sure you pay your monthly wireless bill in full with the card that offers this coverage. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDon't let free trials turn into recurring charges \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost online services offer a free trial, so you can evaluate the product and see whether it meets your needs. Invariably, they insist that you supply a credit card number that they can begin charging as soon as the free trial ends. If you forget to cancel, the recurring charges can add up: $10 here, $20 there, pretty soon you're talking serious money. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ffinance\u002Fcredit-cards\u002Fchase-ink-business-cash-vs-preferred-vs-unlimited-which-is-best-for-your-business\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChase Ink Business Cash vs. Preferred vs. Unlimited: Which credit card is best for you?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt sounds counterintuitive, but the best way to avoid those accidental unwanted charges is to sign up for a free trial and then immediately cancel the services. Most services will allow you to continue using the service until the trial period runs out. If you like the service and want to continue, you can return to the account management page and turn those automatic payments back on. If not, you're off the hook. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"45df0e42-b958-4ab7-8b38-aa6976f95b5b\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F45df0e42-b958-4ab7-8b38-aa6976f95b5b\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn even more foolproof way to avoid unwanted charges is to set up a virtual credit card using the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ebc8d0e6-5a62-414e-baaf-e290a24749d0\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fprivacy.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"privacy.com service\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. For personal accounts, the service is free and allows you to set up as many as 12 cards a month, each of which can be limited to a specific merchant, to a specific charge amount, or a total amount. They can also be time-limited and canceled with one click. For $10 a month, the Pro account gives you 1% back on purchases along with the ability to create up to 36 cards per month. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERegardless of which method you use, I recommend checking your credit card activity at least twice per month. Those regular inspections allow you to see unexpected charges and dispute them promptly; they also give you a heads-up about any recurring charges that you might need to cancel. If you find even one dubious charge or a subscription you no longer need to pay for, the effort will have been worth it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPick your next PC a year in advance \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen PC makers unveil new models with fast, cutting-edge CPUs, they rarely offer discounts. If you want to be the first on your block with that technology, you can expect to pay a premium for the privilege. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut guess what? The prices on those models usually go down a few months later, and they'll drop again a year later when the even newer models with the even faster, even more cutting-edge CPUs are introduced. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-chose-the-right-pc-everything-you-need-to-know-about-picking-the-right-computer-for-work\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to choose the right PC: Everything you need to know about picking a computer for work\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're convinced a just-announced PC model is perfect for you, set a reminder in your calendar for six months later and check the price. Then keep checking every month or so, and be ready to buy when you see a proper price cut. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECheck the online outlet stores before you buy your next PC, tablet, or smartphone \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll of the leading PC makers (including Apple) offer no-questions-asked return policies for the computers they sell online. If you take delivery of a new Windows PC or Mac, you typically have 14 days to try it out. If you don't like it, you can return it for a full refund. If you buy direct from a mobile device manufacturer, you typically get the same return conditions. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"d2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fd2c8d2e3-a125-48c1-b8aa-af507b069739\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhere-to-buy-used-laptop-deals\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhere to buy a used laptop\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, what happens to those practically brand-new, barely used devices? They become incredible bargains for smart shoppers like you. They're inspected, refurbished, repackaged, and then sold with a full warranty, at a significant discount from the price that you would pay for the exact same product new. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEarlier this year, for example, I saved more than $1,000 on a new Dell Precision Workstation by shopping at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fdfh\u002Fshop\u002Fdell-refurbished\u002Fcp\u002Foutlet\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDell's online outlet store\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInventory turns over quickly at these online outlets, and the best bargains disappear quickly. The best shopping strategy is to visit regularly for a few weeks to get an idea of what models and prices are available, then be ready to buy when you see your ideal configuration appear. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote: These sites are US only. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApple\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Frefurbished\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Frefurbished\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDell:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fdfh\u002Fshop\u002Fdell-refurbished\u002Fcp\u002Foutlet\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fdfh\u002Fshop\u002Fdell-refurbished\u002Fcp\u002Foutlet\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELenovo:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.lenovo.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Foutletus\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewww.lenovo.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Foutletus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHP:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fh41369.www4.hp.com\u002Fpps-offers.php\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehttps:\u002F\u002Fh41369.www4.hp.com\u002Fpps-offers.php\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.samsung.com\u002Fus\u002Fsmartphones\u002Fcertified-re-newed-phones\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehttps:\u002F\u002Fwww.samsung.com\u002Fus\u002Fsmartphones\u002Fcertified-re-newed-phones\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"f37a5fad-68fa-4788-b71b-d43cbc406f47\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Ff37a5fad-68fa-4788-b71b-d43cbc406f47\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChange your bank \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA decade ago, more than half of all bank profits came from fees. But as financial tech takes over, those days are ending. If you're still doing your checking and credit card processing with a big national bank, it's worth adding up just how you're paying in fees each month. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, the rise of virtual banks and payment processors means there's plenty of competition for your business. With a little comparison shopping, you can probably get a sign-up bonus and cut those fees dramatically. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShop around for insurance \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETimes change. So do insurance rates and coverage requirements. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBetween your home and small business, you might have a half-dozen separate insurance policies. It's a good idea to review those policies annually to make sure your coverage is correct and your rates are competitive. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the easiest ways to get significant savings is to consolidate your coverage and take advantage of multi-policy discounts. You might also qualify for a discount if you're over 55 or if you have a monitored security and fire alarm system; some companies even offer discounts for installing smart home technology, like leak detectors that can shut off the water and send you an alert before you incur significant damage. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-04-06 14:25:59",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Our money-saving tips can add up to thousands of dollars back every year. Sometimes it does pay to sweat the small stuff.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"46f37a92-eabd-40c2-9329-b5c5e1744586",image:{id:"6419e2e3-0bb0-44d2-84b1-51c08c8bf607",filename:"gettyimages-1327279072-pile-of-money2.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-04-04 14:28:29",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"pile of money dollars",credits:"Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F04\u002F04\u002F6419e2e3-0bb0-44d2-84b1-51c08c8bf607\u002Fgettyimages-1327279072-pile-of-money2.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:5113,height:3834,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"guide",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"how-to-save-your-business-500-or-more-every-month",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"How to save your business $500 (or more) every month",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fe9b07a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"banking",name:"Banking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"a4a7fc0f-7c4e-4840-b2fa-d95299fe8023",slug:"credit-cards",name:"Credit Cards",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:"Practical tips, tricks, and advice for getting things done",description:b,filters:b,paging:b,slug:"dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-how-to",title:"How-to Guides",label:b,viewMoreText:b,viewMoreUrl:b,relatedItems:b},{id:"58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e",meta:{componentName:"58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e",componentDisplayName:"Analysis & Opinion",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=58d3384f-a0d7-4628-acc1-a44626a03c4e"}},items:[{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"be5ca1a7-76b6-11e4-b569-d4ae52e95e57\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EImage: ZDNet\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"credit-card-fraud-can-be-stopped-heres-how.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"credit-card-fraud-can-be-stopped-heres-how.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2014\u002F11\u002F28\" data-image-width=\"300\" data-image-height=\"201\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's no gentle way to say this. There are a lot of nasty criminals out there. Individual hackers, organized crime gangs, terrorist groups, and even nation-state actors are enriching themselves at our expense. While there are as many varieties of cybercrime as there are criminals, there is one overriding constant: your bank account is at risk.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA few weeks ago, our own Charlie Osborne wrote about her personal experience with credit card fraud in: \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-surprising-lesson-i-learned-as-a-victim-of-credit-card-fraud\u002F\"\u003EHere's the one surprising lesson I learned as a victim of debit card fraud\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\". She is far from alone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"1f31c6ef-107e-4bd5-9f73-45e85c392e82\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F1f31c6ef-107e-4bd5-9f73-45e85c392e82\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of us at \u003Cem\u003EZDNet \u003C\u002Fem\u003E(and many of you out there) - including me - have experienced what happens when a criminal gets access to your card. Sometimes, there are a bunch of tiny charges where the criminals test the waters to see what cards work. Other times, there are huge charges, often cleaning out accounts or racking up huge bills.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo matter what, it sucks. It's also very hard to defend against. Because \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fny-ag-notifies-17-companies-of-breaches-says-1-1-million-accounts-compromised-in-attacks\u002F\"\u003Eso many retailers are breached\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with such a degree of regularity, nearly all of us have had our personal identifying information fall into criminal hands.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe reality of the situation is bleak. No matter what you do, your credit card information will find its way into criminal hands. You will inevitably find your finances under attack. Short of hiding all your money under your mattress, there's nothing you can do, really, to prevent it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBut that does not mean you can't protect yourself\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, let me tell you what might not work. There are hundreds of companies out there that promise to monitor your accounts and inform you of illicit activity. Some offer promises of a guarantee if you fall victim.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm not going to mention any companies specifically, but I will tell you that while using these companies can sometimes help, you're not as well protected as you might wish. First, not all companies can successfully monitor your accounts. Some companies aren't really companies at all; they're just fronts for data harvesting operations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese companies also add another risk vector. You are giving them all your information, hoping that they'll protect you. But you are putting yourself at further risk because one more entity now has a comprehensive view of your overall financial picture.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDon't rely on others to keep your finances safe. You need to do it yourself. There is a single, relatively simple practice you can do, which you'll be far safer using than you would with any other approach.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBanks and bills\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWay back in the early days of my first company, money was very, \u003Cem\u003Every\u003C\u002Fem\u003E tight. I needed to know, every single day, exactly how much money we had and who we owed. So back then, I started the practice of making a short list of what I called \"banks and bills.\" This was a list of how much money was in each bank account, what my current bills were for everything I (and the company) owed money on, and any expected very near-term accounts receivable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo be honest, doing all that once a day was a huge hassle. But I was self-funded with a payroll, and it got us through some very lean times. We successfully made payroll and kept the business afloat.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI started the practice of banks and bills well before the level of hacking we see today was a problem. But because I was doing it, fraudulent credit card activity became immediately apparent.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI no longer have to make a payroll, but my wife and I still have a banks and bills meeting each and every week.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHere's how to do it\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's interesting is that this practice not only helps you catch credit card fraud it also helps you manage your financial situation, keep to a budget, and make conscious spending decisions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn other words, it's a good practice, even if you're not worried about fraud.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe process takes somewhere between fifteen minutes and an hour each week. Again, for fraud protection, you don't need to be quite as rigorous as I am. However, it's a heck of a money management solution, so I recommend you follow along.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe have a spreadsheet with sections for bank accounts, retirement accounts, credit cards, and other bills.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach week, we create a new copy of the spreadsheet. You can use tabs, but because I have a lot of additional analytics on other tabs, I prefer the simplicity of a new sheet. I just copy over the previous week's spreadsheet, give it a new date, and make changes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe have a line item for every bank account and another line item for every credit card. During our banks and bills session, we individually log into each account and copy the balance into the spreadsheet.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENote that some services, like Quickbooks, theoretically allow you to download this information automatically. But they can be unreliable. Also, we've found that by actually taking a few annoying moments to log into each account, we can glance at the activity. It's here, in this glance, that we can often spot spurious activity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat is, by the way, the key. When you log into each account, look at the charges and activity on the account. Do you see anything weird? Do you live in Florida but have a gas station charge from Indiana? Are there a bunch of odd little charges? Is your balance suddenly far less than it should be? Are there some random one or two-cent charges that make no sense?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsually, banks and credit card companies operate fraud departments, but their algorithms don't always catch all the possible inconsistencies. But if you notify them about fraudulent activity in a timely manner, they'll usually make your account whole again.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is another key reason to do this weekly. If you discover something, you're going to be able to work with your banking partners for resolution. That way, it's not something you discover months later, possibly after the date for any possible resolution has passed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe do a few other things with banks and bills. We have a running chart outlining our overall credit card debt. I don't ever like that amount going over a certain threshold, so it's a quick way to tell, at a glance, whether we're in the danger zone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe also have interest rates listed next to each card. Some of the cards have 0% rates for a year or two, so we have what we call a \"pumpkin date\" listed next to those cards. Those are the dates the interest-free deal turns into a pumpkin. We want to make sure we pay those accounts off before they pumpkin.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe also make sure to pay off the higher interest cards and credit accounts earlier, especially if they start to build up. It's not easy to remember which cards are eating you alive with interest charges, but the banks and bills spreadsheet makes that immediately apparent.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, I have a running net worth and liquid net worth chart going. Net worth includes things like the value of my house, which isn't exactly a liquid asset. Liquid net worth is the amount of money we have that could be turned into cash relatively quickly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur goal with both charts is to make sure that they always increase. If either net worth indicator goes down for too many weeks, it's an indicator that we're spending above our income, and that's never really a good practice.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike I said, overall, this process takes less than an hour a week -- and often as little as ten or fifteen minutes if we've been keeping the numbers up to date. We have, on a bunch of occasions, found evidence of credit card fraud by doing this. Because we had a weekly historical summary of activity, we were able to provide that information to the bank, which helped in recovery.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo reiterate: This is the single best way to protect yourself. That's because you're not delegating your financial affairs to someone else. Think about it. With such a high prevalence of breaches, no matter who you choose to delegate your financial watchdog activities to, that delegate might also be the victim of a breach.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can be sure you're safe by checking each account by hand each week. Do it now. Do it weekly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFinally, my wife (who was my company's chief financial manager way before we ever got married) had a couple of additional recommendations. She said you need to make financial management, whether for a company or a family, into a hobby. It has to be part of your ongoing constant practice in order for it to be a priority. She also recommended a blog she likes called \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fwww.budgetsaresexy.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBudgets Are Sexy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Check it out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Ffacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Finstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"d5a3a21f-df88-4062-9491-aef1fb733000\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fd5a3a21f-df88-4062-9491-aef1fb733000\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-07-05 11:50:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Don't delegate your financial affairs. This simple technique will keep your financial house in order -- and it takes less than an hour a week.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"02d80549-8c8c-4e17-8776-c3913da7ea2d",image:{id:"be5ca1a7-76b6-11e4-b569-d4ae52e95e57",filename:"credit-card-fraud-can-be-stopped-heres-how.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-11-28 04:26:37",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"credit-card-fraud-can-be-stopped-heres-how.jpg",credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F11\u002F28\u002Fbe5ca1a7-76b6-11e4-b569-d4ae52e95e57\u002Fcredit-card-fraud-can-be-stopped-heres-how.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:300,height:201,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Finance^Credit Cards",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"the-single-best-way-to-protect-yourself-against-credit-card-fraud",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The single best way to protect yourself against credit card fraud",topic:{id:"a4a7fc0f-7c4e-4840-b2fa-d95299fe8023",slug:"credit-cards",name:"Credit Cards",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"a4a7fc0f-7c4e-4840-b2fa-d95299fe8023",slug:"credit-cards",name:"Credit Cards",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EWhen are we getting a new MacBook Air? Our fingers were crossed for an update to the hugely popular machine at Apple's event earlier this month. But instead of a MacBook Air, there was dead air. And last fall, we got the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F16-inch-m1-pro-macbook-pro-the-good-the-bad-and-the-very-very-ugly\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eupdated MacBook Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with beefier M1 Pro and M1 Max processors instead.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"e658c585-db33-46c8-918a-752729fe81da\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fe658c585-db33-46c8-918a-752729fe81da\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow the rumor mill is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnet.com\u002Ftech\u002Fcomputing\u002Fnew-macbook-air-and-13-inch-macbook-pro-rumored-to-arrive-later-this-year\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Epredicting a new MacBook Air\u003C\u002Fa\u003E coming this fall, along with an all-new M2 chip. I'm not sure about that M2 chip (more on that in a bit), but there's probably something to the idea of a late spring or early fall 2022 update. But what would that mean? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdiary-migrating-from-an-intel-imac-to-an-m1-macbook-air\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMigrating from Intel iMac to M1 MacBook Air: My five-day journey\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EWhat makes a MacBook Air different from a MacBook Pro? \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's start with an interesting question: What defines a MacBook Air? Historically, this was a relatively easy question to answer. The MacBook Air was wedge-shaped, with every effort to make it the thinnest and lightest machine, even if that meant removing functional features like ports. The MacBook Pro was the machine that had it all and was often sold in different sizes to truly meet pro-level needs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut when Apple introduced the M1 MacBook Air and M1 MacBook Pro, they were nearly identical. The only difference was the squared look of the MacBook Pro vs. the wedge shape of the MacBook Air. The base MacBook Pro even had the same two ports as the MacBook Air (although a slightly more expensive model added another two ports). As for weight, they differed by only 3.2 ounces -- less than the weight of an Apple Magic Mouse.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow that Apple has expanded the MacBook Pro offerings -- adding the 14- and 16-inch models to the original 13-inch model --there are more tangible differences. I'd go so far as to postulate that since the 13-inch M1 MacBook Pro is so similar to the M1 MacBook Air, it was added as a brand-holding placeholder until the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips were manufacturable. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"4a1ae834-b4e5-4802-a1ef-b75daf5ccf83\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"13-inch MacBook Air\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"macbook-air-space-gray.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"9fe91281-2482-4b4c-9a32-4be43292fc11","filename":"macbook-air-space-gray.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F24\u002F9fe91281-2482-4b4c-9a32-4be43292fc11\u002Fmacbook-air-space-gray.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-24 16:47:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"9fe91281-2482-4b4c-9a32-4be43292fc11","imageFilename":"macbook-air-space-gray.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F24"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-air\" data-offerprice=\"999\" data-offermerchant=\"Apple\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow that the bigger chips are out, I wonder if we'll soon see the 13-inch leave the market. In any case, here's how they differ:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScreen size\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth the 2020 MacBook Air and 13-inch 2020 MacBook Pro have 13.3-inch LED-backlit displays with IPS technology and 2560-by-1600 native resolution at 227 pixels per inch with support for millions of colors. But things get bigger with the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros, adding Liquid Retina XDR display with 3024-by-1964 native resolution and 3456-by-2234 respectively.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe slightly more expensive MacBook Air has the identical 8-core CPU with 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, 8-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine as the 13-inch MacBook Pro. There's a version of the MacBook Air that winds up costing just about $100 less, that only has a 7-core GPU (probably allowing Apple to use chips that had minor flaws in wafer production). Of course, the addition of the M1 Pro and M1 Max to the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models increase CPU and GPU cores and overall system performance\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM and storage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth the M1 MacBook Air and 13-inch M1 MacBook Pro support up to 16GB RAM and 2TB SSD storage. Once again, the addition of the M1 Pro and M1 Max to the MacBook Pro line give them MacBook Pro more capacity, as much as 64GB RAM and 8TB storage. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWeight\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs it turns out, the MacBook Air is lighter than the 13-inch MacBook Pro, but only by 3.2 ounces. The 2020 MacBook Air weighs 2.8 pounds and the 13-inch 2020 MacBook Pro weighs 3.0 pounds. Things bulk up for the bigger MacBook Pros. The 14-inch hefts at 3.5 pounds, and the 16-inch is nearly five pounds. That can be noticeable in your carry bag.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple lists the MacBook Air as having up to 15 hours of wireless web usage, but the 13-inch MacBook Pro gets 17. So there's a little more pro in the Pro when it comes to battery. Maybe that's where the extra 3.2 ounces comes from. Surprisingly enough, the 14-inch specs only 11 hours of wireless web usage and the 16-inch only 14 hours. All that extra processing power and screen snazziness appear to have an impact.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPorts\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe MacBook Air only has two Thunderbolt 3 ports (and a headphone jack). You even need to use one of those Thunderbolt ports to provide power. But the 2020 MacBook Pro has, oh... that's disappointing. The less expensive 2020 MacBook Pro also has just two Thunderbolt 3 ports (and a headphone jack). That said, you could spend a few hundred bucks more and get a 2020 MacBook Pro with four Thunderbolt ports. To be fair, in 2021, Apple finally listened to Every Single MacBook Pro User Ever and added a bunch of necessary ports to the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is one thing that is iconic about the MacBook Air. It has that wedge shape that initially wowed everyone when Steve Jobs pulled it out of a manila envelope back in 2008. That wedge still exists. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo what makes a MacBook Air different from a MacBook Pro. Well, with the MacBook Pro, Apple adds in everything anyone would need to get work done, sacrificing lightness and even battery life. But with the MacBook Air, Apple removes everything it possibly can to get it down to the minimal functionality necessary and make it as light and thin as possible.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"commercepromo\" data-id=\"8f229c2f-02df-4ea7-bc29-979f652183e9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-hed=\"13-inch MacBook Pro\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"macbookpro13inch.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"35304e1b-3890-4620-849a-2d7e8901e86d","filename":"macbookpro13inch.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fhub\u002Fi\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F24\u002F35304e1b-3890-4620-849a-2d7e8901e86d\u002Fmacbookpro13inch.jpg","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-03-24 16:47:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"uuid":"35304e1b-3890-4620-849a-2d7e8901e86d","imageFilename":"macbookpro13inch.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2022\u002F03\u002F24"}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-offerurl=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fmacbook-pro\u002F\" data-offerprice=\"1299\" data-offermerchant=\"Apple\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{}\" data-usemonetization=\"true\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EWhat do I want? \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've been thinking a lot about what I want from the next MacBook Air, and so have a lot of you. I'll share my wishlist first, and then, since I also reached out to the Greater Internet, I have some feedback from other users as well. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fupgrading-a-small-fleet-of-older-macs-planning-it-out\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMigrating to M1 Macs: How I'm upgrading my small fleet of older Apple desktops and laptops\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI probably use my 2020 MacBook Air more than any other computer. Yes, I have \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-dont-care-what-you-say-about-the-m1-the-2018-intel-mac-mini-is-still-a-beast\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea powerful, external GPU-equipped Intel Mac mini on my desk for big production projects\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a great \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fupgrading-from-windows-10-to-windows-11-step-by-step\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWindows 11 laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and a bunch of Linux servers. But every day I sit on the couch (often with my pup on my lap) and write or code on my little MacBook Air. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdiary-migrating-from-an-intel-imac-to-an-m1-macbook-air\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emostly maxed out my machine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It has 16GB RAM, the full 8-core GPU, and 1TB of internal flash storage. The internal storage is so epically fast that it was worth the extra $200 to include it. I often keep the machine on a side shelf, connected to a CalDigit TS3 Plus dock that accepts Ethernet and my HDMI monitor. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's a lot to like about this machine. Even doing development, I haven't run into much in the way of processor performance issues. That said, I find the 16GB RAM maximum to be an impediment, and I'd gladly move to more RAM. I'd love to have this with 32GB or 64GB of RAM. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-much-does-it-cost-to-own-a-small-fleet-of-macs-total-cost-of-ownership-explained\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow much does it cost to own a small fleet of Macs? Total cost of ownership explained\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'd also like a bigger display. I bought this before the 14- and 16-inch M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBook Pros were released. I most often use my MacBook Air with an external monitor on an Ergotron arm. That way, I can type with a separate keyboard while sitting on the couch. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDon't mock. It's all about having the warm dog lap. Trust me; that little fuzzball makes life worth living. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5bd6f92d-82c7-40df-9eda-32241b8a6ca5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe fuzzball in question.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: David Gewirtz\" data-image-alt-text=\"computer-floof.png\" data-image-filename=\"computer-floof.png\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F03\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"875\" data-image-height=\"559\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn any case, I use the MacBook Air's display as a second display, and it's a little tiny for my tastes. There are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002F9to5mac.com\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F23\u002F15-inch-macbook-air-2023-report\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Erumors of larger MacBook Air displays\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and I'd like one -- although that starts to defeat the \"thin and light\" ethos that defines the Air.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond those things, around 18 months into ownership, I'm surprisingly satisfied with the machine. The only thing I miss is the ability to play Steam games -- Cities Skylines in particular. That game runs on the M1 MacBook Air, but not in a way that makes it actually usable. Of course, that's more a consequence of moving away from Intel gaming than it is a side effect of the MacBook Air's thin and light design, but it's something I do miss. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EWhat do you want? \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut I'm just one guy. What do you want? To find out, I did a highly unscientific Twitter poll. I presented four choices (only because Twitter limits you to four choices). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"03aa98ae-4e20-4820-b6af-b97cd5766867\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"poll-results.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"poll-results.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F03\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"598\" data-image-height=\"288\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInterestingly, the DNA of the MacBook Air is stripped-down sleek, yet most folks want more ports. I think that sleek vs. functionality conflict, which defines the difference between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, is also something users struggle with in terms of what they want most.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI think J LA's tweet best sums up the collective feeling about ports:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dbed3765-6d6a-44af-85b0-f0ceebd12218\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"comment.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"comment.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F03\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"598\" data-image-height=\"205\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EWhat to expect \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELooking back at the introduction of the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, along with the recent introduction of the Mac Studio, we can make some reasonable predictions about a new MacBook Air. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERelease date \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Feverymac.com\u002Fsystems\u002Fapple\u002Fmacbook-air\u002Findex-macbook-air.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethe 20 MacBook Air models released since January 2008\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, most were released in the spring and summer. Only twice (in 2019 and again in 2020) did we see fall releases. Releases have also tended to be yearly (or even more rapidly). This is one of the longest waits we've had since the model came out. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'd say, then, that there's a good chance we'll see a new MacBook Air announced at WWDC in June, or possibly a drop in July. Worst case, expect October. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScreen\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe screen will likely be upgraded with the smaller bezels and the notch now found in the new MacBook Pro machines. There's also a chance the screen could jump from 13-inch to 14-inch, but I have my doubts about a 15-inch or 16-inch display. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOriginally, the Air was a premium machine, but it's now become Apple's entry-level laptop. As such, it's not clear whether Apple will jump from the 2560-by-1600 Retina display on the current Air to the 3024-by-1964 Liquid Retina XDR display on the MacBook Pro. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWebcam\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn today's Zoom-centric world, the MacBook Air's miserable 720p webcam is laughable. I'd be shocked if Apple didn't upgrade the webcam to at least 1080p. Whether it also supports Center Stage is more of a guess, but I'd think it would since the processor can certainly handle it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESoC (System on a Chip)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESpeaking of processors, rumors are that the new MacBook Air will be released with the still-mythical M2 chip. It's possible, sure, especially since Apple has been squeezing a lot from its initial M1 architecture. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen a chip architecture revs, it's usually for a variety of reasons. Parts might be smaller, especially if the wafer making process goes to a smaller scale. Smaller parts often lead to faster parts, because data moves more quickly across shorter distances. Smaller parts also lead to less power consumption. But new chips are often hard to make reliably, at least initially. So I'd think that unless (a) the yields for M2s are great, and (b) the power savings is also great, Apple will save the initial M2s for something like a new Mac Pro. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'd think it much more likely that a new MacBook Air will ship with the option for M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, as long as the cooling is doable. Those chips provide access to more RAM, more ports, and more storage. So expect a few more Thunderbolt ports, at least. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple always likes to make battery life a little better. So I'm betting we'll see a small yet highlighted increase in MacBook Air battery life -- even if it's just due to a software tweak. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EColors\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe MacBook Air offers more colors than the MacBook Pro models, adding a gold tone to its list. And yet, Apple has a gorgeous color palette on its lower-end 24-inch iMac. While Apple's laptops have generally been very staid in terms of colors, the company did bust a move back in the day, offering clamshell portable Macs in Apple classic colors. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, with a low (but greater than zero) probability, the new MacBook Air might come in iMac colors. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWedge shape\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERumors seem to indicate \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.imore.com\u002Fnext-gen-macbook-air-renders-show-impossibly-thin-design-white-keycaps\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApple may abandon the iconic wedge shape\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for new MacBook Air models, but I'd be both surprised and disappointed. That wedge is key to the Air's design vocabulary. The company even \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnet.com\u002Ftech\u002Ftech-industry\u002Fthe-macbook-air-wedge-aesthetic-now-an-apple-patent\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehas a patent\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApple may well remove the wedge if they have an all-over thinner computer, but that would still be unfortunate. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EStay tuned \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe'll be keeping an eye on the MacBook Air. It's time to see a new model release. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat do you think? Do you own a MacBook Air? Would you upgrade if one came out? What's the one killer feature that would entice you to upgrade? Let us know in the comments below. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3be818df-27e4-42c7-813f-c703e2d38814\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-03-24 18:06:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"With rumors flying about a new MacBook Air, we explore what Apple is most likely to deliver. Is this the Air for you?",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"0a380527-e764-4c53-9e8e-a40674518a7c",image:{id:"1a257540-68a4-4759-adac-19201fde6609",filename:"apple-macbook-air.png",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-01-13 19:30:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"poll-results.jpg",credits:"Apple",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F01\u002F13\u002F1a257540-68a4-4759-adac-19201fde6609\u002Fapple-macbook-air.png",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1080,height:608,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"the-next-macbook-air-what-we-can-expect",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The next MacBook Air: What we want vs. what we can expect",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0fbd54d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"apple",name:"Apple",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1124f463-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"processors",name:"Processors",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"b9d55db1-c979-42b8-b467-3b3a67ca331f",username:"Marc Wojno",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Marc",lastName:"Wojno",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e932bec6-637b-457c-88c8-63587c47a71d",filename:"marc-wojno.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 14:24:58",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe932bec6-637b-457c-88c8-63587c47a71d\u002Fmarc-wojno.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Marc Wojno has been a writer and editor in the financial field for more than two decades, including for such media organizations as Kiplinger Washington Editors and Dow Jones Newswires. Most recently, Wojno contributed as a writer for US News & World Report and as a contributing editor for Bankrate, a Red Ventures company. Wojno has been featured as a personal finance expert in numerous local print, radio and television outlets throughout the country, including in such major markets as New York City, Chicago, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. He received both his BA in radio and television communication and computer science, and his MBA in international business and information systems, from The George Washington University.",profile:b,title:"Senior Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EZDNet reaches out to industry insiders in one-on-one interviews to gain further insight into timely topics of finance. The topic for today: Inflation.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor many small business owners, the bombardment of headlines about the rise of inflation rates over the past several months -- with no sign of letting up -- has led to this discouraging conclusion: Inflation is here for all of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finflation-is-a-big-problem-for-small-businesses-survey\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"cbfd7519-c52e-4347-8fbc-832ea424fec3\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fcbfd7519-c52e-4347-8fbc-832ea424fec3\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe annual inflation rate in the US is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdata.bls.gov\u002Ftimeseries\u002FCUUR0000SA0&output_view=pct_12mths\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E8.5%\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bls.gov\u002Fnews.release\u002Fcpi.nr0.htm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E12-month period ended March\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, according to the most recent data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's the highest rate since December 1981. More troubling, the annual rate was a mere 1.7% for the 12-month period ended February 2021. A myriad of economic, business and social factors in 2021 contributed to the dramatic spike in inflation, exacerbated by the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Add to that the sharp increase in demand for goods and services as COVID-19 lockdown restrictions eased, coupled with labor shortages throughout the country, and you have the perfect booster to throttle the rate of inflation to a four-decade high in a matter of months. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough the Federal Reserve announced this week that it's taking aggressive steps to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fapnews.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbusiness-inflation-prices-44044bf5a4383771dff749b8c78b03aa\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Estave off high inflation in the next few months\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, many US small businesses have already suffered the pains of rising prices of goods and services, supply chain backlogs and labor shortages from last year. For some, the end of business is already in sight; for others, it's a matter of staying alive one day at a time. Either way, the pain is passed on to individual consumers as they adjust their spending habits to compensate for higher prices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, making sense of the nation's inflation woes is one step on the road to recovery. Recently, \u003Cem\u003EZDNet\u003C\u002Fem\u003E spoke with Ben Johnston, chief operating officer for small business financing firm \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fkapitus.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EKapitus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which provides financing products to small businesses, including term loans, revenue-based financing, SBA loans, equipment financing and revolving lines of credit. Johnston provides insights into how inflation is affecting small businesses, what small business owners can do to weather the storm of inflation and what he sees in the year ahead.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-save-your-business-500-or-more-every-month\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to save your business $500 (or more) every month\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cem\u003EZDNet:\u003C\u002Fem\u003E How are small businesses being impacted by inflation?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EBen Johnston:\u003C\u002Fem\u003E I look at inflation based on three factors: labor costs, costs of goods and borrowing costs. First, small businesses are being impacted by higher labor costs due to labor shortages coming out of the pandemic and also due to an increase in demand for the services of small businesses post-pandemic. A lot of people left the workforce during the pandemic, and many still haven't come back yet. So, as demand increases, the need for people increases, and we have a supply and demand issue, which is driving wages up and making it difficult to hire. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe second factor is higher costs of goods. A lot of this is driven by supply chain disruptions which continue to mount. At first, it was pandemic related production problems from overseas; then, it was port congestion and shortages of trucking capacity and container capacity, and intentional border disruptions, as we saw with picketing truckers in Canada. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd now it's the war in Ukraine. Both Russia and Ukraine are large exporters of commodities, from oil and gas to mined commodities to grain. The price of these products is up worldwide as sanctions and war have limited supply, and consumers can expect prices to remain elevated for an extended period of time as sanctions remain in place long after the fighting subsides.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETrade and supply chain disruptions continue to be ongoing, and all of that creates uncertainty in the supply chain; it causes small businesses to buy in bulk and hold more inventory on their balance sheets, and that creates additional demand. So, it becomes this sort of self-perpetuating cycle that ultimately drives prices up, and it causes inflation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat about the third factor, borrowing costs?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs we think about small businesses wanting to hold greater inventory to make sure that their jobs aren't disrupted -- because they are lacking critical goods to make the products they produce -- that incentivizes them to buy more inventory and hold inventory longer. Many businesses are buying inventory in bulk and are looking to finance that inventory. With the Fed raising rates in an effort to curb inflation, small businesses can expect their borrowing costs to rise. That will impact businesses that are capital intensive such as manufacturers, contractors, retailers, and businesses that are holding inventory while they manufacture or are holding inventory to sell.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are the industries that are being hardest hit by inflation?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeasonal businesses, including landscapers, farmers and hospitality businesses, including golf clubs and ski resorts. Also, businesses that aren't open year-round, such as businesses in beach communities in the northeast. These businesses need to be able to find seasonal labor in a world where permanent labor is in high demand -- getting that swing employee and hiring them quickly for a short period of time becomes that much more expensive and that much more difficult. Communities that grow and shrink each year based on seasonality will probably see the effects of inflation more acutely.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAre there any big businesses that have been affected by issues small businesses have had with supply chain disruptions?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe auto industry is the poster child. There are many different businesses that tree up to producing an automobile, so there are small businesses along the supply chain. When a key component can't be sourced, the entire production line could be shut down. I also think about home furnishing retailers and contractors as businesses that have struggled with supply chain disruptions. Contractors have gotten backed up as the supply chain for lumber, and other critical items that go into a house have been disrupted -- the window lead times and white goods for kitchens and bathrooms -- each one of these products has its own unique supply chain issues, and so you can get three-fourths of your house done and just be waiting for months on the last quarter. And that's incredibly frustrating for the contractor who can't finish the job, get paid and move on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow can small business owners weather the storm of inflation?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKeeping a tight control on expenses is extremely important. Look for new tools and business processes that will help reduce manual labor. We've seen a number of businesses implementing self-service in areas where they used to have an employee performing that service. So, going into a restaurant and instead of having a waiter, there's a QR code on the table, you put your phone up to it and order your food online. Then a busser delivers the food while covering many more tables than a waiter could have.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are other innovative ways for businesses to provide a similar product with a lower level of service that allows them to stay open with a reduced staff. The pizza parlor, for example, offers a discount if you come and pick it up instead of requiring them to employ a delivery person.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat other ways are small businesses cutting back on costs?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost small businesses are trying hard to avoid raising posted prices on their products and are looking for other ways to either reduce their costs or alter their services to allow them to provide the same product with possibly less service around it. I recently stayed in a hotel where there was no cleaning service in the room during your stay unless you specifically asked for it, and this was a high-end hotel. I was fine with that. I think the less important aspects of service are being eliminated as businesses try to avoid raising prices for as long as possible. However, I think many small businesses are getting to the point now where they realize they do need to raise prices in order to maintain an appropriate level of stability.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat tools of the trade can help small business owners cut costs during periods of high inflation?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are lots of interesting, innovative software packages available for businesses today to try to streamline the customer experience -- record all of the economics of the customer interaction -- and then immediately transmit that into your accounting statements, your purchasing, your accounts receivable and payables, invoicing…there's a tremendous amount of manual labor that happens behind the scenes of running a business that now can be streamlined from an accounting and bookkeeping standpoint if you can capture that data upfront with the initial customer experience. So, I think businesses are working hard to figure out ways that they can digitize the bulk of that process and eliminate the need for humans to do it themselves.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow is the war in Ukraine driving inflation in the US, and how will it affect small US businesses and American consumers in the coming year?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmerican consumers and small businesses can expect higher prices at the pump and at the grocery store, but also in the cost of finished goods and services, as all businesses struggle with higher shipping and raw material costs which will ultimately be passed on to consumers.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat other factors do you see looming that could cause inflation to increase, or at least linger for a longer period of time?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI also see the West becoming increasingly uncomfortable with its exposure to supply chains that originate in non-democratic countries on the other side of the globe. Political interests increasingly seem to be overshadowing economic interests, and American businesses will have to calculate the risk of tariffs and supply chain disruptions when assessing the savings they earn from accessing lower-cost labor markets. We have been predicting the repatriation of manufacturing to the US for some time now, and the developments in Russia and Ukraine only serve to strengthen our views.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat can consumers do to protect themselves from the shocks of inflation?\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the most obvious things that consumers reflexively do to combat inflation is limit consumption. This, of course, is bad for the economy and is especially bad for small businesses, as the majority of small business revenue is derived from consumer spending. Consumers, however, can limit some forms of consumption by generating efficiencies that don't diminish quality of life. Investing, for example, in renewable energy sources and energy-efficient HVAC for your home can save you considerably when petroleum prices spike. Similarly, owners of electric vehicles are likely to see considerable savings over owners of traditional gas-powered cars this year. Finally, consumers are likely to tap into some of those cooking skills that they learned during the pandemic and may host a party or two in their new backyards rather than going out to eat or going on an expensive vacation. All in all, we expect discretionary spending to decline as a result of inflation in 2022.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"aa46de76-899f-4423-83b7-a891c88392d8\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Faa46de76-899f-4423-83b7-a891c88392d8\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-04-12 16:05:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"How did we get here? Who'll be hit hardest? How best to cut costs? Should you raise prices? ZDNet asks a business finance expert about inflation survival strategies.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"7c9c69e5-2f1a-4517-a04b-15c232150e3a",image:{id:"7f7948b2-ed80-4e20-8536-127a6bb90682",filename:"gettyimages-1238458534.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-02-17 23:58:22",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"gettyimages-1238458534.jpg",credits:"Image: Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F02\u002F17\u002F7f7948b2-ed80-4e20-8536-127a6bb90682\u002Fgettyimages-1238458534.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1024,height:683,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Finance",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"inflation-and-your-business-what-happens-next-and-how-to-navigate-the-storm",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Inflation and your business: What happens next and how to navigate the storm",topic:{id:"87ec6ace-0121-41fb-b122-922dab341f69",slug:"finance",name:"Finance",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"87ec6ace-0121-41fb-b122-922dab341f69",slug:"finance",name:"Finance",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"5cae6838-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"steveranger",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Steve",lastName:"Ranger",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"cfff1b63-6e97-4f64-b0ff-ffa2d16dc37b",filename:"steve-ranger.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 14:20:17",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fcfff1b63-6e97-4f64-b0ff-ffa2d16dc37b\u002Fsteve-ranger.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Steve Ranger is the editorial director of ZDNET. An award-winning journalist, Steve writes about the intersection of technology, business and culture, and regularly appears on TV and radio discussing tech issues. Previously he was the editor of silicon.com.",profile:b,title:"Global News Director",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"35a2f989-f0fd-4d57-8d73-e4fed491ac49\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Sam Diephuis\u002FBlend Images \u002F Phot\" data-image-alt-text=\"pns-3735927-1.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"pns-3735927-1.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F01\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"5130\" data-image-height=\"3420\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENearly every business is a small business: 99.9% of firms in the US and UK are classed as small and medium-sized enterprises, and about half of all of us are employed by a company with less than 250 staff. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut those numbers will conceal a huge variety in outlook and opportunity; some of those are long-standing firms with little interest in change, others are start-ups embarking on a make-or-break first year in operation (and don't forget that one in five will fail in their first year). In those millions of businesses there will be some who are obsessed with the latest technology, and others who are only grudgingly adopting it. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut what's pretty clear is that tech has become an unexpectedly high priority for many more small businesses over the last two years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany have been forced to rethink how they worked, with remote working rapidly becoming a top priority. Others have had to rethink routes to market, increasing their use of e-commerce for example. Others still will have had to rethink their supply chains as global economic turbulence continues. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELittle surprise then, that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.verizon.com\u002Fabout\u002Fnews\u002Fsmall-businesses-technology-key-ally\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esome recent research\u003C\u002Fa\u003E by Verizon found that more than two-thirds of businesses view technology as a key ally to help them overcome challenges when it comes to improving sales, boost talent acquisition, and tackle rising inflation and supply chain issues. A similar proportion say revenue generated through digital operations is higher now than pre-pandemic. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBusinesses that have seen the impact of technology on their operations (for example the 50% increase in e-commerce quoted by some) are unlikely to return to their old ways of working; even if they wanted to, staff and customers have both moved on. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne significant technology trend that smaller businesses are increasingly using to their advantage is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-cloud-computing-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-cloud\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethe rise of cloud computing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which at best allows the smallest firms to compete with the biggest. Sophisticated business systems that were only available to companies that were willing to spend months and years implementing them (and who could afford the vast upfront cost and teams of engineers for ongoing maintenance) are now available to the smallest start-up in the form of software as a service. These innovations in turn spark demand for other technologies, such as the use of digital marketing to boost sales. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut it's not just about maximising revenue; cloud-based technologies in particular can help smaller businesses tackle organisational challenges by supporting the shift to hybrid working. Companies that are able to be more flexible about when, where and how staff work are likely to find it much easier to recruit (a key issue right now) than those trapped in the past by inflexible systems. For big business technology has long been a way of making systems and processes less time-consuming and painful; smaller businesses can benefit from this too, perhaps more so. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, technology brings risks with it. Small businesses often lack the skills and budget to protect themselves as well as large corporations, and hackers will target SMBs for exactly that reason. But even without a huge cybersecurity team, knowing the basics and implementing them is often enough to deter hackers looking for an easy payday. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll of this means that tech is rising up the agenda for smaller businesses. This ZDNet special report will look at the trends and challenges ahead for small businesses, case studies of how businesses have harnessed tech, tips on how to boost cybersecurity, and much beyond that. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Related coverage \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finflation-and-burnout-among-the-greatest-concerns-of-small-business-owners-capital-one-survey\u002F\"\u003EInflation, burnout among biggest challenges small business owners face: Survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ffinance\u002Femotions-run-high-for-small-business-owners-as-inflation-soars\u002F\"\u003EInflation despair: 1 in 3 small businesses consider shutting down - survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Freport-more-than-half-of-smbs-now-spend-more-than-1m-on-the-cloud\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReport: SMBs are making serious investments in the cloud\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-06-06 13:53:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"ZDNet's latest special report looks at how small business is seizing the tech advantage.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"b889f681-a081-4ce4-9d22-29ca25ba55d8",image:{id:"35a2f989-f0fd-4d57-8d73-e4fed491ac49",filename:"pns-3735927-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-01-27 12:47:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"pns-3735927-1.jpg",credits:"Sam Diephuis\u002FBlend Images \u002F Phot",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F27\u002F35a2f989-f0fd-4d57-8d73-e4fed491ac49\u002Fpns-3735927-1.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:5130,height:3420,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"small-business-the-tech-revolution-has-arrived",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Small business: The tech revolution has arrived",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"35e7efdb-10d7-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Mark Samuels",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Mark",lastName:"Samuels",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"a31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57",filename:"marksamuels.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-11-18 11:27:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F11\u002F18\u002Fa31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57\u002Fmarksamuels.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Mark Samuels is a business journalist specialising in IT leadership issues. Formerly editor at CIO Connect and features editor of Computing, he has written for various organisations, including the Economist Intelligence Unit, The Guardian, The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Higher Education.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7e581cca-8948-48c3-8d76-1e88b07be790\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"wavebreakmedia\u002FShutterstock\" data-image-alt-text=\"Person seated at a booth in a cafe looks at their phone and laptop.\" data-image-filename=\"happy-manager-smaller.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F01\u002F18\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"1066\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFrom the cloud to analytics to security systems, small business owners now have affordable access to the kinds of technologies that larger businesses have exploited for years. With the right technology in place, small businesses can use digital systems and services to grow quickly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe asked two CIOs to share the key lessons they've learnt from running IT at larger organisations that will help SMBs to thrive in the digital age. Here are their six top tips.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E1. Take advantage of the cloud\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlike big enterprises that might be encumbered by owning large amounts of legacy technology, many smaller businesses have the opportunity to create a lighter, modern approach to applications – and that's where the cloud comes in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECloud spending by SMBs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Freport-more-than-half-of-smbs-now-spend-more-than-1m-on-the-cloud\u002F\"\u003Eshot up significantly in 2021\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and as many as 53% of the SMBs surveyed in a recent report by Flexera spent more than $1.2 million annually on the cloud. That's up from 38% in 2020.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESEE: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-cloud-computing-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-cloud\u002F#link=%7B%22linkText%22:%22What%20is%20cloud%20computing?%20Everything%20you%20need%20to%20know%20about%20the%20cloud%20explained%22,%22target%22:%22_blank%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-cloud-computing-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-cloud\u002F%22,%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22%7D\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is cloud computing? Everything you need to know about the cloud explained\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMark Bramwell, CIO at Saïd Business School, says your ability to move wholeheartedly to the cloud depends on the scale of your business. Some organisations will find it easier to embrace on-demand IT than others. But the aim for all should be the same: use as much as cloud as possible.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"When it's a start-up, it's obviously significantly easier to go cloud-native from the beginning,\" he says. \"And compared to where we were 10 years ago, or even five years ago, those barriers to entry just don't exist anymore. Anyone can start up a business now and be in the cloud based on software as a service.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E2. Create a strategic platform for change\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cloud makes it easier to buy technology, but be careful that the choices you make don't back you into a corner at a later date.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBramwell advises small business managers to think like CIOs and take a strategic stance on every spending decision they make, whether that's software, networks or hardware.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"One thing I've always tried to build in the two core digital strategies I've put in place at Saïd is to make sure I get the foundations right from day one, because if you build on shaky foundations, they become problematic. Thinking about things like user experience, connectivity, security by design, scalability and growth from the start is something I would always try and champion,\" he says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E3. Focus on the value of data\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith a tight grip on information and analytics, professionals at larger firms have seen how it's possible to understand in much finer detail how the activities their business undertakes affect company performance, customer satisfaction and the bottom line.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBramwell says smaller businesses need to fixate on data, too. Understanding where your information resides is crucial. Small firms must think about how to access data, how to protect it and how to expand their storage requirements as the business grows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Your data is your corporate asset,\" he says. \"You must think about where it's going and what sort of protection there is around that. And when you go into that area, you need to think about scalability and the cost of scalability, because part of an objective as a small business is that it's invariably built to become a medium business or a large business in the longer term. Making sure that scalability is in place in your thinking for the future is key.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E4. Think of security in terms of risk\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour valuable data must be stored safely and securely. A failure to keep information under lock and key could mean confidential details leak beyond your firewall, which could be costly in terms of reputational damage and fines from regulatory bodies. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESEE: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fransomware-an-executive-guide-to-one-of-the-biggest-menaces-on-the-web\u002F#link=%7B%22linkText%22:%22What%20is%20ransomware?%20Everything%20you%20need%20to%20know%20about%20one%20of%20the%20biggest%20menaces%20on%20the%20web%22,%22target%22:%22_blank%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fransomware-an-executive-guide-to-one-of-the-biggest-menaces-on-the-web\u002F%22,%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22%7D\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is ransomware? Everything you need to know about one of the biggest menaces on the web\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile following industry standards and reaching certification levels can help, Simon Liste, chief information technology officer at the Pension Protection Fund, says small business managers must hone their security stance on an ongoing basis. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"You need to evaluate your processes and know where the key risks are. What's the vector that's most vulnerable to being attacked? Look at that and then you can tie the resources – whether it's cost, time or people – to the data and try and protect it,\" he says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Also, education matters. Make your people aware of what phishing is. It's no surprise that the biggest single point of risk is people clicking on an email. So, start at that level because it doesn't have to be overly expensive. There's a lot of information that's out there from NCSC and other government organisations. Making people aware minimises the risk factor.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E5. Don't get seduced by digital transformation\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's lots written about the importance of digital-enabled change. From launching new online channels for customers to providing technologies to help staff work remotely and securely, small businesses managers face almost constant demands for digitisation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYet Liste says it's important not to fall for the hype surrounding digital transformation. Yes, technology can help small businesses to change their operations for the better, but only if the implementation of IT is clearly thought through.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Always understand your reason for change. Be clear about your objective. Why do you want to do it? Also, what's your ambition and what's your commitment? Because you have to be committed to change and driven to deliver it,\" he says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"And if you're not sure, don't be apologetic about not knowing. It's okay to say, 'I don't know'. I think mentoring can help because then you develop and grow as you receive the right kind of guidance or support. So, I think for organisations that don't have expertise, it's OK to say, 'we don't know', but you must be very clear on what you're looking to achieve.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E6. Build an ecosystem of partners\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EListe says small business owners should look to create an ecosystem of people and companies they can work with. Whether its experts at major companies or smart-thinking entrepreneurs at start-ups, small business owners should reach out and make contact.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Learn from mistakes that others have made,\" he says. \"Grow your network and engage with people. Smaller organisations don't have the luxury of a big team. It's all about extending your ecosystem, sharing and giving back a little bit.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"07172adc-b697-4f22-a007-86d14c1e6259\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F07172adc-b697-4f22-a007-86d14c1e6259\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-06-06 13:47:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"SMBs have access to more technology than ever before, but it's important not to splash the cash for the sake of it. Here's how to make digitisation work for your business and its customers.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"db381545-11b2-47b9-97a2-94e8e7bc5018",image:{id:"7e581cca-8948-48c3-8d76-1e88b07be790",filename:"happy-manager-smaller.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-01-18 21:00:44",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Person seated at a booth in a cafe looks at their phone and laptop.",credits:"wavebreakmedia\u002FShutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F01\u002F18\u002F7e581cca-8948-48c3-8d76-1e88b07be790\u002Fhappy-manager-smaller.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1066,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"six-ways-to-make-smart-tech-decisions-for-small-businesses",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Six ways to make smart tech decisions for small businesses",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10257486-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cxo",name:"CXO",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"57b89c3b-5b67-4357-bd53-58c9f516a044",slug:"business",name:"Business",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"37b473bb-87ee-4487-af7c-1140d3051436\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"(Image: Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto)\" data-image-alt-text=\"turkey-head.gif\" data-image-filename=\"istock-1181395628.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2019\u002F11\u002F26\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's been more than a decade since I wrote the first edition of \"David's guide to surviving Thanksgiving\" as an article for my website. It dealt with the mix of dark meat turkey, Jedi family management skills, and a little tech. It was one of my most popular articles ever. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince then, I've evolved and refined the techniques each year and published it here on ZDNET\u003Cem\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn America, Thanksgiving means parades, football, families, and food. The last two, of course, are the challenge, and here's where my life-changing survival guide comes in.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fwhy-i-chose-youtube-tv-over-the-other-live-tv-streaming-services\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhy I chose YouTube TV over the other live TV streaming services\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt took me well into my 30s to develop techniques that, when used together, never fail to make Thanksgiving enjoyable to me and those around me.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E1. Understand that sharing air makes things weird\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe've just been through nearly three years of a global pandemic. Some people are living in a glorious, returned-to-normal post-pandemic world. For others, masks, isolation, and precautions are still very necessary. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd all of that doesn't even consider the rise in flu and RSV cases we're seeing this year. Combined, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftoday.tamu.edu\u002F2022\u002F11\u002F18\u002Fcovid-19-rsv-and-the-flu-are-straining-health-care-systems\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECovid, RSV, and the flu are straining some health care systems\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. And it's bound to get worse over the holidays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcovid.cdc.gov\u002Fcovid-data-tracker\u002F#trends_weeklycases_7daydeathsper100k_00\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Echart from the CDC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E shows weekly cases (in blue) and deaths (in orange). Notice the two yellow zones. Those represent the month or so just after Thanksgiving and Christmas. See how the death rates jump? That's most likely because of the increase in exposure during the holidays, which resulted in deaths a few weeks later.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"134d8b21-6fe3-41e4-9604-d22253dd134a\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EImage: CDC\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"us-state-trends\" data-image-filename=\"us-state-trends.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F11\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"2640\" data-image-height=\"1144\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you have a Thanksgiving gathering, keep this in mind. If a family member needs to wear a mask, be kind and understanding. If you live somewhere warm, consider holding your event outdoors, to reduce the chance of flu, RSV or Covid from spreading much as it does indoors. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBack in 2020, at the height of unvaccinated Covid, I wrote a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdavids-guide-to-surviving-thanksgiving-special-2020-edition\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eguide for how to do Thanksgiving while staying home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Even in 2022, setting up a Zoom or Teams call for those who don't feel safe but want to attend is still a great option.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E2. Leave politics at the door\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWow! 2022 has been a heck of a year, hasn't it? I can't talk to anyone, anywhere without politics jumping into the discussion. Folks are upset, angry, happy, proud, pissed, cranky, furious, elated, and worried. No matter where you fall on the political spectrum, one thing you're sure to agree with is that the emotional content is charged.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESave yourself pain, not to mention flying mashed potatoes, and agree that everyone, \u003Cem\u003Eeveryone\u003C\u002Fem\u003E (that means \u003Cem\u003Eyou\u003C\u002Fem\u003E, Cousin Frank) will leave politics at the door.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E3. Really giving thanks\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter all the fraught stuff I just discussed, I want to point out the real importance and power of giving thanks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's been a few years since my parents passed away. It's easy to go to a dark place with that, but instead, I've chosen to be thankful for all the years I had with them, all they taught me, and all they provided me. I'm thankful for their wisdom and guidance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm also thankful for my wonderful wife, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fworking-from-home-the-pets-of-zdnet\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emy adorable pup\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fmeet-the-team\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eeditors here at ZDNET\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and all of you. This is a two-way conversation and we here at ZDNET are always aware that we get to do this great gig because of all of you. Thank you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhether or not you thank your deity, the Force, or just nothing at all, the act of feeling grateful, of truly acknowledging what good is in your life, can be deeply affirming and powerful.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E4. It's all about the dark meat\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis is the technique that started it all. You may or may not like turkey, and you may or may not like dark meat. I love dark meat turkey, and I'm not really a fan of white meat. A key element of David's Patent-Pending Thanksgiving Survival Program is to make the day all about dark meat turkey.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour mission, notwithstanding the above Covid discussion, is to get to the celebration and to get the dark meat before anyone else can. If you have to hockey check your uncle Bill to get that haunch, do it. If you have to blockade the kitchen door, do it. Whatever it takes, get yourself that plate full of dark meat (and maybe some gravy).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe dark meat quest is extremely satisfying, but it'll backfire without the next technique.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E5. Effusively compliment the cook\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENothing reclassifies you from \"rude, gluttonous pig\" to \"extremely polite, nice person\" than complimenting the cook. A lot. In every way you can think of. You may have just practiced your body block technique on Uncle Bob, but if you turn to Aunt Alice and tell her how much you love her turkey, you'll get that welcome smile.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm serious about this. You can get away with nearly any marginally reprehensible behavior at a family gathering if you make sure to effusively say nice things to the cook.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEditor's note: Even better, help clean up while you compliment the cook. \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E6. Speak actual words to your family\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI know how compelling the portable electronic gadgets we have can be, especially when Aunt Martha is going on and on about her bursitis. We have now reached a point in our world where it's considered commonplace for everyone at an event to spend more time staring into their phones than at the other guests.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo matter. The point of this tip is simple: If you find yourself talking more to Siri than your family, it's time to turn off the devices and ask your aunt what bursitis is, anyway. Then make nice, sympathetic noises, say \"awww\" and \"I hope it gets better\" a few times, and then snag some more food.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe inevitable discussion of family illnesses, the shameful children poorly raised by the neighbors, and whether or not Uncle Jack will be denied parole again are all part of what makes Thanksgiving the holiday it is. And, besides, if you listen to your family, on the way home, you'll be able to turn to your partner and exclaim, \"Can you believe that Martha and her bursitis, bursitis, bursitis?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E7. Put away all your tiny screens\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe're all tethered to these small devices that somehow seem to suck in all our attention. During the workweek, and even during normal weekends, we often need to keep the channels of communication open. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut there is nothing else going on while you're eating your Thanksgiving dinner. Everyone else in America is doing the same thing. Your co-workers are with their families, your friends are with theirs. Even customers and clients are busy scooping mashed potatoes into their faces.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETake this incredibly rare opportunity to turn off the \u003Cem\u003Eblinkenlights\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. Shut down your screens. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe all need a break, don't we? Just a few short hours without boinks and beeps and flashes and tiny little text would be nice, wouldn't it?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E8. Thanksgiving doesn't have to be traditional\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, you all know I love me some dark meat turkey. It might surprise you, then, to learn that some years, I didn't have any dark meat. In fact, there have been many Thanksgivings where I didn't even have turkey.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"75ad37da-2ea4-4584-8981-67f73e26ea13\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F75ad37da-2ea4-4584-8981-67f73e26ea13\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne year, because of certain scheduling issues, we couldn't get together on the traditional day, so we picked the preceding Sunday and decided to meet at a completely non-traditional choice: An awesome BBQ ribs place. And, yes, for you folks south of the Mason-Dixon line, who know the difference between grilling and barbeque, this was barbeque. Oh, my frickin' gosh, was this barbeque. Whooowah!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter college, I moved to California and my family was still back East. For a while, I couldn't afford to fly home for Thanksgiving, and neither could many of my other recent college graduate-age friends. We all went out to Chinese food. As a result, I often conflate Chinese food with Thanksgiving because of all those wonderful holidays with the best of friends.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, as you move toward your Thanksgiving, remember that it's not only about traditional foods, and it's not even about the traditional day, it's about friends and family and feeling thankful.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E9. Give mom a break\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI know that mom isn't the only one who toils in the kitchen all week to masterfully create a Thanksgiving dinner experience. This is about giving a break to anyone who takes on this important chore.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESometimes, creating a Thanksgiving feast is just too much, especially as our parents' age. For years, my mom would insist on doing all the work, although in later years it became clear it was harder and harder for her. She identified with making a nice table for her family and couldn't be talked out of it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn her last few years, though, it really was too much. Somehow, the feast-making gene didn't pass down to either my wife or me, but the ordering food gene is almost a superpower. So, instead of my mom putting in all the hard work those years, we pre-ordered Thanksgiving meals from one of our favorite local restaurants and brought the entire feast down to Mom and Dad's.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo, it wasn't just like mom used to make, and no, there wasn't even be any dark meat. But it's one of those special memories I can be grateful for this year.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E10. Bring your repair kit, or don't \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThanksgiving has taken on another role in American society, that of the \"Great American Fix My Computer Day.\" That's right, for most moms and dads in America, Thanksgiving is the culmination of a week of food preparation. And for most of us geeks, it's the day we spend fixing all our relatives' stuff.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost geeks don't mind spending their day off essentially working. Many of us are often more comfortable fiddling with wires than conversing with Cousin Harriet about her recent surgery.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd while us good techies are ready and willing to fix anything our families throw at us, we do find one thing hard to manage: the coordination between eating and fixing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fnetworking\u002Fhow-to-convert-your-homes-old-tv-cabling-into-useful-ethernet-lines\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to convert your home's old TV cabling into powerful Ethernet lines\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost non-geeks rightly think of us as technical gods, able to fix anything instantly with a mere wave of our mouse hand. This, of course, is true. Except for the instantly part.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReinstalling an operating system, removing viruses, or upgrading software takes time. In between typing in codes, clicking on annoying reminders, and selecting the time zone, we're able to come to the table and chow down. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore you embark for your Thanksgiving adventure, you have a big decision to make. Would you prefer to spend more time fixing computers (and thereby avoiding your family) or would you prefer to spend more time eating (but having to endure endless chat about doctors)?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you choose to hide, bring your full repair kit. But if you prefer to eat, then don't.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E11. Discuss new assistive devices that might help older family members\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA few years ago, the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"e06d311d-524d-4a4e-a7b0-f5c995119c19\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fdp\u002FB0BDHQQCFH\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Apple Watch\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E was just a fancy watch. But now, it's a medical device and an emergency notification devices, all in one package. As my dad got older, he tended to fall. This is a problem for seniors, and one fall can cause very serious harm. Worse, for those seniors living alone, or who might fall in a part of the house where others can't hear (like a garage or a backyard), it could be hours before help is available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-your-apple-watchs-built-in-walkie-talkie\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow to use your Apple Watch's built-in Walkie Talkie\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, however, the Apple Watch (Series 4 and later) has a fall detection feature. Once set up, if the watch wearer takes a tumble and doesn't disable the notification, the watch can contact emergency services or a family member. If you want to make sure your family member can have fall notification even if they're away from the house, be sure to purchase the cellular version of the Watch. An Apple Watch isn't cheap, but the cost of delaying medical care after a severe fall can be far more expensive. If you want, get a \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4435fcaa-d534-4b6d-9b9a-d207456d8f98\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fapple-watch-refurbished\u002Fs?k=apple+watch+refurbished\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"refurbished Series 4 Watch\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, which is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapple-watch-new-or-refurbished-why-im-glad-i-bought-a-used-series-4\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewhat I did\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. I don't regret the decision one bit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother device that can support aging family members is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"50b1aa3d-cf5d-4d9f-b234-56bb4d091cdf\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002Fecho-show-10\u002Fdp\u002FB07VHZ41L8\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Echo Show\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. This is a device that allows you to teleconference family members quickly and easily. With permission from members of your family, you can easily drop in to see how they're doing, chat together from a distance, and give grandparents a no-fuss way to see their grandkids. Plus, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Famazon-makes-the-echo-show-more-helpful-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea new feature allows a sight-impaired individual to hold up a pantry item\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to the device for help identifying common household supplies.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-amazon-echo\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe 12 best Echo speakers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI know I told you to leave the technology at the door during Thanksgiving, but these devices can be so transformative and helpful in caring for aging parents, that it might be worth taking the time Thanksgiving provides to either show off how these devices work or at least talk over the benefits. With \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fcollection\u002Fblack-friday\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBlack Friday\u003C\u002Fa\u003E sales already in progress, you might even be able to get these products at a substantial discount.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E12. Do Black Friday online\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"3d3fced7-aaf2-4d1e-bad2-5038ae9fb1c1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F3d3fced7-aaf2-4d1e-bad2-5038ae9fb1c1\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy last Thanksgiving survival tip for the year is this: Chill out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is nothing human about people who get up at 5am after a ginormous Thanksgiving dinner, just to stand in line for a few bargains. We all have too much stuff, anyway.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fearly-black-friday-laptop-deals-november-22-2022\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E25+ Black Friday laptop deals\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInstead, feel free to shop on Friday, but do it from your couch. There are going to be great bargains online and, besides, bargains will be around for weeks.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStay home. Use the internet. Eat leftovers. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESeriously, be smart and be safe. Have a great Thanksgiving. And remember, save all the dark meat for me!\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Ffacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Finstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-11-23 13:54:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Learn about dark meat turkey, Jedi family management skills, and a little tech. Plus some tips about how to have and enjoy a non-traditional holiday.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"9524bd86-3340-11e4-9e6a-00505685119a",image:{id:"3f0b09e7-79d2-497f-b519-837b84a15483",filename:"istock-1181395628.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2019-11-26 14:55:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"turkey-head.gif",credits:"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EMulti-ethnic group of smiling young people enjoying dinner together standing at table in modern interior and holding wine glasses, copy space\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2019\u002F11\u002F26\u002F3f0b09e7-79d2-497f-b519-837b84a15483\u002Fistock-1181395628.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Smartphones^Mobility",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"davids-guide-to-surviving-thanksgiving",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"David's guide to surviving Thanksgiving (2022 edition)",topic:{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10257486-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cxo",name:"CXO",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"ad35bfd1-6bd1-4815-8bd6-f43193d3d32f",username:"me51",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Greg",lastName:"Nichols",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"d29f72d1-47ad-41d7-8bc0-135ec58db813",filename:"greg-nichols.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:23:04",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fd29f72d1-47ad-41d7-8bc0-135ec58db813\u002Fgreg-nichols.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Greg Nichols covers robotics, AI, and AR\u002FVR for ZDNET. A full-time journalist and author, he writes about tech, travel, crime, and the economy for global media outlets and reports from across the U.S., South America, and Asia. He's a co-founder of Truly*Adventurous, a digital media platform that produces original tales of true adventure, and an award-winning author.",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"b4d1f176-e817-4f22-83a1-7a272acaa8d1\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Osaro Robotics\" data-image-alt-text=\"osaro\" data-image-filename=\"osaro.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"1280\" data-image-height=\"720\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWarehouse workers don't have an easy job. In an on-demand fulfillment economy the work is ceaseless, the pay low, and the drive for efficiency brutal. Earlier this year the Department of Labor even stepped in with an initiative attempting to safeguard \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dol.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Freleases\u002Fwhd\u002Fwhd20220208-1\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewarehouse workers' rights\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdd to that the resigned inevitability hovering over many of these jobs. Robots, already prominent in logistics operations, are steadily taking on tasks that previously required humans, including in the crucial final stage of picking and sorting. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne example, at a warehouse in Novato some miles north of San Francisco, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftrack.zingpr.com\u002F5cd064ad83aa725f1ba9e52a\u002Fl\u002FRybIR3E0wHgccz0dw?messageId=c5EK0CUuXx2EPejwr&rn=Iycs9GajlmTgcWZydkI&re=gIt92YuwWah12ZAFzZlJ3ZoNGdpBnI&sc=false\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EZenni Optical\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is assigning a crucial stage of e-commerce fulfillment to a team of three specially trained robots provided by \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftrack.zingpr.com\u002F5cd064ad83aa725f1ba9e52a\u002Fl\u002FNk8W5Z86mmmVC4hd1?messageId=c5EK0CUuXx2EPejwr&rn=Iycs9GajlmTgcWZydkI&re=gIt92YuwWah12ZAFzZlJ3ZoNGdpBnI&sc=false\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOSARO\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The deployment represents one of the first times a robot will be assigned the responsibility of working with an automated mechanical bagging system to ensure a customer's unique order is placed into the correct bag for shipment. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Perfect job for a robot!\" you might say. Certainly true, but in fact, this task requires skills that we humans take for granted, such as the ability to identify an object of a particular shape and color from among other similar objects and then pick up that object, check its ID, and then put it into a labeled bag. Easy for humans; hard for robots.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMachine vision and grasping technology, however, have progressed to a point where even these highly dexterous and variable tasks can be automated. In the case of Zenni, each eyeglass order is associated with a customer's prescription and can be sorted and bagged on sight. The fact that the robots here are picking and placing glasses is significant as a bellwether of just how far machine vision has come. The picking and bagging robot features \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftrack.zingpr.com\u002F5cd064ad83aa725f1ba9e52a\u002Fl\u002FaQi3CQ4GypI3AY493?messageId=c5EK0CUuXx2EPejwr&rn=Iycs9GajlmTgcWZydkI&re=gIt92YuwWah12ZAFzZlJ3ZoNGdpBnI&sc=false\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOSARO's advanced AI vision system\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which enables the robot to perform advanced pick-and-place operations by recognizing transparent, deformed, reflective, and irregularly shaped items—even if they are randomly arranged in the inventory storage bins—and then placing them into a bag for shipment to the customer.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll this adds up to a poignant case of Industry 2.0 robots very probably stepping in to take over millions of existing and future jobs across the fulfillment paradigm. The U.S. may need to add a whopping \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnbc.com\u002F2020\u002F07\u002F09\u002Fus-may-need-another-1-billion-square-feet-of-warehouse-space-by-2025.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E1 billion square feet\u003C\u002Fa\u003E of warehouse space by 2025 to keep up with online demand, but the boom in the economy won't come with a boom in employment. That feels like a small concession in a tight labor market, but as we're facing a potential recession few have accurately reckoned with the consequences of automation over the next few years. As logistics goes, so go \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fjack-in-the-box-turns-to-robots-to-solve-staffing-challenges\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esectors like fast food\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and even well-paid jobs like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcyborg-construction-workers-quest-for-efficiency\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Econstruction\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, this is good news for developers of automation solutions for the logistics sector, pioneering companies like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Flocusrobotics.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELocus Robotics\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which makes autonomous mobile robots (AMR) for fulfillment warehouses. The company recently raised its overall valuation to $1 billion. Last year a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwanted-1-million-robots-as-soon-as-humanly-possible\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELocus spokesman told me\u003C\u002Fa\u003E the company expects that over a million warehouse robots will be installed over the next four years while the number of warehouses using them will grow ten‐fold.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe robots aren't just coming, they're already.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"27b1c99c-306c-4079-bbdd-e15f4018cf06\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F27b1c99c-306c-4079-bbdd-e15f4018cf06\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-06-24 15:15:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Few have accurately reckoned with the consequences of automation over the next few years.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"fb8da0ab-94bc-4a54-bcab-97b3b5816160",image:{id:"b4d1f176-e817-4f22-83a1-7a272acaa8d1",filename:"osaro.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-06-24 14:43:19",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"osaro",credits:"Osaro Robotics",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F06\u002F24\u002Fb4d1f176-e817-4f22-83a1-7a272acaa8d1\u002Fosaro.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1280,height:720,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^AI & Robotics",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"no-really-robots-are-about-to-take-a-lot-of-jobs",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"No really, robots are about to take A LOT of jobs",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"ai-robotics",name:"AI & Robotics",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"ai-robotics",name:"AI & Robotics",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"83b60ecf-3b8f-49ad-9942-4ddf006a7365",slug:"smart-cities",name:"Smart Cities",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"61c1e602-3e74-431a-ac7c-bd8d6ea28c5c",username:"almurray1",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Allison",lastName:"Murray",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"7e9c49be-428d-4ec9-a8e5-fd042c608cad",filename:"allison-murray.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 14:41:13",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F7e9c49be-428d-4ec9-a8e5-fd042c608cad\u002Fallison-murray.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Allison Murray is a writer based in Chicago. She has years of reporting experience on a wide variety of tech-related topics and breaking news at various outlets like Digital Trends and Lifewire. Her work has been published on ABC News, Good Morning America, and Yahoo Finance. She is a graduate of Southern Illinois University where she majored in journalism.",profile:b,title:"Staff Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"c5527070-784f-4689-b4a8-1f2499badee4\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"By wichayada suwanachun -- Shuterstock\" data-image-alt-text=\"instagram.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"instagram.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F09\u002F28\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce upon a time, social media was a place to share a photo of your morning cup of coffee or an aesthetically pleasing sunset. Now, it's become a tool to connect with people from around the country or even around the world, have conversations about topics, and even be a place for small businesses to thrive.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall businesses are utilizing all that social media has to offer to grow their following and customer base. Brother-sister-duo Stephanie and Kevin Lin opened their brick-and-mortar shop, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fkestan.co\u002F\"\u003EKestan\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, in California in 2019 but were forced to turn to a fully online store when the pandemic hit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo promote their store and keep sales going despite not being physically open, they turned to social media (specifically, Facebook and Instagram) to grow brand awareness and get more online customers. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"We started to make our social media presence more authentic by posting about the design process, behind the scenes of the stores, fashion tips, stuff like that, and people started getting into the content, and we started to grow our followers [on Instagram],\" Kevin tells ZDNet.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETheir social media strategy is pretty simple: Kevin is behind the phone getting the perfect shots and angles, while Stephanie is in front of the camera showing off outfits, going on Instagram Live with customers and showing upcoming products and fittings. They even post old family photos, selfies, and small business wins, like making it on the front page of the Irvine Standard newspaper. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f3ec466a-dd72-4a5f-bee5-b47c6be580fc\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Kestan\" data-image-alt-text=\"Instagram post example from the store Kestan\" data-image-filename=\"kestan-instagram-post.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F06\u002F01\" data-image-width=\"1762\" data-image-height=\"1720\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I feel like people want to feel a sense of authenticity from brands. And that's why small businesses, I think this is our time to shine right now,\" Stephanie says. \"People want to connect with their community; they want to connect with people they relate to, with a product that has a story behind it. So, there's no need to make sure you create like a picture-perfect piece of content you want -- we've found that they just want to see what you're up to.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKestan now has over 40,000 followers on Instagram and Facebook, with customers purchasing locally from California, as well as faraway states like South Dakota or Alaska and even other countries around the world -- something the business could not have achieved by just their in-person store alone.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELike many other small businesses, Kestan has found success in engaging with customers on social media. According to \u003Ca href=\"http:\u002F\u002Fdigitalmarketingmagazine.co.uk\u002Fsocial-media-marketing\u002F3-out-of-4-consumers-consult-social-media-before-buying\u002F1659\"\u003EDigital Marketing Magazine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, 74% of consumers rely on social media to guide their purchasing decisions. In addition, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsproutsocial.com\u002Finsights\u002Fimportance-of-social-media-marketing-in-business\u002F\"\u003E55% of consumers learn about a new brand\u003C\u002Fa\u003E via social media. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMaayan Gordon, a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.maayangordonmedia.com\u002F\"\u003Esocial media content creator\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and entrepreneur who helps small businesses and their marketing strategies by utilizing tools like Hootsuite, has seen her small business clients turn towards social media in recent years. She says the main benefits small businesses get from social media are growing their customer base and establishing their brand presence.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Social media is an incredible place to build relationships with your customers. These days, it's become very saturated with product promotion, and so what's really working for any brand -- whether it's a small business or a large business -- is being able to leverage social media to build those relationships,\" Gordon tells ZDNet.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall businesses now have access to useful tools valuable tools like Hootsuite that can schedule batch content and give them insight into which posts are working and which aren't. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGordon tells her clients that it's essential to keep up with what works and what doesn't since social media is an ever-changing landscape. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"If you're reading a post about how to be successful on Instagram, written in 2019, it's probably not very accurate or helpful to what's working today,\" she says. \"It changes so quickly, and I think that's really intense -- small businesses not only need to learn a platform, but they have to keep up on all the changes that are happening, too.\"  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of Hootsuite's small business customers who has worked with Gordon, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Finnovetivepetcare.com\u002F\"\u003EInnovetive Petcare\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, has had to learn the ropes of social media, even in a traditional industry like veterinary care. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Years ago, when we first used social media, we would share fluffy kittens and puppies and share those types of stories,\" says Malia Rivera, the vice president of marketing at Innovetive Petcare. \"And over the past several years, we've really worked hand-in-hand with our veterinary hospitals of how that they can use this platform to drive new awareness to new pet owners and share our culture and use it as a lever for compelling storytelling while building a relationship with new and existing clients that we have.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInnovetive Petcare represents 67 animal hospitals across more than 15 states and runs over 150 social media profiles. And while posting cute animals is still very much a part of its social strategy, it also shares veterinary training, what some pet procedures look like, and stories about emergency instances so pet owners know what to look out for. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGordon says this authentic approach is the key for small businesses that use this technology. \"The way small businesses are successful [on social media] is by saying who they are and what they stand for, and that kind of humanized approach is, I think, giving the best result.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall businesses can now reach beyond their immediate communities through the power of social media and attract customers from all over if they do it right.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Social media is the next generation of marketing -- if you're not utilizing social media in your small business, you are behind the curve,\" Rivera explains. \"I can't think of a better tool that is low cost, easy to use, can reach the masses, and weave artificial intelligence to create a compelling call to action for your small business.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"aed32fa0-1ae6-4be7-9615-18dae5d2d87e\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Faed32fa0-1ae6-4be7-9615-18dae5d2d87e\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-06-06 13:49:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Social media has become more than just a scrolling habit -- it's helping small businesses thrive online.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"ddf858ac-7560-4a79-bf44-f8a2ac22a4fe",image:{id:"c5527070-784f-4689-b4a8-1f2499badee4",filename:"instagram.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-09-28 11:32:42",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"instagram.jpg",credits:"By wichayada suwanachun -- Shuterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F09\u002F28\u002Fc5527070-784f-4689-b4a8-1f2499badee4\u002Finstagram.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"how-small-businesses-see-success-in-sharing-authentically",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"How small businesses see success in sharing authentically",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"114c901c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"social-media",name:"Social Media",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"459043fb-10d8-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"aimeech",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Aimee",lastName:"Chanthadavong",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"fc9a5bf1-1174-11e4-9732-00505685119a",filename:"aimee-chanthadavong.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-02-17 05:53:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F02\u002F17\u002Ffc9a5bf1-1174-11e4-9732-00505685119a\u002Faimee-chanthadavong.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Aimee Chanthadavong is a Sydney-based journalist and content producer with 10+ years of experience.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"92dd8861-d7dc-48ab-a010-a19dcc916dff\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Imaginima\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"arrow-pointing-upwards.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"arrow-pointing-upwards.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F30\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt would be an understatement to say that small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) around Australia have had to face a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.rba.gov.au\u002Fpublications\u002Fbulletin\u002F2021\u002Fsep\u002Fsmall-business-finance-and-covid-19-outbreaks.html\"\u003Etough couple of years\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But there are signs that this is a remarkably resilient cohort of businesses. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA recent study revealed that 57% of SMBs in Australia and New Zealand have moved on from being in survival mode and are shifting to either growing or transforming their business. It also indicated that two-thirds of Australian SMBs are getting ready to bump up their IT spend in 2022. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The majority of SMBs in ANZ are now optimistic about the future,\" said IDC ANZ senior market research and IT services senior market analyst Emily Lynch. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Cloud, collaboration, and cybersecurity are key pillars of investment for ANZ SMBs. These organisations are seeing the gains of these investments in improving productivity, time to market, and leveraging new digital technologies. Notably, we see that SMBs are deriving increasing percentages of revenue via digital channels.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmazon Web Services technology and customer solutions vice president Francessca Vasquez agreed, believing there will be an increased adoption of cloud and cybersecurity technologies by SMBs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"SMBs if they're looking to move to the cloud, [they] also look for use cases that allow them to learn, build skills, and go faster. Those use cases can be anything from foundational usage where they want to be able to have a good security framework, they want to be able to leverage identity to things like backup and recovery, just to get started,\" she said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"From there, we see many of our SMBs then move onto moving their data and other analytics-based applications onto the cloud. That's a very common pattern that we see.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELeading the tech projects for most of these SMBs, according to Vasquez, are often the founders themselves, if they are still involved in the business, or chief product officers, which is an \"emerging role within SMB\". \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe nimble size of SMBs is advantageous for how fast new technologies can be adopted, Vasquez added -- particularly when they can work with partners in the local market to experiment fast and drive use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"For the vast majority of our small to mid-sized business customers, they tend to be thinking about outcomes such as product adoption, user adoption, so their mindset tends to be a little bit different; that I think allows them to disproportionately move faster in their capabilities,\" Vasquez said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother motivation for SMBs to adopt new technology is being driven by government. During the recent \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Faustralian-budget-2022-delivers-au9-9-billion-for-spicy-cyber\u002F\"\u003Efederal Budget\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the Australian government announced it was getting behind small businesses investing in more technology. It said it would introduce an incentive that would allow small businesses to deduct an additional 20% of cost incurred on business expenses and depreciating assets that support their digital adoption, such as portable payment devices, cybersecurity systems, and subscriptions to cloud-based services. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Governments and public sector in general have a role to play. One of the biggest roles they can play besides the tax incentives is, I think, a lot of these great SMB customers also become great hubs to help with talent,\" Vasquez said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I do believe we think about the workforce of the future and there are some critical skills that are really needed over the next five to ten years…and I think that the governments can play a role in helping the SMBs to develop talent and provide pathways for talent.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELastPass JAPAC identity lead Lloyd Evans described the government's decision to introduce such incentives as a prudent approach. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"SMB for the most part is the engine room of the Australian economy. I think ways to help them mitigate cyber risk, allowing them to be more resilient, and to be able to offset that cost for digital cybersecurity services…I think is a good way to help both the Australian economy but also companies operating in an SMB environment,\" he said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E Related Coverage \u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finflation-and-burnout-among-the-greatest-concerns-of-small-business-owners-capital-one-survey\u002F\"\u003EInflation, burnout among biggest challenges small business owners face: Survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Freport-more-than-half-of-smbs-now-spend-more-than-1m-on-the-cloud\u002F\"\u003EReport: SMBs are making serious investments in the cloud\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-delays-planned-price-increase-for-office-365-for-some-of-its-reseller-partners\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft delays planned price increase for Office 365 for some of its reseller partners\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fstartup-funding-how-this-tiny-apartment-became-a-hub-for-innovation\u002F\"\u003EStartup funding: How this tiny apartment became a hub for innovation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcyber-incident-impact-sits-at-over-500000-for-half-of-small-to-medium-apac-businesses\u002F\"\u003ECyber incident impact sits at over $500,000 for half of small to medium APAC businesses\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-06-06 13:48:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Cloud, cybersecurity, and analytics are just some of the investment areas that SMBs are gearing up to invest in.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"e07cc2af-5466-40c8-82d6-e3aac9a9b22c",image:{id:"92dd8861-d7dc-48ab-a010-a19dcc916dff",filename:"arrow-pointing-upwards.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-05-30 06:01:32",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"arrow-pointing-upwards.jpg",credits:"Image: Imaginima\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F05\u002F30\u002F92dd8861-d7dc-48ab-a010-a19dcc916dff\u002Farrow-pointing-upwards.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"smbs-are-rising-to-the-challenge-and-turning-to-technology-to-help-them-get-to-the-top",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"SMBs are rising to the challenge and turning to technology to help them get to the top",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"96093490-341e-45e4-b27a-bf297aa2c5bb",slug:"services-software",name:"Services & Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"f6ca5d6a-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"Charles McLellan",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Charles",lastName:"McLellan",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"d2fd20c3-acb9-4370-b08a-614b87257fb9",filename:"charles-mclellan.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 14:27:53",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fd2fd20c3-acb9-4370-b08a-614b87257fb9\u002Fcharles-mclellan.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"I'm the Reviews Editor at ZDNET UK. My experience with computers started at London's Imperial College, where I studied Zoology and then Environmental Technology. This was sufficiently long ago (mid-1970s) that Fortran, IBM punched-card machines and mainframes were involved, followed by green-screen terminals and eventually the personal computers we know and (mostly) love. \r\n\r\nAfter doing post-grad research at Imperial for a while, I got involved in helping to produce a weekly news magazine based in Amsterdam. This was in the mid-1980s, and one of my duties was to set up data communications links with technologically-challenged national newspaper journalists in a number of European cities via a 300-baud modem and an acoustic coupler. Tech support people have my sympathy! \r\n\r\nI've been in computer publishing since the late 1980s, starting with Reed Business Publishing's Practical Computing, then joining Ziff Davis in 1991 to help launch PC Magazine UK as Production Editor. After a couple of years I switched to commissioning, editing and writing, becoming a Technical Editor and then First Looks Editor.\r\n\r\nWhen ZDNet came looking for a Reviews Editor in 2000, I was ready to make the move from print to online — just in time for the dot-com crash! It's been a long road from punched cards to the cloud, but it'll still be fun seeing where we go from here.",profile:b,title:"Senior Editor",bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a8b7c025-25aa-4bc1-9796-93b62d452afc\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Small business challenges and priorities in 2022\" data-image-filename=\"smb-2022-intro-header.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"1540\" data-image-height=\"866\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith two-thirds of 2022 behind us, the challenges facing small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are mounting. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith continuing pressure on revenue and cash reserves, upheaval in the labour market and disruption to supply chains, it's clear that there are tough times ahead, and SMBs – the bedrock of most countries' economies – are in the firing line. But many business managers have a new-found understanding of technology which may help them find a way to succeed even in difficult times. In this special feature we look at both the broader economic picture and how small business is using tech to respond.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Macroeconomic trends \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.oecd.org\u002Feconomic-outlook\u002Fdecember-2021\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDecember 2021\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the OECD noted that \"Output in most OECD countries has now surpassed its late-2019 level and is converging on its pre-pandemic path but lower-income economies, particularly those where vaccination rates are low, are at risk of being left behind\".  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4e200959-f797-427c-a87c-2befee035498\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Chart: OECD\" data-image-alt-text=\"OECD: World GDP Evolution\" data-image-filename=\"oecd-gdp-forecast-dec-2021.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"520\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInflation, which was predicted to peak in late 2021, was expected to be 2.47% higher worldwide over the year beginning 24 February 2022 due to commodity and financial market shocks caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The worldwide hit to GDP over the same period was predicted to be 1.08%.   \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"81f9de3b-27ff-451c-a540-fa18b94b710c\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Chart: OECD\" data-image-alt-text=\"OECD: effect of Ukraine war on GDP and inflation\" data-image-filename=\"oecd-ukraine-war-effect-on-gdp-inflation.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F20\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"520\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.oecd-ilibrary.org\u002Fsites\u002F62d0ca31-en\u002F1\u002F3\u002F1\u002Findex.html?itemId=\u002Fcontent\u002Fpublication\u002F62d0ca31-en&_csp_=0cf9a35c204747c5f82f56787b31b42b&itemIGO=oecd&itemContentType=book#section-d1e118\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EJune 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the OECD assessed 'The price of war' by noting that, prior to the outbreak of the war, the outlook appeared broadly favourable over 2022-23, with growth and inflation returning to normality as the COVID-19 pandemic and supply-side constraints waned. \"The invasion of Ukraine, along with shutdowns in major cities and ports in China due to the zero-COVID policy, has generated a new set of adverse shocks. Global GDP growth is now projected to slow sharply this year to 3%, around 1½ percentage points weaker than projected in the December 2021 OECD Economic Outlook, and to remain at a similar subdued pace in 2023,\" it warned. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe latest figures for the UK economy are in line with these predictions, with GDP \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ons.gov.uk\u002Feconomy\u002Fgrossdomesticproductgdp\u002Fbulletins\u002Fgdpmonthlyestimateuk\u002Fjuly2022\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egrowing by just 0.2% in July\u003C\u002Fa\u003E after \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ons.gov.uk\u002Feconomy\u002Fgrossdomesticproductgdp\u002Fbulletins\u002Fgdpmonthlyestimateuk\u002Fjune2022\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efalling by 0.6% in June\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and the Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers' housing costs (CPIH) \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ons.gov.uk\u002Feconomy\u002Finflationandpriceindices\u002Fbulletins\u002Fconsumerpriceinflation\u002Fjuly2022\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Erising by 8.8% in the 12 months to July 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, up from 8.2% in June. The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by 10.1% in the 12 months to July 2022, up from 9.4% in June. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen it comes to the prices that producers of goods and services pay for their inputs and charge for their outputs, the trend is also rising sharply. The latest \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ons.gov.uk\u002Feconomy\u002Finflationandpriceindices\u002Fbulletins\u002Fproducerpriceinflation\u002Fjuly2022\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EONS figures\u003C\u002Fa\u003E show input prices up 22% on the year to July 2022 (down from a record high of 24.1% in the year to June 2022) and output (factory gate) prices up 17.1% over the same period (up from 16.4% in the year to June 2022, and the highest level since August 1977). A particular issue for small businesses is the increases they are facing in their energy costs – for electricity and gas. While the government has taken some steps to tackle this the Federation of Small Business has noted that \"a tough year remains ahead of many small firms\".\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Small business health and confidence   \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHow are these macroeconomic trends playing out among small businesses?  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the US, the health of SMBs (defined as companies with fewer than 500 employees that are not sole proprietorships) is tracked on a quarterly basis by the US Chamber of Commerce\u002FMet Life \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.uschamber.com\u002Fsbindex\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESmall Business Index\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (SBI). The latest Q2 2022 SBI score, based on a survey conducted between April 29 and May 17, was 66.8 -- the highest level since the start of the pandemic, although still below the Q1 2020 level (71.7): \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"20ae4632-540c-4edf-9536-13171a0892a5\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Chart: US Chamber of Commerce\u002FMet Life\" data-image-alt-text=\"US Chamber of Commerce\u002FMet Life: Small Business Index\" data-image-filename=\"sbi-2022-q2-chart.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"716\" data-image-height=\"370\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough there's no sign of collapsing confidence in the SBI just yet, there are warning signs in the trends for the five biggest challenges facing US small businesses. 'Inflation costs' is rising sharply, 'supply chain issues' is rising steadily, while a downward trend for revenue as a concern has reversed in Q2. Rising interest rates have also entered the picture as a major concern for small businesses in the US:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"187339d6-6136-4304-b6e9-2dda24e4356f\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Charts: US Chamber of Commerce \u002F Met Life\" data-image-alt-text=\"US SMB challenges Q2 2022\" data-image-filename=\"sbi-2022-q2-top-5-challenges-chart.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"920\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMeanwhile, half of SBI respondents say they believe it will be another six months to a year until the US small business climate returns to normal, while fewer than one in ten (6%) think that normality has already resumed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother regular UK survey is carried out by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), which is used to generate the UK's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fsb.org.uk\u002Fnews\u002Four-policy-work\u002Ffsb-policy-reports-small-business-index.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESmall Business Index\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (SBI). In \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.fsb.org.uk\u002Fresource-report\u002Fsbi-q2-2022.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EQ2 2022\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the SBI fell to –24.7, indicating that more SMBs expect performance to decline in the coming quarter than improve -- after rising to 15.3 in Q1 2022. This 40-point fall is the second largest in the SBI's history, beaten only by the 121.8-point fall at the start of the Covid pandemic (Q1 2020). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dc2cd486-2e45-4d1b-852a-f959cbc4f997\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Chart: Federation of Small Businesses (UK)\" data-image-alt-text=\"fsb-small-business-index-q1-2022.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"fsb-small-business-index-q2-2022.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"368\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe outlook for SMBs in the UK is noticeably more pessimistic than it currently is in the US. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E SMB challenges and priorities in 2022\u002F23\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo get an idea of the specific issues likely to be facing small businesses in 2022\u002F23, we looked at multiple (>30) surveys and forward-looking articles published within the past 18 months and logged the mentions of different subject areas. Here's the picture that emerged.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7b88f0c1-3505-46bd-ac2e-2ee0a7d87d90\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Chart: ZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Challenges and priorities for SMBs in 2022\" data-image-filename=\"smb-challenges-priorities-2022-23.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"1100\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe top five issues -- Digital marketing & customer acquisition\u002Fretention; Employee relations, training & wellbeing; Digital transformation & new technology; Labour market & outsourcing; and Remote\u002Fhybrid work -- are all driven to some extent by the pandemic experience. Let's take a closer look.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDigital marketing & customer relations \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDuring lockdowns, the focus for attracting new customers and keeping existing ones happy inevitably tilted more towards online channels. But it's not enough just to build a website with a functioning e-commerce solution and hope that customers will come: businesses need to boost their SEO efforts, as well as attract and convert new leads via email and social media campaigns, increasingly using video and 'influencers' of various descriptions. And once customers are acquired, it's clearly essential to have efficient CRM systems in place so that SMBs can deliver a satisfying experience that builds loyalty.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERead more: \u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fand-the-winners-of-the-crm-watchlist-2022-are\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECRM Watchlist 2022: And the winners are...\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-crm-industry-a-new-science-for-customer-experience\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe CRM industry: A new science for customer experience\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fas-markets-shifts-to-a-hybrid-digital-and-physical-world-here-are-8-steps-to-create-a-customer-unified-and-resilient-company\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHere are 8 steps to create a customer-unified, resilient company in a hybrid work market\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmployee relations, training & wellbeing \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore the pandemic, it's unlikely that concerns about employees would have ranked so highly as they do here. But widespread changes to working conditions and practices over the past two years have brought issues like employee burnout, mental health, work-life balance and morale to the fore. These days, employers not only need to review how they manage employees' workflows and monitor their performance, but must also communicate efficiently with (often remote) workers and find new ways to deliver training, coaching and mentoring. Failure in these areas is a recipe for poor employee retention, and a particular concern for SMBs that lack dedicated HR staff.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERead more: \u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fburnout-broken-hiring-and-employees-in-a-rut-no-wonder-workers-are-looking-to-quit\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBurnout, broken hiring and employees in a rut: No wonder workers are looking to quit\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fex-leads-to-revenue-growth\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EFocusing on employee experience leads to revenue growth\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-to-add-glint-hr-tools-to-its-viva-employee-experience-platform\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMicrosoft to add Glint HR tools to its Viva employee-experience platform\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDigital transformation and new technology \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDigital transformation and the adoption of new technology is an important focus for SMBs as it can put them in a better position to ride out challenging economic conditions and gain an edge on their competitors. Cloud technology such as SaaS applications -- particularly ones aimed at specific vertical markets -- deliver obvious benefits in terms of shifting from capital to operational expenditure by outsourcing the deployment and maintenance of the underlying technology. This should allow businesses to concentrate on adding value via the agile development of bespoke products and services, and by transforming online experiences using new technologies such as AR and VR, machine learning and AI.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERead more: \u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E \t\t\t\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ftopic\u002Fdigital-transformation-trends-and-insights-for-success\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDigital transformation: Trends and insights for success\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapplication-modernization-makes-a-dent\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EApplication modernization makes a dent in the technology universe\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdigital-transformation-is-great-if-only-the-technology-was-ready\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDigital transformation is great, if only the technology was ready\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELabour market & outsourcing\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJob vacancies created by the '\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FGreat_Resignation\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egreat resignation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E' of 2021\u002F22 have resulted in increased use of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FGig_worker\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egig economy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FOutsourcing\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eoutsourcing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. For small businesses, assuming they can access the skills they require, this could be a positive trend: fewer permanent employees mean lower overheads and an opportunity for greater flexibility, with SMBs accessing expertise for business processes like accounting, IT services, marketing, human resources and customer support as required.    \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERead more: \u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E \t\t\t\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-great-resignation-continues-and-companies-are-finding-new-ways-to-tackle-the-talent-shortage\u002F\"\u003EThe Great Resignation continues, and companies are finding new ways to tackle the talent shortage\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E \t\t\t\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-future-of-work-includes-high-demand-digital-skills-will-you-fit-in\u002F\"\u003EThe future of work includes high-demand digital skills. Will you fit in?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E \t\t\t\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Feducation\u002Fprofessional-development\u002Fwhen-it-comes-to-tackling-the-skills-shortage-employers-are-obsessing-over-the-wrong-thing\u002F\"\u003EWhen it comes to tackling the skills shortage, employers are obsessing over the wrong thing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERemote\u002Fhybrid working \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the most profound changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to be a lasting shift towards remote or hybrid working, and the resulting demise of the traditional office as the primary workplace for many employees. Despite predictable resistance from more \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.theguardian.com\u002Fpolitics\u002F2022\u002Fmay\u002F14\u002Fboris-johnson-urges-more-people-to-return-to-office-working\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Econservative\u003C\u002Fa\u003E quarters, it seems that \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-remote-working-here-to-stay-the-data-might-surprise-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebusinesses are adapting\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to the shifting employee expectations generated by the lockdowns of 2020\u002F21: many workers proved that they could work productively from home, or with infrequent visits to the office, and have no desire to turn the clock back.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGoing forward, work will likely fall along a continuum from fully remote through hybrid to fully in-office, with the balance depending on an employee's role, the sector their company operates in and personal choice. SMBs will need to ensure that productivity, communication and security technology is in place to service remote and hybrid workers, because the demand for flexible working is not going away, and laggards are likely to have trouble keeping and recruiting staff.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003ERead more: \u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-hybrid-work-will-empower-workers\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow hybrid work will empower all workers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fremote-and-hybrid-work-5-tips-for-making-it-a-success\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ERemote and hybrid work: 5 tips for making it a success\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-remote-working-here-to-stay-the-data-might-surprise-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIs remote working here to stay? The data might surprise you\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's likely that SMBs who are ahead of the game on key issues like digital marketing, employee relations, remote working, outsourcing and digital transformation will be better placed to weather the upcoming economic downturn.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E The 2023 State of IT  \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA key annual survey that examines business' IT budget plans and technology trends is the \u003Cem\u003EState of IT\u003C\u002Fem\u003E report from SpiceWorks Ziff Davis. The \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fswzd.com\u002Fresources\u002Fstate-of-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E2023 survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.businesswire.com\u002Fnews\u002Fhome\u002F20220927005015\u002Fen\u002FSpiceworks-Ziff-Davis-2023-State-of-IT-Report-Counters-Recession-Fears-with-Projected-Tech-Budget-Growth\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ereleased on 27 September\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, was conducted in June 2022, canvassing 968 IT buyers from organisations across North America (62%) and Europe (38%). This survey has a distinct SMB slant, with 32% of companies having 1-99 employees and 34% having 100-499 employees.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe 2023 State of IT report confirms that businesses are concerned about recession in 2023, with 65% of enterprises (>500 employees) and 45% of SMBs (1-499 employees) preparing for this eventuality. Recession preparations are more prevalent in Europe (65% of organisations) than North America (45% of organisations).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReducing non-essential spending is the top precautionary measure (43% overall, 38% of enterprises, 45% of mid-size businesses, 46% of small businesses), but this does not include IT budget reduction: 51% of companies plan to increase year-on-year IT spending, compared to just 6% that plan to decrease their tech budget. That said, IT budget increases are less likely, and decreases more likely, the smaller the company size (the same pattern also applies to expected revenue changes):\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5727f148-0666-4de3-b20b-16e78a108f9d\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Spiceworks Ziff Davis\" data-image-alt-text=\"State of IT 2023: IT budget changes\" data-image-filename=\"soit-2023-it-budget-change.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F28\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"589\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Despite widespread economic worries going into 2023, there's reason for B2B technology providers to be optimistic. Even as many businesses reduce discretionary spending to weather a likely recession, we anticipate future growth in corporate IT budgets,\" said Peter Tsai, Head of Technology Insights at Spiceworks Ziff Davis.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"This prioritization of IT spending represents a continuation of modernization efforts kick started during the pandemic. Over the last few uncertain years, corporate decision makers have seen first-hand the benefits of IT investments, which often pay for themselves by improving processes, enhancing resilience, or enhancing workplace productivity,\" Tsai added.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInflation is a driver of IT budget increases in 2023, especially for small businesses, but other important factors include the need to update outdated IT infrastructure, employee growth and increased security concerns.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"e833d45a-bcac-4375-94e7-163ae4002076\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Spiceworks Ziff Davis\" data-image-alt-text=\"State of IT 2023: IT budget drivers\" data-image-filename=\"soit-2023-it-budget-drivers.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F09\u002F28\" data-image-width=\"770\" data-image-height=\"1220\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are indications in the survey that post-pandemic changes to working environments are driving changes in IT budget allocation. As of June 2022, 85% of companies that allowed remote working had asked employees to return to the office (44.4% all workers, 40.1% some workers). Cloud spending plans for 2023 fell slightly (23% of total IT budget vs 26% in 2022), while planned spending on managed services rose (18% in 2023 vs 15% in 2020, before the pandemic). The report suggests that \"organizations are likely right-sizing their environments to support their employees wherever it makes most sense. Additionally, after businesses spent the last couple of years modernizing, many are likely now turning to services to help them maintain their new technology stacks\".\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's noticeable, though, that small businesses (1-99 employees) plan to spend less on cloud in 2023 (21% of IT budget) than mid-size businesses and enterprises (24% each), while enterprises plan to spend more on managed services (20%) than SMBs (17% each).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Outlook \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust as economies were beginning to recover from pandemic-driven recession, war in Ukraine, rising inflation and the threat of recession have created further headwinds for SMBs to navigate. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EIndices of SMB health and confidence in the US and UK generally increased through 2021 to Q1 2022, but recent political and economic shocks have put the brakes on this optimism, especially in the UK. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKey concerns for SMBs in the 2022\u002F23 timeframe include digital marketing and CRM, employee relations, digital transformation, the labour market and outsourcing, and remote\u002Fhybrid working. \u003Cbr\u003E \u003Cbr\u003EDespite the general economic gloom, IT spending appears to be holding up. So what has changed? The events of the last couple of years forced small business leaders to invest in and engage with technology in order to keep their organisation operating through unprecedented times. Whether that's digital customer acquisition, finding new ways to support and engage staff, or wholescale digital transformation projects, the wisest small business managers now see technology as less of a cost centre and more of a driver of productivity and growth.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E Related coverage \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finflation-and-burnout-among-the-greatest-concerns-of-small-business-owners-capital-one-survey\u002F\"\u003EInflation, burnout among biggest challenges small business owners face: Survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Ffinance\u002Femotions-run-high-for-small-business-owners-as-inflation-soars\u002F\"\u003EInflation despair: 1 in 3 small businesses consider shutting down - survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Freport-more-than-half-of-smbs-now-spend-more-than-1m-on-the-cloud\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReport: SMBs are making serious investments in the cloud\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-10-07 12:29:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The economic outlook is creating headwinds for small business. But many now see tech as the key to thriving in uncertain times.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"2fcad725-6327-4e2c-8bd7-b07b05d72c91",image:{id:"a8b7c025-25aa-4bc1-9796-93b62d452afc",filename:"smb-2022-intro-header.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-05-20 08:08:04",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"OECD: World GDP Evolution",credits:"Chart: OECD",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F05\u002F20\u002Fa8b7c025-25aa-4bc1-9796-93b62d452afc\u002Fsmb-2022-intro-header.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1540,height:866,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^SMB",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"small-business-tech-outlook-challenges-and-opportunities-ahead",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Small business tech outlook: Here are the challenges and opportunities ahead",topic:{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"b6429775-062e-4e9a-b220-f9976c394efc",username:"jadjones",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Jada",lastName:"Jones",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"83fe314b-ad45-4607-a1c7-52a5c290e6ed",filename:"jada-jones.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-16 19:40:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F16\u002F83fe314b-ad45-4607-a1c7-52a5c290e6ed\u002Fjada-jones.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Jada Jones is a journalist based outside of Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. Jada covers all things tech news such as augmented and virtual reality, cloud news, e-commerce, and digital health and wellness.",profile:b,title:"Associate Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"865e8155-eece-4ada-9b67-e21679c8d237\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-alt-text=\"software-engineering-shutterstock-699634498.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"software-engineering-shutterstock-699634498.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F07\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"1600\" data-image-height=\"1069\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESoftware developers are some of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftech-jobs-these-are-the-10-most-in-demand-developer-cybersecurity-and-cloud-roles\u002F\"\u003Emost highly sought-after IT professionals\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and many companies consistently struggle to find the coders they need. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat can be especially true of smaller businesses, particularly if they lack the money to tempt developers who might otherwise end up going to big technology companies. But what's also true is that not every developer wants to work for a giant, faceless corporation. And in any case, every software developer has to begin designing code somewhere, whether at a mid-size tech company or their old college roommate's startup, which means that smaller businesses are often a route into the industry for many developers just starting out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd depending on a company's size, a developer will face different challeges and use different skill sets.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBrendan O'Leary, developer evangelist at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fabout.gitlab.com\u002Fwhy-gitlab\u002F?utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=brand_amer_pr_rsa_br_exact&utm_content=why-gitlab_digital_x-pr_english_&_bt=354092254316&_bk=gitlab&_bm=e&_bn=g&_bg=47379220496&gclid=CjwKCAjw4c-ZBhAEEiwAZ105RcgRnJFaMcun1CAEEdfTEAjVy7YifC2ltwgS982cSSOvZD4nZNJJMBoC2P4QAvD_BwE\"\u003EGitLab\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, says that smaller companies can offer greater feelings of connectedness between a developer and their work's impact on their company. O'Leary says smaller companies allow developers to focus more on their cycle time, which is the time it takes from writing the first line of code to seeing it go into production.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat can be a huge advantage that a small company can offer, he says: \"That's an intrinsic motivator that's really hard to replace with money or anything else.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EO'Leary says developers at larger companies are more likely to feel disconnected from their work's direct impact on their company and its customers. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-future-of-the-web-will-need-a-different-sort-of-software-developer\u002F#link=%7B%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-future-of-the-web-will-need-a-different-sort-of-software-developer\u002F%22,%22target%22:%22_blank%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22The%20future%20of%20the%20web%20will%20need%20a%20different%20sort%20of%20software%20developer%22%7D\"\u003EThe future of the web will need a different sort of software developer\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmanda Richardson, CEO of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcoderpad.io\u002F\"\u003ECoderPad\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, agrees that developers at smaller companies have a unique chance to witness the fruits of their labor by working on a project in its entirety.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Working at a smaller company can provide the opportunity to work from start to finish on projects while seeing the immediate impact of your work,\" she says. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Richardson, small businesses might be the route new or inexperienced developers choose, as startups are typically operating within the bounds of small budgets. Developers at smaller companies will need excellent problem-solving and research skills. On the other hand, she says more prominent companies are in the market for IT professionals who might not have a broad scope of experience in all facets of software development but have a deep understanding of one specific topic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Because budgetary constraints often mean startups can't match the pay of large companies, they are more open to considering profiles that don't tick all the boxes in terms of degrees or professional experience,\" she says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBigger businesses do offer specific advantages for certain types of individuals. At a larger company, software developers and engineers can expect more structure, clearly designated roles and responsibilities, and established processes. A larger company is probably further along in its DevOps growth and hires developers who are ready to face a project head-on. That can be a good environment for someone just starting out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Working as a developer at a large company implies a structured environment with well-established processes and roles,\" Richardson says. \"It can be especially valuable for young graduates to learn within a structured environment and see software development at scale while acquiring best practices.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe downside, of course, is that developers in a bigger business might find themselves completing mundane tasks. According to a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fstackoverflow.blog\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F17\u002Fnew-data-what-makes-developers-happy-at-work\u002F\"\u003EStack Overflow survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, 45% agreed that feeling unproductive is the number one reason they're unhappy at work, with inflexible working practices not far behind as something to complain about.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis issue is particularly true at larger companies if developers work on a small part of a larger project, with each team of developers holding one piece of the puzzle, and little sense of what the completed work looks like.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn contrast, smaller companies can offer software developers a more comprehensive range of knowledge, as each developer will need to take on more pieces of the puzzle and manage more parts of a project. At these companies, developers will be closer to understanding a problem and will work closely with the required steps to find a solution. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c91d02d2-5545-4087-9ab6-afd1f24dc3ea\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc91d02d2-5545-4087-9ab6-afd1f24dc3ea\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth Richardson and O'Leary agree that smaller companies have a slight advantage over larger companies with how fast they can develop new software. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERichardson thinks this advantage is because larger companies must make more complex decisions. At the same time, O'Leary says it's because developers can focus more intensively on their cycle time at smaller companies.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELarger companies overcome some of the challenges of building software by using smaller groups to make the process more manageable. Smaller teams can communicate and collaborate faster, releasing software at lightning speed. As a company grows, it will need to split its engineers and developers into much smaller teams, and each team will oversee a small portion of a project.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven some of the largest tech companies still want their developers to keep to small teams, to emulate the agility of small businesses.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The smaller the team, the better the collaboration,\" says Amazon – hardly a small company – in its so-called \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.aws.amazon.com\u002Fwhitepapers\u002Flatest\u002Fintroduction-devops-aws\u002Ftwo-pizza-teams.html\"\u003Etwo-pizza team rule\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\", which states that DevOps teams should be small enough for two pizzas to feed everyone on the team.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Collaboration is also very important as the software releases are moving faster than ever. And a team's ability to deliver the software can be a differentiating factor for your organization against your competition. Imagine a situation in which a new product feature needs to be released or a bug needs to be fixed – you want this to happen as quickly as possible so you can have a smaller go-to-market time,\" it says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgithub-vs-gitlab-the-key-differences\u002F#link=%7B%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgithub-vs-gitlab-the-key-differences\u002F%22,%22target%22:%22_blank%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22GitHub%20vs%20GitLab:%20Which%20program%20should%20you%20go%20with?%22%7D\"\u003EGitHub vs GitLab: Which program should you go with?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFlexibility is another factor. Richardson says developers working at small companies and startups have more autonomy and responsibilities than they would at larger business. This autonomy creates room for developers to pitch new ideas to the company. According to the Stack Overflow survey, 39% of respondents said that a lack of growth opportunities makes them unhappy with their jobs. A developer's possibilities to expand and grow in their career might be much higher at smaller companies.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the same autonomy can mean a lack of guidance and more room for error.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The drawback of working for a smaller company is you're unlikely to have the reassuring support of a seasoned engineer to answer questions and help you ramp up or be able to test your ideas at scale,\" she says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EO'Leary says it all depends on the developer and what kind of career goals they have. Some people might enjoy the challenges of trialing new code and solving problems that small businesses face. Others might prefer the stability of a larger, more established company.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWorking at a small, mid-size, or large company has positive and negative aspects. It all depends on what an individual developer or engineer strives for in their career, and how many responsibilities they'd like to take on in their professional lives.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut it's almost universal for developers to want to understand the impact of their work and feel like the work they complete is meaningful and valuable to society. So in a tough market, hiring managers at companies big and small should look at the work they are offering and consider how the developers they recruit can be made to feel like they are really making a difference.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"961fc539-4b3d-40fb-8c43-f23e79066412\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F961fc539-4b3d-40fb-8c43-f23e79066412\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-10-10 15:03:30",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Not all companies need the same skills from developers, and not all developers want to work for Big Tech.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"065cc59a-20f8-403d-a52b-b34e0c882cae",image:{id:"865e8155-eece-4ada-9b67-e21679c8d237",filename:"software-engineering-shutterstock-699634498.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-07-19 17:23:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"software-engineering-shutterstock-699634498.jpg",credits:b,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F07\u002F19\u002F865e8155-eece-4ada-9b67-e21679c8d237\u002Fsoftware-engineering-shutterstock-699634498.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1600,height:1069,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"small-business-needs-a-different-sort-of-software-developer",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Small business needs a different sort of software developer",topic:{id:"57b89c3b-5b67-4357-bd53-58c9f516a044",slug:"business",name:"Business",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"57b89c3b-5b67-4357-bd53-58c9f516a044",slug:"business",name:"Business",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5d68ddc2-d682-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"developer",name:"Developer",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"35e7efdb-10d7-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Mark Samuels",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Mark",lastName:"Samuels",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"a31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57",filename:"marksamuels.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-11-18 11:27:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F11\u002F18\u002Fa31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57\u002Fmarksamuels.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Mark Samuels is a business journalist specialising in IT leadership issues. Formerly editor at CIO Connect and features editor of Computing, he has written for various organisations, including the Economist Intelligence Unit, The Guardian, The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Higher Education.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"97fa2520-aa20-4c6e-bc65-660ff0dff4a9\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Maskot \u002F Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"SMB office\" data-image-filename=\"smb-office-getty.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F10\u002F04\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall businesses have a big opportunity when it comes to using technology to leapfrog their bigger but slower-moving rivals.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen asked about their spending intentions, UK SMEs are three times more likely than major enterprises (49% versus 18%) to increase technology investment, according to research from recruitment company Nash Squared.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBev White, chief executive at Nash Squared, says small business owners and managers who are alert to the opportunities that digital transformation affords can now exert a much greater influence in markets than ever before.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"In a world that is so interconnected, the playing field is much more level between smaller and larger companies. Both can reach a global audience of customers, employees or potential new hires,\" she says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMB Group, an analyst firm that looks at tech trends for small businesses, also reports high enthusiasm for IT investment. More than half (54%) of small firms say they intend to increase tech spending. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe analyst says small firms with a digital transformation strategy in place and initiatives underway are three times more likely to have enjoyed an uptick in revenues from 2020 than those with no plans. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany small firms, therefore, are already seeing positive results from digitisation. These SMBs are using core technologies such as the cloud to pivot and capitalise on new opportunities – and that's crucial in today's fast-changing global economy, says White. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The big advantage that smaller companies have is agility; the ability to change and adapt. And in a world where disruption of every kind seems to be coming at us at breakneck speed, the value of agility can never be underestimated.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvidence suggests many small business owners do feel their inherent agility gives them an advantage. Twice as many SMEs (23%) as larger corporates (10%) are extremely or very effective at scaling good ideas and stopping poor ideas quickly, reports Nash Squared.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETina McKenzie, policy and advocacy chair at the Federation of Small Businesses, says her organisation has seen clear evidence of SMB agility during the past two years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"During COVID-19, many businesses with a physical presence adapted and created an online presence which took off, while many individuals also set up 'side-hustle' online businesses that have now grown into significant enterprises as people bring new ideas to the digital space.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's more, McKenzie expects this trend to continue. Small business owners have seen the positive benefits that technology and its online platforms afford – and now they want more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The digital economy is vital to small businesses – presenting a huge opportunity to reach new markets and customers,\" she says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, it's not all good news. Many SMBs face stiff \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.researchgate.net\u002Fpublication\u002F346073062_A_Review_of_Global_Challenges_and_Survival_Strategies_of_Small_and_Medium_Enterprises_SMEs\"\u003Ecompetition\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, have limited resources and – perhaps most crucially of all – don't find it easy to invest in technologies that could help them save time and money or innovate and grow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaurie McCabe, co-founder and partner at SMB Group, says small firms looking to seize the advantage can face tricky challenges.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"On the one hand, small businesses don't have the hierarchy and the bureaucracy for decision-making processes, so they can definitely make decisions faster to pivot and try something different and then deploy technology to support that,\" she says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"On the flip side, they don't have a lot of bandwidth – not just technology bandwidth but process bandwidth. Whenever you need to make a change in a small business, it's a heavy lift.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, while many small firms hold the potential to move quicker than their much larger counterparts, they lack the resources – both in terms of time and money – to make radical and effective digital transformation stick. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe end result of this can be dither and delay, McCabe warns: \"A lot of times, they're just putting transformation off.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven once a decision is made to go to the IT market, SMBs can be held up by a mismatch of internal technological expertise with external marketing clout.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall firms by definition have less people to enact or enable change. A lack of dedicated IT resources means technology choices for small businesses must be intuitive, both in terms of how they're used and the payback they provide for the business.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnfortunately, evidence suggests clarity around use cases is tough to find. There's so many vendors pitching solutions that the potential benefits of technology become lost in a cacophony of marketing hyperbole. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Everything they sell is going to do things faster, easier and cheaper,\" says McCabe. \"They're all saying the same thing. As a small business, you have to think about 'what's really going to move the needle for me in the areas that I feel bogged down in'.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, what is McCabe's big lesson for people who are running small businesses and looking to take advantage of digital technology? The answer is simple: focus on core challenges first before even thinking about potential digital solutions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"What are the things that you really need to do well, that you need insights into, and that you need to go smoothly,\" she says. \"Then really focus on using technology to support those areas in your company.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhether it's dealing with customer enquiries, improving supply chain processes or boosting their e-commerce presence, small businesses with limited resources and multiple challenges are never going to be able to do everything at once. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETake one target – such as using cloud and automation to reduce a reliance on spreadsheets and paper-based processes – and make it happen.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Really focus on what you have to do well – technology can help you do those things better, so that you do them quicker. If you're automating, more people can spend less time on low-value stuff. They can spend more time doing what they need to do to help you grow,\" she says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"And the other big benefit is that, when you automate, you'll get the information and the reporting that's going to let you evaluate how the business is doing and you can do the course corrections effectively.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"6c034ca0-d30c-44a0-8231-ae080c6d0b94\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F6c034ca0-d30c-44a0-8231-ae080c6d0b94\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-10-11 11:24:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"SMBs are inherently agile. But making good technology decisions is about more than just speed.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"332173d6-d92d-4943-95ac-6b84c1138295",image:{id:"97fa2520-aa20-4c6e-bc65-660ff0dff4a9",filename:"smb-office-getty.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-10-04 09:29:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"SMB office",credits:"Maskot \u002F Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F10\u002F04\u002F97fa2520-aa20-4c6e-bc65-660ff0dff4a9\u002Fsmb-office-getty.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Services & Software^Productivity",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"small-business-tech-how-to-find-the-right-tools-to-boost-your-business",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Small business tech: How to find the right tools to boost your business",topic:{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"35e7efdb-10d7-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Mark Samuels",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Mark",lastName:"Samuels",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"a31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57",filename:"marksamuels.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-11-18 11:27:16",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F11\u002F18\u002Fa31d923b-7b4c-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57\u002Fmarksamuels.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Mark Samuels is a business journalist specialising in IT leadership issues. Formerly editor at CIO Connect and features editor of Computing, he has written for various organisations, including the Economist Intelligence Unit, The Guardian, The Times, The Sunday Times and Times Higher Education.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"5cdfc881-6f00-4a05-976d-4aa27cf2c78b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto\" data-image-alt-text=\"Middle aged male recruiter listening to young female job applicant.\" data-image-filename=\"istock-1220704696.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2021\u002F01\u002F04\" data-image-width=\"1254\" data-image-height=\"836\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUp-and-coming professionals can take several routes to the top, but they're always likely to face a challenging journey.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMentoring is here to help you reach your desired destination. Harvard Business Review suggests \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fhbr.org\u002F2022\u002F01\u002Fthe-best-mentorships-help-both-people-grow\"\u003Ea transformational mentorship creates powerful benefits\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for the mentee and the mentor, helping both to express their ideas and to grow professionally.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, how can mentoring help you get the expertise and knowledge you require? Five business leaders give us their tips for making the most of mentorships.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Gain exposure to fresh business challenges\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDanny Gonzalez, chief digital and innovation officer (CDIO) at London North Eastern Railway, says one of the big pluses of mentoring is that it brings awareness of business concerns that might otherwise have remained hidden.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I think a mentor can really help you understand the most effective way to deliver what you need to deliver or grow as an individual or set you on the right path to things that you should be thinking about,\" he says. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"When I think back to myself as a much younger employee coming up through the ranks, there were things that just weren't on my radar at all that were very helpful pointers that I should have been thinking about.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Feducation\u002Fprofessional-development\u002Fmbas-and-professional-development-do-the-benefits-outweigh-the-costs\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMBAs and professional development: Do the benefits outweigh the costs?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs professionals climb the ranks, he says tactical use of one-to-one coaching can also pay dividends, especially when it comes to taking a fresh view on new challenges: \"I think it can be very helpful when you've got a coach who is almost completely independent to what you're trying to get coached on because then you can get a really objective session.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Hear about the challenges involved in senior roles\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELily Haake, practice head for CIO and executive technology leadership at recruiter Harvey Nash, says working with a mentor is a great way to enhance your career, especially when used alongside other areas of professional development, such as qualifications, coaching, and 360-degree feedback. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Many of our executive-level clients and candidates can reference several people who they have considered as mentors over the years, with many even suggesting that they owe much of their career success to that person,\" she says.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHaake says mentoring is often informal and is a great opportunity to learn from someone with specific skills or experiences that are relevant to the mentee. She says mentoring can also be a good complement to business coaching, which is more goal-oriented and should be delivered by a person with professional qualifications. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Often the mentor-mentee relationship has grown organically, though some have been assigned a mentor by their business or sought one out through a professional organisation. In the technology leadership space, we've often established mentoring relationships between a CIO and a direct report to a CIO, so that the mentee can understand the challenges of leading technology at board level.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Check that you're seeing the bigger picture\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESimon Liste, chief information technology officer at the Pension Protection Fund, might have reached the top of his profession but he continues to lean on mentors – and he advises others to do the same. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I don't think you can ever know everything. I've got my personal coach and mentor, who is someone that I've known for years and is very successful in business. I've had a very dedicated technologist as a coach and mentor, too,\" he says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EListe says the value of mentoring comes from the depth of knowledge you gain. It also provides a balance for professionals who can check their views with outside experts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"It's like counselling. They're not there to fix the problem, but they are there to listen and help you to see what you can potentially do better and to understand where there's other opportunities to grow. It's a chance to speak with someone that's completely independent from where you work,\" he says. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I like the opportunity to talk with my mentor – he's a very successful businessperson. It helps me to see the bigger picture from a business perspective. He makes me reflect on what I'm doing strategically, operationally, and tactically. Mentoring just enlightens you and adds multiple layers.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Learn by becoming part of a local ecosystem \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrabhath Karanth, director of security compliance and assurance at travel management company TripActions, says being part of local mentoring networks can pay big dividends. He says security professionals on the west coast of the US benefit from being in an ecosystem.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I have a lot of peers in the Valley who mentor each other. It's not a junior\u002Fsenior relationship, we mentor each other,\" he says.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"When you get this 360-degree perspective, life becomes much easier. We're all humans and sometimes we end up in situations where we don't know what to do. If you have five people that you can call, why wouldn't you?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EKaranth received strong mentorship earlier in his career at Adobe. Having reaped the benefits himself, he now makes sure he mentors others – and he says his professional peers take a similar approach.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-do-bosses-really-want-four-ways-to-get-noticed-in-a-changing-world-of-work\u002F\"\u003EFour ways to get noticed in the changing world of work\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I feel it's super-critical for security professionals specifically because there are so many dimensions to this kind of profession. It's not something that you can just work in a job and learn. Security is hard. It's not an easy profession to be in. It's always moving. But, when you have this ecosystem around you, it makes it a little bit easier.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E5. Create a long-lasting passion for development\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBrandon Hootman, director of digital data at Caterpillar, is another business leader who is passionate about mentorships. His enthusiasm derives from the experiences he's had – and he says its important managers remember these benefits as they begin to lead others.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"I feel beyond blessed with the opportunities I've had at Caterpillar and that I've seen from our dealer business all the way back to manufacturing, supply chain and engineering. I'm very passionate about employee development and giving people the right mixture of experiences.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHootman puts this into practice in his own data department. He makes sure professionals under his wing are given exposure to a plethora of activities and skills.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Personally, those types of opportunities have been very rewarding for me. So, I'm always looking to find a way to ensure that our data engineers or data product owners get those opportunities. That's not only to get the technical experience to build their careers, but to get great business experience as well.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"07172adc-b697-4f22-a007-86d14c1e6259\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F07172adc-b697-4f22-a007-86d14c1e6259\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-10-20 13:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"From exposure to fresh challenges and onto opportunities to link up with like-minded experts, here's how you can use mentoring to boost your knowledge and skills.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"6a2ead45-441e-4d5c-a426-f2e6852c605e",image:{id:"5cdfc881-6f00-4a05-976d-4aa27cf2c78b",filename:"istock-1220704696.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2021-01-04 11:16:04",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Middle aged male recruiter listening to young female job applicant.",credits:"Getty Images\u002FiStockphoto",caption:"\u003Cp\u003EFocused confident middle aged male recruiter listening to young female job applicant self introduction on meeting. Millennial woman work seeker talking about experience skills on interview, head shot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F04\u002F5cdfc881-6f00-4a05-976d-4aa27cf2c78b\u002Fistock-1220704696.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1254,height:836,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^CXO",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"finding-a-mentor-can-supercharge-your-career-here-are-five-big-benefits",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Finding a mentor can supercharge your career. Here are 5 big benefits",topic:{id:"10257486-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cxo",name:"CXO",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10257486-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cxo",name:"CXO",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"959fd179-8245-11e3-b21f-14feb5ca9861",username:"joemckendrick",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Joe",lastName:"McKendrick",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"aadf959a-c685-4b4b-b144-e92dc3ac4cae",filename:"joe-mckendrick.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2020-01-11 16:46:27",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F01\u002F11\u002Faadf959a-c685-4b4b-b144-e92dc3ac4cae\u002Fjoe-mckendrick.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Joe McKendrick is an author and independent analyst who tracks the impact of information technology on management and markets. As an independent analyst, he has authored numerous research reports in partnership with Forbes Insights, IDC, and Unisphere Research, a division of Information Today, Inc. Joe speaks frequently on cloud, data, and enterprise computing topics at industry events and Webcasts. He is co-author, along with 16 leading industry leaders and thinkers, of the SOA Manifesto, which outlines the values and guiding principles of service orientation. In a previous life, Joe served as director of the Administrative Management Society (AMS), an international professional association dedicated to advancing knowledge within the IT and business management fields. He is a graduate of Temple University.",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"66b6cb70-3d2e-483c-b3ca-b56ee9130abd\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"right\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Photo: Joe McKendrick\" data-image-alt-text=\"img-9909.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"img-9909.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F03\u002F12\" data-image-width=\"4032\" data-image-height=\"3024\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the first few years of cloud computing, cost savings was the driving reason for adopting the cloud. Nowadays, however, businesses are faced with spiraling cloud costs. There's even a word for the emerging process to deal with it: \"FinOps.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"32a1154f-70f8-48bf-bcd3-c541419f5b8d\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F32a1154f-70f8-48bf-bcd3-c541419f5b8d\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Flexera's recently released \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Finfo.flexera.com\u002FCM-REPORT-State-of-the-Cloud\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E2022 State of the Cloud Report\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, organizations continue to waste significant cloud spending, based on survey responses from 753 global cloud decision-makers and users. 66% of executives said cloud usage is \"higher than initially planned this year,\" They estimated that their organizations waste 32% of cloud spend, up from 30% in last year's survey. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, \"spend is likely less efficient and likely even higher on average, as many organizations tend to underestimate their amount of waste,\" the survey's authors report. In addition, respondents said their public cloud spend was over budget by an average of 13% for the previous year. They expect their cloud spend to further increase by 29% in the next twelve months. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong small to medium businesses, 53% are now spending $1.2 million annually on cloud computing, up from 38%in 2021. While the survey's authors do not provide a similar composite spending figure for larger enterprises, they report that many spend $12 million or more annually on selected public cloud services -- 18% of enterprises spend this on AWS, 15% spend this on Microsoft Azure, and 7% on Google Cloud Platform.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo there is a lot of money being poured into cloud services. A lot of the monthly subscription bills are likely going to a raft of unused or underused services for which no one is really able to account. Someone in some department signed on to a cloud instance to run some tests three years ago abandoned it, and the company still keeps paying for its usage. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnter FinOps. This practice is intended to help organizations get maximum business value from the cloud \"by helping engineering, finance, technology and business teams to collaborate on data-driven spending decisions,\" according to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.finops.org\u002Fintroduction\u002Fwhat-is-finops\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EFinOps Foundation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. (Yes, there's now even an entire foundation devoted to the practice.)  In many cases, they are practicing the art of FinOps without even calling it that. Respondents are actively involved in the ongoing usage and cost management for both SaaS (69%) and public cloud IaaS and PaaS (66%). \"More and more users are swimming in the FinOps side of the pool, even if they may not know it -- or call it FinOps yet,\" the Flexera survey's authors state.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, for the sixth year in a row, \"optimizing the existing use of cloud is the top initiative for all respondents, underscoring the need for FinOps teams or similar ways to improve cost savings initiatives,\" they also note.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the survey doesn't explicitly ask about FinOps adoption, the authors also state that some organizations have organized FinOps teams to assist in evaluating cloud computing metrics and value. (A specific percentage is not provided.) They also observe that \"for the sixth year in a row, optimizing the existing use of cloud is the top initiative among 59%, followed by migrating more workloads to the cloud (57%).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe survey's authors appear very optimistic about what the cloud can do to boost the value of technology to enterprises: \"As organizations move more workloads to the cloud, they can retire the technical debt associated with maintaining and operating traditional data centers,\" they state. (We'll have to check back on that one, right?)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat are organizations doing to better understand and keep a lid on cloud costs? Close to two-thirds, 64%, focus on maximizing resource utilization, while 50% engage in deleting or removing unused or idle resources. This means that half of the respondents are not actively reviewing cloud services for which they pay a monthly fee. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother 41% look into provider discounts such as reserved instances. Another 39% are pursuing a pure FinOps approach: employing the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.finops.org\u002Fframework\u002Fcapabilities\u002Fmeasure-unit-costs\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eunit economics\u003C\u002Fa\u003E model, considered a key component of the FinOps disciple. (Unit economics, as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apptio.com\u002Fblog\u002Frun-kubernetes-public-cloud-unit-economics\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eexplained\u003C\u002Fa\u003E by Apptio's Andrew Midgley, is \"the average revenue or costs, or the margin, directly associated with a specific unit delivered by an organization.\") As illustrated at the FinOps foundation site, \"for a customer-facing application, that unit might be a user or customer subscription; for an e-commerce platform, it might be a transaction; and for an airline, it might be a seat. By calculating cloud spend for total revenue, you can attach growth in cloud spending to your overall business growth. When these are in line, it makes sense that cloud spend isn't wasted. When cloud spend is growing faster than the business, there may be cause for concern.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAutomation is a key tool for optimizing cloud costs, the survey shows. More than 40% of respondents are using automated policies to shut down workloads after hours and to rightsize underutilized instances. Another 33% are using automated policies to implement required tags, while 43% still perform this labor-intensive process manually. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile at least half of IT executives recognize the value cloud is bringing to the business, the prime measure of success is still cost savings. This is likely the easiest and most demonstrable pitch to the C-level and board. Speed to market is also a highly tangible benefit and thus also ranks high as a success metric. Innovation and competitive advantage resulting from cloud flexibility are perhaps the most long-term advantages of a cloud-based enterprise but are a bit squishier in terms of metrics. The following are the top metrics for assessing progress against cloud goals identified in the survey:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECost efficiency\u002Fsavings: 74%\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDelivery speed of new products\u002Fservices: 68%\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIncreased speed of innovation: 48%\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EValue delivered to business units: 47%\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIncrease in competitive advantage: 47%\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ENumber of workloads migrated: 45%\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERetirement\u002Fdecrease of technical debt: 37%\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs is obvious from the survey, FinOps is still an emerging way of operating in the cloud that has not yet been well defined. The following are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.finops.org\u002Fframework\u002Fprinciples\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eprinciples formulated by the FinOps Foundation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to help bring clarity to the roles involved and purpose of the practice. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETeams need to collaborate\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFinance moves at the speed and granularity of IT \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEngineering considers cost as a new efficiency metric \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EContinuously improve your practice to gain efficiency and innovation \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EDefine governance and controls for cloud usage\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEveryone takes ownership for their cloud usage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEmpower feature and product teams to manage their own usage of cloud against their budget \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGain visibility into cloud spend at all levels \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETrack team-level targets to drive accountability\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA centralized team drives FinOps\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECentrally govern and control Committed Use Discounts, Reserved Instances, and Volume\u002FCustom Discounts with Cloud Providers \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECentralized discount buying process removes rate negotiations from engineering team consideration \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGranular allocation of all costs, direct or shared, to the teams and cost centers responsible for them\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReports should be accessible and timely\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFast feedback loops result in more efficient behavior \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVisibility helps determine if resources are under- or over-provisioned \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAutomation of resources drives continuous improvement\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDecisions are driven by business value of cloud\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETrending and variance analysis helps to understand why costs increased \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EInternal team benchmarking drives best practices and celebrates wins \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIndustry peer-level benchmarking determines how your company is performing\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETake advantage of the variable cost model of the cloud\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003ERightsizing instances and services help drive appropriate resourcing levels \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EComparing pricing between services and resource types drives better decisions\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"fe07e774-77b4-4a0e-908a-c22934474f6e\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Ffe07e774-77b4-4a0e-908a-c22934474f6e\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-03-12 17:03:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Organizations waste 32% of cloud spend, up from 30% a year ago. 'More and more users are swimming in the FinOps side of the pool, even if they may not know it - or call it FinOps yet.'",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"d5a3de61-4755-433e-b635-d82fa132c289",image:{id:"66b6cb70-3d2e-483c-b3ca-b56ee9130abd",filename:"img-9909.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-03-12 16:59:35",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"img-9909.jpg",credits:"Photo: Joe McKendrick",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F03\u002F12\u002F66b6cb70-3d2e-483c-b3ca-b56ee9130abd\u002Fimg-9909.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4032,height:3024,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Cloud",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"as-cloud-costs-spiral-upward-enterprises-turn-to-a-thing-called-finops",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"As cloud costs spiral upward, enterprises turn to a thing called FinOps",topic:{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"109dbc12-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"it-priorities",name:"IT Priorities",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5d68ddc2-d682-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"developer",name:"Developer",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"b6429775-062e-4e9a-b220-f9976c394efc",username:"jadjones",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Jada",lastName:"Jones",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"83fe314b-ad45-4607-a1c7-52a5c290e6ed",filename:"jada-jones.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-16 19:40:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F16\u002F83fe314b-ad45-4607-a1c7-52a5c290e6ed\u002Fjada-jones.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Jada Jones is a journalist based outside of Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. Jada covers all things tech news such as augmented and virtual reality, cloud news, e-commerce, and digital health and wellness.",profile:b,title:"Associate Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"97a70356-90ec-4c17-bee8-b86e4c6b0610\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Image: Hinterhaus Productions \u002F Getty\" data-image-alt-text=\"employee-satisfaction.jpg\" data-image-filename=\"office-workers-4day-week-colleagues-worklife-balance.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2022\u002F05\u002F27\" data-image-width=\"1296\" data-image-height=\"729\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe four-day workweek is gaining popularity as a workable alternative to the traditional five-day model, not to mention proving \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fslack-9-in-10-workers-are-in-favor-of-a-4-day-work-week\u002F\"\u003Ehighly popular among workers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E seeking a better work-life balance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwork-less-but-produce-more-in-japan-microsoft-is-trying-to-solve-that-puzzle\u002F#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwork-less-but-produce-more-in-japan-microsoft-is-trying-to-solve-that-puzzle\u002F%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22Microsoft%20launched%20its%20four-day%20workweek%20trial%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22}\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EFor companies who have made the switch\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the results have mostly been positive, with business leaders reporting increases in productivity, boosted employee morale, fewer resignations, and less absenteeism. This is prompting more companies to explore whether a shorter working week can work for them, too.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F7d42924d-1de6-4ee1-a601-c9ab863dbf62\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis includes \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fuplevelteam.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EUplevel\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, an engineering insights company that trialed a four-day workweek in January 2022.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEmployees at the Seattle-based company caught wind of the results on ongoing four-day week trials in the US and elsewhere and shared them with Uplevel CEO, Joe Levy, at a company barbeque. The company was particularly interested to determine whether a four-day week could be an effective tool in tackling burnout; as a company dedicated to helping and empowering developers, this is something Uplevel is passionate about.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe decision was eventually made to trial a four-day workweek and measure the effects of change on employee happiness, productivity, and overall company success. The trial was deemed a success, prompting Uplevel to move permanently to a four-day week and share its findings in \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fuplevelteam.com\u002F4-day-work-week\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea four-day week 'playbook'\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in the hope that other companies can replicate its outcomes. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-four-day-week-will-solve-some-works-biggest-problems-but-only-if-companies-can-adapt\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe four-day week will solve some of work's biggest problems - but only if companies can adapt\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJori Maurer, VP of marketing and customer engagement at Uplevel, oversees the company's HR initiatives, including its switch to the four-day workweek.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMaurer says that since switching, not a single Uplevel employee has left the company voluntarily. She attributes this increase in employee retention to the four-day workweek and that employees genuinely feel like they have an adequate work-life balance. Now, she says, employees rave about how a shorter workweek improves their wellbeing. Employees say they have more time to exercise, do something fun, take sick time, and can recuperate and feel refreshed returning to work on Monday morning. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"We haven't had anyone leave the company that wasn't because of a performance issue,\" Maurer says. \"A lot of companies will say that they care about employee wellbeing and that they care about work-life balance, but we're actually showing that we want to do something about it.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EParkinson's Law\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdvocates for the four-day week often refer to Parkinson's Law (work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion) and the 80\u002F20 principle, which posits that 80% of productivity is achieved in 20% of the workday. As such, the four-day workweek is based on the idea that employees can be more productive when working within shorter timeframes.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"ab643a34-a6bc-4202-a90d-dbe501712bdf\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fab643a34-a6bc-4202-a90d-dbe501712bdf\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the idea of doing the same amount of work in fewer hours created a sense of urgency at Uplevel, teams soon adjusted and became more efficient. Meetings became shorter, more concise, and didn't exceed 30 minutes unless necessary. Meetings were also scheduled with intent, and a Google Drive folder was set up so that relevant information could be shared ahead of time, as well as after the meeting took place. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd, despite losing an entire workday, employees across all teams now spend more time focused on their work, and staff are more motivated to perform in short bursts. \"It forced us to become more efficient,\" Maurer says. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The biggest thing that we saw in our product team that was a big surprise was that we were just ruminating on decisions, so it forced decisions to be made faster.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder Uplevel's four-day week model, staff have Fridays off work. However, some employees still have to be on call to cover customer service, even though it's only for a couple of hours. As Uplevel grows as a company, this responsibility will be shared among everyone. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthe-four-day-work-week-is-coming-heres-what-it-could-mean-for-you\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe four-day workweek is coming: Here's what it could mean for you\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut Maurer says that the employees who are required to check in with customers on a Friday are usually eager to do so. \"The fact is, especially in some roles, you are going to have to check in on a Friday. We might have a customer request come in that might be more urgent, and I've noticed that employees are more than willing to go above and beyond to do what they need for customers, whether that is an early morning call or a late call,\" Maurer says. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"They know the company has their back, so it feels like this nice give-and-take.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUplevel has also seen an uptick in job applicants since it moved to a four-day workweek. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter being featured on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002F4dayweek.io\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E4dayweek.io\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a search engine exclusively for remote-working jobs offering a four-day week, Uplevel received around 800 applications for a customer success manager position and over 400 applications for a marketing director position – compared to the usual five or so applications it usually receives for open positions.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"We were so surprised by how that helped us be able to recruit in this market, when we can't compete with the likes of Microsoft, Meta, and Google,\" she adds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EYour company can do it, too\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EInterest in the four-day workweek is gaining traction as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffour-days-work-full-pay-the-worlds-biggest-4-day-work-week-trial-has-just-begun\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eongoing trials around the world\u003C\u002Fa\u003E try to find out whether a shorter workweek can address \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftech-workers-face-a-burnout-crisis-unless-employers-act-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eburnout, staff shortages and productivity challenges in the workforce\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBig-name companies have also been experimenting with four-day weeks, including Microsoft in Japan, where a trial of a four-day week in August 2021 led to a 40% increase in productivity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMaurer recommends that any company of any size can trial the four-day workweek and should treat it like an experiment. By doing so, she says, employees feel directly involved in decision-making processes and are more likely to voice their concerns about making the switch.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"If you run it as a trial, you create a culture where people don't feel scared to bring up issues that they're having. We created an open dialogue and anonymous feedback forums where people can say, 'Hey, this aspect isn't working for me,' and they didn't feel like they were necessarily ruining the experiment for people who wanted it to stay,\" she says.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUplevel also made a point of including employees in every aspect of the trial, and it was clear that if the experiment was unsuccessful, it would stop. Employees participated in an internal hackathon to brainstorm changes to the workweek and completed comprehensive monthly and surface-level, bi-weekly surveys to measure how well the experiment was working.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEach team designed its benchmarks for success and created team-specific policies. Maurer points out that, while universal company policies on a four-day workweek might work well for a customer success team, it might not be as manageable for a development team. A customer success team, she explains, may not have to monitor customer success requests on a Friday outside of work hours, while an engineering team might have to address a software outage at any time on any day. As a result, different teams have different work expectations on a Friday.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"020b30ce-e84e-4afc-8160-008a36ec9b3a\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F020b30ce-e84e-4afc-8160-008a36ec9b3a\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut according to Maurer and other leaders at companies that have adopted a four-day workweek, for it to be successful, managers and executives need to throw out \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Feducation\u002Fprofessional-development\u002Fquiet-quitting-has-nothing-to-do-with-rejecting-work-its-about-saying-no-to-toxic-work-culture\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eold notions about how their employees should work\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMaurer says that a common sentiment among companies is that removing the fifth day of work will jeopardize their company's success. She says these thoughts contribute to the stigma around a four-day workweek.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAccording to Maurer, companies should trust their employees' capabilities and commitment to their companies. She believes that if employers shift their focus from how many hours employees are putting in to the quality of work employees are putting out, then a shorter week can be successful.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"It's less about looking at the metrics and looking at your own views of work and changing those,\" Maurer says. \"I think it really takes a leadership team that has trust in their employees and has trust that everyone cares about the business.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"07172adc-b697-4f22-a007-86d14c1e6259\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F07172adc-b697-4f22-a007-86d14c1e6259\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-10-13 10:53:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Uplevel permanently switched to a four-day workweek after a trial boosted productivity and work-life balance. The tech company documented its process to help others replicate its success.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"3b5afd33-4089-4e6b-8958-77fe0affbb36",image:{id:"97a70356-90ec-4c17-bee8-b86e4c6b0610",filename:"office-workers-4day-week-colleagues-worklife-balance.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-05-27 09:54:34",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"employee-satisfaction.jpg",credits:"By Flamingo Images -- Shutterstock",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F05\u002F27\u002F97a70356-90ec-4c17-bee8-b86e4c6b0610\u002Foffice-workers-4day-week-colleagues-worklife-balance.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1296,height:729,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Work Life",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"this-engineering-insights-company-switched-to-a-four-day-workweek-they-detailed-the-process-so-you-can-too",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"This company successfully switched to a four-day workweek. Here's how they did it",topic:{id:"0f170e27-b89d-48a1-aa1e-6d5c3594737e",slug:"work-life",name:"Work Life",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"0f170e27-b89d-48a1-aa1e-6d5c3594737e",slug:"work-life",name:"Work Life",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"57b89c3b-5b67-4357-bd53-58c9f516a044",slug:"business",name:"Business",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"959fd179-8245-11e3-b21f-14feb5ca9861",username:"joemckendrick",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Joe",lastName:"McKendrick",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"aadf959a-c685-4b4b-b144-e92dc3ac4cae",filename:"joe-mckendrick.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2020-01-11 16:46:27",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2020\u002F01\u002F11\u002Faadf959a-c685-4b4b-b144-e92dc3ac4cae\u002Fjoe-mckendrick.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Joe McKendrick is an author and independent analyst who tracks the impact of information technology on management and markets. As an independent analyst, he has authored numerous research reports in partnership with Forbes Insights, IDC, and Unisphere Research, a division of Information Today, Inc. Joe speaks frequently on cloud, data, and enterprise computing topics at industry events and Webcasts. He is co-author, along with 16 leading industry leaders and thinkers, of the SOA Manifesto, which outlines the values and guiding principles of service orientation. In a previous life, Joe served as director of the Administrative Management Society (AMS), an international professional association dedicated to advancing knowledge within the IT and business management fields. He is a graduate of Temple University.",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"dfae2b2b-8f96-411a-b0b2-42dd9ebb024d\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Getty Images\u002FYana Iskayeva\" data-image-alt-text=\"Young smiling tech pro\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1357193029.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2023\u002F03\u002F05\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECould the coming months and years bring about a renewed burst of technology-driven entrepreneurial energy and innovation to the economy? Many technology professionals, hit by layoffs or the fear thereof, are exploring more entrepreneurial options instead of opting for standard full-time jobs. Much of it could be as \"solopreneurs\" involving gig work or independent contracting, of course, but it's notable to see an uptick in new company creation.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBy one count, 63% of tech workers report they have started their own company post-layoff, according to a recent \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fclarifycapital.com\u002Ffrom-fired-to-founder\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esurvey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E of 1,000 professionals laid off during the pandemic years, published by Clarify Capital. Most of these new ventures, 83%, were in the technology industry.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fjust-how-big-is-this-new-generative-ai-think-internet-level-disruption\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EJust how big is generative AI? Think internet-level disruption\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd here's the fun part: 93% report they are now competing with the company that let them go. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere has been a notable jump in startup activity, with Accelerator Y Combinator, the tech startup incubator, reporting startup applications increasing by 20% in 2022 and five-fold in January 2023 over the previous year, as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.yahoo.com\u002Flifestyle\u002F150-000-laid-off-tech-182051683.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ereported\u003C\u002Fa\u003E by Aran Richardson in Yahoo Finance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Often the most challenging times lead to the most innovative ideas,\" says \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fzavn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EZaven Nahapetyan\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, co-founder of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.niche.club\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ENiche.club\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and a former engineering manager at Facebook. \"We are simultaneously witnessing both incredible technological progress, through decentralization, AI, and virtual\u002Faugmented reality, as well as profound social and cultural change. This combination creates countless opportunities for new businesses. If you can afford to take the risk and join or start a new venture, my advice to you is do it! There is no better way to learn than by doing, and who knows whether you would have the same possibilities in the future.\"  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Freturn-to-the-office-or-hybrid-work-heres-whats-happening-next\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReturn to the office or hybrid work? Here's what's happening next\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, starting a company -- or even joining a startup -- is fraught with risk and dashed expectations. And, yes, even some startups reportedly have been cutting back, but overall, tech professionals going this route tend to see greater income and job security. Professionals responding to the Clarify Capital reported an average increase of $13,000 in yearly income and 58% feel better about their new job security.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETechnology professionals didn't necessarily launch their ventures the day or week after a layoff -- one-third started within the first six months, while 40% made the move between six and 12 months later. And just about all are bootstrapped, with professionals investing at least $20,000 of their own funds to get started. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIndustry observers agree that technology professionals have the skills and vision to lead the next generation of innovation, but recognize that launching a startup also requires business savvy, \"If you have a unique idea or what you perceive as an unmet need in the marketplace, then by all means, go for it,\" says \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fmike-jarus-b4588a1\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EMike Jarus\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, chief architect for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fintradiem.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIntradiem\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \"You still need to be reasonable and realistic though; get-rich-quick schemes are way more miss than hit. It will be a lot of work. But if you have a great idea, if you're confident in your abilities, and if you can remain grounded in reality, then you should go ahead and give it a try.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fwork-life\u002Fnew-job-here-are-5-ways-to-make-a-great-first-impression\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENew job? Here are 5 ways to make a great first impression\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIndustry observers provide the following advice to professionals taking those first steps into entrepreneurship:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETemper expectations. \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EOne expectation that needs to be tempered from the start is that there will not be overnight success -- rather, it will be years of building an organization and a following. The majority of professionals in the Clarify Capital survey, 82%, report they did not acquire customers until being in business for at least four months. \"Building a successful startup takes many years, and most will live through both upswings and downswings in the labor and financial markets; this is normal and expected,\" says Nahapetyan. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsk yourself what business you want to be in:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Still, tech professionals taking the entrepreneurial route need to thoroughly test their plans, as it's a very crowded and noisy market. Ask: \"What problem am I here to solve?\" \"What need does my business fill?\" And perhaps the most difficult test of all: \"Can I explain my venture to family and friends?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERecognize that launching a new venture often requires partners with complementary skills.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \"Running a business is not the same as writing code, managing data, automating deployments, or any of the other things we do as technologists,\" says \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.red-gate.com\u002Fblog\u002Fauthor\u002Fgrant-fritchey\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGrant Fritchey,\u003C\u002Fa\u003E DevOps advocate at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.red-gate.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ERedgate\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \"In addition to considering entrepreneurial opportunities, you need to be considering partners who are going to be able to help you with the business and sales sides of things. No matter how great your tech and your ideas, if you can't manage the people necessary to deliver, and then sell people on the idea, you won't succeed.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConsider how it's going to eventually scale. \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThe ability to scale is what separates the startup entrepreneur from the solopreneur. \"While this is a promising time for startups and small to medium businesses, founders and team members need to start prioritizing and planning their most efficient processes early on to grow a company successfully,\" says \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fgabemonroy\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGabe Monroy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, chief product officer at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.digitalocean.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDigitalOcean\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \"Scaling a business invites complexity, and no matter how much funding founders secure or the talented staff they bring on, these ventures can begin to falter if they don't have efficient and scalable practices in place. This includes building infrastructure that is adaptable to changing demand, controlling cash burn early on, and staying focused on the early needs and feedback of your customers.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhether it's contract gigs or full-fledged startups, many technology professionals recognize they have valuable skills -- and ideas -- to offer to today's digital economy. Standard employment may not always be the best way to bring that talent to market. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2023-03-06 14:34:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"63% of tech workers report they have started their own company post-layoff, according to a recent survey.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"6e916314-0f3b-44ac-a89c-70c5485d0810",image:{id:"dfae2b2b-8f96-411a-b0b2-42dd9ebb024d",filename:"gettyimages-1357193029.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-03-05 14:30:57",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Young smiling tech pro",credits:"Getty Images\u002FYana Iskayeva",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F05\u002Fdfae2b2b-8f96-411a-b0b2-42dd9ebb024d\u002Fgettyimages-1357193029.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Startups",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"laid-off-tech-workers-are-launching-their-own-ventures-and-competing-with-their-ex-employers",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Laid-off tech workers are launching their own ventures and competing with their ex-employers",topic:{id:"115511f0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"startups",name:"Startups",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"115511f0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"startups",name:"Startups",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"5d68ddc2-d682-11e4-9a74-d4ae52e95e57",slug:"developer",name:"Developer",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926460b5-b4e9-464e-859e-278dd409a3a7",slug:"professional-development",name:"Professional Development",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"d17ddd02-232e-4fbe-84af-201e48b9b852",slug:"companies",name:"Companies",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"a0223f05-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"pgreenbe",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Paul",lastName:"Greenberg",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"5d27c9c9-1175-11e4-9732-00505685119a",filename:"paul-greenberg.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2014-07-22 07:54:10",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2014\u002F07\u002F22\u002F5d27c9c9-1175-11e4-9732-00505685119a\u002Fpaul-greenberg.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Paul Greenberg is founder & Managing Principal of The 56 Group, LLC, an advisory firm, focused on customer-facing strategic services, including CRM, customer experience and customer engagement strategies.\r\n\r\nHis book, CRM at the Speed of Light now in its 4th edition, is in 9 languages and been called \"the bible of the CRM industry\". It has been used by more than 70 universities as a primary text. \r\n\r\nCurrently, Paul sits on the Global Advisory Board of the SEAT Consortium as the only non-sports professional of a sports business professionals organization. Prior to this, Paul has been the EVP of the CRM Association, the Chairman of the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management CRM Centre of Excellence Board of Advisors, a Board of Advisors member of the Baylor University MBA Program for CRM majors, & co-chairman of Rutgers University's CRM Research Center. \r\n\r\nPaul works both with customer-facing technology vendors and practitioners to craft go-to-market strategies, engagement programs, product development road maps, marketing\u002Fmessaging & outreach among other things.\r\n\r\nPaul is considered a thought leader in CRM and often called \"The Godfather of CRM.\" He has been published in numerous industry and business publications over the years. He was elected to CRM magazine's CRM Hall of Fame in 2010 - the first non-vendor related thought leader in its history. He also writes on customer-facing matters for CBS's ZDNet high profile tech media property (www.zdnet.com\u002Fblogs\u002Fcrm). He has won dozens of industry awards over the years in CRM, marketing, sales, and customer service as an influencer and thought leader. \r\n\r\nHe has just released a book on customer engagement entitled \"The Commonwealth of Self-Interest: Business Success through Customer Engagement\" \r\n\r\nPaul is also known through his work with Brent Leary on their show CRM Playaz, a show with a global audience. He and Brent will be announcing a major expansion of the franchise in January 2022. \r\n\r\nPaul currently lives in Manassas, Virginia with his wife of more than 35 years and 6 cats - and to be entirely clear - is a HUGE New York Yankees fan.",profile:b,title:c,bio:c,bureau:"AU",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EThis one is different. Not only is it the penultimate CRM Watchlist – the 19th – but the winners were actually announced on a CRM Playaz Awards Show on Thursday, February 24, taking the suspense out of the blog post. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fwatch?v=8tdw-5c-IN0\"\u003EIf you want to watch the show, here it is on YouTube\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Our primary channel is LinkedIn and then Twitter and some on Facebook. But YouTube is where you can see the uncut unexpurgated edition – Henry Miller watch out.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"32a1154f-70f8-48bf-bcd3-c541419f5b8d\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F32a1154f-70f8-48bf-bcd3-c541419f5b8d\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause this isn't a Big Reveal post and instead is a post to recognize the already publicly announced winners of the Watchlist this year, it will be abbreviated (my idea of abbreviation though).  They'll be some repurposing of content because it still applies, needs to be reiterated and why would I want to rewrite it since it's more details than anything else. I'll tweak it though.  I'll cover the following in the post. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe Watchlist context & criteria \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EHow I score \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe differences between the CRM Watchlist 2022 and the CRM Watchlist 2020 \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe data \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EObservations \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe winners \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe CRM Watchlist 2023 \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EA big thank you\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe Watchlist awards context and criteria\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGiven that what I'm writing about here has been generally similar for 19 years, I bear the risk of repeating myself. Or as the saying that would date me goes, this might repeat like a broken record (does anyone under 60 know what I mean when I say a \"record\"?) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe CRM Watchlist is an impact award. It is not focused on the financial success of the company though that is a criterion considered. It isn't designed to analyze how good or bad the strategy is – it is focused on the level of successful execution and clarity of that strategy. What that means is that as an analyst, I might judge your strategy and publicly or privately express my opinion on it and perhaps an alternate strategy or a tweak that I might think would improve your company's chances of success.  That is NOT what I'm doing as a judge. I'm taking your strategy, whether I agree with it or not, and seeing how well you executed it and what the impact in the market is as a result of that strategy. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo win the award you have to show that in the year immediately before submission (same year) you had a significant impact on the market – and that you have the corporate infrastructure, strategy, and resources to sustain that impact over the next three years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat do I mean when I say \"impact?\" That means significant influence in the market that you participate in. It doesn't have to be global. It can be specific – e.g., a vertical market, a sized (small, midsized, enterprise) or a geographical market. It can be a market specific to your offering.  For example. The Big 5(Salesforce, SAP, Microsoft, Oracle, and Adobe) are in global markets. Thunderhead was focused on Customer Journey Orchestration and Real-Time Interaction Management. A few years ago, when consulting companies were still part of the competition – Solvis Consulting won because of their impact in Latin America.  Veeva won for their incredible dominance in the Life Sciences market.  It can be specific.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is no winning by category though. You meet the brutal criteria for winning and you win – no distinction or preference for which markets you address. The only data when it comes to the actual winners that get revealed is who was the #1 scorer. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, though it's been called the CRM Watchlist for the last 14 years of its 19 - year existence, it is open to all that provide customer-facing technologies. There are 53 categories to choose from on the registration and the questionnaire and something called \"Other\" in case you are doing something that doesn't fall under the 53 other choices. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor your impact to be sustainable, the company must be a complete company that has been doing this long enough to have established a rhythm. The company has to be well-rounded: it has financial stability, solid management, excellent products and services, superb culture, and a strong partner ecosystem to help sustain its efforts. It has to have a clear vision and mission and also clear-cut strategies for outreach to get external forces - customers, analysts, journalists, prospects, influencers, etc. - engaged. That takes a complete (and complex) set of tools and activities, which could include marketing, analyst relations and public relations programs, the subject matter expertise via the content produced and distributed for consumption, and the \"theatrical\" activities that establish the corporate identity necessary to stay top of mind, as well as capture share of wallet. And, because this is the first Watchlist that occurred during the pandemic, not only your immediate response to the pandemic but your long-term planning and creation of infrastructure to support the changing world we live in, now is part of what all those who submit have to prove. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EHow I score\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe key to this WHOLE thing is that the entrants to the competition have to prove that they had an impact in the immediately preceding year to the Watchlist named year. So this year, that means the impact the company had in 2021 for the CRM Watchlist 2022. Next year will be the impact the company had this year – 2022 – for the final CRM Watchlist 2023.  But what I'm NOT interested in is just that. To win the CRM Watchlist or even have a chance you have to show me that you not only had an impact in the year at hand but had the infrastructure and the foresighted strategic thinking to be prepared to sustain that impact for the following three years. If you only had the impact of the year, that isn't enough. You could be a one-hit wonder. But show me both – and you have to in order to win – and you have a real shot at winning. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother thing: While I do independent research on each qualifying candidate and also take note of how much I have run across them during the year, ultimately it's the quality of the submission that counts. If I have to give it the relative weight it works something like this: 30% for my independent research and anecdotal and quantitative information I've gathered over a year in the course of my work as an analyst. The other 70% is the submission itself. The submitting company has to make the case for their impact. You may have had it and if my 30% doesn't put it over the top because you have made such a poor case for it (and that does happen) then you lose. Three years ago, two companies that should have made it given my research and what I already knew of them in the market would have made it, but the submissions were so poor that they didn't make it. This year there was one company that did win but the submission was not very good, so it kept them a category down.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EConversely, the case is the case, regardless of the quality of the writing. I place a real value on the presentation – the quality of the writing and the look and feel. You will make some marginal but potentially crucial gains if it is really good but not lose if it really isn't. You can write poorly and sloppily and still even if it seems accidental make the case.  As the sole judge, I have to separate that from the \"facts of the matter.\"  So, I do.  But that doesn't excuse something written badly.  Companies that submit are companies proving they have an impact. If they do, the face they present to the public should be something that engenders trust. To do that you have to make sure that the public (or me in this case) knows you put some real effort into what you did (or do) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis year had a couple of unique scoring challenges. Most importantly, the base final score required to win or win at a higher category became significantly higher. There were four companies that would have won under the CRM Watchlist 2020 (I skipped 2021 due to the pandemic) that didn't win this. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThink of it this way: When I write on customer engagement, I define customer value as \"feeling valued.\" In other words, when the customer feels valued, they are more than likely to continue to be your customer.  To do that you have to show the customer that you care enough about who they are to make them feel as if you value them.  The same goes for a Watchlist submittal or anything a company does in the analyst or public relations. Make the recipient feel as if you value them. Learn the lesson, please. It's important. That means not just telling the truth, but making sure that you tell it well. The failure of many companies is their inability to present and stay true to a corporate narrative. They lose the trust or don't gain the trust of those they need to trust them – meaning not just their customers but their potential customers. In the case of a few of the submissions this year, while the facts may have seemed indisputable, the submission seemed to be an afterthought. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"35baf071-dc0f-43b9-a45d-2430b61c6031\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F35baf071-dc0f-43b9-a45d-2430b61c6031\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA factor that weighs heavily (and not positively) – even though it might have been a good thing that happened to create it – is uncertainty. For example, if you were acquired (in the impact year) and\u002For had significant management turnover or if you were addressing a new market that you didn't have much history in – I penalized you – as harsh as that sounds. Sometimes, all other things being equal, the company would have won the Watchlist, but the uncertainty was the tipping point in their loss. Sadly, I have no way to see the impact two or three years out when I don't even know how your new management team or new CEO is going to perform in their new environment, or you gave me no discernible proof of the results of your bold move into a new market. I have no way of knowing if you were going to be successful there over time – even if you were successful this year. Again, this is an impact award, not a \"smart strategy\" award. I might think that you made the right move, but you rarely are going to have an impact in the new market in the first few quarters you are in it. Also, it's impossible to say that the new person or people are the right choices until they are. Even if I think that. One example of this in an odd way – Thunderhead was acquired in January by Medallia but since the impact year was 2021 – that had no impact on the score.  On the other hand, two companies entered new markets, and while the level of penalties was different between them, they were both penalized for not being able to show me a lot of results of their impact in the new market.  I call all of this – transitional uncertainty. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe score is also driven by a raw score and then a weighted score and the weights vary year to year depending on macroeconomic conditions, industry movement, and trends that are discernibly more than self-serving justifications for hiring a \"thought leader\" or buying a vendor product.  Based on that the weights vary every year though the raw score perfect total and the weight's perfect total never does. There are some 50-60 \"intangibles\" (several new ones that were added this year due to the pandemic) that I am looking for that are not indicated in the questions asked – some negative and some positive. There is one larger question (I'm not telling you which), a second question if you stretch my definition, where you can gain some positive intangible points. Keep in mind, the intangible deductions or additions come off or are added to the final weighted score. Because they are so important to the outcome most of the time they are incrementally small though on occasion, they can be substantial (e.g., transitional uncertainty) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHint:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E For the first time I'm going to reveal one of the intangibles in a post-competition bashing. If you show me a single instance implied or direct of competition bashing, there is a pretty serious penalty. Aside from my dislike of it, there is NO circumstance in this submission where that is needed to affect my judgment of your impact or score. NONE. So future participants, read this closely. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe CRM Watchlist 2022 vs CRM Watchlist 2020\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClearly, this Watchlist was impacted greatly by COVID and thus the questionnaire not only had a specific response to the pandemic question but implied a much more important weight being placed on what each company was doing for the greater good.  That also impacted the weighting (relative value) of each question. Things that weren't as important three years ago became much more so during the last two years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, because I was dedicated to making companies lose this watch list I made the baseline scores for winning considerably higher. Roughly 15% harder and at one level nearly 20%. There were reasons for the specific hikes that I won't delve into here. That would give away too much.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow let me give you some data on the registrations and submissions. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETHE DATA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERegistrants – 60 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESubmissions – 59 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENew Submissions - 19 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDropouts by withdrawal deadline - 0 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDropouts after withdrawal deadline – 1 (penalized) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDisqualifications – 0 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst-time winners – 2 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPages total – 4189 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAverage submission – 71 pages \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELargest submission - 259 pages (Zoho) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESubmissions over 100 pages – 6 (Zoho, Verint, SAP, Oracle, Anaplan and 1 non-winner) \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmallest submission - 19 pages \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFour observations\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"youtube_video\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-oembed=\"{"author_name":"CRM Playaz","author_url":"https:\\\u002F\\\u002Fwww.youtube.com\\\u002Fchannel\\\u002FUCLwyYDZhYMYemqBvgcUhRbw","height":113,"html":"\u003Ciframe width=\\"200\\" height=\\"113\\" src=\\"https:\\\u002F\\\u002Fwww.youtube.com\\\u002Fembed\\\u002FuOmJ-FTQ69A?autoplay=0&amp;loop=0&amp;fs=1&amp;start=0&amp;rel=1&amp;feature=oembed\\" frameborder=\\"0\\" allow=\\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\\" allowfullscreen\u003E\u003C\\\u002Fiframe\u003E","provider_name":"YouTube","provider_url":"https:\\\u002F\\\u002Fwww.youtube.com\\\u002F","thumbnail_height":360,"thumbnail_url":"https:\\\u002F\\\u002Fi.ytimg.com\\\u002Fvi\\\u002FuOmJ-FTQ69A\\\u002Fhqdefault.jpg","thumbnail_width":480,"title":"2022 CRM Watchlist Trends","type":"video","version":"1.0","width":200}\" data-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fyoutu.be\u002FuOmJ-FTQ69A\" data-autoplay=\"false\" data-loop=\"false\" data-start=\"0\" data-fs=\"true\" data-rel=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere is a caveat to these observations. They are based on the 59 submissions I got so they are not even close to longitudinal or even scientific. They are observations, not trends – trends to me that you read from pundits are often self-serving and impossible to predict. So please take these for what they are… I noticed these patterns in 59 submissions. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EComposable architectures, no code development (citizen development), and low code applications dominate the evolution of most technology offerings. These are not long-term or even short-term road map capabilities. They are on the agenda right now or have already been built into the technology stack. \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPlatforms and ecosystems are now mainstream and dominant in the strategic thinking of most companies (to varying degrees). This one was particularly pleasing to me. Several of us especially the Four Horsemen of the CRM Apocalypse – me, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fbrentleary\u002F\"\u003EBrent Leary\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Festebankolsky\u002F\"\u003EEsteban Kolsky\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fdenis-pombriant-37081015\u002F\"\u003EDenis Pombriant\u003C\u002Fa\u003E) have been advocates for this being the crux of tech industry thinking for years – and now it seems to be, at least in a very large percentage of the submissions, the crux of corporate thinking. \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere is a pervasive idea that permeates the companies – which is to meet the customers where they are.  This means in most cases that companies are either seriously accounting for or at least providing lip service to do what the customers need in the manner they need it with the channels they want. \u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EFinally, there is one interesting analog to all this (especially trend #3) that wouldn't have been discussed if it wasn't part of the optional question. There is finally an emerging definition of the idea of being \"channeless.\"  Three definitions (leaving out who's they are) that make the point best:\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F635210bb-41ff-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\"…one step beyond omnichannel (NOTE: This was a common statement). For the customer the channel is secondary to their experience - …they simply want their interaction to be frictionless and personalized. While omnichannel connects multiple channels, channeless is about the experience.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChannel-less (referred by some as Multi-Experience) takes omnichannel to the next level – which is predicated on a truly holistic outside-in perspective. …Customers don't think in terms of channels, touchpoints and silos. They think in terms of what they need to get done. The essence of the channel-less approach is…to understand and serve the needs of your customers from their perspective.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EChanneless is the next step in the sophistication of managing customer engagement over different channels. In a \"channeless\" strategy, orchestrating customer engagement across different channels has become so simple that a business is able to focus on building an exceptional customer experience and brand experience without needing to worry about which channels are in play with a customer.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere were a sizable number of negative observations too, but this is an awards post – we should be happy, so I won't post them here, but I would be glad to discuss them with anyone who asks me to. Contact me on LinkedIn. If you aren't connected, connect, and we'll set up some time.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Fol\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd now what you didn't have to wait for but of course still are if you didn't watch the show…. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAnd the Winners of the CRM Watchlist 2022 are:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWinners\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHighest Overall Score: Zoho \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWinner with Distinction:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.oracle.com\u002Fcx\u002F?source=:ad:pas:go:eng:a_nas:71700000071577154-58700007462811252-p67284954279:RC_WWMK210621P00067:MainAd&SC=:ad:pas:go:eng:a_nas::RC_WWMK210621P00067:MainAd&gclid=CjwKCAiAvOeQBhBkEiwAxutUVOUvHjTAX_zxgNe5ZeX9U1u0G__uNaLOHAzkaEKjYDi-J13yS_v71BoCdrQQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds\"\u003EOracle\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.servicenow.com\u002Fworkflows\u002Fcustomer-workflows.html\"\u003EServiceNow\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.thunderhead.com\u002F\"\u003EThunderhead\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E4.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zoho.com\u002Fcrm\u002F?zmc=zoho-fa&ireft=ohome\"\u003EZoho\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWinners\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbusiness.adobe.com\u002F\"\u003EAdobe\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E2.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anaplan.com\u002F\"\u003EAnaplan\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.creatio.com\u002F\"\u003ECreatio\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E4.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdynamics.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pega.com\u002F\"\u003EPegasystems\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E6.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fpros.com\u002F\"\u003EPROS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E7.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.salesforce.com\u002F\"\u003ESalesforce\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sap.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fcrm.html\"\u003ESAP\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E9.      \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sugarcrm.com\u002F\"\u003ESugarCRM\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10.  \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.veeva.com\u002F\"\u003EVeeva\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E11.  \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fverint.com\u002F\"\u003EVerint\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E12.  \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.xactlycorp.com\u002F\"\u003EXactly\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest in Category:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EImpact Statement\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E (understood own impact & had the data to prove it):  Tie between Anaplan and Veeva \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMission and Vision\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: ServiceNow \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETechnology\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Thunderhead \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECustomers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Salesforce \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivacy\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Thunderhead \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPartners\u002FAlliances\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: SAP \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarketing Strategy\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Pegasystems \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOutreach\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Tie between Salesforce & Zoho \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarket Impact\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Tie between Salesforce & Adobe \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECulture:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Tie between PROS and Zoho \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPandemic Response\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Salesforce \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003Cbr\u003E \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EShoutouts:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest Social Media Strategy\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: SAP \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest Presentation\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Thunderhead and Creatio \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMOST PROMISING COMPANY\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Dead tie between \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.contentful.com\u002F\"\u003EContentful\u003C\u002Fa\u003E & \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.optimizely.com\u002F\"\u003EOptimizely\u003C\u002Fa\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe CRM WATCHLIST 2023\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe CRM Watchlist 2023 is going to be special. It's the 20th and last one and we will have a significant number of additional awards and surprises, but it will be a total BEAR to try and win.  I will make it even more difficult than this year – though I'm truly not sure how to do that.  However, while there is still a lot to be done in the shape of the final awards, it is now time to open registration.  So, there will be another blog post sometime soon here or elsewhere about what the CRM Watchlist 2023 will look like and be like but rest assured, the core is the same.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOkay, without further ado, as of this very minute...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERegistration for the CRM Watchlist 2023 is officially open! \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you are interested in taking a crack at this 20-year-old award – send me an email requesting a registration form.  I will send it to you as soon as I see the email and then once you have returned it, I will send you the questionnaire for the submission as soon as I have tweaked it and completed it. Which will be soon. You have fourteen (14) days - NOT business days. This includes weekends - to get it back to me or you will not qualify for the Watchlist this year which means forever since this is the final Watchlist. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESince this upcoming one is the very last one so, if I'm you, I'm registering to take a crack at it. Even if most companies don't win the award, they more often than not appreciate the exercise that you go through to put together the submission because it, when completed, gives you a holistic look at your company that you otherwise do not have.  It's worth it for the workout. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'll leave you with that. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECongratulations to the CRM Watchlist 2022 winners!! You all not only deserved it given what I tried to do, but I will genuflect to you because I think what you are doing is amazing and no matter how hard I tried to get you to lose, you still won. Thank you for honoring me with your effort.  I truly do appreciate all 59 submissions because I know what kind of work they take. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESee you with the CRM Watchlist 2023!  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2022-02-28 15:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The CRM Watchlist 2022 is now over. Here are the winners, the reasons, and the future. Read on and find out how these companies had an exceptional impact.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"4ca15e62-0de7-497f-9810-4a4670e9bba4",image:{id:"fc248c84-bcd7-441d-8acd-806bcd029d7d",filename:"trophy-publicdomainpictures.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2016-07-05 14:40:30",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"trophy-publicdomainpictures.jpg",credits:c,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2016\u002F07\u002F05\u002Ffc248c84-bcd7-441d-8acd-806bcd029d7d\u002Ftrophy-publicdomainpictures.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1280,height:848,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Tech Industry",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"and-the-winners-of-the-crm-watchlist-2022-are",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"CRM Watchlist 2022: And the winners are...",topic:{id:"11858747-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"tech-industry",name:"Tech Industry",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"11858747-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"tech-industry",name:"Tech Industry",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Andrew Brookes\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"keyboard at night\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-685007445.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis software is licensed, not sold.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat sentence, which has scrolled past PC users' eyeballs for decades as they click through Windows license agreements without reading them, is what made Bill Gates rich. It is also the gateway to an insanely confusing thicket of legal verbiage, and Microsoft has made the topic even more bewildering through the years by adding layers of anti-piracy protection that are only indirectly related to the license itself. (And let's not even start on weaselly words like \u003Cem\u003Egenuine.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIs Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've been studying Microsoft licensing agreements for more than two decades. During that time, I've written dozens of articles on the subject and have prepared testimony as an expert witness in criminal and civil cases where Microsoft licensing was at the crux of some serious disagreements. One thing I've learned along the way is that even people who work for Microsoft sometimes get confused about when a license is legitimate and when it's not.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf they have trouble sorting out license agreements, what chance do the rest of us have?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyes-you-can-upgrade-that-old-pc-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-these-readers-proved-it\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYes, you can upgrade that old PC to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no. These readers proved it\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost of the time, a Windows license is strictly a formality, something you can safely ignore. But occasionally, it matters, especially if you're building your own PC or upgrading to a different edition. If you're making IT purchases for a business that involves more than a few dozen PCs, a Windows license absolutely matters.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo make this difficult topic a little easier, I've put together a list of questions and answers focused specifically on Windows PCs. Is your license valid? How can you tell? Should you care? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's start with the most confusing one of all. What exactly is a Windows license, anyway?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1f968b49-d230-4149-b028-565e3ba9854c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMaybe it's easier to explain what a Windows license&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eisn't\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. The 25-character product key you enter to install or activate Windows is not a license. A Windows sticker on the side of a PC is not a license. A Windows certificate of authenticity, complete with hologram, is not a license. And the activation status message on \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eyour Windows PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is absolutely not a license.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-tpm-and-why-does-windows-11-require-one\u002F"\u003EWhat is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll of those things are, potentially,&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eevidence\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;that you possess a valid license. So, what is a license? It's a legal grant from the licensor (Microsoft) to the licensee (you) which gives you the right to use Microsoft Windows on a particular device, provided that you follow the terms of the license agreement. The license itself is an intangible thing, governed by a legal agreement between you and either Microsoft or one of its partners who resold the Windows license as part of a new PC. That license agreement is the thing you scroll through quickly without reading every time you install Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a Windows license?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"953ef176-585c-41f5-ad91-954c163b638e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou almost certainly have a valid Windows license if you acquired it in any of the following ways:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea new PC with Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E preinstalled on it from a name-brand OEM.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy buying a retail copy of Windows (in a physical box or as a digital download) directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy acquiring a used or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhere-to-buy-used-laptop-deals\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esecondhand PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that came with Windows preinstalled.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing or otherwise obtaining an upgrade license for a Windows edition directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut here's the most fascinating and frustrating part of Windows licensing. If I sit down in front of your computer and (with your permission) do a thorough inspection, I cannot conclusively determine whether you have \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-you-still-get-a-windows-10-upgrade-for-free\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea valid Windows license\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fstill-have-a-windows-10-pc-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-next-year\u002F"\u003EStill have a Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options before support ends next year\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI can confirm that the system is properly activated. I can also make an educated guess about the license status, and I will probably be right. But without seeing an audit trail of receipts for the PC and\u002For its system software, there's no way of knowing for sure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is my Windows license valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7a91e389-a821-40a1-b65f-9a47cd74fd89\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETo quote Will Shakespeare, "Let me count the ways."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed the product on too many PCs.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;When you \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuy a retail copy of Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it includes a license to install it on one and only one PC. If you manage to convince Microsoft's activation servers to accept a second (or third, or fourth) installation of that copy without removing it from the device where it was originally installed and activated, those extra installations are not properly licensed.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou used an evaluation or dev\u002Ftest edition for a production system.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Microsoft offers several subscription programs designed for developers and IT pros to evaluate its software and build test environments. A \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fvisualstudio.microsoft.com\u002Fsubscriptions\u002F#software-and-downloads?cat=visual-studio-professional-subscription" target="_blank"\u003EVisual Studio Professional subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for example, includes access to current and past versions of Windows desktop and server editions, complete with product keys. But those licenses are only valid for development and test purposes, not for production systems.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed an enterprise upgrade without having a proper underlying license.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Every so often, I run across some poor benighted soul who announces that they're running Windows 10 LTSC (the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELong Term Servicing Channel release\u003C\u002Fa\u003E). The only way to get an LTSC license is with a Windows Enterprise Volume License agreement, which is ... not cheap. Enterprise licenses are widely pirated. If you're running Windows Enterprise edition and can't tell me how you got the license, there's an excellent chance your license isn't valid.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou bought a Windows product key from a random seller on the internet.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Even legitimate websites get fooled by shady resellers who advertise Windows 10 or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E at a price that's too good to be true. In many cases, they're reselling "gray market" Windows product keys that are part of an enterprise license or a Microsoft subscription. Microsoft could block or ban those diverted product keys, but they might not notice. Do you feel lucky?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"OK, how could I end up with a license that's not valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ea95a169-4869-49ea-aa0c-6de08da45f12\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf activation doesn't prove you have a valid license, why does it exist?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe interrupt this story for some ancient history. Back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, software piracy was an existential crisis for Microsoft. Windows was the core of the company's business, and independent local PC builders represented a disproportionate share of the Windows business. Unfortunately, a depressingly large number of those resellers bought a single license and installed it on multiple PCs. Microsoft created a network of activation servers designed to flush out "non-genuine" copies of Windows to prevent that sort of flagrant copying of retail and system builder packages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-debloating-windows-is-a-bad-idea-and-what-to-do-instead\u002F"\u003EWhy 'debloating' Windows is a bad idea (and what to do instead)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHoo boy, did that go wrong. When I started at ZDNET, way back in 2006, I wrote a lot of words about the original Windows Genuine Advantage authentication software. I once called it&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fpictures\u002Fa-decades-worth-of-windows-mistakes-that-changed-microsoft-for-better-and-worse\u002F9\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E"the stupidest thing Microsoft ever did with Windows"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI long ago lost count of the number of words I wrote about Windows Genuine Advantage and product activation, but I don't regret a single one of them. I know they made a difference. Microsoft removed the "kill switch" in Windows Vista Service Pack 1, and in \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsay-goodbye-to-windows-7-as-microsoft-ends-extended-support\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 7\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the activation experience seemed to finally work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-hidden-windows-11-setting-lets-you-kill-unresponsive-apps-straight-from-the-taskbar\u002F"\u003EThis hidden Windows 11 setting lets you kill unresponsive apps right from the taskbar\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver time, Microsoft discovered that it was in the company's best interests to tolerate a certain amount of casual copying as part of its goal of not pissing off legitimate customers. I can't remember the last time I received a complaint about \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10-users-left-baffled-and-mad-over-microsofts-activation-glitch\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eproduct activation issues\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, the overwhelming majority of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are sold by giant OEMs like Dell, HP, and Lenovo, which pay Microsoft for every license. (Even Microsoft's own \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-bought-the-cheapest-surface-pro-11-laptop-3-takeaways-as-a-windows-expert\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurface\u003C\u002Fa\u003E division pays the Windows side of the house for Windows licenses!) Only a tiny sliver of PCs these days are built by hobbyists or small system builders.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf someone in one of those groups tries to reuse a product key inappropriately (by activating multiple PCs using the same product key in a matter of days), the activation servers will object strenuously. But if you reuse a product key months after the first use, it's likely that Microsoft's activation servers will wave you right through.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the point of Windows product activation?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"38b000a5-5667-44be-89e4-3f727d0c70f2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you buy a PC with Windows preinstalled, you don't need to enter a product key \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ewhen you set it up for the first time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The company that built that PC entered the product key as part of the process of preparing the system for delivery to you.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-will-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F"\u003EMicrosoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBig-name OEMs embed that product key into the system's firmware. Smaller system builders enter the product key using deployment tools. In either case, once you start up your brand-new PC and accept the license agreement, your copy of Windows is activated automatically, and that product key (which you never saw!) is no longer necessary. You can reinstall that edition of Windows on the same hardware as many times as you want, without having to enter a product key.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, when do you need a product key?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-build-a-gaming-pc-for-550\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuilding your own PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or setting up a virtual machine, you need to enter a product key to complete activation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eupgrading an existing Windows installation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to a different edition, you need to enter a product key to perform the upgrade and then activate the new installation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Do I really need a product key?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"85b16c7d-a14e-4998-95f7-ffa04d969179\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAs my favorite&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.directionsonmicrosoft.com\u002Fanalysts\u002Fwes-miller"\u003EMicrosoft licensing expert, Wes Miller\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is fond of saying, the answer to every licensing question is "That depends." This one is no exception.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you purchased \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea PC with Windows preinstalled\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the OEM who built the device paid Microsoft for the Windows license and passed the cost along to you. For a big OEM (think Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, or Acer), the price list for Windows licenses is a closely guarded secret. I generally just figure that a license for \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows Home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is built into the price of the PC and a Windows Pro license adds $50-100 to that total.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmaller PC makers who don't qualify to purchase licenses in bulk from Microsoft purchase licenses as part of the OEM System Builder program. The price for those shrink-wrapped packages is a little steeper, and the conditions of installation are more convoluted. But that cost is also built into the price of the PC. For my back-of-the-envelope calculations, I figure that this type of license costs about $30-50 more than the bulk price offered to the giants.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're building your own PC or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-create-the-perfect-windows-11-virtual-machine\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ecreating a virtual machine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for permanent use, you need to supply a license for use in that device, regardless of whether it's physical or virtual. In most cases, that means paying Microsoft (or one of its partners) for a retail license. You'll pay much more than a reseller for this privilege. On average, your back-of-the-envelope budget for a retail copy of Windows should be about $99 for Home and $149 for Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11\u002F"\u003EHow to screen record in Windows 10 or 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's where things get interesting, though. You can probably score a much better discount than that, in deals that are widely advertised on reputable websites, including ZDNET and CNET. I regularly see advertisers offering Windows Pro for as little as $20 or $29. I know from experience that those gray market copies probably don't represent proper&nbsp;licenses for Windows. And yet Microsoft doesn't seem to care. Should you? Well, that leads to my next question.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How much should a Windows license cost?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"496bcb41-f44c-4e62-9b9f-37f438f2be99\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI have no doubt there is a junior lawyer in Microsoft Licensing, probably a recent grad from the law school of the University of American Samoa, who is obsessed with tracking down every Windows license that has even the slightest irregularity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut those hard-liners are the exception, not the rule. Over time, Microsoft has discovered that its activation servers are most effective when they're configured to the most generous settings. If you used a product key six months ago, chances are it will work again, because there's little benefit for Microsoft in making it hard for you to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-factory-reset-your-windows-10-pc\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ereinstall Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-set-up-god-mode-in-windows-11-and-why-you-should\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EHow to set up God Mode in Windows 11 (and why you should)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft occasionally audits its larger customers, but if you're a hobbyist or a small business, you're literally too small to bother with. If you can successfully activate your new installation of Windows 11 Home or Pro, it doesn't really matter if your license has some sort of technical flaw. The license police are not going to bust down your door. You should concentrate on your business, not on the esoterica of Microsoft licensing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does Microsoft care whether my license is legal?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 09:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Microsoft has made Windows licensing and activation ridiculously complex. Here's what you need to know.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"fe19dbf1-be63-49a9-a27b-0ab7c21dbf81",image:{id:"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1",filename:"gettyimages-685007445.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 02:22:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"windows-11-styl2-2.jpg",credits:"Screenshot by Ed Bott",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F16\u002F73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\u002Fgettyimages-685007445.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"is-your-windows-license-legal-should-you-even-care",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Is your Windows license legal? Should you even care?",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:"Explore a fresh perspective",description:b,filters:b,paging:b,slug:"dynamic-topic-3-story-carousel-analysis",title:"Analysis & Opinion",label:b,viewMoreText:b,viewMoreUrl:b,relatedItems:b},{id:"ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f",meta:{componentName:"ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f",componentDisplayName:"Latest",componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002Fddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=ddc9226f-14b1-4a1c-9cfa-46a60a305f1f"}},items:[{author:{id:"fffab326-d9a6-4491-aadb-e18e8e906d5f",username:"cecadenas",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Cesar",lastName:"Cadenas",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4",filename:"1608345669637.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-07-21 15:02:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F21\u002F73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4\u002F1608345669637.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Cesar Cadenas has been writing about the tech industry for several years now specializing in consumer electronics, entertainment devices, Windows, and generative AIs. But he's also passionate about smartphones, GPUs, and cybersecurity.",profile:b,title:"Staff Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EThe past year has been huge for laptops. With so many new models, identifying the best laptop for you can be overwhelming. Our experts have tested some of the best laptops of the year, like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lenovo-laptop\u002F\"\u003Ethe latest Lenovo\u003C\u002Fa\u003E ThinkPad, Dell's XPS lineup, and the creative powerhouse Asus ProArt P16. We reviewed spec sheets to evaluate random access memory (RAM) and storage, build quality, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lightweight-laptops\u002F\"\u003Eportability\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and value, in addition to testing some of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-under-1000\u002F\"\u003Ebest affordable laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing industry-standard benchmarking programs, we test all laptops to measure performance, battery life, and display quality. After going hands-on with dozens of models, we found the best laptop to be the MacBook Pro M4 for its fantastic battery life, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F\"\u003Efast performance\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and sleek, portable form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best laptop right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the overall best laptop is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"681a63f7-5b6d-4438-be3d-caee9b6aa794\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-macbook-pro-14-inch-apple-m4-chip-built-for-apple-intelligence-16gb-memory-512gb-ssd-space-black\u002F6602741.p?skuId=6602741\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-macbook-pro-14-laptop-m3-max-chip-36gb-memory-30-core-gpu-1tb-ssd-latest-model-space-black%2F6534620.p%3FskuId%3D6534620&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"M4 MacBook Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. It possesses nearly everything you could ever want in a laptop: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-battery-life-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea long-lasting battery\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, generation-defining artificial intelligence features, top-tier performance, and a vibrant display. This laptop checks off all the boxes and looks as good as it performs. As great as it may be, the M4 MacBook Pro isn't for everyone, and there are other options worth highlighting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-clear-the-cache-on-your-windows-11-pc-and-why-you-shouldnt-wait-to-do-it\u002F\"\u003EHow to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why you shouldn't wait to do it)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f6c32bf9-e56b-41c2-9d77-a8af2e522882\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETaking the top spot as the best laptop of 2025 is Apple's M4 MacBook Pro. This may surprise some people, as we're sure a few were expecting the M4 Pro or M4 Max version, but there is a good reason why we went with the base model. It perfectly balances the lines between power and affordability.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe M4 is the latest chipset in Apple's silicon line. It comprises a 10-core central processing unit (CPU) and a 10-core graphics processing unit (GPU). Supporting the hardware are 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Kerry Wan, the Senior Reviews Editor at ZDNET, said the base configuration can arguably meet the needs "for 90% of users" and says "most people will be delighted by the... overall computing experience". Whether for photo editing, video work, or light gaming, the M4 handles everything smoothly, even outperforming the old M1 Pro chip.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtificial intelligence also plays a big role in the M4 ecosystem. It enables the new ChatGPT-powered Siri, allowing the AI assistant to "answer... sophisticated queries instead" relying on Google Search. Writing Tools is another notable feature that can craft messages across various tones. Image Playground creates AI-generated artwork, which can be useful for professionals who need an image for work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI also want to shout out the nano-texture display, which is capable of staying "clear and pristine" even "after a week of intensive use". If money is not an issue, you can purchase the MacBook Pro housing the M4 Pro or M4 Max chipset. These two provide an even better user experience, although be prepared to pay much more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-linux-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Linux laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMacBook Pro M4 specs: Display size:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E14-inch&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Liquid Retina XDR |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;3024 x 1964 pixels |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 24GB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 1TB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10-core M4&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to a purported 24 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Pro (M4)\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"A close-up shot of the 16-inch MacBook Pro's keyboard.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272","title":"M4 MacBook Pro","filename":"dsc02534-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F06\u002F5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272\u002Fdsc02534-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":530566,"width":2048,"height":1152,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:43:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:44:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"M4 MacBook Pro","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272","imageAltText":"A close-up shot of the 16-inch MacBook Pro's keyboard.","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc02534-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F06","imageWidth":2048,"imageHeight":1152,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"755c5e88-1c22-474b-8ccd-1b4ba214dbdc","slug":"apple-macbook-pro-m4-16gb-512gb-black","label":"Apple 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Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-macbook-pro-14-inch-apple-m4-chip-built-for-apple-intelligence-16gb-memory-512gb-ssd-space-black\u002F6602741.p?skuId=6602741","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-macbook-pro-14-inch-apple-m4-chip-built-for-apple-intelligence-16gb-memory-512gb-ssd-space-black%2F6602741.p%3FskuId%3D6602741&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmacbook-pro%2F14-inch-m4&subId1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-pro\u002F14-inch-m4","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fapple.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F435031\u002F7613?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-mac%2Fmacbook-pro%2F14-inch-m4&subId1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~Powerful performance ~ Stunning display ~ Artificial intelligence features\" data-dislike=\"~Very expensive\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cb08f24a-27e5-41ec-8c0f-84d36b88ee2b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWith so many \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efantastic Windows laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E out there, it was hard to pick just one, but we had to give it to Dell's XPS 16. It succeeds on multiple fronts. This machine has a stunning 4K resolution display surrounded by thin bezels. Being surrounded by a thin frame makes the screen appear significantly more prominent than it is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's more, it's supported by several image-enhancing features like Dolby Vision which delivers "vibrant shades of color" as well as a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. The latter ensures images output high amounts of detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdell-xps-16-2024-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EDell XPS 16 (2024)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder the hood, the XPS 16 houses an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 40-series graphics card. My review unit came with an RTX 4070 GPU. Combine these specs with its 32GB of RAM, and you're looking at a laptop that can easily handle all demanding workloads, from gaming to video editing. It's nothing if not a powerhouse.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe XPS 16 also has a stylish design. The zero lattice keyboard and the function key touch panel give it a distinct look seen nowhere else. On the sides of the keys are the device's room-filling speakers.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-dell-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Dell laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe want to warn you that the XPS 16 is rather heavy and doesn't have a wide array of ports, so you may need a docking station. Be sure to check out ZDNET's list of the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest laptop docking stations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for recommendations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDell XPS 16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16.3 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;4K |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core Ultra 7 155H&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 64GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 4TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell XPS 16\" data-superlative=\"Best Windows laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Dell XPS 17 open on grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6","title":"dell xps 14 - 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XPS 16 16.3” 120Hz Laptop FHD+ - Intel Core Ultra 7 Series 1 with 16GB Memory – NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 - 1TB SSD - Platinum","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":"{\\"sType\\":\\"mfr\\",\\"mediaType\\":\\"stock\\",\\"id\\":\\"f04702d5-b596-4a74-9cb2-b242e90186c4\\",\\"filename\\":\\"6575148cv17d.jpg\\",\\"dateCreated\\":{\\"date\\":\\"2024-06-27 20:58:52\\",\\"timezone_type\\":3,\\"timezone\\":\\"UTC\\",\\"secondsSinceEpoch\\":1719521.932},\\"typeName\\":\\"content_image\\",\\"overrideBaseUrl\\":\\"https:_slash__slash_www.cnet.com_slash_a_slash_img\\",\\"overrideFastlyUrl\\":\\"https:_slash__slash_www.cnet.com_slash_a_slash_img_slash_resize_slash_\\",\\"overrideFastlyBucket\\":\\"hub\\"}","imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product","typeLabel":"Tech Product","imgUrl":"\u002Fcontent\u002Fimage\u002Fredirect\u002F{\\"sType\\":\\"mfr\\",\\"mediaType\\":\\"stock\\",\\"id\\":\\"f04702d5-b596-4a74-9cb2-b242e90186c4\\",\\"filename\\":\\"6575148cv17d.jpg\\",\\"dateCreated\\":{\\"date\\":\\"2024-06-27 20:58:52\\",\\"timezone_type\\":3,\\"timezone\\":\\"UTC\\",\\"secondsSinceEpoch\\":1719521.932},\\"typeName\\":\\"content_image\\",\\"overrideBaseUrl\\":\\"https:_slash__slash_www.cnet.com_slash_a_slash_img\\",\\"overrideFastlyUrl\\":\\"https:_slash__slash_www.cnet.com_slash_a_slash_img_slash_resize_slash_\\",\\"overrideFastlyBucket\\":\\"hub\\"}\u002Fresize\u002F75x56","icon":""}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.tkqlhce.com\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Fcty%2Fpdp%2Fspd%2Fxps-16-9640-laptop%2Fusexchcto9640mtl01%3F&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Dell","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fshop\u002Fcty\u002Fpdp\u002Fspd\u002Fxps-16-9640-laptop\u002Fusexchcto9640mtl01?","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.tkqlhce.com\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Fcty%2Fpdp%2Fspd%2Fxps-16-9640-laptop%2Fusexchcto9640mtl01%3F&sid=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fdell-xps-16-16-3-fhd-laptop-intel-core-ultra-7-evo-edition-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-4050-1tb-ssd-platinum%2F6575148.p%3FskuId%3D6575148&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fdell-xps-16-16-3-fhd-laptop-intel-core-ultra-7-evo-edition-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-4050-1tb-ssd-platinum\u002F6575148.p?skuId=6575148","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fdell-xps-16-16-3-fhd-laptop-intel-core-ultra-7-evo-edition-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-4050-1tb-ssd-platinum%2F6575148.p%3FskuId%3D6575148&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Top tier hardware ~ Room-filling speakers ~ 4K display\" data-dislike=\"~ Expensive ~ Divisive keyboard design ~ Limited ports\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"174a8d80-c37c-4999-90f0-90d1bf616753\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMSI's Stealth A16 AI Plus is a gaming laptop that excels as a desktop replacement. This is mainly due to its top-tier hardware: an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, and a solid 32GB of RAM. AMD's Ryzen CPU, as its name reveals, utilizes artificial intelligence to boost performance, while freeing up processing power to allow the Stealth A16 to earn high marks on performance tests.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-desktop-with-this-msi-laptop-for-a-week-and-it-surpassed-my-expectations\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdmittedly, many laptops, including some work machines, have similar hardware, so MSI's machine isn't unique in that regard. What makes it special is that all its components are paired up with a 16-inch QuadHD (2,560 x 1,600 pixels) display running at 240Hz. A high refresh rate ensures smooth on-screen animation: action sequences from video games run smoothly and the whole experience feels more responsive than laptops with slower displays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, the laptop sports unique optimization features. MSIHybrid, for example, is a mode that balances performance and battery efficiency. Its SteelSeries keyboard is another standout feature, offering comfortable typing. If longevity is a concern, the Stealth A 16 comes with Integrated Graphics mode to extend the battery life, pushing the battery to over 11 hours on a single charge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus specs: Display size: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E16 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EQHD | \u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 2560 x 1600 | \u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 9-365&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 1TB SSD | \u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 10.5 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best gaming laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","title":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","filename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F20\u002Fbc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":284938,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"MSI\u002FZDNET","alt":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","imageAltText":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black\u002F6590023.p?skuId=6590023","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Powerful hardware ~ High resolution display ~ Lots of optimization features\" data-dislike=\"~ Expensive ~ Heavy and bulky\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"20487468-34cd-4e6e-b785-65c593bf7616\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15 stands tall as the best budget laptop. For less than $300, you get a portable notebook built to cover the basics. What it lacks in fancy aesthetics or premium features, this device makes up for it by being a solid secondary computer for students or professionals.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPowered by an Intel Core i3-N305 and 8GB of RAM, the device can handle lightweight productivity tasks reasonably well. Its 15-inch 1080p display provides decent viewing angles and sufficient contrast with a modest level of brightness.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company opted for a utilitarian design when creating the Aspire Go 15, featuring a full-sized keyboard alongside a well-placed trackpad. Battery life is another standout feature, lasting over 10 hours straight during our video playback tests. That number does drop down to about eight hours of typical use. What's more, the laptop can be versatile thanks to a humble selection of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-299-windows-laptop-is-my-new-go-to-recommendation-for-budget-shoppers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmazon sells multiple configurations of the Aspire Go 15. If you want a version with more power behind it, the retailer has the 2024 Performance model. It comes with an Intel Core i5-13420H and a touchscreen. There's also the 2023 Browse version if you want to save more money.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;LCD&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1080p&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core i3-N305&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;125GB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 11 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Aspire Go 15\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop under $500\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","title":"acer-aspire-go-15-1","filename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F26\u002F9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572\u002Facer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4885018,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:52","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Acer Aspire Go 15","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","imageAltText":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F04\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Lots of bang for your buck ~Good enough for everyday use ~Full keyboard\" data-dislike=\"~A little bulky ~Limited by its lower-end RAM\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1810c764-9453-4eb8-a30f-80eb2db71b60\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen Asus&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fasus-2025-laptop-lineup-features-a-sleek-understated-design-ethos-and-oleds-all-around\u002F"\u003Eofficially announced\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcc.zdnet.com\u002Fv1\u002Fotc\u002F00hQi47eqnEWQ6T9d4QLBUc?element=BODY&amp;element_label=Zenbook+A14&amp;group_uuid=d3064884-4eb7-4462-888e-c2779fd66d6a&amp;module=LINK&amp;object_type=commerce-link&amp;object_uuid=4ee6e6c1-4c54-4a82-bafb-17b3d5f497bc&amp;position=1&amp;template=article&amp;track_code=__COM_CLICK_ID__&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.awin1.com%2Fawclick.php%3Fmid%3D31828%26id%3D423585%26clickref%3Dzd-__COM_CLICK_ID__-dtp%26ued%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fshop.asus.com%252Fus%252F90nb1502-m00fm0-zenbook-a14-ux3407-copilot-pc.html&amp;view_instance_uuid=2679b2a2-44cb-4e02-b60a-e48548e75d2d" target="_blank"\u003EZenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;at CES this year, I wasn't the only one to be&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptops-of-ces-2025\u002F"\u003Elow-key enamored\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;with it. It's a&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop\u002F"\u003Egreat laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;in its own right, but it stands out with its successful balancing act between performance and affordability while hitting all the right notes that consumers care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMade of Asus' proprietary ceraluminum material, the Zenbook A14 is exceedingly light, weighing just 2.1 pounds. For reference, the 13-inch&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fid-recommend-the-m3-macbook-air-at-full-price-but-this-new-deal-makes-it-a-no-brainer\u002F"\u003EMacBook Air\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is 2.7 pounds. When you set it down, the device opens easily with the lift of a single finger, revealing the brilliant organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-tested-asus-new-ultraportable-laptop-and-its-worth-the-hype-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F"\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's a sleek and lightweight laptop for the modern professional who lives in the cloud, works remotely, and values a nice display. In addition, the Zenbook A14 boots quickly, loads apps swiftly, and navigates the web without lag. It runs silent and cool, generating almost no heat -- even with the slim form factor.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHands down, the best part of this laptop is the outstanding battery life. Asus advertises up to 32 hours on a single charge. Although that's the top end of the estimation, it's not far off from what you can expect with everyday use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus Zenbook A14 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200 (Full HD+) |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16GB or 32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Snapdragon X or X Plus&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Qualcomm Adreno&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to 32 hours of video playback |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EWeight:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;2.1 lbs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus Zenbook A14\" data-superlative=\"Best lightweight laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","title":"Asus Zenbook A14","filename":"dsc03098.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2025\u002F02\u002F11\u002F01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752\u002Fdsc03098.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":5863163,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:17:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:18:31","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","imageAltText":"Asus Zenbook A14","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc03098.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2025\u002F02\u002F11","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray\u002F6616965.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Sleek and lightweight ~Great battery life ~Brilliant OLED display\" data-dislike=\"~Higher-end processor linked to lower RAM ~Not designed for intensive workloads\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2be0b709-340a-4fda-97f4-4e928a3d47be\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAsus' ProArt P16 is a laptop designed primarily for content creators who demand a machine with robust hardware to support their work. Powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU and an Nvidia GeForce 4060 GPU, this device excels at handling tough workloads like \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Evideo editing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-graphic-design\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egraphic design\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The hardware ensures seamless multitasking, while the 16-inch Active-Matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) touchscreen delivers vibrant visuals in crisp detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtists, in particular, will appreciate this display's glossy surface, which responds well to styluses. The Asus DialPad integrated into the trackpads allows users to create customized controls to streamline workflows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-found-a-creators-laptop-that-competes-with-the-macbook-pro-and-more-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther customization options include DialPad and Performance Profiles, which let you prioritize certain aspects of the laptop depending on the situation. For example, if you have a busy workflow and need a performance boost, you could have the hardware prioritize battery life for better longevity or processing power. The MyAsus app also helps on this front, as it offers tools to manage updates or monitor performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, I can't forget to mention Vivobook Pro's top-notch design. It boasts good ergonomics and a sturdy hinge that prevents unnecessary movement. Its keyboard is notably quiet, so you won't disturb the people around you when typing. The ProArt P16 is a good alternative to either the M3 or M4 MacBook Pro, although getting the most out of it requires precise optimization.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus-software-for-windows\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software for Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; 3840 x 2400 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ruzen AI 9 HX 370&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus ProArt P16\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for content creators\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","title":"Asus ProArt P16","filename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F26\u002Fa9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a\u002Fasus-proart-p16-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":2578517,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:22","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus ProArt P16","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","imageAltText":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F26","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black\u002F6584438.p?skuId=6584438","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Many customization features ~ High-end hardware ~ Responsive touchscreen\" data-dislike=\"~ Glossy screen ~ Large trackpad\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"86ad5265-f7dc-4eea-bfd0-105b67f11e7b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELenovo's sixth-generation ThinkPad T14s is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efast laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that can tackle intensive productivity tasks. It performs well thanks to the recently released AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 processor, the integrated AMD Radeon 880M graphics card, and of course, the ample 32GB of RAM. Hardware like this delivers exceptional multitasking capabilities.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBenchmark results highlight its power, scoring over 9,300 points in PCMark 10's Essential Productivity tests. Cinebench results show image rendering is remarkably fast, further demonstrating the efficiency of the Ryzen AI processor. If that wasn't enough, the neural processing unit (NPU) boosts the computer's hardware even further as the component offloads work and stress from the main processor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-thinkpad-checks-all-my-boxes-for-a-solid-work-laptop-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond its hardware, the T14s Gen 6 sports a lightweight design, typical of other models in its line, and a solid 12-hour battery life. I also appreciate how fast the battery charges, reaching 70% in about an hour. Other notable features include a 5MP webcam for clear video calls in 1440p, Thunderbolt 4 ports for quick file transfer, and Dolby Atmos, enabling immersive sound. Lastly, it supports Wi-Fi 7, so users can ensure speedy wireless speeds.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Efeatures: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;WUXGA&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;up to 1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for work\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","title":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","filename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F12\u002F09\u002F442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":457325,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","imageAltText":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F12\u002F09","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Lenovo","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lenovo.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fp\u002Flaptops\u002Fthinkpad\u002Fthinkpadt\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop\u002Flen101t0109","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~High-end hardware ~Full-package ThinkPad ~Great webcam\" data-dislike=\"~No OLED option\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a2e95d2a-7c8f-4a8c-92cf-27ddd1e367ec\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EChromebooks hit their stride last year as third-party manufacturers introduced beefier hardware and cool features to the devices. Once relegated to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-tablet\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etablets\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and devices with very limited use, the upgrades have allowed Chromebooks to become a valid third option alongside MacBooks and Windows laptops.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the better Chromebooks released in 2024 was Samsung's Galaxy Chromebook Plus, a lightweight device with a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-oled-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebrilliant OLED display\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and a handful of AI-powered features. The new Quick Insert key on the Galaxy Chromebook lets users bring up a control panel for mobile devices to help multitask, while the Help Me Read feature scans and summarizes websites, articles, and text files. Even better, these functions are built into the device at the OS level.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-lightweight-laptop-has-one-of-the-best-displays-ive-seen-and-its-very-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Galaxy Chromebook Plus looks great with its vivid 15.6-inch display. It is well-rounded enough for various use cases -- even cloud gaming -- which only a few years ago was not something you'd think about doing on a Chromebook. Praise must be levied at its design, too. My colleague, Kyle Kucharski, complemented Samsung for foregoing the implementation of a touchscreen. Doing so allowed the tech giant to develop a Chromebook that is thin and relatively easy to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best part about all of this is that the device is affordable, at $699, which is a competitive price for a portable workstation, gaming machine, or main driver.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15.6 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1080 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; Intel Core 3 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;256GB eUFS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best Chromebook laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","title":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","filename":"img-7640a.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F30\u002F5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf\u002Fimg-7640a.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1876854,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:20:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:21:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","imageAltText":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"img-7640a.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F09\u002F30","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"f356f332-08ae-4bd1-8569-5150bedd46d5","slug":"samsung-galaxy-chromebook-plus-15-6-with-google-ai-amoled-display-intel-core-3-8gb-memory-256gb-storage-neptune-blue","label":"Samsung - 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This chart breaks down how the laptop stacks up with the top features on other devices, from price to CPU\u002FGPU, screen size, and display resolution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest laptop\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStarting price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u002FGPU\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM\u002FStorage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,399\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EApple M4 SoC\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 24GB, up to 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EDell XPS 16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,699\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core Ultra 7 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 64GB, up to 4TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,999\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAMD Ryzen AI 9-365 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$255\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core i3-N305 | Intel UHD\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E8GB, 128GB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,099\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESnapdragon X Plus&nbsp;| Qualcomm Adreno\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,649\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,401\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EQualcomm Snapdragon X Elite | Integrated Qualcomm GPU\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 32GB, up to 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$699\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core 3\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E8GB, 256GB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best laptop?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"64194be1-5d0d-4f29-b876-8d173339b35d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe main question when buying a laptop is: "What do you want to do with it?" Once you've established that, you can focus your research on finding the right machine for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, if you're on the move a lot, you'll want a good combination of flexibility, sturdiness, connectivity, security, and a long battery life. However, you should opt for a laptop with powerful hardware if you're a largely deskbound graphic designer or content creator. Devices with top-tier processors and graphics cards tend to be heavier than most.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's a well-researched (and tested) list of our favorite laptops for a wide array of use cases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuy this best laptop...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you need...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA powerful, well-rounded laptop for the office and home. The MacBook Pro with the M4 chip brings performance for nearly everything from simple spreadsheets and video calls to video editing.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EDell XPS 16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA Windows-based laptop with seriously powerful hardware and lots of different options for customizing it to your needs.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA top-notch gaming laptop with a fast screen running at a 240Hz refresh rate.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA seriously inexpensive laptop that has all the basics for everyday use.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA lightweight and well-designed laptop with a gorgeous OLED display and marathon battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA laptop designed specifically for content creators with a brilliant OLED display and a ton of customization options.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn ultraportable laptop for work. It houses the latest AI-powered AMD processor and a fast charging battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn affordable, lightweight Chromebook with a gorgeous display\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right laptop for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"dd4dd706-0b03-4fe7-8eed-40a8e1da8d90\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe use a combination of methods to test laptops here at ZDNET. First, we acquire data from benchmarking software to analyze a system's metrics under the hood and compare those to advertised numbers. Then, we spend an extended amount of time with the laptop -- usually a week or two -- using it the same way a normal consumer would, to assess its portability, form factor, and how well the battery&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eactually\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;holds up. For an extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-laptops\u002F"\u003Elaptop testing methodology\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBenchmarking:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;First, we run a series of tests to put the computer's hardware through the wringer in order to see what it's capable of.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.maxon.net\u002Fen\u002Fdownloads\u002Fcinebench-2024-downloads" target="_blank"\u003ECinebench\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is one of the most commonly used hardware testing suites, which tests the laptop's rendering performance on single and multiple central processing unit (CPU) cores.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fbenchmarks.ul.com\u002Fpcmark10" target="_blank"\u003EPCMark 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another powerful program that covers a wide variety of tasks performed in the workplace, and there are many others that we use in tandem to gather as much data as we can. Some components we run tests on include:\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The "brain" of the laptop and one of the most important factors that determines performance. The four biggest manufacturers that make most of the CPUs found in laptops today are Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, and Apple -- in Apple machines only. This is tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe display:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The size of the display -- measured diagonally from corner to corner -- is also what dictates the laptop's overall size and plays a big role in the device's cost. Brightness is measured in "nits," and color spectrums are tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe graphics processor (GPU):\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether it's integrated into the CPU or a dedicated graphics card, how well the machine handles graphics is a key factor when it comes to demanding tasks like video editing, rendering, and of course, gaming. We test the GPU with a combination of benchmarking software, gaming, and media playback.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPhysical form factor:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EFinally, the laptop's overall appearance and physical form factor encompasses its weight, thickness, how the keyboard and trackpad feel, and whether it has a display that can be folded back to form a tablet. We carry the laptop around for at least a week and note how well it commutes.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery testing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We test a unit's battery in a few ways. A handful of benchmarking programs have their own battery testing components, but we also will just let the laptop run for as long as it can under a medium load. We ensure screensavers and hibernation mode are turned off, set the display's brightness and audio at 50%, load up a livestream on YouTube in Chrome, and wait 'til the end.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe human element:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;As we mentioned earlier, metrics and system data is important, but numbers alone don't give you the full picture. This is where we weave in our personal experience with the device and tap into the practical use cases that consumers actually care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, our goal is to break down the capabilities of each and every laptop we test into digestible terms that real people find useful. There is a lot of noise and confusion when it comes to navigating the laptop and computer consumer market, so we hope to bring an intuitive element to the whole process by leveraging our team's decades of experience.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test laptops\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","title":"Asus Vivobook","filename":"dsc01864.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F06\u002F48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0\u002Fdsc01864.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4860831,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","imageAltText":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc01864.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F06","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89037ae6-ef79-4aae-a4ef-e0d6ae59633a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMultiple factors influence the choice of laptops for this list. We look for machines with great designs, performance, and effective storage and RAM. We also considered the different purposes for which you may need or use your laptop and the overall value -- including the price point -- that the laptop promises.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDesign:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether your laptop is your ultimate workstation or source of entertainment, its design, display, and portability determine how you interact with the unit.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;For many, laptops are essential for workflow and communication. The best laptops promise efficient speed and performance, powered by the greatest and latest chipsets -- like the Apple M3 Max.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage and RAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;It's likely you'll use a laptop to store key documents or memories, and the best models have plenty of room for you to do so.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPurpose:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We strive to answer the question, "What laptop should I get if ___" as we know you have different workflow and entertainment needs and preferences, from graphic design to gaming.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EValue:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThe best laptop can be a pricey investment, so we considered qualities that assure you'll get your money's worth.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are some factors to consider when choosing the best laptops?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFAQs on laptops\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0192c3e8-a367-4061-897d-caa9d70dc2ea\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile the desktop form factor, especially in the form of all-in-one (AIO) devices, still exists, laptops come in various sizes and cover many use cases. They range from thin, light, and ultraportable to bulky, powerful, and deskbound. Because of how good laptops are nowadays, most people opt for sticking with a laptop to serve as their main computer. If a small laptop screen is an issue, an external monitor can be connected.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why should you buy a laptop, and not a desktop or a tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"50bb31e2-435e-4126-b36c-492c636e5ece\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile every computing platform has its loyal supporters, most people end up using a particular operating system because of key applications running on it, employer preferences, or budgetary constraints. Windows, which ranges from budget to premium, and Apple's MacOS, which is exclusive to premium devices, cover a broad spectrum. ChromeOS is mostly limited to mid-range devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-anonymous-browsing-these-extensions-are-the-next-best-thing-to-tor\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFor anonymous browsing, these extensions are the next best thing to Tor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll Windows devices listed here meet the requirements for Windows 11. If you purchase a device with Windows 10 installed, you will be able to upgrade to Windows 11 if you choose to do so. Note that after October 14, 2025, Windows 10 support will end, and there will be no further security patches or feature updates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which operating system should you choose: Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, or Linux?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3aeb95bd-eeec-4c6e-b821-c4e92cddc133\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn general, the leading PC vendors have the most extensive range of offerings and the best-documented track records for product development and customer relations. Therefore, if you do not have a specialized use case or budgetary constraints, you will typically consider vendors such as Lenovo, HP, Dell, Apple, or Asus. These vendors currently lead the PC market in terms of shipments, along with several other well-known brands.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What brand of laptop is best?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"474586ca-463c-4daf-a6a4-836135e5d46d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that you don't need to have the biggest, best, newest components to get a decent&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egaming laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. To play most triple-A and indie titles, we recommend a rig with at least 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, a 120Hz refresh rate for the display, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Elso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best budget gaming laptops you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd if you want to try your hand at content creation, something like the Corsair Voyager a1600 is a sure bet. You might also want to consider equipping with accessories. An Elgato Steam Deck integration, for example, can offer streamlined workflows when editing videos, livestreaming, and even setting up video calls with channel moderators or collaborators.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for gaming?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c94ed06c-6b3a-490e-900d-77fabe44e8c5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt really depends on the student, but there are some common factors to consider when shopping for a laptop for school. You'll want something small and lightweight for easier commutes to and from school and between classes.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-college\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for college: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll also want something with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical school day without needing to plug in. This is excellent for younger kids who may be forgetful and leave their charging cable at home. Also, look for a laptop with at least 4GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and cloud-storage backup to create duplicate copies of important files and classwork. You'll also want to avoid laptops with dedicated graphics cards aimed toward gaming to help cut down misuse and procrastination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for students?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6358f23d-22d0-4167-91bf-77d2a99ca607\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhether you're looking for a single laptop for yourself or a fleet for your business, the best laptops for work offer great performance, multiple connectivity options, and durable builds.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll want to look for a model with at least 8GB of RAM, a 256GB storage drive, a quad-core CPU, and a display large enough to work on without being too bulky to travel with. You'll also want a model with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical day of work without needing to recharge constantly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for business?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"603e81b6-a53f-4f47-95a6-f6a7e840fd3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe strongly recommend getting an \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EM4 MacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and purchasing&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffinal-cut-pro-on-the-ipad-a-surprisingly-touching-experience\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFinal Cut Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, an editing software exclusive to the Mac ecosystem. Buying the\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmacbook-pro-m3-max-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E 2023 MacBook Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another good option. It sports an M2 Max chip and offers great performance for content creators. The machine can handle 4TB of footage with ease.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for video editing: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, Apple MacBook Pros are a popular choice as are any laptops with powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and high-resolution displays such as the Dell XPS 13 and 15.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for video editing?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOther laptops we've tested\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d857acd4-fa0e-4867-9d7b-e81384e85292\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe MacBook Air is a great alternative to the higher-end model as it's comparable performance and is more lightweight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Air M2 (2023)\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","title":"Apple MacBook Air M2","filename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F27\u002F91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab\u002Fapple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":168636,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:45","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","alt":"Apple MacBook Air M2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","imageAltText":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F07\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best alternative for content creators\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-air\u002F13-inch-m2","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"35529c48-6ed2-4108-8808-51814690a50e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDell's 2024 Inspiron 14 2-in-1 is a great convertible laptop for the busy professional on the go. It's geared to easily handle office-related tasks like multitasking with documents or hosting video calls, and it only weighs 3.77 pounds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","title":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","filename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F19\u002F7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3\u002Fdell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":356982,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","alt":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","imageAltText":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F19","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best 2-in-1 laptop\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Dell","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fshop\u002Flaptops\u002Famd\u002Fspd\u002Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop\u002Fusei2hbts7445gxcn","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5980fee4-a445-4969-9a3a-7e4b6073d6bf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELaunched earlier this year as part of the new Chromebook Plus series, it's hard to believe this high-performing laptop is a Chromebook at all. The bright, 120Hz refresh rate display, LED keyboard, and Intel Core Ultra 5 processor makes for a solid cloud gaming laptop and fast, lightweight laptop.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","title":"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE2 - 2","filename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F26\u002F334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":3337962,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:49:54","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:50:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","imageAltText":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best Alternative Chromebook\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black\u002F6576961.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EZDNET writer Taylor Clemons also contributed to this list.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2025-03-13 16:34:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"We've gone hands-on with the best laptops available from Apple, Asus, Acer, and more so you can find the best fit.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"c047e1cd-17ec-4b81-89b6-61e04233d0a4",image:{id:"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6",filename:"dell-xps-14-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-08-05 16:01:10",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Person smiling at a laptop",credits:"Maskot\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ESpace Black MacBook Pro (M3 Max) running MacOS Sonoma wallpaper\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F05\u002F14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6\u002Fdell-xps-14-1.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:"4240x2384+0+0",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best laptops you can buy: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-laptop",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best laptops of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Cheng Xin\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725\" data-image-filename=\"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2025\u002F01\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"1024\" data-image-height=\"683\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EUpdate: Microsoft has now rolled out its Copilot features worldwide. For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fits-official-all-your-office-apps-are-getting-ai-and-a-price-increase\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\"It's official: All your Office apps are getting AI and a price increase.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has begun expanding the reach of its Copilot feature set, bringing its AI capabilities to Office apps for anyone currently subscribed to Microsoft 365 Personal or Family.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor customers in the US and Europe, those features are only available with an extremely pricey \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-subscription-fee-worth-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot Pro subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. For Personal and Family subscribers, the upgrade costs an extra $20 monthly, which is more than double the cost of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fget-a-microsoft-365-license-for-40-with-this-deal\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebasic Microsoft 365 subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut that's all about to change.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-subscription-fee-worth-it\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft Copilot vs. Copilot Pro: Is the subscription fee worth it?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the Southern Hemisphere, the company is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnews.microsoft.com\u002Fapac\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F31\u002Funlock-your-potential-with-copilot-and-designer-in-microsoft-365-personal-and-family\u002F\"\u003Emaking Copilot part of all Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. According to an announcement I found last November, the change is effective for Microsoft 365 subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand; they also get access to the Microsoft Designer app for generating images.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the past two months, current subscribers in those regions have been reporting that they got access to Copilot in their apps after they \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Foffice\u002Fhow-to-find-and-enable-missing-copilot-button-in-microsoft-365-apps-c8482b93-4b96-4bb8-8ec9-5148f4d42441\"\u003Eupdated to the latest version\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But with the start of the new year, Microsoft has started informing those customers that their subscription prices are about to rise substantially.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne unhappy customer signed on to a Microsoft Community board to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fanswers.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmsoffice\u002Fforum\u002Fall\u002Fwhy-has-subscriptions-increased-so-much\u002F5f8b62ba-4a2a-46da-b595-dba840049b9f\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecomplain about the sudden and unexpected price hike\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: \"I just got an email saying my family subscription is going from $129 a year to $179 a year. That's a big increase!\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes, it is. And what do those subscribers get for those hefty extra fees? Sorry, but this isn't an all-you-can-AI deal. As the announcement explains, \"Subscribers will receive a monthly allotment of AI credits to use Copilot in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Designer. The credits will also apply to apps like Paint, Photos, and Notepad on Windows.\" The option of a Copilot Pro subscription is available for subscribers who use more than the basic basket of credits.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the new features are free to current subscribers, the upgrade comes with two big gotchas. For Microsoft 365 Family subscribers, the added features are available only to the primary user and can't be shared with other members. And if the primary user doesn't want those features, they're nearly impossible to disable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn paper, this is a good deal for current subscribers. Or at least that's what Microsoft is hoping those subscribers will think after they've had a chance to give the Copilot features a test drive. The current $20-a-month Copilot Pro subscription is prohibitively expensive. The new package offers a reasonable chunk of AI credits for just over $4 a month. Such a bargain, right?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut my quick survey of online forums suggests that very few customers are buying that math. And for those who neither want nor need those AI features, finding the alternative is a challenge. A Microsoft 365 Classic option is available, without the Copilot features, at prices that are similar to those in place before the AI-driven increase. But the only way to unlock that option is to try to cancel your current subscription. At that point, as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Foffice-watch.com\u002F2024\u002Fall-about-the-new-microsoft-365-classic\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOffice-Watch discovered\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Microsoft coughs up the lower-priced alternative.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMeanwhile, in the rest of the world -- including the US and Western Europe -- the free Copilot features aren't available -- yet. But I expect it's only a matter of time before this change expands to additional markets.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not unusual for Microsoft to try out new subscription offers on a regional basis before taking them to a worldwide market. That's exactly what this announcement looks like.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F\"\u003EThe best AI chatbots: ChatGPT, Copilot, and worthy alternatives\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnyone who's paid attention to Satya Nadella's Microsoft in recent years knows that the company is all in on AI, so it would be odd if there were no plans to roll out a similar feature set to the Microsoft 365 subscription base worldwide. Starting in the APAC region gives the company time to gauge customer reaction and also continue scaling up the capacity of servers that power Copilot features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBased on the pricing in those test regions, pricing for customers in the US would probably increase by $50 -- from $69 to $119 for Personal plans and from $99 to $149 for Family subscriptions. Those data centers aren't going to pay for themselves.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe expanded offering is still brand new, but Reddit users from the region have already weighed in with complaints. One \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FOffice365\u002Fcomments\u002F1gj6c2q\u002Fcomment\u002Flvg9b5c\u002F?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button\"\u003Easked\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, rhetorically, \"I'm just meant to put up with unwanted bundleware that I never agreed to soaking up CPU cycles on my hardware  … because Microsoft needs to look like [its] AI spend is getting ROI to investors?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-introduces-ten-ai-agents-for-sales-finance-supply-chain-in-dynamics-365\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft introduces 10 AI agents for sales, finance, supply chain in Dynamics 365\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother Reddit user, who's apparently a graduate student in Taiwan, called the new Copilot features a \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FOffice365\u002Fcomments\u002F1ghlhrf\u002Fthe_nightmare_of_copilot\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enightmare\u003C\u002Fa\u003E,\" adding that it can't be turned off. \"Doesn't Microsoft understand that Graduate\u002FPhd students receive an automatic fail or are charged with academic misconduct for any hint of AI assistance in their writing?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn my testing of the Copilot Pro features in a Microsoft 365 in the Northern Hemisphere, I discovered that the option to turn off those prompts, which had been available in earlier releases, is no longer available. You can hide the AI panes above and to the right of the document, but the Copilot icon in the document itself is ever-present and can't be squelched.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast November, I asked Microsoft if the company has plans to introduce similar features in the US and other worldwide remarks. A spokesperson replied, \"The company has rolled out changes in six markets to listen, learn, and improve. We don't have anything more to share today.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI hope they're listening.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2025-01-15 20:25:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Microsoft 365 subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, and some Asian markets just got an AI upgrade, along with a huge price increase. How long until customers in the US and Europe see the same?",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"5a717e42-80ad-49b1-83a0-75e9f06e37e5",image:{id:"19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2",filename:"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2025-01-15 20:04:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725",credits:"Cheng Xin\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2025\u002F01\u002F15\u002F19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2\u002Fcopilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1024,height:683,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"microsofts-copilot-ai-is-coming-to-your-office-apps-and-it-wont-come-cheap",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Microsoft's Copilot AI is coming to your Office apps - and it won't come cheap",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"923a7f65-24bc-4f58-89f4-3fbdc9502670",slug:"international",name:"International",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"79d67b90-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"charlieosborne",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Charlie",lastName:"Osborne",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0",filename:"charlie-osborne.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:00:38",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0\u002Fcharlie-osborne.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Charlie Osborne is a cybersecurity journalist and photographer who writes for ZDNET and CNET from London. PGP Key: AF40821B",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EYou may worry about your online security but dread adding another subscription to your monthly budget with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-why-do-you-need-one-all-your-virtual-private-network-questions-answered\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Evirtual private network (VPN)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESure, there are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efree VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but they often come with speed and bandwidth limitations. In other cases, free VPN services might be unrestricted, but asking how these VPN vendors make enough money to run their server networks -- such as through user data mining -- leads you to murky, vague answers and a question mark over how secure and private these services are. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want the best protection, consider choosing an option from our tested list of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Or, if you want to keep things as affordable as possible, there are cheap VPN providers that can do the job for as little as a few bucks per month and without requiring you to agree to shady data-sharing policies. These vendors already provide affordable services but occasionally offer genuine deals to compete in the saturated VPN market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-new-vpn-and-why-free-isnt-always-best\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E3 things to consider when buying a new VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best cheap VPN right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the best cheap VPN overall is \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ca6d7643-4dc0-4382-8645-aaae318697d7\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surfshark\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, a stable and low-cost VPN with plans for only $1.99\u002Fmonth. Surfshark is one of our favorite VPNs thanks to its affordable price point, reasonable speeds, and ease of use. It's even better when the occasional promotional deal rolls around, typically during the holidays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt ZDNET, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewe've spent years testing nearly every VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on the market, evaluating them for speed, security, and performance. We conduct frequent tests for DNS leaks and speed and monitor any recent security or performance concerns that emerge. Read on for the rest of our picks for the best cheap VPNs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best cheap VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cd2078cd-18da-4186-92c1-90dc82959613\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn our&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurfshark review\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;and tests, we found this VPN performs well as a top-quality VPN that doesn't break the bank.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark offers unlimited connections, a strong server network, WireGuard compatibility, and solid performance. Our testing confirmed that Surfshark VPN connections are stable, although speed loss is often only in the mid-range of what other providers offer. Despite this, Surfshark has earned a strong user base over the years and is known as a trustworthy VPN with consistently low pricing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpns-for-school\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPNs for school in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cheapest option, a two-year subscription called Surfshark Starter, costs $1.99 per month. Four months of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efree VPN access\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are included. This deal is worth considering, as typically, even at a "deal" rate, you will pay at least $2 per month. Alternatively, you can sign up for a yearly subscription at $2.99\u002Fmonth or pay $15.45 for one month of access.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers say they appreciate Surfshark's consistently cheap pricing and quick, efficient customer service.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurfshark features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;| Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | \u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 100 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | \u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surfshark VPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surfshark VPN Web","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","title":"surfshark-windows-1","filename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F20\u002F792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800\u002Fsurfshark-windows-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1093404,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"surfshark-windows-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","imageAltText":"Surfshark VPN Web","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786","offerMerchant":"Surfshark","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Unlimited connections ~ Reliable network ~ Efficient customer service ~Attractive user interface\" data-dislike=\"~ Can be slower than some competitors\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"820ef425-d1ce-4d09-8081-8a45c8b756cb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is another top choice if you are looking for a cheap or free VPN plan. This Swiss VPN offers a comprehensive free option with support for up to 10 devices -- but you are limited to 10GB of monthly traffic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe user interface is clean and easy to use, and there is a handy button for enabling the kill switch, which protects your traffic if your internet connection drops without warning. However, PrivadoVPN lacks some of the advanced features offered by VPN competitors. There also appears to be little evidence of third-party auditing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrices begin at $1.11 per month for two years of access (with three months free) and $1.33 per month for an annual plan (including three months free), rising to $10.99 if you want to try out the software for a single month. Customers say they like it as a set-and-forget VPN, although some have reported technical issues.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile this option is cheaper than Surfshark, as the server network is far more limited, PrivadoVPN didn't manage to secure the top spot.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivadoVPN features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited, ten on a free plan | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 48 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Android TV, Fire TV&nbsp;| 30-day money-back guarantee |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Free plan (credit card not required)&nbsp; &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PrivadoVPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN runner-up\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"privado vpn","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","title":"privado vpn","filename":"privado.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F20\u002F79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e\u002Fprivado.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":124919,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Privado | ZDNET","alt":"privado vpn","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","imageAltText":"privado vpn","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"privado.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F09\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F","offerMerchant":"PrivadoVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fprivadovpn.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Affordable ~Easy to understand user interface ~Ad blocking\" data-dislike=\"~Little evidence of third-party audits ~ Low country and server numbers\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6e03e37b-7d2b-41de-b670-19149de99937\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is the VPN for you if you want a set-and-forget VPN that will last for years -- and at a very cheap price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is now known as Ivacy Powered by PureVPN after PureVPN purchased controlling stakes in the service. The VPN has servers in 65 countries, a zero-logs policy, split tunneling, and utilizes the WireGuard protocol. It does, however, limit you to 10 simultaneous device connections.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mobile-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best mobile VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is compatible with many devices and operating systems, including Windows, \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mac-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EmacOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Android, iOS, Linux, and Kodi, as well as Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Some user reviews indicate that this VPN is a great option for torrenting, but during testing, we found that speeds were slow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA two-year subscription costs $2.15 per month (three months free), or $15.95 for one month of access. However, the best deal is for a five-year contract, coming in at only $1.69\u002Fmonth. Customers applaud the firm's support team, although some users would like to see improvements to Ivacy's apps.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIvacy VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E10 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, routers, browser extensions |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;65+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: $0.99 for 7 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Ivacy\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for the long term\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","title":"Ivacy VPN","filename":"ivacy.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef\u002Fivacy.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":136497,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"Ivacy VPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ivacy.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Ivacy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ivacy.com\u002Fbuy-vpn\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Available on all major platforms ~ Reasonable server network for the price ~ Very cheap long-term plans\" data-dislike=\"~ Only 10 simultaneous device connections ~ Users report app issues\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c74e6fe8-f09e-4c87-98ad-0c8085acb4e2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable, open-source VPN that is perfect for beginners because it's user-friendly. While the company's six-month plans are expensive, two-year subscriptions are very affordable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fprivate-internet-access-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivate Internet Ac\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ecess: A cheap, powerful, open-source VPN\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe VPN is open-source, so third parties can examine its code, which gives credibility to the company as a secure offering. If you want a VPN provider that takes this approach, PIA might be the best option for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZDNET has consistently found PIA to be a solid VPN; customers say the same. PIA's VPN offers server connections in 91 countries, multi-hopping, split tunneling, ad and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Emalware blocking\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and encryption capabilities. PIA takes security seriously with its \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-no-log-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eno-logs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E policy.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-malware-removal-software\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest software removal software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the best price for this VPN is $2.19 per month, with two months of free access added to a two-year contract. Alternatively, a six-month subscription is equivalent to $7.50 per month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EP\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Erivate Internet Access features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes | \u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, NAS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;91 | \u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E30 days | \u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days, Android and iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Private Internet Access\" data-superlative=\"Best open source cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Private Internet Access VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","title":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","filename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002Fa5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e\u002Fprivate-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1592638,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:03","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","imageAltText":"Private Internet Access VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","slug":"private-internet-access","label":"Private Internet Access","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","name":"Private Internet Access","slug":"private-internet-access","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446046870,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:14:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"PIA","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.privateinternetaccess.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Open source transparency ~ Dedicated IP availability ~ Affordable\" data-dislike=\"~ US-based ~ Limited plan options\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"497723b5-9c4b-4552-b57e-092c2ca52ca7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is an affordable VPN that offers high levels of encryption, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, customizable security options, and a vast network of over 100+ countries. Unfortunately, simultaneous connections are limited to seven devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers find this VPN very easy to use, fast, and stable. We've found this VPN provides reasonable speeds and is a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-streaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egood option for streaming\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-torrenting-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etorrenting\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the company is offering a deal on two-year subscriptions: $2.19 per month with two months free. There's also an interesting option you don't often find with VPN providers -- a six-month plan for $6.99 per month. A one-month contract is $12.99.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for long contracts, which is more than most VPN providers. So, you can sign up for a plan, enjoy it, and you have weeks to decide if you want to commit to the contract.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECyberGhost VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E7 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, NAS routers |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;100+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Payment information only |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 45 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 24 days on macOS and Windows; three days on Android, seven days on iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"CyberGhost\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for money-back guarantee\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cyberghost screenshot","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","title":"Cyberghost VPN Web","filename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1502592,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cyberghost VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","imageAltText":"cyberghost screenshot","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","label":"CyberGhost VPN","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","name":"CyberGhost VPN","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446194960,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:16:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"CyberGhost","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com\u002Fen_US\u002Fbuy","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Expansive server network ~ Fast ~ The best MBG available ~ Good option for streaming\" data-dislike=\"~ Limited simultaneous connections ~ Expensive monthly contract\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b44d34bc-fead-456e-a9e3-17a7df81b564\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest cheap VPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest price\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFree months?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo-log policy?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.99\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFour months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.11\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThree months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited, 10 on a free plan\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.69\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENone\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E7\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Cheap VPNs, compared\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"16208092-bb84-45d9-9f41-c46bc8ec9d93\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN depends on various factors besides price. If you choose a low-cost service but can't unblock the streaming services you want to use, then what did you really save? Start by asking yourself why you need a VPN. Then, test out a reputable provider with high-security standards.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to learn more about how VPNs work and how to choose the best one for you, check out our guide: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-how-does-it-work\u002F"\u003EWhat is a VPN, and why do we need one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChoose this cheap VPN...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN overall. Surfshark provides reasonable speeds and plenty of features wrapped up in an affordable package. Surfshark's VPN has long stood out as a top VPN provider that offers reliable, stable connections and security and is consistently priced to be budget-friendly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is one of the cheapest options and also provides a free plan. You could try out this VPN's free solution, as long as you don't mind the 10GB monthly traffic limit. It's a good option for beginners who want to explore how VPNs work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn affordable, long-term option. Although it's a relatively new VPN service provider, Ivacy provides reasonable speeds and is often able to unblock major streaming services.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access is a cheap, powerful VPN powered by open-source technologies, and well worth it if you want an affordable subscription service with a high security standard.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is another top choice for a fast connection in an extensive server network at a reasonable price. This VPN has a long money-back guarantee and is our top pick&nbsp;if you want longer to decide.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the best cheap VPN for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9ee34014-6e49-4ae9-a563-0ace75fbcb97\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you are deciding what VPN to sign up for, there are several factors you should consider:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlan length\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Before signing up for a new VPN service, consider which subscription length is right for you. Month-by-month plans are considerably more expensive than longer plans, of which you can choose six-month to five-year plans. We find that the longest terms are almost always the cheapest.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: The cost of your VPN subscription should naturally factor into your decision. Choose one that is affordable for you, especially if you are signing up for a year or more.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Some VPN providers, such as those based in the US, may add taxes to the cost of a contract.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUpfront cost\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Most VPNs market their wares at an equivalent monthly price, but they may require a higher upfront cost. You'll still secure a great monthly cost, but you might have to pay for the full plan in one go.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFeatures\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many cheap VPNs don't offer advanced features on their basic or longest plans. You may need to pay more for a specific feature, such as a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Epassword manager\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUse cases\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: If you want a VPN for a specific purpose beyond day-to-day browsing -- such as \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-travel-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etraveling\u003C\u002Fa\u003E -- check whether the VPN is suitable. You may need to opt for a particular VPN if you want to use it in different countries, for example, or you may want to choose a VPN known for great streaming support.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERenewal terms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Automatic renewal and billing might sting you in the future, especially if the VPN's pricing has changed. You might want to turn off auto-renewal and shop around for a new deal instead.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-managers-for-business\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers for business\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Factors to consider when choosing a cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"61247c01-7215-4cf8-b002-15a9a8d5ad88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe tested and analyzed the best cheap VPNs using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We tested most of the VPNs on this list to ensure robust performance in terms of connection and speed. After all, there's no point in using a VPN if your connection continually drops or lags.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smart-tv-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esmart TV you want to connect to a VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESecurity\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cared about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeo-blocks and streaming\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well considering these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps suitable for various hardware. &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries and servers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial length and price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupport\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EVPN testing methodology page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test VPNs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","title":"nordvpn-windows-2","filename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F07\u002F2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659\u002Fnordvpn-windows-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":260894,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:21:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:22:01","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"nordvpn-windows-2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F07","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6008aa9d-c74d-4261-8fcb-de56fe016f48\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFree months, added as an incentive for users to sign up for a VPN service, are typically added to the length of your contract. For example, if you sign up for a two-year contract with three months free, you pay for 24 months of access and then enjoy an additional three months free.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn-trial\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPN trials of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How do free months on a VPN contract work?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9a079617-8387-477b-b8c6-82024836dfe5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you want your data to be secure, then yes. VPNs offer protection no matter what kind of device you use to transmit and receive data. Before you commit to a VPN service, it's a good idea to test it out and see how well it works with all your devices. The \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-android-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for Android\u003C\u002Fa\u003E may not be the same as the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for iOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and vice versa.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Should I use a VPN on my phone or tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e5ab44a0-02f1-48a8-9676-7252946f88d9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA VPN may help you get cheaper flights by connecting you with foreign servers and hiding your IP address. That said, airline prices shift based on various factors, and the impact of changing your location could be negligible or, at the very least, hard to confirm.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's worth trying to use a VPN to save money on flights. We've managed to score slightly cheaper long-haul flights by appearing to come from the destination country, for example, but the discounts haven't been huge.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can using a VPN get you cheaper flights?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"382c19fb-c84f-40d4-b1d6-e5700c540f0e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELet's be clear: Yes. A VPN will slow your connection because your data is encrypted, decrypted, and sent through intermediate servers. Your online gaming experience might suffer. If you're a first-person shooter player, you might have enough lag to miss shots. That said, both computers and VPNs have gotten much faster. Years ago, VPNs caused everything to slow down far more than today's services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENowadays, the negative impact is almost unnoticeable, especially with the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efastest VPN services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Most (but not all) VPN providers also limit the number of devices you can connect to simultaneously, so you may have to pick and choose which home devices to connect to.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a better gaming experience, check out our extensive research on the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest gaming VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does a VPN slow down my connection?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"02282252-d97a-4ba2-a169-641987626a31\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn this article, we've focused on paid services, although some offer a free tier. We don't usually recommend free VPN services because we don't consider them secure, with a few exceptions, such as ProtonVPN and Windscribe.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERunning a good VPN service requires hundreds of servers worldwide and many networking resources -- it's expensive. If you're not paying to support that infrastructure, who is? Probably advertisers or data miners. What's the point of a VPN if it doesn't keep your data secure?&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat said, no tool can guarantee your privacy. First, anything can be hacked. Second, a VPN protects your data when it transits from your computer to the VPN service, but it doesn't protect what you put on servers or whatever cloud-based application you're using. It doesn't typically offer password security or multi-factor authentication unless you pay for these add-ons. Privacy and security require you to be diligent about your digital presence, and VPNs, while helpful, are not a miracle cure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the best free VPN service?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89d1fd4e-f14e-48c4-ba2e-d8daecbe6ab9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile we have found the best affordable VPNs on the market, some VPNs can be expensive. They may still only cost the equivalent of your monthly subscription to Netflix, but VPNs that cost upwards of $10 per month for long-term contracts are unusual.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsually, these VPNs provide something others do not, and if they are known to provide a fast, secure, and trustworthy service, they can bump up the price. An example is Astrill VPN, which starts at $12.50\u002Fmonth. Why? It is one of the best options for Chinese nationals to circumvent the country's censorship and web restrictions.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why are some VPNs so expensive?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"99789d42-5d87-4971-b911-8e508997b288\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou can, but paying for one month will be expensive. To deter customers from doing so, many VPN providers charge over $10 for four weeks of access. A better option could be to sign up for a one- or two-year contract, take advantage of a money-back guarantee -- which is usually 30 days -- and cancel before the month is up.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can I pay for a VPN for one month?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f867a329-6e4f-4bae-81f2-df513a964562\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf what we highlighted here doesn't suit your needs, you can try out other services that may meet your requirements. Below, you can check out other VPNs that are worth your consideration.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative VPNs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"293c5d7c-2d02-462f-a794-3b6effe82ec5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile not cheap at $4.99\u002Fmonth, this current promotional price is the lowest we've seen ExpressVPN. Consider this deal if you want a premium, fast VPN for less.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"ExpressVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","title":"expressvpn-windows-3","filename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F22\u002F4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c\u002Fexpressvpn-windows-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":190112,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","imageAltText":"expressvpn-windows-3","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F22","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best premium VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"ExpressVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.expressvpn.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"741c72e9-0d3b-4903-bf30-579089f7983c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPureVPN is affordable at only $1.16 per month for five years and has a user interface suitable for beginners.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PureVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"surfshark","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","title":"PureVPN","filename":"purevpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F04\u002Ff98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461\u002Fpurevpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":85970,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:18","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"PureVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","imageAltText":"surfshark","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"purevpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F05\u002F04","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best long-term VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder","offerMerchant":"PureVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.purevpn.com\u002Forder","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ba22d8d0-5f58-4178-b10e-d3b56ef99c7e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWindscribe is another free VPN alternative. Custom plans starting from as little as $1\u002Fmonth are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windscribe\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"windscribe","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","title":"windscribe","filename":"windscribe.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F05\u002F4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151\u002Fwindscribe.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":150115,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"windscribe","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","imageAltText":"windscribe","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"windscribe.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F05","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free but VPN alternative with custom plan options\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Windscribe","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwindscribe.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a224b693-f277-45d8-a5b3-d8821eb3afeb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EProton VPN is a free VPN option with high-security levels, albeit some restrictions. Paid plans are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Proton VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ProtonVPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","title":"ProtonVPN","filename":"protonvpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b\u002Fprotonvpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":134307,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:17:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:18:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"ProtonVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","imageAltText":"ProtonVPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"protonvpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Proton VPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-12-10 15:56:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"VPN deals aren't always what they seem. We tested the best cheap VPNs that are consistently affordable while still providing speed and safety.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"9bdd9ab9-ab3d-4ea0-afca-86a646283223",image:{id:"3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64",filename:"surfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-11-07 20:11:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"VPN graphic hovering over laptop",credits:"NicoElNino\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security^VPN",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best cheap VPNs: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-cheap-vpn",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best cheap VPNs of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Galeanu Mihai\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"stack of coins with graph charts\" data-image-filename=\"economy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F30\" data-image-width=\"3546\" data-image-height=\"1712\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe digital economy has maintained a 17.7% share of GDP in Singapore, where small and midsize businesses (SMBs) as well as artificial intelligence (AI) are predicted to play key roles in fueling growth.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe nation's digital economy contributed SG$113 billion ($85.31 billion) to last year's GDP, accounting for SG$1 of every SG$6, according to the latest stats released by industry regulator Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClocking a compound annual growth rate of 11.2% between 2018 and 2023, Singapore's digital economy almost doubled the nominal GDP growth rate of 5.8% for its total economy, IMDA said. Its digital economy comprises the information and communications sector, which contributed about one-third of the pie, while non-information and communications sectors accounted for the remaining two-thirds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdata-will-play-key-role-in-sustaining-sea-digital-economy-growth\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EData will play key role in sustaining SEA digital economy growth\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome 94.6% of SMBs have adopted digital technologies in more than one of six key areas, such as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsmbs-face-growing-cybersecurity-threats-but-basic-measures-can-lower-risks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecybersecurity\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, cloud, and data analytics. Those that did so under the government's Productivity Solutions Grant said they saw cost savings of 50% on average between 2018 and 2023, IMDA noted. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency added that SMBs in the country have access to 400 digital solutions pre-approved for deployment via its CTO-as-a-service platform, which have been tapped by 145,000 users to date. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMBs also can adopt AI-enabled applications on the platform, where 20% of pre-approved solutions are AI-enabled. IMDA said it plans to increase this figure and encourage an additional 15,000 SMBs to adopt AI solutions over the next two years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose looking to do so also can trial generative AI (Gen AI) in a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-for-generative-ai-use-cases-with-sandbox-options\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esandbox environment\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that caters specifically to SMBs. First introduced in February 2024, the second iteration of the sandbox is slated for launch in December with a curated list of 15 Gen AI solutions across various market segments. These include Gen AI for talent acquisition, generative web design, and virtual assistants for customer engagement agents. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA said more than 300 SMBs are expected to leverage the sandbox, with eligible applicants receiving up to 50% funding support to trial one of the Gen AI applications for three months. More than 150 had participated in the first run of the sandbox feature, which ended in May, and 80% of these businesses are running the Gen AI applications after the end of the three months. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-smbs-are-hot-threat-targets-but-theyre-shrugging-off-security-help\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThese SMBs are hot threat targets but they're shrugging off security help\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAI adoption rate among SMBs clocked at 4.2% last year, up from 3.5% in 2018. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA added that larger enterprises in Singapore also have turned to AI, with 44% rolling out such applications last year, up from 16.7% in 2018. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe technology sector is growing at more than twice the rate of the rest of the economy, at slightly more than 11%, which underscores the need for all companies, especially SMBs, to embrace the opportunities of digital as an enabler and for growth, said IMDA chief executive Lew Chuen Hong.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftime-for-businesses-to-move-past-generative-ai-hype-and-find-real-value\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETime for businesses to move past generative AI hype and find real value\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"There will always be global economic uncertainties driven by many macro trends that sometimes are out of our control, but technology as a structural driver will remain the case for the long run,\" Lew said. \"We will continue to see significant growth as far as digital and the digital economy is concerned.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"AI has significant potential in the long run and in any tech cycle. We will see some exuberance at the beginning, but at the same time, AI has demonstrated its impact in terms of transforming basics in all sectors,\" he said. \"The key here is how do we, as a very small country, invest in the right areas to allow the companies to maximize the advantages of this technology.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-10-30 19:10:43",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"With the digital economy contributing 17.7% of Singapore's GDP, smaller businesses and artificial intelligence are predicted to play key roles in fueling growth.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"e97daa79-6d90-4821-b3a6-c8840e54b6fb",image:{id:"634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31",filename:"economy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-10-30 02:41:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"stack of coins with graph charts",credits:"Galeanu Mihai\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F30\u002F634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31\u002Feconomy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:3546,height:1712,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"how-singapores-smbs-and-ai-sustain-a-robust-digital-economy",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"How Singapore's SMBs and AI sustain a robust digital economy",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"4bbd52b3-12fc-4183-9f2a-1274944fbf8d",slug:"digital-transformation",name:"Digital Transformation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Andrew Brookes\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"keyboard at night\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-685007445.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis software is licensed, not sold.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat sentence, which has scrolled past PC users' eyeballs for decades as they click through Windows license agreements without reading them, is what made Bill Gates rich. It is also the gateway to an insanely confusing thicket of legal verbiage, and Microsoft has made the topic even more bewildering through the years by adding layers of anti-piracy protection that are only indirectly related to the license itself. (And let's not even start on weaselly words like \u003Cem\u003Egenuine.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIs Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've been studying Microsoft licensing agreements for more than two decades. During that time, I've written dozens of articles on the subject and have prepared testimony as an expert witness in criminal and civil cases where Microsoft licensing was at the crux of some serious disagreements. One thing I've learned along the way is that even people who work for Microsoft sometimes get confused about when a license is legitimate and when it's not.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf they have trouble sorting out license agreements, what chance do the rest of us have?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyes-you-can-upgrade-that-old-pc-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-these-readers-proved-it\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYes, you can upgrade that old PC to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no. These readers proved it\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost of the time, a Windows license is strictly a formality, something you can safely ignore. But occasionally, it matters, especially if you're building your own PC or upgrading to a different edition. If you're making IT purchases for a business that involves more than a few dozen PCs, a Windows license absolutely matters.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo make this difficult topic a little easier, I've put together a list of questions and answers focused specifically on Windows PCs. Is your license valid? How can you tell? Should you care? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's start with the most confusing one of all. What exactly is a Windows license, anyway?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1f968b49-d230-4149-b028-565e3ba9854c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMaybe it's easier to explain what a Windows license&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eisn't\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. The 25-character product key you enter to install or activate Windows is not a license. A Windows sticker on the side of a PC is not a license. A Windows certificate of authenticity, complete with hologram, is not a license. And the activation status message on \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eyour Windows PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is absolutely not a license.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-tpm-and-why-does-windows-11-require-one\u002F"\u003EWhat is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll of those things are, potentially,&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eevidence\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;that you possess a valid license. So, what is a license? It's a legal grant from the licensor (Microsoft) to the licensee (you) which gives you the right to use Microsoft Windows on a particular device, provided that you follow the terms of the license agreement. The license itself is an intangible thing, governed by a legal agreement between you and either Microsoft or one of its partners who resold the Windows license as part of a new PC. That license agreement is the thing you scroll through quickly without reading every time you install Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a Windows license?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"953ef176-585c-41f5-ad91-954c163b638e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou almost certainly have a valid Windows license if you acquired it in any of the following ways:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea new PC with Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E preinstalled on it from a name-brand OEM.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy buying a retail copy of Windows (in a physical box or as a digital download) directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy acquiring a used or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhere-to-buy-used-laptop-deals\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esecondhand PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that came with Windows preinstalled.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing or otherwise obtaining an upgrade license for a Windows edition directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut here's the most fascinating and frustrating part of Windows licensing. If I sit down in front of your computer and (with your permission) do a thorough inspection, I cannot conclusively determine whether you have \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-you-still-get-a-windows-10-upgrade-for-free\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea valid Windows license\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fstill-have-a-windows-10-pc-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-next-year\u002F"\u003EStill have a Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options before support ends next year\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI can confirm that the system is properly activated. I can also make an educated guess about the license status, and I will probably be right. But without seeing an audit trail of receipts for the PC and\u002For its system software, there's no way of knowing for sure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is my Windows license valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7a91e389-a821-40a1-b65f-9a47cd74fd89\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETo quote Will Shakespeare, "Let me count the ways."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed the product on too many PCs.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;When you \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuy a retail copy of Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it includes a license to install it on one and only one PC. If you manage to convince Microsoft's activation servers to accept a second (or third, or fourth) installation of that copy without removing it from the device where it was originally installed and activated, those extra installations are not properly licensed.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou used an evaluation or dev\u002Ftest edition for a production system.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Microsoft offers several subscription programs designed for developers and IT pros to evaluate its software and build test environments. A \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fvisualstudio.microsoft.com\u002Fsubscriptions\u002F#software-and-downloads?cat=visual-studio-professional-subscription" target="_blank"\u003EVisual Studio Professional subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for example, includes access to current and past versions of Windows desktop and server editions, complete with product keys. But those licenses are only valid for development and test purposes, not for production systems.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed an enterprise upgrade without having a proper underlying license.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Every so often, I run across some poor benighted soul who announces that they're running Windows 10 LTSC (the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELong Term Servicing Channel release\u003C\u002Fa\u003E). The only way to get an LTSC license is with a Windows Enterprise Volume License agreement, which is ... not cheap. Enterprise licenses are widely pirated. If you're running Windows Enterprise edition and can't tell me how you got the license, there's an excellent chance your license isn't valid.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou bought a Windows product key from a random seller on the internet.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Even legitimate websites get fooled by shady resellers who advertise Windows 10 or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E at a price that's too good to be true. In many cases, they're reselling "gray market" Windows product keys that are part of an enterprise license or a Microsoft subscription. Microsoft could block or ban those diverted product keys, but they might not notice. Do you feel lucky?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"OK, how could I end up with a license that's not valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ea95a169-4869-49ea-aa0c-6de08da45f12\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf activation doesn't prove you have a valid license, why does it exist?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe interrupt this story for some ancient history. Back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, software piracy was an existential crisis for Microsoft. Windows was the core of the company's business, and independent local PC builders represented a disproportionate share of the Windows business. Unfortunately, a depressingly large number of those resellers bought a single license and installed it on multiple PCs. Microsoft created a network of activation servers designed to flush out "non-genuine" copies of Windows to prevent that sort of flagrant copying of retail and system builder packages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-debloating-windows-is-a-bad-idea-and-what-to-do-instead\u002F"\u003EWhy 'debloating' Windows is a bad idea (and what to do instead)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHoo boy, did that go wrong. When I started at ZDNET, way back in 2006, I wrote a lot of words about the original Windows Genuine Advantage authentication software. I once called it&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fpictures\u002Fa-decades-worth-of-windows-mistakes-that-changed-microsoft-for-better-and-worse\u002F9\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E"the stupidest thing Microsoft ever did with Windows"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI long ago lost count of the number of words I wrote about Windows Genuine Advantage and product activation, but I don't regret a single one of them. I know they made a difference. Microsoft removed the "kill switch" in Windows Vista Service Pack 1, and in \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsay-goodbye-to-windows-7-as-microsoft-ends-extended-support\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 7\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the activation experience seemed to finally work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-hidden-windows-11-setting-lets-you-kill-unresponsive-apps-straight-from-the-taskbar\u002F"\u003EThis hidden Windows 11 setting lets you kill unresponsive apps right from the taskbar\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver time, Microsoft discovered that it was in the company's best interests to tolerate a certain amount of casual copying as part of its goal of not pissing off legitimate customers. I can't remember the last time I received a complaint about \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10-users-left-baffled-and-mad-over-microsofts-activation-glitch\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eproduct activation issues\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, the overwhelming majority of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are sold by giant OEMs like Dell, HP, and Lenovo, which pay Microsoft for every license. (Even Microsoft's own \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-bought-the-cheapest-surface-pro-11-laptop-3-takeaways-as-a-windows-expert\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurface\u003C\u002Fa\u003E division pays the Windows side of the house for Windows licenses!) Only a tiny sliver of PCs these days are built by hobbyists or small system builders.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf someone in one of those groups tries to reuse a product key inappropriately (by activating multiple PCs using the same product key in a matter of days), the activation servers will object strenuously. But if you reuse a product key months after the first use, it's likely that Microsoft's activation servers will wave you right through.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the point of Windows product activation?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"38b000a5-5667-44be-89e4-3f727d0c70f2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you buy a PC with Windows preinstalled, you don't need to enter a product key \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ewhen you set it up for the first time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The company that built that PC entered the product key as part of the process of preparing the system for delivery to you.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-will-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F"\u003EMicrosoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBig-name OEMs embed that product key into the system's firmware. Smaller system builders enter the product key using deployment tools. In either case, once you start up your brand-new PC and accept the license agreement, your copy of Windows is activated automatically, and that product key (which you never saw!) is no longer necessary. You can reinstall that edition of Windows on the same hardware as many times as you want, without having to enter a product key.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, when do you need a product key?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-build-a-gaming-pc-for-550\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuilding your own PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or setting up a virtual machine, you need to enter a product key to complete activation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eupgrading an existing Windows installation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to a different edition, you need to enter a product key to perform the upgrade and then activate the new installation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Do I really need a product key?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"85b16c7d-a14e-4998-95f7-ffa04d969179\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAs my favorite&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.directionsonmicrosoft.com\u002Fanalysts\u002Fwes-miller"\u003EMicrosoft licensing expert, Wes Miller\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is fond of saying, the answer to every licensing question is "That depends." This one is no exception.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you purchased \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea PC with Windows preinstalled\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the OEM who built the device paid Microsoft for the Windows license and passed the cost along to you. For a big OEM (think Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, or Acer), the price list for Windows licenses is a closely guarded secret. I generally just figure that a license for \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows Home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is built into the price of the PC and a Windows Pro license adds $50-100 to that total.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmaller PC makers who don't qualify to purchase licenses in bulk from Microsoft purchase licenses as part of the OEM System Builder program. The price for those shrink-wrapped packages is a little steeper, and the conditions of installation are more convoluted. But that cost is also built into the price of the PC. For my back-of-the-envelope calculations, I figure that this type of license costs about $30-50 more than the bulk price offered to the giants.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're building your own PC or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-create-the-perfect-windows-11-virtual-machine\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ecreating a virtual machine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for permanent use, you need to supply a license for use in that device, regardless of whether it's physical or virtual. In most cases, that means paying Microsoft (or one of its partners) for a retail license. You'll pay much more than a reseller for this privilege. On average, your back-of-the-envelope budget for a retail copy of Windows should be about $99 for Home and $149 for Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11\u002F"\u003EHow to screen record in Windows 10 or 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's where things get interesting, though. You can probably score a much better discount than that, in deals that are widely advertised on reputable websites, including ZDNET and CNET. I regularly see advertisers offering Windows Pro for as little as $20 or $29. I know from experience that those gray market copies probably don't represent proper&nbsp;licenses for Windows. And yet Microsoft doesn't seem to care. Should you? Well, that leads to my next question.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How much should a Windows license cost?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"496bcb41-f44c-4e62-9b9f-37f438f2be99\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI have no doubt there is a junior lawyer in Microsoft Licensing, probably a recent grad from the law school of the University of American Samoa, who is obsessed with tracking down every Windows license that has even the slightest irregularity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut those hard-liners are the exception, not the rule. Over time, Microsoft has discovered that its activation servers are most effective when they're configured to the most generous settings. If you used a product key six months ago, chances are it will work again, because there's little benefit for Microsoft in making it hard for you to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-factory-reset-your-windows-10-pc\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ereinstall Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-set-up-god-mode-in-windows-11-and-why-you-should\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EHow to set up God Mode in Windows 11 (and why you should)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft occasionally audits its larger customers, but if you're a hobbyist or a small business, you're literally too small to bother with. If you can successfully activate your new installation of Windows 11 Home or Pro, it doesn't really matter if your license has some sort of technical flaw. The license police are not going to bust down your door. You should concentrate on your business, not on the esoterica of Microsoft licensing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does Microsoft care whether my license is legal?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 09:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Microsoft has made Windows licensing and activation ridiculously complex. Here's what you need to know.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"fe19dbf1-be63-49a9-a27b-0ab7c21dbf81",image:{id:"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1",filename:"gettyimages-685007445.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 02:22:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"windows-11-styl2-2.jpg",credits:"Screenshot by Ed Bott",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F16\u002F73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\u002Fgettyimages-685007445.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"is-your-windows-license-legal-should-you-even-care",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Is your Windows license legal? Should you even care?",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:b,description:b,filters:b,paging:b,slug:"dynamic-topic-listing-right-rail-basic-latest",title:"Latest",label:b,viewMoreText:b,viewMoreUrl:b,relatedItems:b},{id:"2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29",meta:{componentName:"2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29",componentDisplayName:b,componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=2ffa34dd-efe5-440b-bcdf-7eae560bba29"}},items:[{author:{id:"fffab326-d9a6-4491-aadb-e18e8e906d5f",username:"cecadenas",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Cesar",lastName:"Cadenas",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4",filename:"1608345669637.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-07-21 15:02:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F21\u002F73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4\u002F1608345669637.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Cesar Cadenas has been writing about the tech industry for several years now specializing in consumer electronics, entertainment devices, Windows, and generative AIs. But he's also passionate about smartphones, GPUs, and cybersecurity.",profile:b,title:"Staff Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EThe past year has been huge for laptops. With so many new models, identifying the best laptop for you can be overwhelming. Our experts have tested some of the best laptops of the year, like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lenovo-laptop\u002F\"\u003Ethe latest Lenovo\u003C\u002Fa\u003E ThinkPad, Dell's XPS lineup, and the creative powerhouse Asus ProArt P16. We reviewed spec sheets to evaluate random access memory (RAM) and storage, build quality, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lightweight-laptops\u002F\"\u003Eportability\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and value, in addition to testing some of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-under-1000\u002F\"\u003Ebest affordable laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing industry-standard benchmarking programs, we test all laptops to measure performance, battery life, and display quality. After going hands-on with dozens of models, we found the best laptop to be the MacBook Pro M4 for its fantastic battery life, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F\"\u003Efast performance\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and sleek, portable form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best laptop right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the overall best laptop is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"681a63f7-5b6d-4438-be3d-caee9b6aa794\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-macbook-pro-14-inch-apple-m4-chip-built-for-apple-intelligence-16gb-memory-512gb-ssd-space-black\u002F6602741.p?skuId=6602741\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-macbook-pro-14-laptop-m3-max-chip-36gb-memory-30-core-gpu-1tb-ssd-latest-model-space-black%2F6534620.p%3FskuId%3D6534620&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"M4 MacBook Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. It possesses nearly everything you could ever want in a laptop: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-battery-life-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea long-lasting battery\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, generation-defining artificial intelligence features, top-tier performance, and a vibrant display. This laptop checks off all the boxes and looks as good as it performs. As great as it may be, the M4 MacBook Pro isn't for everyone, and there are other options worth highlighting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-clear-the-cache-on-your-windows-11-pc-and-why-you-shouldnt-wait-to-do-it\u002F\"\u003EHow to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why you shouldn't wait to do it)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f6c32bf9-e56b-41c2-9d77-a8af2e522882\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETaking the top spot as the best laptop of 2025 is Apple's M4 MacBook Pro. This may surprise some people, as we're sure a few were expecting the M4 Pro or M4 Max version, but there is a good reason why we went with the base model. It perfectly balances the lines between power and affordability.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe M4 is the latest chipset in Apple's silicon line. It comprises a 10-core central processing unit (CPU) and a 10-core graphics processing unit (GPU). Supporting the hardware are 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Kerry Wan, the Senior Reviews Editor at ZDNET, said the base configuration can arguably meet the needs "for 90% of users" and says "most people will be delighted by the... overall computing experience". Whether for photo editing, video work, or light gaming, the M4 handles everything smoothly, even outperforming the old M1 Pro chip.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtificial intelligence also plays a big role in the M4 ecosystem. It enables the new ChatGPT-powered Siri, allowing the AI assistant to "answer... sophisticated queries instead" relying on Google Search. Writing Tools is another notable feature that can craft messages across various tones. Image Playground creates AI-generated artwork, which can be useful for professionals who need an image for work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI also want to shout out the nano-texture display, which is capable of staying "clear and pristine" even "after a week of intensive use". If money is not an issue, you can purchase the MacBook Pro housing the M4 Pro or M4 Max chipset. These two provide an even better user experience, although be prepared to pay much more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-linux-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Linux laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMacBook Pro M4 specs: Display size:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E14-inch&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Liquid Retina XDR |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;3024 x 1964 pixels |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 24GB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 1TB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10-core M4&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to a purported 24 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Pro (M4)\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"A close-up shot of the 16-inch MacBook Pro's keyboard.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272","title":"M4 MacBook Pro","filename":"dsc02534-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F06\u002F5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272\u002Fdsc02534-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":530566,"width":2048,"height":1152,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:43:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:44:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"M4 MacBook Pro","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272","imageAltText":"A close-up shot of the 16-inch MacBook Pro's keyboard.","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc02534-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F06","imageWidth":2048,"imageHeight":1152,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"755c5e88-1c22-474b-8ccd-1b4ba214dbdc","slug":"apple-macbook-pro-m4-16gb-512gb-black","label":"Apple 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It succeeds on multiple fronts. This machine has a stunning 4K resolution display surrounded by thin bezels. Being surrounded by a thin frame makes the screen appear significantly more prominent than it is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's more, it's supported by several image-enhancing features like Dolby Vision which delivers "vibrant shades of color" as well as a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. The latter ensures images output high amounts of detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdell-xps-16-2024-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EDell XPS 16 (2024)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder the hood, the XPS 16 houses an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 40-series graphics card. My review unit came with an RTX 4070 GPU. Combine these specs with its 32GB of RAM, and you're looking at a laptop that can easily handle all demanding workloads, from gaming to video editing. It's nothing if not a powerhouse.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe XPS 16 also has a stylish design. The zero lattice keyboard and the function key touch panel give it a distinct look seen nowhere else. On the sides of the keys are the device's room-filling speakers.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-dell-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Dell laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe want to warn you that the XPS 16 is rather heavy and doesn't have a wide array of ports, so you may need a docking station. Be sure to check out ZDNET's list of the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest laptop docking stations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for recommendations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDell XPS 16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16.3 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;4K |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core Ultra 7 155H&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 64GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 4TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell XPS 16\" data-superlative=\"Best Windows laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Dell XPS 17 open on grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6","title":"dell xps 14 - 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This is mainly due to its top-tier hardware: an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, and a solid 32GB of RAM. AMD's Ryzen CPU, as its name reveals, utilizes artificial intelligence to boost performance, while freeing up processing power to allow the Stealth A16 to earn high marks on performance tests.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-desktop-with-this-msi-laptop-for-a-week-and-it-surpassed-my-expectations\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdmittedly, many laptops, including some work machines, have similar hardware, so MSI's machine isn't unique in that regard. What makes it special is that all its components are paired up with a 16-inch QuadHD (2,560 x 1,600 pixels) display running at 240Hz. A high refresh rate ensures smooth on-screen animation: action sequences from video games run smoothly and the whole experience feels more responsive than laptops with slower displays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, the laptop sports unique optimization features. MSIHybrid, for example, is a mode that balances performance and battery efficiency. Its SteelSeries keyboard is another standout feature, offering comfortable typing. If longevity is a concern, the Stealth A 16 comes with Integrated Graphics mode to extend the battery life, pushing the battery to over 11 hours on a single charge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus specs: Display size: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E16 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EQHD | \u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 2560 x 1600 | \u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 9-365&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 1TB SSD | \u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 10.5 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best gaming laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","title":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","filename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F20\u002Fbc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":284938,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"MSI\u002FZDNET","alt":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","imageAltText":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black\u002F6590023.p?skuId=6590023","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Powerful hardware ~ High resolution display ~ Lots of optimization features\" data-dislike=\"~ Expensive ~ Heavy and bulky\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"20487468-34cd-4e6e-b785-65c593bf7616\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15 stands tall as the best budget laptop. For less than $300, you get a portable notebook built to cover the basics. What it lacks in fancy aesthetics or premium features, this device makes up for it by being a solid secondary computer for students or professionals.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPowered by an Intel Core i3-N305 and 8GB of RAM, the device can handle lightweight productivity tasks reasonably well. Its 15-inch 1080p display provides decent viewing angles and sufficient contrast with a modest level of brightness.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company opted for a utilitarian design when creating the Aspire Go 15, featuring a full-sized keyboard alongside a well-placed trackpad. Battery life is another standout feature, lasting over 10 hours straight during our video playback tests. That number does drop down to about eight hours of typical use. What's more, the laptop can be versatile thanks to a humble selection of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-299-windows-laptop-is-my-new-go-to-recommendation-for-budget-shoppers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmazon sells multiple configurations of the Aspire Go 15. If you want a version with more power behind it, the retailer has the 2024 Performance model. It comes with an Intel Core i5-13420H and a touchscreen. There's also the 2023 Browse version if you want to save more money.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;LCD&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1080p&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core i3-N305&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;125GB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 11 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Aspire Go 15\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop under $500\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","title":"acer-aspire-go-15-1","filename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F26\u002F9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572\u002Facer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4885018,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:52","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Acer Aspire Go 15","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","imageAltText":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F04\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Lots of bang for your buck ~Good enough for everyday use ~Full keyboard\" data-dislike=\"~A little bulky ~Limited by its lower-end RAM\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1810c764-9453-4eb8-a30f-80eb2db71b60\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen Asus&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fasus-2025-laptop-lineup-features-a-sleek-understated-design-ethos-and-oleds-all-around\u002F"\u003Eofficially announced\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcc.zdnet.com\u002Fv1\u002Fotc\u002F00hQi47eqnEWQ6T9d4QLBUc?element=BODY&amp;element_label=Zenbook+A14&amp;group_uuid=d3064884-4eb7-4462-888e-c2779fd66d6a&amp;module=LINK&amp;object_type=commerce-link&amp;object_uuid=4ee6e6c1-4c54-4a82-bafb-17b3d5f497bc&amp;position=1&amp;template=article&amp;track_code=__COM_CLICK_ID__&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.awin1.com%2Fawclick.php%3Fmid%3D31828%26id%3D423585%26clickref%3Dzd-__COM_CLICK_ID__-dtp%26ued%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fshop.asus.com%252Fus%252F90nb1502-m00fm0-zenbook-a14-ux3407-copilot-pc.html&amp;view_instance_uuid=2679b2a2-44cb-4e02-b60a-e48548e75d2d" target="_blank"\u003EZenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;at CES this year, I wasn't the only one to be&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptops-of-ces-2025\u002F"\u003Elow-key enamored\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;with it. It's a&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop\u002F"\u003Egreat laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;in its own right, but it stands out with its successful balancing act between performance and affordability while hitting all the right notes that consumers care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMade of Asus' proprietary ceraluminum material, the Zenbook A14 is exceedingly light, weighing just 2.1 pounds. For reference, the 13-inch&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fid-recommend-the-m3-macbook-air-at-full-price-but-this-new-deal-makes-it-a-no-brainer\u002F"\u003EMacBook Air\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is 2.7 pounds. When you set it down, the device opens easily with the lift of a single finger, revealing the brilliant organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-tested-asus-new-ultraportable-laptop-and-its-worth-the-hype-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F"\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's a sleek and lightweight laptop for the modern professional who lives in the cloud, works remotely, and values a nice display. In addition, the Zenbook A14 boots quickly, loads apps swiftly, and navigates the web without lag. It runs silent and cool, generating almost no heat -- even with the slim form factor.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHands down, the best part of this laptop is the outstanding battery life. Asus advertises up to 32 hours on a single charge. Although that's the top end of the estimation, it's not far off from what you can expect with everyday use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus Zenbook A14 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200 (Full HD+) |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16GB or 32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Snapdragon X or X Plus&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Qualcomm Adreno&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to 32 hours of video playback |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EWeight:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;2.1 lbs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus Zenbook A14\" data-superlative=\"Best lightweight laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","title":"Asus Zenbook A14","filename":"dsc03098.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2025\u002F02\u002F11\u002F01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752\u002Fdsc03098.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":5863163,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:17:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:18:31","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","imageAltText":"Asus Zenbook A14","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc03098.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2025\u002F02\u002F11","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray\u002F6616965.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Sleek and lightweight ~Great battery life ~Brilliant OLED display\" data-dislike=\"~Higher-end processor linked to lower RAM ~Not designed for intensive workloads\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2be0b709-340a-4fda-97f4-4e928a3d47be\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAsus' ProArt P16 is a laptop designed primarily for content creators who demand a machine with robust hardware to support their work. Powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU and an Nvidia GeForce 4060 GPU, this device excels at handling tough workloads like \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Evideo editing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-graphic-design\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egraphic design\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The hardware ensures seamless multitasking, while the 16-inch Active-Matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) touchscreen delivers vibrant visuals in crisp detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtists, in particular, will appreciate this display's glossy surface, which responds well to styluses. The Asus DialPad integrated into the trackpads allows users to create customized controls to streamline workflows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-found-a-creators-laptop-that-competes-with-the-macbook-pro-and-more-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther customization options include DialPad and Performance Profiles, which let you prioritize certain aspects of the laptop depending on the situation. For example, if you have a busy workflow and need a performance boost, you could have the hardware prioritize battery life for better longevity or processing power. The MyAsus app also helps on this front, as it offers tools to manage updates or monitor performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, I can't forget to mention Vivobook Pro's top-notch design. It boasts good ergonomics and a sturdy hinge that prevents unnecessary movement. Its keyboard is notably quiet, so you won't disturb the people around you when typing. The ProArt P16 is a good alternative to either the M3 or M4 MacBook Pro, although getting the most out of it requires precise optimization.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus-software-for-windows\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software for Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; 3840 x 2400 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ruzen AI 9 HX 370&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus ProArt P16\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for content creators\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","title":"Asus ProArt P16","filename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F26\u002Fa9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a\u002Fasus-proart-p16-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":2578517,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:22","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus ProArt P16","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","imageAltText":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F26","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black\u002F6584438.p?skuId=6584438","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Many customization features ~ High-end hardware ~ Responsive touchscreen\" data-dislike=\"~ Glossy screen ~ Large trackpad\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"86ad5265-f7dc-4eea-bfd0-105b67f11e7b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELenovo's sixth-generation ThinkPad T14s is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efast laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that can tackle intensive productivity tasks. It performs well thanks to the recently released AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 processor, the integrated AMD Radeon 880M graphics card, and of course, the ample 32GB of RAM. Hardware like this delivers exceptional multitasking capabilities.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBenchmark results highlight its power, scoring over 9,300 points in PCMark 10's Essential Productivity tests. Cinebench results show image rendering is remarkably fast, further demonstrating the efficiency of the Ryzen AI processor. If that wasn't enough, the neural processing unit (NPU) boosts the computer's hardware even further as the component offloads work and stress from the main processor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-thinkpad-checks-all-my-boxes-for-a-solid-work-laptop-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond its hardware, the T14s Gen 6 sports a lightweight design, typical of other models in its line, and a solid 12-hour battery life. I also appreciate how fast the battery charges, reaching 70% in about an hour. Other notable features include a 5MP webcam for clear video calls in 1440p, Thunderbolt 4 ports for quick file transfer, and Dolby Atmos, enabling immersive sound. Lastly, it supports Wi-Fi 7, so users can ensure speedy wireless speeds.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Efeatures: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;WUXGA&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;up to 1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for work\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","title":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","filename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F12\u002F09\u002F442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":457325,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","imageAltText":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F12\u002F09","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Lenovo","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lenovo.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fp\u002Flaptops\u002Fthinkpad\u002Fthinkpadt\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop\u002Flen101t0109","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~High-end hardware ~Full-package ThinkPad ~Great webcam\" data-dislike=\"~No OLED option\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a2e95d2a-7c8f-4a8c-92cf-27ddd1e367ec\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EChromebooks hit their stride last year as third-party manufacturers introduced beefier hardware and cool features to the devices. Once relegated to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-tablet\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etablets\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and devices with very limited use, the upgrades have allowed Chromebooks to become a valid third option alongside MacBooks and Windows laptops.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the better Chromebooks released in 2024 was Samsung's Galaxy Chromebook Plus, a lightweight device with a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-oled-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebrilliant OLED display\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and a handful of AI-powered features. The new Quick Insert key on the Galaxy Chromebook lets users bring up a control panel for mobile devices to help multitask, while the Help Me Read feature scans and summarizes websites, articles, and text files. Even better, these functions are built into the device at the OS level.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-lightweight-laptop-has-one-of-the-best-displays-ive-seen-and-its-very-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Galaxy Chromebook Plus looks great with its vivid 15.6-inch display. It is well-rounded enough for various use cases -- even cloud gaming -- which only a few years ago was not something you'd think about doing on a Chromebook. Praise must be levied at its design, too. My colleague, Kyle Kucharski, complemented Samsung for foregoing the implementation of a touchscreen. Doing so allowed the tech giant to develop a Chromebook that is thin and relatively easy to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best part about all of this is that the device is affordable, at $699, which is a competitive price for a portable workstation, gaming machine, or main driver.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15.6 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1080 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; Intel Core 3 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;256GB eUFS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best Chromebook laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","title":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","filename":"img-7640a.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F30\u002F5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf\u002Fimg-7640a.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1876854,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:20:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:21:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","imageAltText":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"img-7640a.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F09\u002F30","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"f356f332-08ae-4bd1-8569-5150bedd46d5","slug":"samsung-galaxy-chromebook-plus-15-6-with-google-ai-amoled-display-intel-core-3-8gb-memory-256gb-storage-neptune-blue","label":"Samsung - 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Once you've established that, you can focus your research on finding the right machine for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, if you're on the move a lot, you'll want a good combination of flexibility, sturdiness, connectivity, security, and a long battery life. However, you should opt for a laptop with powerful hardware if you're a largely deskbound graphic designer or content creator. Devices with top-tier processors and graphics cards tend to be heavier than most.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's a well-researched (and tested) list of our favorite laptops for a wide array of use cases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuy this best laptop...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you need...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA powerful, well-rounded laptop for the office and home. The MacBook Pro with the M4 chip brings performance for nearly everything from simple spreadsheets and video calls to video editing.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EDell XPS 16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA Windows-based laptop with seriously powerful hardware and lots of different options for customizing it to your needs.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA top-notch gaming laptop with a fast screen running at a 240Hz refresh rate.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA seriously inexpensive laptop that has all the basics for everyday use.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA lightweight and well-designed laptop with a gorgeous OLED display and marathon battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA laptop designed specifically for content creators with a brilliant OLED display and a ton of customization options.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn ultraportable laptop for work. It houses the latest AI-powered AMD processor and a fast charging battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn affordable, lightweight Chromebook with a gorgeous display\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right laptop for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"dd4dd706-0b03-4fe7-8eed-40a8e1da8d90\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe use a combination of methods to test laptops here at ZDNET. First, we acquire data from benchmarking software to analyze a system's metrics under the hood and compare those to advertised numbers. Then, we spend an extended amount of time with the laptop -- usually a week or two -- using it the same way a normal consumer would, to assess its portability, form factor, and how well the battery&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eactually\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;holds up. For an extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-laptops\u002F"\u003Elaptop testing methodology\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBenchmarking:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;First, we run a series of tests to put the computer's hardware through the wringer in order to see what it's capable of.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.maxon.net\u002Fen\u002Fdownloads\u002Fcinebench-2024-downloads" target="_blank"\u003ECinebench\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is one of the most commonly used hardware testing suites, which tests the laptop's rendering performance on single and multiple central processing unit (CPU) cores.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fbenchmarks.ul.com\u002Fpcmark10" target="_blank"\u003EPCMark 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another powerful program that covers a wide variety of tasks performed in the workplace, and there are many others that we use in tandem to gather as much data as we can. Some components we run tests on include:\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The "brain" of the laptop and one of the most important factors that determines performance. The four biggest manufacturers that make most of the CPUs found in laptops today are Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, and Apple -- in Apple machines only. This is tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe display:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The size of the display -- measured diagonally from corner to corner -- is also what dictates the laptop's overall size and plays a big role in the device's cost. Brightness is measured in "nits," and color spectrums are tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe graphics processor (GPU):\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether it's integrated into the CPU or a dedicated graphics card, how well the machine handles graphics is a key factor when it comes to demanding tasks like video editing, rendering, and of course, gaming. We test the GPU with a combination of benchmarking software, gaming, and media playback.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPhysical form factor:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EFinally, the laptop's overall appearance and physical form factor encompasses its weight, thickness, how the keyboard and trackpad feel, and whether it has a display that can be folded back to form a tablet. We carry the laptop around for at least a week and note how well it commutes.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery testing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We test a unit's battery in a few ways. A handful of benchmarking programs have their own battery testing components, but we also will just let the laptop run for as long as it can under a medium load. We ensure screensavers and hibernation mode are turned off, set the display's brightness and audio at 50%, load up a livestream on YouTube in Chrome, and wait 'til the end.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe human element:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;As we mentioned earlier, metrics and system data is important, but numbers alone don't give you the full picture. This is where we weave in our personal experience with the device and tap into the practical use cases that consumers actually care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, our goal is to break down the capabilities of each and every laptop we test into digestible terms that real people find useful. There is a lot of noise and confusion when it comes to navigating the laptop and computer consumer market, so we hope to bring an intuitive element to the whole process by leveraging our team's decades of experience.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test laptops\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","title":"Asus Vivobook","filename":"dsc01864.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F06\u002F48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0\u002Fdsc01864.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4860831,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","imageAltText":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc01864.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F06","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89037ae6-ef79-4aae-a4ef-e0d6ae59633a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMultiple factors influence the choice of laptops for this list. We look for machines with great designs, performance, and effective storage and RAM. We also considered the different purposes for which you may need or use your laptop and the overall value -- including the price point -- that the laptop promises.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDesign:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether your laptop is your ultimate workstation or source of entertainment, its design, display, and portability determine how you interact with the unit.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;For many, laptops are essential for workflow and communication. The best laptops promise efficient speed and performance, powered by the greatest and latest chipsets -- like the Apple M3 Max.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage and RAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;It's likely you'll use a laptop to store key documents or memories, and the best models have plenty of room for you to do so.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPurpose:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We strive to answer the question, "What laptop should I get if ___" as we know you have different workflow and entertainment needs and preferences, from graphic design to gaming.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EValue:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThe best laptop can be a pricey investment, so we considered qualities that assure you'll get your money's worth.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are some factors to consider when choosing the best laptops?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFAQs on laptops\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0192c3e8-a367-4061-897d-caa9d70dc2ea\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile the desktop form factor, especially in the form of all-in-one (AIO) devices, still exists, laptops come in various sizes and cover many use cases. They range from thin, light, and ultraportable to bulky, powerful, and deskbound. Because of how good laptops are nowadays, most people opt for sticking with a laptop to serve as their main computer. If a small laptop screen is an issue, an external monitor can be connected.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why should you buy a laptop, and not a desktop or a tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"50bb31e2-435e-4126-b36c-492c636e5ece\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile every computing platform has its loyal supporters, most people end up using a particular operating system because of key applications running on it, employer preferences, or budgetary constraints. Windows, which ranges from budget to premium, and Apple's MacOS, which is exclusive to premium devices, cover a broad spectrum. ChromeOS is mostly limited to mid-range devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-anonymous-browsing-these-extensions-are-the-next-best-thing-to-tor\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFor anonymous browsing, these extensions are the next best thing to Tor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll Windows devices listed here meet the requirements for Windows 11. If you purchase a device with Windows 10 installed, you will be able to upgrade to Windows 11 if you choose to do so. Note that after October 14, 2025, Windows 10 support will end, and there will be no further security patches or feature updates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which operating system should you choose: Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, or Linux?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3aeb95bd-eeec-4c6e-b821-c4e92cddc133\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn general, the leading PC vendors have the most extensive range of offerings and the best-documented track records for product development and customer relations. Therefore, if you do not have a specialized use case or budgetary constraints, you will typically consider vendors such as Lenovo, HP, Dell, Apple, or Asus. These vendors currently lead the PC market in terms of shipments, along with several other well-known brands.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What brand of laptop is best?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"474586ca-463c-4daf-a6a4-836135e5d46d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that you don't need to have the biggest, best, newest components to get a decent&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egaming laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. To play most triple-A and indie titles, we recommend a rig with at least 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, a 120Hz refresh rate for the display, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Elso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best budget gaming laptops you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd if you want to try your hand at content creation, something like the Corsair Voyager a1600 is a sure bet. You might also want to consider equipping with accessories. An Elgato Steam Deck integration, for example, can offer streamlined workflows when editing videos, livestreaming, and even setting up video calls with channel moderators or collaborators.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for gaming?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c94ed06c-6b3a-490e-900d-77fabe44e8c5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt really depends on the student, but there are some common factors to consider when shopping for a laptop for school. You'll want something small and lightweight for easier commutes to and from school and between classes.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-college\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for college: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll also want something with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical school day without needing to plug in. This is excellent for younger kids who may be forgetful and leave their charging cable at home. Also, look for a laptop with at least 4GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and cloud-storage backup to create duplicate copies of important files and classwork. You'll also want to avoid laptops with dedicated graphics cards aimed toward gaming to help cut down misuse and procrastination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for students?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6358f23d-22d0-4167-91bf-77d2a99ca607\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhether you're looking for a single laptop for yourself or a fleet for your business, the best laptops for work offer great performance, multiple connectivity options, and durable builds.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll want to look for a model with at least 8GB of RAM, a 256GB storage drive, a quad-core CPU, and a display large enough to work on without being too bulky to travel with. You'll also want a model with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical day of work without needing to recharge constantly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for business?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"603e81b6-a53f-4f47-95a6-f6a7e840fd3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe strongly recommend getting an \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EM4 MacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and purchasing&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffinal-cut-pro-on-the-ipad-a-surprisingly-touching-experience\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFinal Cut Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, an editing software exclusive to the Mac ecosystem. Buying the\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmacbook-pro-m3-max-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E 2023 MacBook Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another good option. It sports an M2 Max chip and offers great performance for content creators. The machine can handle 4TB of footage with ease.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for video editing: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, Apple MacBook Pros are a popular choice as are any laptops with powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and high-resolution displays such as the Dell XPS 13 and 15.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for video editing?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOther laptops we've tested\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d857acd4-fa0e-4867-9d7b-e81384e85292\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe MacBook Air is a great alternative to the higher-end model as it's comparable performance and is more lightweight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Air M2 (2023)\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","title":"Apple MacBook Air M2","filename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F27\u002F91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab\u002Fapple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":168636,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:45","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","alt":"Apple MacBook Air M2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","imageAltText":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F07\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best alternative for content creators\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-air\u002F13-inch-m2","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"35529c48-6ed2-4108-8808-51814690a50e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDell's 2024 Inspiron 14 2-in-1 is a great convertible laptop for the busy professional on the go. It's geared to easily handle office-related tasks like multitasking with documents or hosting video calls, and it only weighs 3.77 pounds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","title":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","filename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F19\u002F7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3\u002Fdell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":356982,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","alt":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","imageAltText":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F19","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best 2-in-1 laptop\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Dell","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fshop\u002Flaptops\u002Famd\u002Fspd\u002Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop\u002Fusei2hbts7445gxcn","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5980fee4-a445-4969-9a3a-7e4b6073d6bf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELaunched earlier this year as part of the new Chromebook Plus series, it's hard to believe this high-performing laptop is a Chromebook at all. The bright, 120Hz refresh rate display, LED keyboard, and Intel Core Ultra 5 processor makes for a solid cloud gaming laptop and fast, lightweight laptop.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","title":"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE2 - 2","filename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F26\u002F334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":3337962,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:49:54","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:50:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","imageAltText":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best Alternative Chromebook\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black\u002F6576961.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EZDNET writer Taylor Clemons also contributed to this list.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2025-03-13 16:34:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"We've gone hands-on with the best laptops available from Apple, Asus, Acer, and more so you can find the best fit.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"c047e1cd-17ec-4b81-89b6-61e04233d0a4",image:{id:"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6",filename:"dell-xps-14-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-08-05 16:01:10",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Person smiling at a laptop",credits:"Maskot\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ESpace Black MacBook Pro (M3 Max) running MacOS Sonoma wallpaper\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F05\u002F14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6\u002Fdell-xps-14-1.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:"4240x2384+0+0",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best laptops you can buy: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-laptop",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best laptops of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Cheng Xin\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725\" data-image-filename=\"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2025\u002F01\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"1024\" data-image-height=\"683\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EUpdate: Microsoft has now rolled out its Copilot features worldwide. For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fits-official-all-your-office-apps-are-getting-ai-and-a-price-increase\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\"It's official: All your Office apps are getting AI and a price increase.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has begun expanding the reach of its Copilot feature set, bringing its AI capabilities to Office apps for anyone currently subscribed to Microsoft 365 Personal or Family.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor customers in the US and Europe, those features are only available with an extremely pricey \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-subscription-fee-worth-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot Pro subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. For Personal and Family subscribers, the upgrade costs an extra $20 monthly, which is more than double the cost of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fget-a-microsoft-365-license-for-40-with-this-deal\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebasic Microsoft 365 subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut that's all about to change.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-subscription-fee-worth-it\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft Copilot vs. Copilot Pro: Is the subscription fee worth it?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the Southern Hemisphere, the company is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnews.microsoft.com\u002Fapac\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F31\u002Funlock-your-potential-with-copilot-and-designer-in-microsoft-365-personal-and-family\u002F\"\u003Emaking Copilot part of all Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. According to an announcement I found last November, the change is effective for Microsoft 365 subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand; they also get access to the Microsoft Designer app for generating images.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the past two months, current subscribers in those regions have been reporting that they got access to Copilot in their apps after they \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Foffice\u002Fhow-to-find-and-enable-missing-copilot-button-in-microsoft-365-apps-c8482b93-4b96-4bb8-8ec9-5148f4d42441\"\u003Eupdated to the latest version\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But with the start of the new year, Microsoft has started informing those customers that their subscription prices are about to rise substantially.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne unhappy customer signed on to a Microsoft Community board to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fanswers.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmsoffice\u002Fforum\u002Fall\u002Fwhy-has-subscriptions-increased-so-much\u002F5f8b62ba-4a2a-46da-b595-dba840049b9f\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecomplain about the sudden and unexpected price hike\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: \"I just got an email saying my family subscription is going from $129 a year to $179 a year. That's a big increase!\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes, it is. And what do those subscribers get for those hefty extra fees? Sorry, but this isn't an all-you-can-AI deal. As the announcement explains, \"Subscribers will receive a monthly allotment of AI credits to use Copilot in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Designer. The credits will also apply to apps like Paint, Photos, and Notepad on Windows.\" The option of a Copilot Pro subscription is available for subscribers who use more than the basic basket of credits.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the new features are free to current subscribers, the upgrade comes with two big gotchas. For Microsoft 365 Family subscribers, the added features are available only to the primary user and can't be shared with other members. And if the primary user doesn't want those features, they're nearly impossible to disable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn paper, this is a good deal for current subscribers. Or at least that's what Microsoft is hoping those subscribers will think after they've had a chance to give the Copilot features a test drive. The current $20-a-month Copilot Pro subscription is prohibitively expensive. The new package offers a reasonable chunk of AI credits for just over $4 a month. Such a bargain, right?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut my quick survey of online forums suggests that very few customers are buying that math. And for those who neither want nor need those AI features, finding the alternative is a challenge. A Microsoft 365 Classic option is available, without the Copilot features, at prices that are similar to those in place before the AI-driven increase. But the only way to unlock that option is to try to cancel your current subscription. At that point, as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Foffice-watch.com\u002F2024\u002Fall-about-the-new-microsoft-365-classic\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOffice-Watch discovered\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Microsoft coughs up the lower-priced alternative.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMeanwhile, in the rest of the world -- including the US and Western Europe -- the free Copilot features aren't available -- yet. But I expect it's only a matter of time before this change expands to additional markets.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not unusual for Microsoft to try out new subscription offers on a regional basis before taking them to a worldwide market. That's exactly what this announcement looks like.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F\"\u003EThe best AI chatbots: ChatGPT, Copilot, and worthy alternatives\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnyone who's paid attention to Satya Nadella's Microsoft in recent years knows that the company is all in on AI, so it would be odd if there were no plans to roll out a similar feature set to the Microsoft 365 subscription base worldwide. Starting in the APAC region gives the company time to gauge customer reaction and also continue scaling up the capacity of servers that power Copilot features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBased on the pricing in those test regions, pricing for customers in the US would probably increase by $50 -- from $69 to $119 for Personal plans and from $99 to $149 for Family subscriptions. Those data centers aren't going to pay for themselves.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe expanded offering is still brand new, but Reddit users from the region have already weighed in with complaints. One \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FOffice365\u002Fcomments\u002F1gj6c2q\u002Fcomment\u002Flvg9b5c\u002F?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button\"\u003Easked\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, rhetorically, \"I'm just meant to put up with unwanted bundleware that I never agreed to soaking up CPU cycles on my hardware  … because Microsoft needs to look like [its] AI spend is getting ROI to investors?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-introduces-ten-ai-agents-for-sales-finance-supply-chain-in-dynamics-365\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft introduces 10 AI agents for sales, finance, supply chain in Dynamics 365\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother Reddit user, who's apparently a graduate student in Taiwan, called the new Copilot features a \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FOffice365\u002Fcomments\u002F1ghlhrf\u002Fthe_nightmare_of_copilot\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enightmare\u003C\u002Fa\u003E,\" adding that it can't be turned off. \"Doesn't Microsoft understand that Graduate\u002FPhd students receive an automatic fail or are charged with academic misconduct for any hint of AI assistance in their writing?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn my testing of the Copilot Pro features in a Microsoft 365 in the Northern Hemisphere, I discovered that the option to turn off those prompts, which had been available in earlier releases, is no longer available. You can hide the AI panes above and to the right of the document, but the Copilot icon in the document itself is ever-present and can't be squelched.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast November, I asked Microsoft if the company has plans to introduce similar features in the US and other worldwide remarks. A spokesperson replied, \"The company has rolled out changes in six markets to listen, learn, and improve. We don't have anything more to share today.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI hope they're listening.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2025-01-15 20:25:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Microsoft 365 subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, and some Asian markets just got an AI upgrade, along with a huge price increase. How long until customers in the US and Europe see the same?",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"5a717e42-80ad-49b1-83a0-75e9f06e37e5",image:{id:"19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2",filename:"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2025-01-15 20:04:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725",credits:"Cheng Xin\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2025\u002F01\u002F15\u002F19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2\u002Fcopilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1024,height:683,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"microsofts-copilot-ai-is-coming-to-your-office-apps-and-it-wont-come-cheap",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Microsoft's Copilot AI is coming to your Office apps - and it won't come cheap",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"923a7f65-24bc-4f58-89f4-3fbdc9502670",slug:"international",name:"International",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"79d67b90-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"charlieosborne",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Charlie",lastName:"Osborne",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0",filename:"charlie-osborne.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:00:38",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0\u002Fcharlie-osborne.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Charlie Osborne is a cybersecurity journalist and photographer who writes for ZDNET and CNET from London. PGP Key: AF40821B",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EYou may worry about your online security but dread adding another subscription to your monthly budget with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-why-do-you-need-one-all-your-virtual-private-network-questions-answered\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Evirtual private network (VPN)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESure, there are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efree VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but they often come with speed and bandwidth limitations. In other cases, free VPN services might be unrestricted, but asking how these VPN vendors make enough money to run their server networks -- such as through user data mining -- leads you to murky, vague answers and a question mark over how secure and private these services are. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want the best protection, consider choosing an option from our tested list of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Or, if you want to keep things as affordable as possible, there are cheap VPN providers that can do the job for as little as a few bucks per month and without requiring you to agree to shady data-sharing policies. These vendors already provide affordable services but occasionally offer genuine deals to compete in the saturated VPN market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-new-vpn-and-why-free-isnt-always-best\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E3 things to consider when buying a new VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best cheap VPN right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the best cheap VPN overall is \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ca6d7643-4dc0-4382-8645-aaae318697d7\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surfshark\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, a stable and low-cost VPN with plans for only $1.99\u002Fmonth. Surfshark is one of our favorite VPNs thanks to its affordable price point, reasonable speeds, and ease of use. It's even better when the occasional promotional deal rolls around, typically during the holidays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt ZDNET, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewe've spent years testing nearly every VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on the market, evaluating them for speed, security, and performance. We conduct frequent tests for DNS leaks and speed and monitor any recent security or performance concerns that emerge. Read on for the rest of our picks for the best cheap VPNs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best cheap VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cd2078cd-18da-4186-92c1-90dc82959613\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn our&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurfshark review\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;and tests, we found this VPN performs well as a top-quality VPN that doesn't break the bank.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark offers unlimited connections, a strong server network, WireGuard compatibility, and solid performance. Our testing confirmed that Surfshark VPN connections are stable, although speed loss is often only in the mid-range of what other providers offer. Despite this, Surfshark has earned a strong user base over the years and is known as a trustworthy VPN with consistently low pricing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpns-for-school\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPNs for school in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cheapest option, a two-year subscription called Surfshark Starter, costs $1.99 per month. Four months of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efree VPN access\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are included. This deal is worth considering, as typically, even at a "deal" rate, you will pay at least $2 per month. Alternatively, you can sign up for a yearly subscription at $2.99\u002Fmonth or pay $15.45 for one month of access.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers say they appreciate Surfshark's consistently cheap pricing and quick, efficient customer service.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurfshark features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;| Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | \u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 100 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | \u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surfshark VPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surfshark VPN Web","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","title":"surfshark-windows-1","filename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F20\u002F792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800\u002Fsurfshark-windows-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1093404,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"surfshark-windows-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","imageAltText":"Surfshark VPN Web","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786","offerMerchant":"Surfshark","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Unlimited connections ~ Reliable network ~ Efficient customer service ~Attractive user interface\" data-dislike=\"~ Can be slower than some competitors\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"820ef425-d1ce-4d09-8081-8a45c8b756cb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is another top choice if you are looking for a cheap or free VPN plan. This Swiss VPN offers a comprehensive free option with support for up to 10 devices -- but you are limited to 10GB of monthly traffic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe user interface is clean and easy to use, and there is a handy button for enabling the kill switch, which protects your traffic if your internet connection drops without warning. However, PrivadoVPN lacks some of the advanced features offered by VPN competitors. There also appears to be little evidence of third-party auditing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrices begin at $1.11 per month for two years of access (with three months free) and $1.33 per month for an annual plan (including three months free), rising to $10.99 if you want to try out the software for a single month. Customers say they like it as a set-and-forget VPN, although some have reported technical issues.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile this option is cheaper than Surfshark, as the server network is far more limited, PrivadoVPN didn't manage to secure the top spot.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivadoVPN features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited, ten on a free plan | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 48 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Android TV, Fire TV&nbsp;| 30-day money-back guarantee |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Free plan (credit card not required)&nbsp; &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PrivadoVPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN runner-up\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"privado vpn","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","title":"privado vpn","filename":"privado.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F20\u002F79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e\u002Fprivado.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":124919,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Privado | ZDNET","alt":"privado vpn","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","imageAltText":"privado vpn","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"privado.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F09\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F","offerMerchant":"PrivadoVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fprivadovpn.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Affordable ~Easy to understand user interface ~Ad blocking\" data-dislike=\"~Little evidence of third-party audits ~ Low country and server numbers\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6e03e37b-7d2b-41de-b670-19149de99937\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is the VPN for you if you want a set-and-forget VPN that will last for years -- and at a very cheap price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is now known as Ivacy Powered by PureVPN after PureVPN purchased controlling stakes in the service. The VPN has servers in 65 countries, a zero-logs policy, split tunneling, and utilizes the WireGuard protocol. It does, however, limit you to 10 simultaneous device connections.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mobile-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best mobile VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is compatible with many devices and operating systems, including Windows, \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mac-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EmacOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Android, iOS, Linux, and Kodi, as well as Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Some user reviews indicate that this VPN is a great option for torrenting, but during testing, we found that speeds were slow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA two-year subscription costs $2.15 per month (three months free), or $15.95 for one month of access. However, the best deal is for a five-year contract, coming in at only $1.69\u002Fmonth. Customers applaud the firm's support team, although some users would like to see improvements to Ivacy's apps.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIvacy VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E10 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, routers, browser extensions |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;65+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: $0.99 for 7 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Ivacy\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for the long term\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","title":"Ivacy VPN","filename":"ivacy.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef\u002Fivacy.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":136497,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"Ivacy VPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ivacy.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Ivacy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ivacy.com\u002Fbuy-vpn\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Available on all major platforms ~ Reasonable server network for the price ~ Very cheap long-term plans\" data-dislike=\"~ Only 10 simultaneous device connections ~ Users report app issues\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c74e6fe8-f09e-4c87-98ad-0c8085acb4e2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable, open-source VPN that is perfect for beginners because it's user-friendly. While the company's six-month plans are expensive, two-year subscriptions are very affordable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fprivate-internet-access-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivate Internet Ac\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ecess: A cheap, powerful, open-source VPN\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe VPN is open-source, so third parties can examine its code, which gives credibility to the company as a secure offering. If you want a VPN provider that takes this approach, PIA might be the best option for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZDNET has consistently found PIA to be a solid VPN; customers say the same. PIA's VPN offers server connections in 91 countries, multi-hopping, split tunneling, ad and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Emalware blocking\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and encryption capabilities. PIA takes security seriously with its \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-no-log-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eno-logs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E policy.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-malware-removal-software\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest software removal software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the best price for this VPN is $2.19 per month, with two months of free access added to a two-year contract. Alternatively, a six-month subscription is equivalent to $7.50 per month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EP\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Erivate Internet Access features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes | \u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, NAS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;91 | \u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E30 days | \u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days, Android and iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Private Internet Access\" data-superlative=\"Best open source cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Private Internet Access VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","title":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","filename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002Fa5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e\u002Fprivate-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1592638,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:03","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","imageAltText":"Private Internet Access VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","slug":"private-internet-access","label":"Private Internet Access","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","name":"Private Internet Access","slug":"private-internet-access","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446046870,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:14:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"PIA","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.privateinternetaccess.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Open source transparency ~ Dedicated IP availability ~ Affordable\" data-dislike=\"~ US-based ~ Limited plan options\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"497723b5-9c4b-4552-b57e-092c2ca52ca7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is an affordable VPN that offers high levels of encryption, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, customizable security options, and a vast network of over 100+ countries. Unfortunately, simultaneous connections are limited to seven devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers find this VPN very easy to use, fast, and stable. We've found this VPN provides reasonable speeds and is a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-streaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egood option for streaming\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-torrenting-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etorrenting\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the company is offering a deal on two-year subscriptions: $2.19 per month with two months free. There's also an interesting option you don't often find with VPN providers -- a six-month plan for $6.99 per month. A one-month contract is $12.99.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for long contracts, which is more than most VPN providers. So, you can sign up for a plan, enjoy it, and you have weeks to decide if you want to commit to the contract.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECyberGhost VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E7 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, NAS routers |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;100+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Payment information only |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 45 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 24 days on macOS and Windows; three days on Android, seven days on iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"CyberGhost\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for money-back guarantee\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cyberghost screenshot","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","title":"Cyberghost VPN Web","filename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1502592,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cyberghost VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","imageAltText":"cyberghost screenshot","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","label":"CyberGhost VPN","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","name":"CyberGhost VPN","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446194960,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:16:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"CyberGhost","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com\u002Fen_US\u002Fbuy","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Expansive server network ~ Fast ~ The best MBG available ~ Good option for streaming\" data-dislike=\"~ Limited simultaneous connections ~ Expensive monthly contract\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b44d34bc-fead-456e-a9e3-17a7df81b564\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest cheap VPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest price\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFree months?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo-log policy?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.99\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFour months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.11\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThree months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited, 10 on a free plan\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.69\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENone\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E7\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Cheap VPNs, compared\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"16208092-bb84-45d9-9f41-c46bc8ec9d93\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN depends on various factors besides price. If you choose a low-cost service but can't unblock the streaming services you want to use, then what did you really save? Start by asking yourself why you need a VPN. Then, test out a reputable provider with high-security standards.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to learn more about how VPNs work and how to choose the best one for you, check out our guide: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-how-does-it-work\u002F"\u003EWhat is a VPN, and why do we need one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChoose this cheap VPN...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN overall. Surfshark provides reasonable speeds and plenty of features wrapped up in an affordable package. Surfshark's VPN has long stood out as a top VPN provider that offers reliable, stable connections and security and is consistently priced to be budget-friendly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is one of the cheapest options and also provides a free plan. You could try out this VPN's free solution, as long as you don't mind the 10GB monthly traffic limit. It's a good option for beginners who want to explore how VPNs work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn affordable, long-term option. Although it's a relatively new VPN service provider, Ivacy provides reasonable speeds and is often able to unblock major streaming services.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access is a cheap, powerful VPN powered by open-source technologies, and well worth it if you want an affordable subscription service with a high security standard.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is another top choice for a fast connection in an extensive server network at a reasonable price. This VPN has a long money-back guarantee and is our top pick&nbsp;if you want longer to decide.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the best cheap VPN for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9ee34014-6e49-4ae9-a563-0ace75fbcb97\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you are deciding what VPN to sign up for, there are several factors you should consider:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlan length\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Before signing up for a new VPN service, consider which subscription length is right for you. Month-by-month plans are considerably more expensive than longer plans, of which you can choose six-month to five-year plans. We find that the longest terms are almost always the cheapest.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: The cost of your VPN subscription should naturally factor into your decision. Choose one that is affordable for you, especially if you are signing up for a year or more.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Some VPN providers, such as those based in the US, may add taxes to the cost of a contract.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUpfront cost\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Most VPNs market their wares at an equivalent monthly price, but they may require a higher upfront cost. You'll still secure a great monthly cost, but you might have to pay for the full plan in one go.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFeatures\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many cheap VPNs don't offer advanced features on their basic or longest plans. You may need to pay more for a specific feature, such as a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Epassword manager\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUse cases\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: If you want a VPN for a specific purpose beyond day-to-day browsing -- such as \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-travel-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etraveling\u003C\u002Fa\u003E -- check whether the VPN is suitable. You may need to opt for a particular VPN if you want to use it in different countries, for example, or you may want to choose a VPN known for great streaming support.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERenewal terms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Automatic renewal and billing might sting you in the future, especially if the VPN's pricing has changed. You might want to turn off auto-renewal and shop around for a new deal instead.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-managers-for-business\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers for business\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Factors to consider when choosing a cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"61247c01-7215-4cf8-b002-15a9a8d5ad88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe tested and analyzed the best cheap VPNs using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We tested most of the VPNs on this list to ensure robust performance in terms of connection and speed. After all, there's no point in using a VPN if your connection continually drops or lags.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smart-tv-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esmart TV you want to connect to a VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESecurity\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cared about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeo-blocks and streaming\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well considering these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps suitable for various hardware. &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries and servers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial length and price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupport\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EVPN testing methodology page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test VPNs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","title":"nordvpn-windows-2","filename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F07\u002F2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659\u002Fnordvpn-windows-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":260894,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:21:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:22:01","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"nordvpn-windows-2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F07","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6008aa9d-c74d-4261-8fcb-de56fe016f48\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFree months, added as an incentive for users to sign up for a VPN service, are typically added to the length of your contract. For example, if you sign up for a two-year contract with three months free, you pay for 24 months of access and then enjoy an additional three months free.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn-trial\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPN trials of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How do free months on a VPN contract work?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9a079617-8387-477b-b8c6-82024836dfe5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you want your data to be secure, then yes. VPNs offer protection no matter what kind of device you use to transmit and receive data. Before you commit to a VPN service, it's a good idea to test it out and see how well it works with all your devices. The \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-android-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for Android\u003C\u002Fa\u003E may not be the same as the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for iOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and vice versa.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Should I use a VPN on my phone or tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e5ab44a0-02f1-48a8-9676-7252946f88d9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA VPN may help you get cheaper flights by connecting you with foreign servers and hiding your IP address. That said, airline prices shift based on various factors, and the impact of changing your location could be negligible or, at the very least, hard to confirm.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's worth trying to use a VPN to save money on flights. We've managed to score slightly cheaper long-haul flights by appearing to come from the destination country, for example, but the discounts haven't been huge.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can using a VPN get you cheaper flights?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"382c19fb-c84f-40d4-b1d6-e5700c540f0e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELet's be clear: Yes. A VPN will slow your connection because your data is encrypted, decrypted, and sent through intermediate servers. Your online gaming experience might suffer. If you're a first-person shooter player, you might have enough lag to miss shots. That said, both computers and VPNs have gotten much faster. Years ago, VPNs caused everything to slow down far more than today's services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENowadays, the negative impact is almost unnoticeable, especially with the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efastest VPN services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Most (but not all) VPN providers also limit the number of devices you can connect to simultaneously, so you may have to pick and choose which home devices to connect to.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a better gaming experience, check out our extensive research on the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest gaming VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does a VPN slow down my connection?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"02282252-d97a-4ba2-a169-641987626a31\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn this article, we've focused on paid services, although some offer a free tier. We don't usually recommend free VPN services because we don't consider them secure, with a few exceptions, such as ProtonVPN and Windscribe.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERunning a good VPN service requires hundreds of servers worldwide and many networking resources -- it's expensive. If you're not paying to support that infrastructure, who is? Probably advertisers or data miners. What's the point of a VPN if it doesn't keep your data secure?&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat said, no tool can guarantee your privacy. First, anything can be hacked. Second, a VPN protects your data when it transits from your computer to the VPN service, but it doesn't protect what you put on servers or whatever cloud-based application you're using. It doesn't typically offer password security or multi-factor authentication unless you pay for these add-ons. Privacy and security require you to be diligent about your digital presence, and VPNs, while helpful, are not a miracle cure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the best free VPN service?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89d1fd4e-f14e-48c4-ba2e-d8daecbe6ab9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile we have found the best affordable VPNs on the market, some VPNs can be expensive. They may still only cost the equivalent of your monthly subscription to Netflix, but VPNs that cost upwards of $10 per month for long-term contracts are unusual.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsually, these VPNs provide something others do not, and if they are known to provide a fast, secure, and trustworthy service, they can bump up the price. An example is Astrill VPN, which starts at $12.50\u002Fmonth. Why? It is one of the best options for Chinese nationals to circumvent the country's censorship and web restrictions.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why are some VPNs so expensive?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"99789d42-5d87-4971-b911-8e508997b288\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou can, but paying for one month will be expensive. To deter customers from doing so, many VPN providers charge over $10 for four weeks of access. A better option could be to sign up for a one- or two-year contract, take advantage of a money-back guarantee -- which is usually 30 days -- and cancel before the month is up.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can I pay for a VPN for one month?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f867a329-6e4f-4bae-81f2-df513a964562\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf what we highlighted here doesn't suit your needs, you can try out other services that may meet your requirements. Below, you can check out other VPNs that are worth your consideration.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative VPNs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"293c5d7c-2d02-462f-a794-3b6effe82ec5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile not cheap at $4.99\u002Fmonth, this current promotional price is the lowest we've seen ExpressVPN. Consider this deal if you want a premium, fast VPN for less.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"ExpressVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","title":"expressvpn-windows-3","filename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F22\u002F4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c\u002Fexpressvpn-windows-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":190112,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","imageAltText":"expressvpn-windows-3","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F22","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best premium VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"ExpressVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.expressvpn.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"741c72e9-0d3b-4903-bf30-579089f7983c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPureVPN is affordable at only $1.16 per month for five years and has a user interface suitable for beginners.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PureVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"surfshark","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","title":"PureVPN","filename":"purevpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F04\u002Ff98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461\u002Fpurevpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":85970,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:18","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"PureVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","imageAltText":"surfshark","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"purevpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F05\u002F04","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best long-term VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder","offerMerchant":"PureVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.purevpn.com\u002Forder","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ba22d8d0-5f58-4178-b10e-d3b56ef99c7e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWindscribe is another free VPN alternative. Custom plans starting from as little as $1\u002Fmonth are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windscribe\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"windscribe","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","title":"windscribe","filename":"windscribe.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F05\u002F4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151\u002Fwindscribe.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":150115,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"windscribe","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","imageAltText":"windscribe","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"windscribe.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F05","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free but VPN alternative with custom plan options\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Windscribe","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwindscribe.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a224b693-f277-45d8-a5b3-d8821eb3afeb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EProton VPN is a free VPN option with high-security levels, albeit some restrictions. Paid plans are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Proton VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ProtonVPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","title":"ProtonVPN","filename":"protonvpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b\u002Fprotonvpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":134307,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:17:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:18:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"ProtonVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","imageAltText":"ProtonVPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"protonvpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Proton VPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-12-10 15:56:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"VPN deals aren't always what they seem. We tested the best cheap VPNs that are consistently affordable while still providing speed and safety.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"9bdd9ab9-ab3d-4ea0-afca-86a646283223",image:{id:"3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64",filename:"surfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-11-07 20:11:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"VPN graphic hovering over laptop",credits:"NicoElNino\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security^VPN",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best cheap VPNs: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-cheap-vpn",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best cheap VPNs of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Galeanu Mihai\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"stack of coins with graph charts\" data-image-filename=\"economy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F30\" data-image-width=\"3546\" data-image-height=\"1712\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe digital economy has maintained a 17.7% share of GDP in Singapore, where small and midsize businesses (SMBs) as well as artificial intelligence (AI) are predicted to play key roles in fueling growth.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe nation's digital economy contributed SG$113 billion ($85.31 billion) to last year's GDP, accounting for SG$1 of every SG$6, according to the latest stats released by industry regulator Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClocking a compound annual growth rate of 11.2% between 2018 and 2023, Singapore's digital economy almost doubled the nominal GDP growth rate of 5.8% for its total economy, IMDA said. Its digital economy comprises the information and communications sector, which contributed about one-third of the pie, while non-information and communications sectors accounted for the remaining two-thirds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdata-will-play-key-role-in-sustaining-sea-digital-economy-growth\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EData will play key role in sustaining SEA digital economy growth\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome 94.6% of SMBs have adopted digital technologies in more than one of six key areas, such as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsmbs-face-growing-cybersecurity-threats-but-basic-measures-can-lower-risks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecybersecurity\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, cloud, and data analytics. Those that did so under the government's Productivity Solutions Grant said they saw cost savings of 50% on average between 2018 and 2023, IMDA noted. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency added that SMBs in the country have access to 400 digital solutions pre-approved for deployment via its CTO-as-a-service platform, which have been tapped by 145,000 users to date. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMBs also can adopt AI-enabled applications on the platform, where 20% of pre-approved solutions are AI-enabled. IMDA said it plans to increase this figure and encourage an additional 15,000 SMBs to adopt AI solutions over the next two years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose looking to do so also can trial generative AI (Gen AI) in a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-for-generative-ai-use-cases-with-sandbox-options\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esandbox environment\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that caters specifically to SMBs. First introduced in February 2024, the second iteration of the sandbox is slated for launch in December with a curated list of 15 Gen AI solutions across various market segments. These include Gen AI for talent acquisition, generative web design, and virtual assistants for customer engagement agents. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA said more than 300 SMBs are expected to leverage the sandbox, with eligible applicants receiving up to 50% funding support to trial one of the Gen AI applications for three months. More than 150 had participated in the first run of the sandbox feature, which ended in May, and 80% of these businesses are running the Gen AI applications after the end of the three months. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-smbs-are-hot-threat-targets-but-theyre-shrugging-off-security-help\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThese SMBs are hot threat targets but they're shrugging off security help\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAI adoption rate among SMBs clocked at 4.2% last year, up from 3.5% in 2018. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA added that larger enterprises in Singapore also have turned to AI, with 44% rolling out such applications last year, up from 16.7% in 2018. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe technology sector is growing at more than twice the rate of the rest of the economy, at slightly more than 11%, which underscores the need for all companies, especially SMBs, to embrace the opportunities of digital as an enabler and for growth, said IMDA chief executive Lew Chuen Hong.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftime-for-businesses-to-move-past-generative-ai-hype-and-find-real-value\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETime for businesses to move past generative AI hype and find real value\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"There will always be global economic uncertainties driven by many macro trends that sometimes are out of our control, but technology as a structural driver will remain the case for the long run,\" Lew said. \"We will continue to see significant growth as far as digital and the digital economy is concerned.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"AI has significant potential in the long run and in any tech cycle. We will see some exuberance at the beginning, but at the same time, AI has demonstrated its impact in terms of transforming basics in all sectors,\" he said. \"The key here is how do we, as a very small country, invest in the right areas to allow the companies to maximize the advantages of this technology.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-10-30 19:10:43",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"With the digital economy contributing 17.7% of Singapore's GDP, smaller businesses and artificial intelligence are predicted to play key roles in fueling growth.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"e97daa79-6d90-4821-b3a6-c8840e54b6fb",image:{id:"634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31",filename:"economy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-10-30 02:41:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"stack of coins with graph charts",credits:"Galeanu Mihai\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F30\u002F634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31\u002Feconomy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:3546,height:1712,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"how-singapores-smbs-and-ai-sustain-a-robust-digital-economy",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"How Singapore's SMBs and AI sustain a robust digital economy",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"4bbd52b3-12fc-4183-9f2a-1274944fbf8d",slug:"digital-transformation",name:"Digital Transformation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Andrew Brookes\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"keyboard at night\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-685007445.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis software is licensed, not sold.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat sentence, which has scrolled past PC users' eyeballs for decades as they click through Windows license agreements without reading them, is what made Bill Gates rich. It is also the gateway to an insanely confusing thicket of legal verbiage, and Microsoft has made the topic even more bewildering through the years by adding layers of anti-piracy protection that are only indirectly related to the license itself. (And let's not even start on weaselly words like \u003Cem\u003Egenuine.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIs Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've been studying Microsoft licensing agreements for more than two decades. During that time, I've written dozens of articles on the subject and have prepared testimony as an expert witness in criminal and civil cases where Microsoft licensing was at the crux of some serious disagreements. One thing I've learned along the way is that even people who work for Microsoft sometimes get confused about when a license is legitimate and when it's not.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf they have trouble sorting out license agreements, what chance do the rest of us have?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyes-you-can-upgrade-that-old-pc-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-these-readers-proved-it\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYes, you can upgrade that old PC to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no. These readers proved it\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost of the time, a Windows license is strictly a formality, something you can safely ignore. But occasionally, it matters, especially if you're building your own PC or upgrading to a different edition. If you're making IT purchases for a business that involves more than a few dozen PCs, a Windows license absolutely matters.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo make this difficult topic a little easier, I've put together a list of questions and answers focused specifically on Windows PCs. Is your license valid? How can you tell? Should you care? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's start with the most confusing one of all. What exactly is a Windows license, anyway?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1f968b49-d230-4149-b028-565e3ba9854c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMaybe it's easier to explain what a Windows license&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eisn't\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. The 25-character product key you enter to install or activate Windows is not a license. A Windows sticker on the side of a PC is not a license. A Windows certificate of authenticity, complete with hologram, is not a license. And the activation status message on \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eyour Windows PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is absolutely not a license.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-tpm-and-why-does-windows-11-require-one\u002F"\u003EWhat is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll of those things are, potentially,&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eevidence\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;that you possess a valid license. So, what is a license? It's a legal grant from the licensor (Microsoft) to the licensee (you) which gives you the right to use Microsoft Windows on a particular device, provided that you follow the terms of the license agreement. The license itself is an intangible thing, governed by a legal agreement between you and either Microsoft or one of its partners who resold the Windows license as part of a new PC. That license agreement is the thing you scroll through quickly without reading every time you install Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a Windows license?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"953ef176-585c-41f5-ad91-954c163b638e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou almost certainly have a valid Windows license if you acquired it in any of the following ways:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea new PC with Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E preinstalled on it from a name-brand OEM.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy buying a retail copy of Windows (in a physical box or as a digital download) directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy acquiring a used or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhere-to-buy-used-laptop-deals\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esecondhand PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that came with Windows preinstalled.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing or otherwise obtaining an upgrade license for a Windows edition directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut here's the most fascinating and frustrating part of Windows licensing. If I sit down in front of your computer and (with your permission) do a thorough inspection, I cannot conclusively determine whether you have \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-you-still-get-a-windows-10-upgrade-for-free\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea valid Windows license\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fstill-have-a-windows-10-pc-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-next-year\u002F"\u003EStill have a Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options before support ends next year\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI can confirm that the system is properly activated. I can also make an educated guess about the license status, and I will probably be right. But without seeing an audit trail of receipts for the PC and\u002For its system software, there's no way of knowing for sure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is my Windows license valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7a91e389-a821-40a1-b65f-9a47cd74fd89\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETo quote Will Shakespeare, "Let me count the ways."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed the product on too many PCs.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;When you \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuy a retail copy of Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it includes a license to install it on one and only one PC. If you manage to convince Microsoft's activation servers to accept a second (or third, or fourth) installation of that copy without removing it from the device where it was originally installed and activated, those extra installations are not properly licensed.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou used an evaluation or dev\u002Ftest edition for a production system.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Microsoft offers several subscription programs designed for developers and IT pros to evaluate its software and build test environments. A \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fvisualstudio.microsoft.com\u002Fsubscriptions\u002F#software-and-downloads?cat=visual-studio-professional-subscription" target="_blank"\u003EVisual Studio Professional subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for example, includes access to current and past versions of Windows desktop and server editions, complete with product keys. But those licenses are only valid for development and test purposes, not for production systems.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed an enterprise upgrade without having a proper underlying license.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Every so often, I run across some poor benighted soul who announces that they're running Windows 10 LTSC (the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELong Term Servicing Channel release\u003C\u002Fa\u003E). The only way to get an LTSC license is with a Windows Enterprise Volume License agreement, which is ... not cheap. Enterprise licenses are widely pirated. If you're running Windows Enterprise edition and can't tell me how you got the license, there's an excellent chance your license isn't valid.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou bought a Windows product key from a random seller on the internet.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Even legitimate websites get fooled by shady resellers who advertise Windows 10 or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E at a price that's too good to be true. In many cases, they're reselling "gray market" Windows product keys that are part of an enterprise license or a Microsoft subscription. Microsoft could block or ban those diverted product keys, but they might not notice. Do you feel lucky?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"OK, how could I end up with a license that's not valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ea95a169-4869-49ea-aa0c-6de08da45f12\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf activation doesn't prove you have a valid license, why does it exist?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe interrupt this story for some ancient history. Back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, software piracy was an existential crisis for Microsoft. Windows was the core of the company's business, and independent local PC builders represented a disproportionate share of the Windows business. Unfortunately, a depressingly large number of those resellers bought a single license and installed it on multiple PCs. Microsoft created a network of activation servers designed to flush out "non-genuine" copies of Windows to prevent that sort of flagrant copying of retail and system builder packages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-debloating-windows-is-a-bad-idea-and-what-to-do-instead\u002F"\u003EWhy 'debloating' Windows is a bad idea (and what to do instead)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHoo boy, did that go wrong. When I started at ZDNET, way back in 2006, I wrote a lot of words about the original Windows Genuine Advantage authentication software. I once called it&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fpictures\u002Fa-decades-worth-of-windows-mistakes-that-changed-microsoft-for-better-and-worse\u002F9\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E"the stupidest thing Microsoft ever did with Windows"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI long ago lost count of the number of words I wrote about Windows Genuine Advantage and product activation, but I don't regret a single one of them. I know they made a difference. Microsoft removed the "kill switch" in Windows Vista Service Pack 1, and in \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsay-goodbye-to-windows-7-as-microsoft-ends-extended-support\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 7\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the activation experience seemed to finally work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-hidden-windows-11-setting-lets-you-kill-unresponsive-apps-straight-from-the-taskbar\u002F"\u003EThis hidden Windows 11 setting lets you kill unresponsive apps right from the taskbar\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver time, Microsoft discovered that it was in the company's best interests to tolerate a certain amount of casual copying as part of its goal of not pissing off legitimate customers. I can't remember the last time I received a complaint about \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10-users-left-baffled-and-mad-over-microsofts-activation-glitch\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eproduct activation issues\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, the overwhelming majority of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are sold by giant OEMs like Dell, HP, and Lenovo, which pay Microsoft for every license. (Even Microsoft's own \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-bought-the-cheapest-surface-pro-11-laptop-3-takeaways-as-a-windows-expert\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurface\u003C\u002Fa\u003E division pays the Windows side of the house for Windows licenses!) Only a tiny sliver of PCs these days are built by hobbyists or small system builders.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf someone in one of those groups tries to reuse a product key inappropriately (by activating multiple PCs using the same product key in a matter of days), the activation servers will object strenuously. But if you reuse a product key months after the first use, it's likely that Microsoft's activation servers will wave you right through.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the point of Windows product activation?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"38b000a5-5667-44be-89e4-3f727d0c70f2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you buy a PC with Windows preinstalled, you don't need to enter a product key \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ewhen you set it up for the first time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The company that built that PC entered the product key as part of the process of preparing the system for delivery to you.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-will-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F"\u003EMicrosoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBig-name OEMs embed that product key into the system's firmware. Smaller system builders enter the product key using deployment tools. In either case, once you start up your brand-new PC and accept the license agreement, your copy of Windows is activated automatically, and that product key (which you never saw!) is no longer necessary. You can reinstall that edition of Windows on the same hardware as many times as you want, without having to enter a product key.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, when do you need a product key?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-build-a-gaming-pc-for-550\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuilding your own PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or setting up a virtual machine, you need to enter a product key to complete activation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eupgrading an existing Windows installation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to a different edition, you need to enter a product key to perform the upgrade and then activate the new installation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Do I really need a product key?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"85b16c7d-a14e-4998-95f7-ffa04d969179\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAs my favorite&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.directionsonmicrosoft.com\u002Fanalysts\u002Fwes-miller"\u003EMicrosoft licensing expert, Wes Miller\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is fond of saying, the answer to every licensing question is "That depends." This one is no exception.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you purchased \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea PC with Windows preinstalled\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the OEM who built the device paid Microsoft for the Windows license and passed the cost along to you. For a big OEM (think Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, or Acer), the price list for Windows licenses is a closely guarded secret. I generally just figure that a license for \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows Home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is built into the price of the PC and a Windows Pro license adds $50-100 to that total.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmaller PC makers who don't qualify to purchase licenses in bulk from Microsoft purchase licenses as part of the OEM System Builder program. The price for those shrink-wrapped packages is a little steeper, and the conditions of installation are more convoluted. But that cost is also built into the price of the PC. For my back-of-the-envelope calculations, I figure that this type of license costs about $30-50 more than the bulk price offered to the giants.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're building your own PC or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-create-the-perfect-windows-11-virtual-machine\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ecreating a virtual machine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for permanent use, you need to supply a license for use in that device, regardless of whether it's physical or virtual. In most cases, that means paying Microsoft (or one of its partners) for a retail license. You'll pay much more than a reseller for this privilege. On average, your back-of-the-envelope budget for a retail copy of Windows should be about $99 for Home and $149 for Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11\u002F"\u003EHow to screen record in Windows 10 or 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's where things get interesting, though. You can probably score a much better discount than that, in deals that are widely advertised on reputable websites, including ZDNET and CNET. I regularly see advertisers offering Windows Pro for as little as $20 or $29. I know from experience that those gray market copies probably don't represent proper&nbsp;licenses for Windows. And yet Microsoft doesn't seem to care. Should you? Well, that leads to my next question.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How much should a Windows license cost?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"496bcb41-f44c-4e62-9b9f-37f438f2be99\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI have no doubt there is a junior lawyer in Microsoft Licensing, probably a recent grad from the law school of the University of American Samoa, who is obsessed with tracking down every Windows license that has even the slightest irregularity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut those hard-liners are the exception, not the rule. Over time, Microsoft has discovered that its activation servers are most effective when they're configured to the most generous settings. If you used a product key six months ago, chances are it will work again, because there's little benefit for Microsoft in making it hard for you to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-factory-reset-your-windows-10-pc\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ereinstall Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-set-up-god-mode-in-windows-11-and-why-you-should\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EHow to set up God Mode in Windows 11 (and why you should)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft occasionally audits its larger customers, but if you're a hobbyist or a small business, you're literally too small to bother with. If you can successfully activate your new installation of Windows 11 Home or Pro, it doesn't really matter if your license has some sort of technical flaw. The license police are not going to bust down your door. You should concentrate on your business, not on the esoterica of Microsoft licensing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does Microsoft care whether my license is legal?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 09:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Microsoft has made Windows licensing and activation ridiculously complex. Here's what you need to know.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"fe19dbf1-be63-49a9-a27b-0ab7c21dbf81",image:{id:"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1",filename:"gettyimages-685007445.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 02:22:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"windows-11-styl2-2.jpg",credits:"Screenshot by Ed Bott",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F16\u002F73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\u002Fgettyimages-685007445.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"is-your-windows-license-legal-should-you-even-care",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Is your Windows license legal? Should you even care?",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fbc9d7cd-1e46-40da-8283-856aa31ddaf9\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Rafael Henrique\u002FSOPA Images\u002FLightRocket via Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Microsoft Copilot logo in magnifying glass\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-2141955299.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F29\" data-image-width=\"5000\" data-image-height=\"3333\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall and midsize businesses (SMBs) in Singapore can now run \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbuild-2024-microsoft-enhances-productivity-with-new-copilot-transforming-teamwork-and-projects\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot for Microsoft 365\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for half the price, as the country rolls out initiatives to drive the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) among local organizations. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder the program, government agency Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) will absorb 50% of licensing costs for the Microsoft generative AI (GenAI) tool over a 12-month subscription period. Each SMB will be able to purchase up to 50 licenses at the subsidized rate, with EnterpriseSG targeting to fund more than 1,000 small businesses through the scheme. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbuild-2024-microsoft-enhances-productivity-with-new-copilot-transforming-teamwork-and-projects\u002F\"\u003EHow Microsoft's new AI Copilot features could transform teamwork and projects\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECopilot for Microsoft 365 is currently \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"88b62a52-11eb-44ba-95dc-e0069636c413\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\u002Fenterprise\u002Fcopilot-for-microsoft-365#Pricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"priced at $30 per user per month\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E under an annual $360 subscription fee. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMBs will have until November 20 to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.enterprisesg.gov.sg\u002Fgrow-your-business\u002Fboost-capabilities\u002Fproductivity-and-digitalisation\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-for-smes-programme\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esign up for the program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and need to meet certain criteria: They must have no more than 200 employees and must be locally registered companies with operations in Singapore. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe SMB program also encompasses training workshops customized to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eguide SMBs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in their Copilot deployment for productivity gains. The businesses can further leverage AI Singapore's series of training schemes and workshops to learn about other AI applications.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, EnterpriseSG will further assist SMBs that are ready for \"more sophisticated AI integration\" or need tailored AI applications, rather than off-the-shelf offerings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency has introduced an \"applied AI\" program, in which Institutes of Higher Learning will work with SMBs to establish AI problem statements and build customized AI applications. The aim is to help these businesses identify specific pain points and develop AI strategies and implementation roadmaps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere, EnterpriseSG will provide a 50% subsidy to offset some of the associated costs for SMBs looking to develop and deploy these tailored AI tools. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-build-adds-sentiment-analysis-automatic-video-dubbing-to-azure-ai-speech\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft releases upgrades to Azure AI Speech at Build 2024\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe scheme will start next month in partnership with Nanyang Polytechnic and Singapore Polytechnic, both of which participants can tap for their technical expertise and industry experience in AI, according to EnterpriseSG. The agency aims to facilitate more than 100 SMBs in the program and hopes to progressively rope in more institutes of higher learning. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe initiatives are part of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-to-accelerate-ai-development-with-investment-in-compute-and-talent\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESingapore's efforts to help local companies access AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E applications and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcompanies-have-to-figure-out-the-skills-they-need-to-reap-ai-benefits\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edevelop related capabilities\u003C\u002Fa\u003E so they can improve operational efficiencies and drive business growth, Singapore's deputy prime minister and minister for trade and industry Gan Kim Yong said during Tuesday's announcement.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnterpriseSG and Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) earlier this year launched a GenAI sandbox touted to provide SMBs with \"ready to use\" tools in customer engagement, marketing, and sales, including chatbots and content generation tools. Since its launch, more than 140 SMBs have incorporated these applications into their operations, EnterpriseSG said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fevery-copilot-pc-microsoft-just-announced-to-take-on-apples-m3-macbooks\u002F\"\u003EEvery Copilot+ PC Microsoft just announced to take on Apple's M3 MacBooks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA on Tuesday also announced an expanded collaboration with Microsoft to help organizations that are further along their digital journey to identify use cases and deploy their own customized GenAI applications. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParked under IMDA's GenAI x Digital Leaders scheme, the initiative is aimed at larger and more digitally mature businesses keen to build up their in-house digital capabilities and tap GenAI to enhance productivity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency will work with Microsoft to run workshops that help these organizations better understand GenAI and identify use cases. EnterpriseSG will conduct these workshops over the next two years and encompass one-on-one guidance on prototyping and scoping of customized GenAI use cases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program aims to reach at least 200 enterprises, with participating companies offered access to Microsoft's partner network and GenAI tools, including Azure OpenAI and Copilot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-make-big-money-from-ai-but-only-if-people-trust-your-data\u002F\"\u003EYou can make big money from AI - but only if people trust your data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn March, Microsoft said it was working with SkillsFuture Singapore to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-inks-pact-to-train-singapore-smbs-in-ai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Earm 2,000 SMBs over three years with the knowledge to tap AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E tools. The software vendor also unveiled plans to train up to 100,000 National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) members with fundamental AI skills and work with the Institute for Adult Learning to integrate AI into the education curriculum, with plans to jointly develop and test AI tools and methodologies to enhance the learning experience. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"For most companies [and] most SMBs, you don't need to know how to code, how to deploy code, and how to use AI solutions. You just want to use apps without all the fuss,\" Tan Kiat How, a senior minister of state, said in a statement.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingapore hopes to address this through partnerships with industry players and initiatives, such as SME Go Digital, Tan said at a luncheon hosted by IMDA and Microsoft. The SMB program includes a list of pre-approved digital tools, 20% of which currently are AI-enabled, he said, adding that the aim is to eventually have all solutions on the list be AI-enabled.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-05-21 19:03:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The limited-time offer is part of a government-funded subsidy and partnership to drive the adoption of generative AI applications.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"c402fde2-7e60-4acd-a081-9615bc157663",image:{id:"fbc9d7cd-1e46-40da-8283-856aa31ddaf9",filename:"gettyimages-2141955299.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-04-29 13:56:24",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Microsoft Copilot logo in magnifying glass",credits:"Rafael Henrique\u002FSOPA Images\u002FLightRocket via Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F29\u002Ffbc9d7cd-1e46-40da-8283-856aa31ddaf9\u002Fgettyimages-2141955299.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:5000,height:3333,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"singapore-smbs-can-now-run-microsoft-copilot-at-a-discount",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Singapore SMBs can now run Microsoft Copilot at a discount",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10580cdc-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"government-asia",name:"Government: Asia",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f53351ad-6d72-447e-a4e3-0d6c02af6fca\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"weerapatkiatdumrong\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924\" data-image-filename=\"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThey may be hot targets of cybercriminals, but small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are prioritizing other enterprise applications for adoption over security tools. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECybersecurity tools rank low in adoption among the various categories of applications whose costs are partly \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esubsidized for SMBs in Singapore\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, said Andy Choi, deputy director of SME Go Digital at Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). This despite 30% to 50% of SMBs that Choi had interacted with having experienced at least one ransomware attack. \"I think many [SMBs] overestimate how safe they are,\" he said during a panel discussion organized by trade association SGTech. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-is-changing-cybersecurity-and-businesses-must-wake-up-to-the-threat\u002F\"\u003EAI is changing cybersecurity and businesses must wake up to the threat\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaunched in 2017, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.imda.gov.sg\u002F-\u002Fmedia\u002Fimda\u002Ffiles\u002Fprogramme\u002Fsmes-go-digital\u002Fsmesgd-factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESME Go Digital program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E aims to help these businesses adopt and use digital technologies, providing grants for a range of enterprise applications. The program encompasses digital solutions bundled in starter packs, offered by banks and telco partners, that span key categories such as accounting, HR, digital marketing, digital transactions, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-skills-concerns-hamper-singapore-smb-digitalisation-efforts\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecybersecurity\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. SMBs that sign up for 18-month contracts receive price waivers for any two solutions for at least six months.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHR, accounting, and e-commerce applications -- rather than cybersecurity -- have among the highest adoption rates among the SMBs, Choi told ZDNET during the event. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith smaller businesses a hot target of cybercriminals, it is a concern that security remains low in priority and an afterthought for these vulnerable organizations, according to the panelists. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMBs need to comprehend the risks associated with their digital transformation efforts, said Kevin Reed, CISO for data security vendor Acronis. Cyber attackers today, he said, do not simply breach networks; they steal credentials and hijack data, so their victims can be exploited for ransom. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReed added that while big ransom payments, such as the recent \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cbsnews.com\u002Fnews\u002Funitedhealth-ransom-paid-change-healthcare-attack\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$22 million UnitedHealth reportedly paid\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to recover its data, often made the headlines, most ransom payouts are much smaller in numbers to better cater to SMBs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fregulations-still-necessary-to-compel-adoption-of-cybersecurity-measures\u002F\"\u003ERegulations are still necessary to compel adoption of cybersecurity measures\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECybercriminals prefer to target these organizations since they often lack the resources to hire dedicated cybersecurity specialists and the skills to secure their assets, he said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFurthermore, there is unlikely anyone to investigate or track down perpetrators in the event of a security incident, noted Aleks Farseev, SGTech exco member as well as co-founder and CEO of SoMin.ai.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost SMBs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffaced-with-likelihood-of-ransomware-attacks-businesses-still-choosing-to-pay-up\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eusually end up paying the ransom\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \"trust\" that the payment will lead to the recovery of their data, Farseev said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, ransomware attacks are the biggest threat to SMBs, according to the 2024 Sophos Threat Report, which defines SMBs as companies with no more than 500 employees. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The value of data as currency has increased exponentially among cybercriminals, and this is particularly true for SMBs, which tend to use one service or software application, per function, for their entire operation,\" noted Christopher Budd, the security vendor's director of X-Ops research. Cyber attackers that succeed in stealing credentials, for instance, can get the password for the targeted company's accounting software. They then can access the company's financials and funnel funds into their own accounts, Budd said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-ai-firewalls-will-secure-your-new-business-applications\u002F\"\u003EHow AI firewalls will secure your new business applications\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe added that more than 90% of all cyberattacks reported to Sophos last year involved data or credential theft, through various attacks including ransomware, data extortion, unauthorized remote access, and simple data theft.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESpecifically, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fa-deep-dive-into-the-operations-of-the-lockbit-ransomware-group\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELockBit\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is the ransomware group responsible for most SMB cases handled by Sophos' incident response team. Akira and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finside-a-ransomware-incident-how-a-single-mistake-left-a-door-open-for-attackers\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBlackCat\u003C\u002Fa\u003E round out the top three groups behind ransomware attacks targeting SMBs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, almost half of malware detections were keyloggers, spyware, and infostealers, which attackers used to steal data and credentials. With the stolen data, cybercriminals can gain unauthorized remote access, roll out ransomware, or extort their victims, according to Sophos. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen they choose to pay the ransom, SMBs put themselves at risk of potentially violating local regulations, cautioned Choi. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmedibank-wont-pay-ransom-as-more-stolen-data-shows-up-on-dark-web\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIn Australia\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for instance, organizations that make ransomware payments can be charged if they suspect or know that the funds may be used to fund terrorism. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDennis Chung, Microsoft's Singapore CSO, recommended SMBs instead seek help from the authorities when they encounter a ransomware attack. The local police operates a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-releases-blueprint-to-combat-ransomware-attacks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecounter-ransomware taskforce\u003C\u002Fa\u003E alongside other government agencies, including Ministry of Defence and Monetary Authority of Singapore, that offers help for companies that report such attacks including mitigation and recovery steps they can take. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\"\u003EThe best VPN services: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETapping such community support also can provide useful background data and information sharing, such as decryption keys for attacks that may involve the same ransomware groups, Chung said.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESupport and guidance specifically tailored for SMBs will better address the needs of these businesses, which often lack the budget or expertise to manage their cybersecurity needs, said Conrad Chan, product portfolio lead for Singapore telco M1. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPointing to the curated list of subsidized digital solutions under IMDA's SME Go Digital scheme, he said such provisions -- as well as consultancy assistance under the program's CTO-as-a-service -- can ensure these companies, including micro SMBs, start thinking about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-urges-nation-to-adopt-security-by-design-mindset\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esecurity by design\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEchoing Choi's observation, Chan noted that security seldom is a priority or top concern for SMBs, most of which still believe they are unlikely to experience a breach. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany also do not know where to start, even if they are want to beef up their security posture, and few have the skills or budget to do so, he added. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChung also urged SMBs to stop regarding cybersecurity as an afterthought and start including the necessary security measures as part of their digital transformation journey. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-04-25 18:44:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Grants are available to offset deployment costs, yet cybersecurity tools remain low in demand among the smaller companies that need them most.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"fb2328f4-2b46-4fdb-a8a9-2b8823a0afa4",image:{id:"f53351ad-6d72-447e-a4e3-0d6c02af6fca",filename:"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-04-25 18:14:59",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924",credits:"weerapatkiatdumrong\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F25\u002Ff53351ad-6d72-447e-a4e3-0d6c02af6fca\u002Fpadlockhole2gettyimages-473158924.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"these-smbs-are-hot-threat-targets-but-theyre-shrugging-off-security-help",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"These SMBs are hot threat targets but they're shrugging off security help",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1029c8e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"data-management",name:"Data Management",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Blue Host on a MacBook screen\" data-image-filename=\"20240409-124438.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"4000\" data-image-height=\"2252\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt seems like there are an almost unlimited number of web hosting providers who will serve your website for a monthly fee. In our tested list of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-web-hosting\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest web hosting services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, we spotlighted providers that offer a wide range of plans. When doing a full review of a single hosting provider, I set up the most basic account possible and run the service through a barrage of tests. In this article, I'll dive into \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"431e2cf7-e1ef-405b-a105-ca3d5e140155\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002F\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbluehost.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F795082\u002F11352?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bluehost.com%2F&subId1=subid_value\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost's\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E offerings based on my hands-on testing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwp-engine-review\u002F\"\u003EWP Engine review: A solid managed-hosting provider for WordPress\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause there are so many variables among plans and offerings, not only among hosting providers, but within the plans offered by any one provider, it can be difficult to get a good comparison. I've found that one of the best ways to see how a provider performs is to look at the least expensive plan they offer. You can expect the least quality, the least attention to detail, and the least performance from such a plan. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBluehost at a glance\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"147d4c36-7c0c-4e5c-88a4-78166d5f4bb9\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Shared hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting a $2.95 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"12325339-4ff2-4185-aa10-06e55165bceb\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Online store hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $9.95 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c5a32168-2421-4a0e-889c-4a7dd5a7e88c\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Virtual private server (VPS) hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $31.99 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b2ed79a4-dd42-4556-ba79-5e65d562826f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Dedicated server hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $91.98 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"d47664c6-bd82-446b-82b2-f1fe05003476\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Cloud hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $29.99 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPrice bump after end of period: Yes\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \t \tHow web hosting provider pricing really works \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor this series of hosting reviews, I'm testing the most basic, most entry-level plan a vendor is offering. In the case of Bluehost, it's their appropriately named Basic plan. To get pricing information, I went to the company's main site at \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b3ecfeac-22af-4f32-ba64-e9a55f126406\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost.com\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8670469b-00ca-4295-a57f-34485c91b895\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ERegular, non-incognito window in Chrome\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"shared-web-hosting-plans-fast-secure-shared-hosting-bluehost-2021-04-24-19-03-38.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-26-412x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2500\" data-image-height=\"2138\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with most every hosting provider, Bluehost's published pricing is somewhat misleading. There is no option to get billed only $2.95 per month. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile it looks like you can get the Single Shared Hosting plan for $2.95 per month, that's only if you prepay for a full year, which means you're actually paying $35.40. There's a gotcha though. When you renew, you're going to pay more. Four times more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0e81a2b0-2bef-4e7f-9033-a11011256891\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-25-432x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-25-432x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1134\" data-image-height=\"832\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt is weird, though, because if you sign up for just a year, you're paying less per month for that first year. But then your price will jump by more than quadruple what you paid when you signed up. I talked a lot about \u003Cem\u003Elock-in\u003C\u002Fem\u003E and \u003Cem\u003Eswitching costs\u003C\u002Fem\u003E in my \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-build-a-website\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to create a website: The step-by-step guide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E overview. Read it, because Bluehost (and many other hosting providers) have business models that count on the switching costs being so painful that you'll suck up a huge upcharge simply to avoid moving your site.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the other hand, if you pay for three years (and this is not just a commitment, you're paying that $178.20 upfront), the company implies you're paying more per month for the first year. Of course, you're not. You're either plunking down $178.20 for three years or $35.40 for one year -- and then paying big to continue.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-web-hosting\u002F\"\u003EThe best web hosting services of 2024: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAgain, this is not unusual -- I focus on these pricing gimmicks in my reviews because it can be really unpleasant to suddenly get a bill that's hundreds or even thousands of dollars (depending on the plan) more than you expected. Second, switching from one hosting provider to another hosting provider can be a very time-consuming and possibly expensive job, fraught with hassles and potential points of failure. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt least half of the hosting vendors I've looked at over the years do these promo deals, with big jumps in renewal fees, so Bluehost isn't alone in this somewhat predatory practice. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn any case, let's move on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \t \tWhat the Bluehost Basic plan includes \u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost bottom-end plans are for one website, and Bluehost is no different. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore we move into the details, let's spend a moment talking about what a base plan really is. All websites are not created equal. While you might be able to pay under three bucks a month to run your website, I pay about a hundred bucks each month to run \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fanatomy-of-a-wordpress-site\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emy small fleet of sites\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA base site is designed for a business or an individual who wants a basic online presence. That's a bunch of pages, some product or service images, and a lot of text. If you want to run complex web applications, or you expect a lot of traffic, a basic site is not for you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-cheap-web-hosting\u002F\"\u003EThe best cheap web hosting services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're just trying to establish an online presence, starting simply is a good way to go. In this series, we're reviewing the least expensive program each hosting provider offers. That's going to be what the majority of buyers will want, and it will give us a good insight into the company. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost offers a number of pretty solid features in their Basic plan. The base plan includes 10GB website space, one website, and a basic SSL certificate, and what they describe as unmetered bandwidth. This \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4fc61bc2-d4cc-4ccf-ba77-6dbf7c47be71\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fhelp\u002Farticle\u002Fshared-hosting-prices#shared-hosting\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Help Page\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E provides more details:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"62a7a249-3553-439a-9ade-32c2409681c6\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-19-262x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-11-at-13-07-092x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"2616\" data-image-height=\"1920\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBe careful, though. In practice, if you push your account near the limits, or use an excessive amount of bandwidth, it's likely that the service will throttle you back. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FBluehost\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBluehost was one of the earliest providers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to institute server throttling when \"unlimited\" resource usage got to be too much. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are some wins, most notably that even the basic plan is hosted on SSDs. Even if a site is using caching (which reduces the load on a server), having fast drives is always a plus. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company does have 24\u002F7 chat and phone support, and Bluehost offers a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fhelp\u002Farticle\u002Frefundpolicy\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E30-day money-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It's not as long as some competitors, but it is a fair amount of time for you to get a simple site up and running and see how things work. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \t \tGetting started with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce your account is created and you log in, you're immediately presented with an upsell:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"02ac1f74-531b-453c-9d7a-f4a2fd00d482\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-22-382x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-22-382x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2594\" data-image-height=\"1516\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter that, I was presented with this installation status window:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4247b1cb-f9ea-4ab5-ad0c-cdffc70446b6\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-25-132x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-25-132x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1256\" data-image-height=\"968\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI went ahead and clicked Log In To WordPress. I got the following screen. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a30b9bc0-18fa-42e0-b50e-1274f9d59976\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-28-082x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-28-082x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2618\" data-image-height=\"1470\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI have to admit that I'm getting a little impatient. I want to see the dashboard so I can see what I can do with this service. Since there is no option to simply go to the dashboard, I guessed that \"I'm following a tutorial\" might imply that Bluehost was going to let me do something not pre-scripted.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStrangely enough, I now have two tabs open, with two dashboards. Here's the first, which is a panel inside the actual WordPress site dashboard:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"05983cb4-b02e-422c-aced-483be3ca990e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-33-242x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-33-242x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2882\" data-image-height=\"1726\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd here's the second:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"185181f6-8201-4f9c-8a48-914b967a9e87\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-34-392x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-34-392x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2874\" data-image-height=\"1666\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere does not appear to be anything that allows full site customization through something like cPanel. The cPanel email option shown above is for setting up email. But there's not full cPanel interface, which is disappointing. However, I did eventually find a more advanced dashboard. You get to it in the second dashboard shown above, by hitting Settings under the Welcome statement:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0b9110ab-7c6d-47f1-8303-78248734d7fb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-02-122x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-02-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2854\" data-image-height=\"1882\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tBasic WordPress access with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI decided to work in the version of the Bluehost dashboard presented inside the WordPress dashboard. There are options to... wait... nope. Can't look at them yet. Another upsell just popped up and blocked my access to the dashboard:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f704452b-e7d3-4538-b595-ac40c970ef5b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-44-192x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-44-192x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2858\" data-image-height=\"2006\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's actually driven by a WordPress plugin, so that means there are probably a ton of unnecessary WordPress plugins preinstalled. I'll check on that in a bit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBack in settings, there's an option to install WooCommerce to add an online store. There's a $9.95 a month Online Store plan, so I'm guessing that somewhere along the installation and configuration process for WooCommerce, there will be an option to upgrade the plan. There's a performance tab, which basically allows you to turn on and off site-wide caching.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-taking-on-more-work-doesnt-mean-it-replaces-you-here-are-12-reasons-to-worry-less\u002F\"\u003EAI taking on more work doesn't mean it replaces you. Here are 12 reasons to worry less\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's a very simple settings option, where you can turn off the Coming Soon page status, enable automatic WordPress updates, specify the number of revisions to save, and manage comments. Most of these can also be managed from the WordPress dashboard, so this seems like just another way to control the same thing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOoh, this is interesting. Bluehost provides a staging site, even in the base plan. They get some big points for that. It's always nice to having a staging site, and many more expensive plans don't come with one. Granted, this is a staging site managed inside the main WordPress install (which can be a bit dicey when things go waaaay bad), but it's still a great feature for a bottom-level plan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a13db3f6-f1a8-4148-b992-79669e04b6b2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-49-492x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-49-492x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2540\" data-image-height=\"1074\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, let's switch over to the WordPress Plugins dashboard. There's a lot installed here. Many of these are popular WordPress plugins, all offer upsells, and many of them add a lot of overhead to a WordPress installation. Many plugins, once installed, leave a lot of cruft in the WordPress database, so even if they're unistalled, the database winds up with a  lot of former plugin pollution. Fortunately, in that hidden advanced settings panel I found above, there is an option to delete the entire site and start over.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere is a partial list of everything that's preinstalled:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f91d8fd8-2d37-461e-843b-c0697c4a3193\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPartial list of installed plugins\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-51-232x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-51-232x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2852\" data-image-height=\"2000\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of them are also flashing red notifications, begging for attention.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tQuick security checks with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecurity is one of the biggest issues when it comes to operating a website. You want to make sure your site is safe from hackers, doesn't flag Google, and can connect securely to payment engines if you're running an e-commerce site of any kind. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the scope of this article doesn't allow for exhaustive security testing, there are a few quick checks that can help indicate whether Bluehost's most inexpensive platform is starting with a secure foundation. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first of these is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbetter-than-the-best-password-how-to-use-2fa-to-improve-your-security\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emultifactor authentication\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (MFA). It's way too easy for hackers to just bang away at a website's login screen and brute-force a password. In the past, many of my sites have been pounded on by some hacker or another, but because I have some relatively strong protections in place, the bad actor hasn't been able to get in. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsaving-hours-of-work-with-ai-how-chatgpt-became-my-virtual-assistant-for-a-data-project\u002F\"\u003ESaving hours of work with AI: How ChatGPT became my virtual assistant for a data project\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnfortunately, the basic Bluehost plan doesn't appear to support multifactor authentication at the dashboard level. Any WordPress site can add an MFA plugin to support authentication at the website level, but it would be nice for Bluehost to offer MFA at the hosting level. They do allow you to set a PIN code, so if you're contacting support for help, they can verify that you're you. But that's not the same as real MFA.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost includes a free AutoSSL certificate, which is configured and enabled by default. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs my last quick security check, I like to look at the versions of some of the main system components that run web applications. To make things easy, I chose four components necessary to safe WordPress operation. While other apps may use other components, I've found that if components are up-to-date for one set of needs, they're usually up to date across the board. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere are my findings (using the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwordpress.org\u002Fplugins\u002Fhealth-check\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHealth Check & Troubleshooting plugin\u003C\u002Fa\u003E), as of the day I tested, for Bluehost's Basic plan: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable class=\"MsoNormalTable\" style=\"border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;border:none; mso-border-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-yfti-tbllook:1536;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-border-insideh:1.0pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:1.0pt solid black\" width=\"624\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"1\"\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EComponent\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVersion Provided\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECurrent Version\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow Old\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:1\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPHP \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.3.4 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.3.4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:2\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMySQL \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5.7.23-23\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5.7.44\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E68 months \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:3\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EcURL \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.7.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.7.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:4;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenSSL \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1.1.1w\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3.2.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnsupported\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn general, these results are fairly good -- especially considering how out of date some of Bluehost's competitors have been when I checked their versions. That said, you kind of need to know the component to know how to read these results. Bluehost has current versions of PHP (the language that runs WordPress) and cURL, a library used for many supporting services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMySQL can be confusing. The current version of MySQL is 8.0.23, but the production MySQL release process jumped from 5.7 to 8.0. While the MySQL 8.x branch is being updated, so is the MySQL 5.7.x branch. In that branch, at 68 months out of date, Bluehost's MySQL is getting a quite long in the tooth. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESSL is far worse. This is the security environment that provides encrypted communications to your website. It's what's indicated by that little lock in your browser's address bar. Bluehost is running an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.openssl.org\u002Fblog\u002Fblog\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F11\u002Feol-111\u002Findex.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eunsupported and obsolete version of OpenSSL\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This is not new news. It's now seven months since the entire OpenSSL 1.1.1 track has been end-of-lifed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost says that it's not really a problem, because they \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.cpanel.net\u002Fknowledge-base\u002Fsecurity\u002Fpci-compliance-and-software-versions\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebackport\u003C\u002Fa\u003E security code into their implementation. Brent Lundell, senior director of hosting infrastructure at Bluehost told me this:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenSSL is commonly backported by various software packages and operating systems, leveraging an older version (such as 1.1.1) while backporting the security patches to prevent regular rewrites of other portions of the software base. In Bluehost's case, OpenSSL 1.1.1 is compiled upstream by WebPros, which will backport security patches into v1.1.1 and ensure we're running a fully secured version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's a credible statement, but I still don't like it. If a security product has been obsoleted, it just raises the hairs on the back of my neck to still keep running it, even if a separate team is keeping it secure. I'd be far more comfortable moving to the actively supported code. Based on Lundell's response and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.redhat.com\u002Fen\u002Fblog\u002Fexperience-bringing-openssl-30-rhel-and-fedora\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esome reading I did on the topic\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it's quite likely their implementation is safe. Still, it seems wrong somehow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EBluehost performance testing\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, I wanted to see how the site performed using some online performance testing tools. It's important not to take these tests too seriously. We're purposely looking at the most low-end offerings of hosting vendors, so the sites they produce are expected to be relatively slow. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-used-chatgpt-to-write-the-same-routine-in-12-top-programming-languages-heres-how-it-did\u002F\"\u003EI used ChatGPT to write the same routine in 12 top programming languages. Here's how it did\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat said, it's nice to have an idea of what to expect. The way I test is to use the fresh install of WordPress with the standard theme TwentyTwenty. I then performance test the \"Hello, world\" page, which is mostly text, with just an image header. That way, we're able to focus on the responsiveness of a basic page without being too concerned about media overhead. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, I ran two \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftools.pingdom.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPingdom Tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E tests, one hitting the site from San Francisco and the second from Germany. Here's the San Francisco test rating: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7a50c4fb-59e4-4bbf-b467-88cab2d5d3e8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"website-speed-sf-pingdom-tools-2021-04-25-22-08-30.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-25-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1510\" data-image-height=\"630\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not stellar, but a good solid B rating is all you can really expect from a bottom-of-the-barrel plan. It's certainly workable and shouldn't incur any Google juice SEO penalties. Here's the same from Germany: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0ec42934-2b3a-4f45-b1a9-432ddb43fe90\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"website-speed-germany-pingdom-tools-2021-04-25-22-09-47.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-26-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1494\" data-image-height=\"644\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlso, definitely good enough for a small site. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tSupport responsiveness \u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's not much to say here. I had only one interaction, late on a Sunday night. I did get connected with human via chat within about five minutes. The individual was nice and clearly wanted to help. I particularly liked how they let me know that some of the information would take a few minutes to dig up, so I wasn't left hanging, wondering if they'd gone home for the night. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \tZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"1326d8bb-1401-4c7c-a96c-bad011ffb321\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is a workable web hosting provider, but certainly not spectacular. Having out-of-date and discontinued security libraries, even for a basic plan, even if it's been kept secure by a different team, makes me nervous. The offering of two different dashboards, opened at just about the same time, was confusing. The packing of the site with a ton of upsell plugins was just plain annoying. But performance was good enough, especially for the base price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-04-12 12:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"There's a reason Bluehost is one of the most popular web hosting providers around. I look at what it's like using the service and dig deep inside its implementation.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"77667c37-b21f-4b95-ac6a-0a83c039af03",image:{id:"a6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463",filename:"20240409-124438.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-04-09 17:07:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"shared-web-hosting-plans-fast-secure-shared-hosting-bluehost-2021-04-24-19-03-38.png",credits:"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F09\u002Fa6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463\u002F20240409-124438.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4000,height:2252,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Web Hosting",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"bluehost-review",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Bluehost review: Good performance, integrated dashboard, and solid support",topic:{id:"f6a63221-9e83-4e81-b4de-9c5396dbcbe2",slug:"web-hosting",name:"Web Hosting",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f6a63221-9e83-4e81-b4de-9c5396dbcbe2",slug:"web-hosting",name:"Web Hosting",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"67f7915b-998d-4435-ab60-ed51e5aeba02\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Thomas Barwick\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"security-cloud-datacenter-skills\" data-image-filename=\"security-cloud-datacenter-skills.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F03\u002F29\" data-image-width=\"2120\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECybersecurity attacks continue to climb in Asia-Pacific, even as organizations in markets such as Singapore struggle to adopt the necessary security measures due to a lack of knowledge. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe region saw a 15% \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwatch-out-generative-ai-will-level-up-cyber-attacks-according-to-new-google-report\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eincrease in cyberattacks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in 2023, clocking an average of 1,963 attacks weekly, with ransomware leading the pack. The financial industry was the fourth-most targeted sector by ransomware in Asia-Pacific, according to findings from FS-ISAC (Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center), which analyzed data from its members.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-101-everything-on-how-to-protect-your-privacy-and-stay-safe-online\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECybersecurity 101: Everything on how to protect your privacy and stay safe online\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe industry group further highlighted the growing sophistication of adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures, or TTPs, that now encompass SEO poisoning and QR code phishing. Threat actors also want to tap \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-generative-ai-and-why-is-it-so-popular-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerative artificial intelligence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (AI) to scale and automate attacks, including \"poisoning\" and manipulating generative AI tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFS-ISAC named four new threats the financial sector has to safeguard against, including increased geopolitical hacktivism activities, new extortion tactics that align with global regulations, and efforts to achieve cryptographic agility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe organization noted that online adversaries are anticipated to roll out misinformation campaigns and DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks against critical information infrastructures amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts and a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-powered-misinformation-is-top-global-risk-amid-easier-access-to-tools\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eyear of elections globally\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It added that DDoS attacks accounted for 35% of attacks targeting the financial services sector in 2023.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best VPN services (and how to choose the right one for you)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, threat actors are tweaking their tactics to leverage upcoming global regulations in 2024 and weaponizing disclosure requirements to extort companies leading up to compliance deadlines.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Threat actors will exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructures and leverage any tool available to destroy trust in the security of our systems,\" Teresa Walsh, FS-ISAC's chief intelligence officer and EMEA managing director, said. \"The financial services sector operates in a cyber landscape that is endlessly dynamic, as cybercrime and fraud converge, and emerging technologies create additional opportunities for exposure. In order to maintain trust in the sector, companies must prioritize proactive cyber hygiene to ensure operational resilience in the face of an attack.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESingapore organizations face a knowledge gap\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBusinesses that are hindered by a lack of expertise find it tough to adopt the necessary safeguards. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations in Singapore, for instance, have adopted an average of 70% of essential cybersecurity measures across five key categories, according to a study by Cyber Security Agency (CSA), which lists assets, backup, and response among the five areas.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone-vpn\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best VPN services for iPhone and iPad (yes, you need to use one)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency responsible for the country's cybersecurity strategy urges businesses to adopt all essential measures to avoid exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. Its study polled 2,036 large enterprises and small and midsize businesses (SMBs) between May and August 2023. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECSA's cybersecurity certification schemes, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-offers-certification-scheme-to-tag-companies-with-robust-security-posture\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECyber Essentials and Cyber Trust\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, outline national cybersecurity standards to guide companies on what processes to prioritize. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Partial adoption of measures is inadequate and unless all essential measures are adopted, organizations are still exposed to unnecessary cyber risks,\" CSA said in its report. The organization said there's room for improvement since just one in three organizations have fully implemented at least three of the five Cyber Essentials categories of measures.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F6-simple-cybersecurity-rules-you-can-apply-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E6 simple cybersecurity rules you can apply now\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EQueried about why they had not adopted cybersecurity measures, 59% of organizations in the study pointed to a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-skills-concerns-hamper-singapore-smb-digitalisation-efforts\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elack of knowledge or experience\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as a top challenge. CSA attributed this deficit to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapac-faces-2-1m-shortage-in-cybersecurity-professionals\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Etalent shortage in cybersecurity\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-teams-need-new-skills-even-as-they-struggle-to-manage-legacy-systems\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efast-changing threat landscape\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother 46% of organizations believed they were unlikely to be a target of cyberattacks and, hence, chose not to adopt all essential security measures. Some 36% cited the low returns on investment as a reason, while 31% pointed to the lack of budget as a challenge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore than eight in 10 companies acknowledged having experienced a cybersecurity incident within the past year, including 49% that encountered such incidents several times in the year. These typically include \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-releases-blueprint-to-combat-ransomware-attacks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eransomware\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, social engineering scams, and exploitation of misconfiguration of their cloud deployment. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong organizations that have experienced security incidents, 99% suffered a business impact, 48% of enterprises encountered business disruption, and 46% suffered data loss. Another 31% of businesses incurred financial loss, including 27% that suffered such losses from incident response measures.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"While organizations have put in place some measures to protect their assets, this is not sufficient given the increasing frequency and scale of cyber threats that we are facing today,\" CSA Chief Executive David Koh said. \"Organizations should make cybersecurity a priority and take advantage of the [government's] \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsmbs-face-growing-cybersecurity-threats-but-basic-measures-can-lower-risks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efunding support\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapores-guidelines-to-bolster-mobile-app-security-are-optional-for-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eresources\u003C\u002Fa\u003E available to catch up. Doing this only after an incident has happened will be much more costly.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EUsing generative AI to beef up security\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations in Singapore are also looking to use generative AI to improve their cybersecurity posture. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs many as 81% of decision-makers expect their budgets for generative AI to increase over the next three years, and 53% believe adopting the technology will improve resources, such as employees' time and operational efficiency. Another 52% anticipate improved customer experiences, while 46% expect generative AI to help scale their global business through augmenting translation and research capabilities, revealed a study commissioned by data search and observability vendor, Elastic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F2024-is-the-year-of-generative-ai-implementation-and-optimization\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E3 ways to accelerate generative AI implementation and optimization\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe global report was conducted by Vanson Bourne and surveyed 3,200 IT decision-makers in Europe, the US, and Asia-Pacific, the latter of which included 1,200 respondents from Singapore, Japan, India, and Australia. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study found that 99% of organizations in Singapore face IT security challenges, including maintaining current security practices and detecting and responding to threats. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll respondents in the city-state believe generative AI will beef up their security postures, including 51% who said the technology can automate security responses based on their security protocols. Another 50% expect generative AI to improve security report generation and predictive capabilities. Almost half (49%) believe such tools will improve entity recognition capabilities and another 49% think generative AI can detect anomalies. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, almost all respondents in Singapore noted that generative AI adoption is being slowed, with 42% pointing to fears around regulations as a barrier. Some 40% cited the skills gap in implementing generative AI technologies in-house as a challenge, while 39% noted the potential for the technology to generate convincing inaccurate information.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAsked about the apparent paradox between wanting to use generative AI to automate security tasks and the skepticism of its data accuracy, Chris Walker, Elastic's Asia-Pacific Japan vice president of solutions architecture, noted the importance of basic \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-seeks-expanded-governance-framework-for-generative-ai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edata governance and management\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations need the right competencies to apply generative AI to their operations and ensure the data used to train AI models is relevant and grounded, Walker said during a media briefing to discuss the study's findings. This approach will ensure the generative AI-powered responses they receive are trustworthy and the potential risks mitigated, including hallucinations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmy-two-favorite-chatgpt-plus-plugins-and-the-remarkable-things-i-can-do-with-them\u002F\"\u003EMy two favorite ChatGPT Plus features and what I can do with them\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApart from automating processes, such as quarantining, generative AI can also be tapped to surface information cybersecurity professionals can review and act on, he said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations will first have to address challenges they may face to extract insights from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-gold-rush-makes-basic-data-security-hygiene-critical\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Etheir data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"More than any other market in the region, organizations in Singapore struggle to access and leverage data stored across multiple systems and formats,\" Ravi Rajendran, Elastic's Asean area vice president, said. \"Users face the challenge of identifying the relationship between different data points and they are searching for ways to break down data silos and better leverage that data.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe continued: \"Although AI is where investment is concentrated, this is fundamentally an issue of search. Using GenAI to process data by searching and summarizing and using it to better manage records is a key area of interest for organizations here.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWalker added: \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-is-changing-cybersecurity-and-businesses-must-wake-up-to-the-threat\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGenAI is now a game-changer\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for businesses. When integrated effectively with powerful search and observability tools, GenAI can address long-term global challenges faced by companies and unique challenges that the markets in Asia-Pacific are tackling.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-04-01 17:37:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"It's time for organizations to wake up to the cyber threat as new vectors, including generative AI, increase in importance.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"e1adee09-df97-4e5e-a0c0-8c76c97f83a7",image:{id:"b8b76174-edbf-42c5-b68c-b63bc19bb5c6",filename:"gettyimages-1215119276.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-02-19 18:53:44",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Lock with wheels turning inside",credits:"Andriy Onufriyenko\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F02\u002F19\u002Fb8b76174-edbf-42c5-b68c-b63bc19bb5c6\u002Fgettyimages-1215119276.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2187,height:1371,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"the-biggest-challenge-with-increased-cybersecurity-attacks-according-to-analysts",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The biggest challenge with increased cybersecurity attacks, according to analysts",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1029c8e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"data-management",name:"Data Management",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"50801e7d-011f-4199-ae96-03411c8ec733\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Eugene Mymrin\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"AI fusing a block together\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1950805446.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F03\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has inked several partnerships to drive \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-ai-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-about-artificial-intelligence\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eartificial intelligence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (AI) adoption and skillsets in Singapore, particularly among small and midsize businesses (SMBs).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe tech giant is working with SkillsFuture Singapore to arm 2,000 SMBs over three years with the knowledge to tap AI tools. Microsoft is also teaming up with the Institute for Adult Learning to integrate AI into the education curriculum, with plans to jointly develop and test AI tools and methodologies to enhance the learning experience, Microsoft said in a statement on Wednesday.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwant-to-work-in-ai-how-to-pivot-your-career-in-5-steps\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWant to work in AI? How to pivot your career in 5 steps\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company will also work with NTUC LearningHub to train up to 100,000 National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) members with fundamental AI skills. The aim is to boost members' AI literacy and prepare them for the evolving workforce, according to Microsoft.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe collaboration has resulted in several online and in-person training programs focused on how AI can be \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffinding-the-path-toward-success-as-organizations-bring-ai-into-the-workplace\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eapplied in the workplace\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, said NTUC LearningHub CEO Jeremy Ong. He said this approach will ensure NTUC's members are \"ready for the future of work\" and part of a workforce that can harness AI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-prompt-engineer-displacing-data-scientist-as-the-sexiest-job-of-the-21st-century\u002F\"\u003EIs prompt engineer displacing data scientist as the 'sexiest job of the 21st century'?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is also working with EnterpriseSG and AI Singapore to drive the adoption of Microsoft Copilot among local SMBs and identify industry-specific use cases for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-generative-ai-and-why-is-it-so-popular-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerative AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The partners will jointly develop resources to help SMB leaders with change management and redesigning business workflows, Microsoft said, adding that the company will look to add customized AI use cases for businesses in the longer term.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese efforts will allow SMBs to scale the benefits of AI and boost productivity and operations. In addition, the software vendor will collaborate with Infocomm Media Development Authority to support digitally mature SMBs in accessing expertise and resources to implement generative AI tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESoh Leng Wan, EnterpriseSG's assistant CEO for manufacturing and engineering, believes Copilot can be \"an easy way\" for SMBs to start tapping AI to drive employee productivity and improve business workflows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has also introduced an initiative to develop AI solutions for key industry sectors. Its Microsoft AI Pinnacle Program encompasses the development of roadmaps for strategic AI use cases that provide clear returns on investment and operationalized AI use cases that deliver business impact.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new initiative will establish an AI Center of Capabilities, comprising AI accelerators and toolsets, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-identifies-six-generative-ai-risks-sets-up-foundation-to-guide-adoption\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eresponsible AI frameworks, and a governance\u003C\u002Fa\u003E program. The initiative will also provide training programs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-chatgpt\u002F\"\u003EHow to use ChatGPT\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft AI Pinnacle Program was launched with five participating organizations -- Certis, HTX, Mediacorp, Seatrium, and Synapxe -- from various sectors, including health care and maritime.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The program will facilitate co-creation and co-innovation of AI use cases and foster an AI-first culture and ecosystem,\" Microsoft said. \"Through this, the program aims to inspire new ways of work and support organizations in building capabilities to tap opportunities in the era of AI.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program will include the rollout of Copilot for business functions such as HR, finance, and marketing. Participating organizations can also work with Microsoft Research and its partners to develop new AI capabilities.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaurence Liew, AI Singapore's director of AI innovation, has urged generative AI software vendors to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-leaders-urged-to-integrate-local-data-models-for-diversitys-sake\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eincorporate regional and local data models\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to ensure their products better reflect a diverse global population. For example, integrating the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fnew-research-initiative-aims-to-build-large-language-ai-model-for-southeast-asia\u002F\"\u003ESoutheast Asian Languages in One Network\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (SEA-LION) large language model (LLM) will help these generative AI tools to generate more accurate responses, Liew said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELiew noted that most \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F\"\u003Epublic generative AI tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E today are non-Asian focused and might have \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-safety-and-bias-untangling-the-complex-chain-of-ai-training\u002F\"\u003Einherent data bias\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. LLMs such as SEA-LION are more \"culturally sensitive\", which he said will ensure generative AI responses better reflect the region's societal mix.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F6-ai-tools-that-can-supercharge-your-everyday-life-and-work\u002F\"\u003E6 AI tools to supercharge your work and everyday life\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn January, Singapore released a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehandbook to help local businesses navigate their adoption of generative AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and acquire the skills to support such initiatives. Dubbed Generative AI for the Tech Workforce, the resource guide aims to assist Singaporean organizations, such as SMBs, that want to integrate the technology into their environments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Singapore government last month \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-to-accelerate-ai-development-with-investment-in-compute-and-talent\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eset aside at least SG$1 billion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E ($741.97 million) to accelerate AI development in the country, including securing access to the necessary compute power and skillsets. Plans are also underway to upgrade the country's national broadband network and build a new cybersecurity command hub.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe investments aim to support the Singapore government's efforts to tap technology across key sectors and are part of its fiscal 2024 budget, running through to March 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-03-07 10:24:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The tech giant is working with government agencies to help 2,000 smaller businesses adopt AI tools, including Copilot.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"4880c2c0-9b2a-4f13-8f11-58822b1b9763",image:{id:"50801e7d-011f-4199-ae96-03411c8ec733",filename:"gettyimages-1950805446.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-03-06 20:54:58",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"AI fusing a block together",credits:"Eugene Mymrin\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F03\u002F06\u002F50801e7d-011f-4199-ae96-03411c8ec733\u002Fgettyimages-1950805446.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"microsoft-inks-pact-to-train-singapore-smbs-in-ai",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Microsoft inks pact to train Singapore SMBs in AI",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d}],componentLabel:b,description:b,filters:b,paging:b,slug:"dynamic-topic-five-story-feature-latest-offset-5",title:b,label:b,viewMoreText:b,viewMoreUrl:b,relatedItems:b},{id:"61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",meta:{componentName:"61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",componentDisplayName:b,componentType:"ContentList"},metadata:{},links:{self:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d",meta:{pageNum:1,count:15}},prev:{href:b,meta:b},next:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d&offset=15&limit=15",meta:{pageNum:2,count:15}},first:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d&offset=0&limit=15",meta:{pageNum:1,count:15}},last:{href:"https:\u002F\u002Fbender.cnetstatic.com\u002Fapi\u002Fneutron\u002Fcomponents\u002Fzdnet\u002Flisting\u002Fdynamic_listing\u002F61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d\u002Fweb?searchBy=id&topicSlug=smb&componentType=ContentList&componentName=61aded77-4ad4-412f-850f-e183cdc51b1d&offset=3555&limit=15",meta:{pageNum:238,count:14}}},items:[{author:{id:"fffab326-d9a6-4491-aadb-e18e8e906d5f",username:"cecadenas",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Cesar",lastName:"Cadenas",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4",filename:"1608345669637.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-07-21 15:02:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F21\u002F73d84d86-ff96-42ac-9c31-eef4cc1750a4\u002F1608345669637.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Cesar Cadenas has been writing about the tech industry for several years now specializing in consumer electronics, entertainment devices, Windows, and generative AIs. But he's also passionate about smartphones, GPUs, and cybersecurity.",profile:b,title:"Staff Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EThe past year has been huge for laptops. With so many new models, identifying the best laptop for you can be overwhelming. Our experts have tested some of the best laptops of the year, like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lenovo-laptop\u002F\"\u003Ethe latest Lenovo\u003C\u002Fa\u003E ThinkPad, Dell's XPS lineup, and the creative powerhouse Asus ProArt P16. We reviewed spec sheets to evaluate random access memory (RAM) and storage, build quality, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-lightweight-laptops\u002F\"\u003Eportability\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and value, in addition to testing some of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-under-1000\u002F\"\u003Ebest affordable laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsing industry-standard benchmarking programs, we test all laptops to measure performance, battery life, and display quality. After going hands-on with dozens of models, we found the best laptop to be the MacBook Pro M4 for its fantastic battery life, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F\"\u003Efast performance\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and sleek, portable form factor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best laptop right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the overall best laptop is the \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"681a63f7-5b6d-4438-be3d-caee9b6aa794\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fapple-macbook-pro-14-inch-apple-m4-chip-built-for-apple-intelligence-16gb-memory-512gb-ssd-space-black\u002F6602741.p?skuId=6602741\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fapple-macbook-pro-14-laptop-m3-max-chip-36gb-memory-30-core-gpu-1tb-ssd-latest-model-space-black%2F6534620.p%3FskuId%3D6534620&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"M4 MacBook Pro\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. It possesses nearly everything you could ever want in a laptop: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-battery-life-laptop\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea long-lasting battery\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, generation-defining artificial intelligence features, top-tier performance, and a vibrant display. This laptop checks off all the boxes and looks as good as it performs. As great as it may be, the M4 MacBook Pro isn't for everyone, and there are other options worth highlighting.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-clear-the-cache-on-your-windows-11-pc-and-why-you-shouldnt-wait-to-do-it\u002F\"\u003EHow to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why you shouldn't wait to do it)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f6c32bf9-e56b-41c2-9d77-a8af2e522882\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETaking the top spot as the best laptop of 2025 is Apple's M4 MacBook Pro. This may surprise some people, as we're sure a few were expecting the M4 Pro or M4 Max version, but there is a good reason why we went with the base model. It perfectly balances the lines between power and affordability.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe M4 is the latest chipset in Apple's silicon line. It comprises a 10-core central processing unit (CPU) and a 10-core graphics processing unit (GPU). Supporting the hardware are 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Kerry Wan, the Senior Reviews Editor at ZDNET, said the base configuration can arguably meet the needs "for 90% of users" and says "most people will be delighted by the... overall computing experience". Whether for photo editing, video work, or light gaming, the M4 handles everything smoothly, even outperforming the old M1 Pro chip.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtificial intelligence also plays a big role in the M4 ecosystem. It enables the new ChatGPT-powered Siri, allowing the AI assistant to "answer... sophisticated queries instead" relying on Google Search. Writing Tools is another notable feature that can craft messages across various tones. Image Playground creates AI-generated artwork, which can be useful for professionals who need an image for work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI also want to shout out the nano-texture display, which is capable of staying "clear and pristine" even "after a week of intensive use". If money is not an issue, you can purchase the MacBook Pro housing the M4 Pro or M4 Max chipset. These two provide an even better user experience, although be prepared to pay much more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-linux-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Linux laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMacBook Pro M4 specs: Display size:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E14-inch&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Liquid Retina XDR |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;3024 x 1964 pixels |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 24GB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 1TB&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10-core M4&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to a purported 24 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Pro (M4)\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"A close-up shot of the 16-inch MacBook Pro's keyboard.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272","title":"M4 MacBook Pro","filename":"dsc02534-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F06\u002F5deaa4ab-7b44-4b09-984f-5e0d38f4a272\u002Fdsc02534-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":530566,"width":2048,"height":1152,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:43:10","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-06 19:44:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"M4 MacBook 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It succeeds on multiple fronts. This machine has a stunning 4K resolution display surrounded by thin bezels. Being surrounded by a thin frame makes the screen appear significantly more prominent than it is.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhat's more, it's supported by several image-enhancing features like Dolby Vision which delivers "vibrant shades of color" as well as a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. The latter ensures images output high amounts of detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdell-xps-16-2024-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EDell XPS 16 (2024)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder the hood, the XPS 16 houses an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 40-series graphics card. My review unit came with an RTX 4070 GPU. Combine these specs with its 32GB of RAM, and you're looking at a laptop that can easily handle all demanding workloads, from gaming to video editing. It's nothing if not a powerhouse.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe XPS 16 also has a stylish design. The zero lattice keyboard and the function key touch panel give it a distinct look seen nowhere else. On the sides of the keys are the device's room-filling speakers.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-dell-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest Dell laptops of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe want to warn you that the XPS 16 is rather heavy and doesn't have a wide array of ports, so you may need a docking station. Be sure to check out ZDNET's list of the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-docking-station\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest laptop docking stations\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for recommendations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDell XPS 16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16.3 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;4K |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core Ultra 7 155H&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 64GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 4TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell XPS 16\" data-superlative=\"Best Windows laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Dell XPS 17 open on grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6","title":"dell xps 14 - 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This is mainly due to its top-tier hardware: an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, and a solid 32GB of RAM. AMD's Ryzen CPU, as its name reveals, utilizes artificial intelligence to boost performance, while freeing up processing power to allow the Stealth A16 to earn high marks on performance tests.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-desktop-with-this-msi-laptop-for-a-week-and-it-surpassed-my-expectations\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdmittedly, many laptops, including some work machines, have similar hardware, so MSI's machine isn't unique in that regard. What makes it special is that all its components are paired up with a 16-inch QuadHD (2,560 x 1,600 pixels) display running at 240Hz. A high refresh rate ensures smooth on-screen animation: action sequences from video games run smoothly and the whole experience feels more responsive than laptops with slower displays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdditionally, the laptop sports unique optimization features. MSIHybrid, for example, is a mode that balances performance and battery efficiency. Its SteelSeries keyboard is another standout feature, offering comfortable typing. If longevity is a concern, the Stealth A 16 comes with Integrated Graphics mode to extend the battery life, pushing the battery to over 11 hours on a single charge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus specs: Display size: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E16 inches | \u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EQHD | \u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 2560 x 1600 | \u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 9-365&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070&nbsp;| \u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB | \u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 1TB SSD | \u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E 10.5 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best gaming laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","title":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","filename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F20\u002Fbc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":284938,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-20 22:34:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"MSI\u002FZDNET","alt":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"bc567583-8e88-48fa-ad1e-0272ca296919","imageAltText":"Close-up of the Stream Deck buttons and keyboard of the Corsair Voyager a1600","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"msi-stealth-a16-ai-plus-blue-screen.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F20","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black\u002F6590023.p?skuId=6590023","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fmsi-stealth-a16-ai-copilot-pc-16240hz-qhd-ultra-thin-gaming-laptop-amd-ryzen-ai-9-365-with-32gb-memory-rtx-4070-1tb-ssd-core-black%2F6590023.p%3FskuId%3D6590023&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Powerful hardware ~ High resolution display ~ Lots of optimization features\" data-dislike=\"~ Expensive ~ Heavy and bulky\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"20487468-34cd-4e6e-b785-65c593bf7616\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15 stands tall as the best budget laptop. For less than $300, you get a portable notebook built to cover the basics. What it lacks in fancy aesthetics or premium features, this device makes up for it by being a solid secondary computer for students or professionals.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPowered by an Intel Core i3-N305 and 8GB of RAM, the device can handle lightweight productivity tasks reasonably well. Its 15-inch 1080p display provides decent viewing angles and sufficient contrast with a modest level of brightness.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company opted for a utilitarian design when creating the Aspire Go 15, featuring a full-sized keyboard alongside a well-placed trackpad. Battery life is another standout feature, lasting over 10 hours straight during our video playback tests. That number does drop down to about eight hours of typical use. What's more, the laptop can be versatile thanks to a humble selection of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-299-windows-laptop-is-my-new-go-to-recommendation-for-budget-shoppers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmazon sells multiple configurations of the Aspire Go 15. If you want a version with more power behind it, the retailer has the 2024 Performance model. It comes with an Intel Core i5-13420H and a touchscreen. There's also the 2023 Browse version if you want to save more money.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free antivirus software of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAcer Aspire Go specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;LCD&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1080p&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Intel Core i3-N305&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;125GB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Up to 11 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Aspire Go 15\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop under $500\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","title":"acer-aspire-go-15-1","filename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F26\u002F9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572\u002Facer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4885018,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-04-26 15:05:52","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Acer Aspire Go 15","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"9bbd351f-00e8-4966-b7f1-0593b393d572","imageAltText":"An Acer Aspire 3 on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-aspire-go-15-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F04\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FAspire-i3-N305-Graphics-Windows-AG15-31P-3947\u002Fdp\u002FB0CV5ZSR17?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Lots of bang for your buck ~Good enough for everyday use ~Full keyboard\" data-dislike=\"~A little bulky ~Limited by its lower-end RAM\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1810c764-9453-4eb8-a30f-80eb2db71b60\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen Asus&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fasus-2025-laptop-lineup-features-a-sleek-understated-design-ethos-and-oleds-all-around\u002F"\u003Eofficially announced\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fcc.zdnet.com\u002Fv1\u002Fotc\u002F00hQi47eqnEWQ6T9d4QLBUc?element=BODY&amp;element_label=Zenbook+A14&amp;group_uuid=d3064884-4eb7-4462-888e-c2779fd66d6a&amp;module=LINK&amp;object_type=commerce-link&amp;object_uuid=4ee6e6c1-4c54-4a82-bafb-17b3d5f497bc&amp;position=1&amp;template=article&amp;track_code=__COM_CLICK_ID__&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.awin1.com%2Fawclick.php%3Fmid%3D31828%26id%3D423585%26clickref%3Dzd-__COM_CLICK_ID__-dtp%26ued%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fshop.asus.com%252Fus%252F90nb1502-m00fm0-zenbook-a14-ux3407-copilot-pc.html&amp;view_instance_uuid=2679b2a2-44cb-4e02-b60a-e48548e75d2d" target="_blank"\u003EZenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;at CES this year, I wasn't the only one to be&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptops-of-ces-2025\u002F"\u003Elow-key enamored\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;with it. It's a&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop\u002F"\u003Egreat laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;in its own right, but it stands out with its successful balancing act between performance and affordability while hitting all the right notes that consumers care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMade of Asus' proprietary ceraluminum material, the Zenbook A14 is exceedingly light, weighing just 2.1 pounds. For reference, the 13-inch&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fid-recommend-the-m3-macbook-air-at-full-price-but-this-new-deal-makes-it-a-no-brainer\u002F"\u003EMacBook Air\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is 2.7 pounds. When you set it down, the device opens easily with the lift of a single finger, revealing the brilliant organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-tested-asus-new-ultraportable-laptop-and-its-worth-the-hype-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F"\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's a sleek and lightweight laptop for the modern professional who lives in the cloud, works remotely, and values a nice display. In addition, the Zenbook A14 boots quickly, loads apps swiftly, and navigates the web without lag. It runs silent and cool, generating almost no heat -- even with the slim form factor.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHands down, the best part of this laptop is the outstanding battery life. Asus advertises up to 32 hours on a single charge. Although that's the top end of the estimation, it's not far off from what you can expect with everyday use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus Zenbook A14 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;OLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200 (Full HD+) |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;16GB or 32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Snapdragon X or X Plus&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EGPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Qualcomm Adreno&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUp to 32 hours of video playback |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EWeight:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;2.1 lbs\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus Zenbook A14\" data-superlative=\"Best lightweight laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","title":"Asus Zenbook A14","filename":"dsc03098.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2025\u002F02\u002F11\u002F01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752\u002Fdsc03098.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":5863163,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:17:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2025-02-11 21:18:31","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus Zenbook A14","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"01478267-4429-457f-9bf1-232e01f40752","imageAltText":"Asus Zenbook A14","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc03098.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2025\u002F02\u002F11","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray\u002F6616965.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-zenbook-a14-14-oled-laptop-copilot-pc-qualcomm-snapdragon-x-with-32gb-memory-1tb-ssd-iceland-gray%2F6616965.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Sleek and lightweight ~Great battery life ~Brilliant OLED display\" data-dislike=\"~Higher-end processor linked to lower RAM ~Not designed for intensive workloads\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"2be0b709-340a-4fda-97f4-4e928a3d47be\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAsus' ProArt P16 is a laptop designed primarily for content creators who demand a machine with robust hardware to support their work. Powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU and an Nvidia GeForce 4060 GPU, this device excels at handling tough workloads like \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Evideo editing\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-graphic-design\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egraphic design\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The hardware ensures seamless multitasking, while the 16-inch Active-Matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) touchscreen delivers vibrant visuals in crisp detail.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EArtists, in particular, will appreciate this display's glossy surface, which responds well to styluses. The Asus DialPad integrated into the trackpads allows users to create customized controls to streamline workflows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-found-a-creators-laptop-that-competes-with-the-macbook-pro-and-more-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOther customization options include DialPad and Performance Profiles, which let you prioritize certain aspects of the laptop depending on the situation. For example, if you have a busy workflow and need a performance boost, you could have the hardware prioritize battery life for better longevity or processing power. The MyAsus app also helps on this front, as it offers tools to manage updates or monitor performance.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course, I can't forget to mention Vivobook Pro's top-notch design. It boasts good ergonomics and a sturdy hinge that prevents unnecessary movement. Its keyboard is notably quiet, so you won't disturb the people around you when typing. The ProArt P16 is a good alternative to either the M3 or M4 MacBook Pro, although getting the most out of it requires precise optimization.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus-software-for-windows\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest antivirus software for Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAsus ProArt P16 specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; 3840 x 2400 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ruzen AI 9 HX 370&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;10 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Asus ProArt P16\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for content creators\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","title":"Asus ProArt P16","filename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F11\u002F26\u002Fa9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a\u002Fasus-proart-p16-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":2578517,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:22","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-11-26 22:08:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Asus ProArt P16","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a9c473f2-aa7e-4220-befd-eaba33bd087a","imageAltText":"An MSI Creator Z17 laptop on a grey background","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"asus-proart-p16-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F11\u002F26","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black\u002F6584438.p?skuId=6584438","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fasus-proart-p16-16-4k-touch-screen-laptop-copilot-pc-amd-ryzen-ai-9-hx-370-32gb-memory-rtx-4060-1tb-ssd-nano-black%2F6584438.p%3FskuId%3D6584438&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\" data-like=\"~ Many customization features ~ High-end hardware ~ Responsive touchscreen\" data-dislike=\"~ Glossy screen ~ Large trackpad\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"86ad5265-f7dc-4eea-bfd0-105b67f11e7b\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELenovo's sixth-generation ThinkPad T14s is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-laptops\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efast laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that can tackle intensive productivity tasks. It performs well thanks to the recently released AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 processor, the integrated AMD Radeon 880M graphics card, and of course, the ample 32GB of RAM. Hardware like this delivers exceptional multitasking capabilities.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBenchmark results highlight its power, scoring over 9,300 points in PCMark 10's Essential Productivity tests. Cinebench results show image rendering is remarkably fast, further demonstrating the efficiency of the Ryzen AI processor. If that wasn't enough, the neural processing unit (NPU) boosts the computer's hardware even further as the component offloads work and stress from the main processor.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-thinkpad-checks-all-my-boxes-for-a-solid-work-laptop-heres-why-it-stands-out\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBeyond its hardware, the T14s Gen 6 sports a lightweight design, typical of other models in its line, and a solid 12-hour battery life. I also appreciate how fast the battery charges, reaching 70% in about an hour. Other notable features include a 5MP webcam for clear video calls in 1440p, Thunderbolt 4 ports for quick file transfer, and Dolby Atmos, enabling immersive sound. Lastly, it supports Wi-Fi 7, so users can ensure speedy wireless speeds.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Efeatures: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;14 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;WUXGA&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1200&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;32GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;up to 1TB SSD |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\" data-superlative=\"Best laptop for work\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"","imageData":{"id":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","title":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","filename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F12\u002F09\u002F442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":457325,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-09 22:29:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":null,"alt":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"442a86cf-f1a8-40e0-aece-34cc9a4fa11a","imageAltText":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"lenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-outdoors.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F12\u002F09","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Lenovo","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lenovo.com\u002Fus\u002Fen\u002Fp\u002Flaptops\u002Fthinkpad\u002Fthinkpadt\u002Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop\u002Flen101t0109","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenovo.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Flaptops%2Fthinkpad%2Fthinkpadt%2Flenovo-thinkpad-t14s-gen-6-14-inch-amd-laptop%2Flen101t0109&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"},{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Amazon","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FLenovo-ThinkPad-T14s-Gen-6-2024\u002Fdp\u002FB0D6YLBBZL?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~High-end hardware ~Full-package ThinkPad ~Great webcam\" data-dislike=\"~No OLED option\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a2e95d2a-7c8f-4a8c-92cf-27ddd1e367ec\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EChromebooks hit their stride last year as third-party manufacturers introduced beefier hardware and cool features to the devices. Once relegated to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-tablet\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etablets\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and devices with very limited use, the upgrades have allowed Chromebooks to become a valid third option alongside MacBooks and Windows laptops.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne of the better Chromebooks released in 2024 was Samsung's Galaxy Chromebook Plus, a lightweight device with a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-oled-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebrilliant OLED display\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and a handful of AI-powered features. The new Quick Insert key on the Galaxy Chromebook lets users bring up a control panel for mobile devices to help multitask, while the Help Me Read feature scans and summarizes websites, articles, and text files. Even better, these functions are built into the device at the OS level.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-lightweight-laptop-has-one-of-the-best-displays-ive-seen-and-its-very-affordable\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Galaxy Chromebook Plus looks great with its vivid 15.6-inch display. It is well-rounded enough for various use cases -- even cloud gaming -- which only a few years ago was not something you'd think about doing on a Chromebook. Praise must be levied at its design, too. My colleague, Kyle Kucharski, complemented Samsung for foregoing the implementation of a touchscreen. Doing so allowed the tech giant to develop a Chromebook that is thin and relatively easy to use.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best part about all of this is that the device is affordable, at $699, which is a competitive price for a portable workstation, gaming machine, or main driver.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus specs: Display size:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;15.6 inches |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EDisplay type:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;AMOLED |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EResolution:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;1920 x 1080 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECPU:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp; Intel Core 3 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;8GB |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;256GB eUFS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery life:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;12 hours&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\" data-superlative=\"Best Chromebook laptop\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","title":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","filename":"img-7640a.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F30\u002F5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf\u002Fimg-7640a.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1876854,"width":4032,"height":2268,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:20:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-09-30 22:21:07","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e73bfe3-f8b3-49d2-863a-800d58415fcf","imageAltText":"Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"img-7640a.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F09\u002F30","imageWidth":4032,"imageHeight":2268,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"f356f332-08ae-4bd1-8569-5150bedd46d5","slug":"samsung-galaxy-chromebook-plus-15-6-with-google-ai-amoled-display-intel-core-3-8gb-memory-256gb-storage-neptune-blue","label":"Samsung - 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This chart breaks down how the laptop stacks up with the top features on other devices, from price to CPU\u002FGPU, screen size, and display resolution.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest laptop\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStarting price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor\u002FGPU\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERAM\u002FStorage\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,399\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EApple M4 SoC\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 24GB, up to 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EDell XPS 16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,699\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core Ultra 7 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 64GB, up to 4TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,999\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAMD Ryzen AI 9-365 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$255\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core i3-N305 | Intel UHD\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E8GB, 128GB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,099\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESnapdragon X Plus&nbsp;| Qualcomm Adreno\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,649\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E32GB, 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$1,401\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EQualcomm Snapdragon X Elite | Integrated Qualcomm GPU\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUp to 32GB, up to 1TB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E$699\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EIntel Core 3\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E8GB, 256GB\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is the best laptop?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"64194be1-5d0d-4f29-b876-8d173339b35d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe main question when buying a laptop is: "What do you want to do with it?" Once you've established that, you can focus your research on finding the right machine for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor example, if you're on the move a lot, you'll want a good combination of flexibility, sturdiness, connectivity, security, and a long battery life. However, you should opt for a laptop with powerful hardware if you're a largely deskbound graphic designer or content creator. Devices with top-tier processors and graphics cards tend to be heavier than most.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's a well-researched (and tested) list of our favorite laptops for a wide array of use cases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBuy this best laptop...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIf you need...\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMacBook Pro (M4)\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA powerful, well-rounded laptop for the office and home. The MacBook Pro with the M4 chip brings performance for nearly everything from simple spreadsheets and video calls to video editing.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EDell XPS 16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA Windows-based laptop with seriously powerful hardware and lots of different options for customizing it to your needs.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMSI Stealth A16 AI Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA top-notch gaming laptop with a fast screen running at a 240Hz refresh rate.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAcer Aspire Go 15\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA seriously inexpensive laptop that has all the basics for everyday use.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus Zenbook A14\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA lightweight and well-designed laptop with a gorgeous OLED display and marathon battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAsus ProArt P16\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EA laptop designed specifically for content creators with a brilliant OLED display and a ton of customization options.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn ultraportable laptop for work. It houses the latest AI-powered AMD processor and a fast charging battery.\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAn affordable, lightweight Chromebook with a gorgeous display\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the right laptop for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"dd4dd706-0b03-4fe7-8eed-40a8e1da8d90\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe use a combination of methods to test laptops here at ZDNET. First, we acquire data from benchmarking software to analyze a system's metrics under the hood and compare those to advertised numbers. Then, we spend an extended amount of time with the laptop -- usually a week or two -- using it the same way a normal consumer would, to assess its portability, form factor, and how well the battery&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eactually\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;holds up. For an extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-laptops\u002F"\u003Elaptop testing methodology\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBenchmarking:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;First, we run a series of tests to put the computer's hardware through the wringer in order to see what it's capable of.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.maxon.net\u002Fen\u002Fdownloads\u002Fcinebench-2024-downloads" target="_blank"\u003ECinebench\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is one of the most commonly used hardware testing suites, which tests the laptop's rendering performance on single and multiple central processing unit (CPU) cores.&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fbenchmarks.ul.com\u002Fpcmark10" target="_blank"\u003EPCMark 10\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another powerful program that covers a wide variety of tasks performed in the workplace, and there are many others that we use in tandem to gather as much data as we can. Some components we run tests on include:\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EProcessor:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The "brain" of the laptop and one of the most important factors that determines performance. The four biggest manufacturers that make most of the CPUs found in laptops today are Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, and Apple -- in Apple machines only. This is tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe display:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;The size of the display -- measured diagonally from corner to corner -- is also what dictates the laptop's overall size and plays a big role in the device's cost. Brightness is measured in "nits," and color spectrums are tested in benchmarking software.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe graphics processor (GPU):\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether it's integrated into the CPU or a dedicated graphics card, how well the machine handles graphics is a key factor when it comes to demanding tasks like video editing, rendering, and of course, gaming. We test the GPU with a combination of benchmarking software, gaming, and media playback.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPhysical form factor:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EFinally, the laptop's overall appearance and physical form factor encompasses its weight, thickness, how the keyboard and trackpad feel, and whether it has a display that can be folded back to form a tablet. We carry the laptop around for at least a week and note how well it commutes.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBattery testing:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We test a unit's battery in a few ways. A handful of benchmarking programs have their own battery testing components, but we also will just let the laptop run for as long as it can under a medium load. We ensure screensavers and hibernation mode are turned off, set the display's brightness and audio at 50%, load up a livestream on YouTube in Chrome, and wait 'til the end.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe human element:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;As we mentioned earlier, metrics and system data is important, but numbers alone don't give you the full picture. This is where we weave in our personal experience with the device and tap into the practical use cases that consumers actually care about.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, our goal is to break down the capabilities of each and every laptop we test into digestible terms that real people find useful. There is a lot of noise and confusion when it comes to navigating the laptop and computer consumer market, so we hope to bring an intuitive element to the whole process by leveraging our team's decades of experience.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test laptops\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","title":"Asus Vivobook","filename":"dsc01864.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F06\u002F48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0\u002Fdsc01864.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":4860831,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:06","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-06 20:21:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"48bd054a-0221-4bd8-b286-b3f1aea862a0","imageAltText":"Cross section of an Asus Vivbook laptop.","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dsc01864.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F06","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89037ae6-ef79-4aae-a4ef-e0d6ae59633a\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMultiple factors influence the choice of laptops for this list. We look for machines with great designs, performance, and effective storage and RAM. We also considered the different purposes for which you may need or use your laptop and the overall value -- including the price point -- that the laptop promises.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDesign:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Whether your laptop is your ultimate workstation or source of entertainment, its design, display, and portability determine how you interact with the unit.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;For many, laptops are essential for workflow and communication. The best laptops promise efficient speed and performance, powered by the greatest and latest chipsets -- like the Apple M3 Max.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage and RAM:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;It's likely you'll use a laptop to store key documents or memories, and the best models have plenty of room for you to do so.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPurpose:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We strive to answer the question, "What laptop should I get if ___" as we know you have different workflow and entertainment needs and preferences, from graphic design to gaming.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EValue:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EThe best laptop can be a pricey investment, so we considered qualities that assure you'll get your money's worth.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are some factors to consider when choosing the best laptops?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EFAQs on laptops\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"0192c3e8-a367-4061-897d-caa9d70dc2ea\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile the desktop form factor, especially in the form of all-in-one (AIO) devices, still exists, laptops come in various sizes and cover many use cases. They range from thin, light, and ultraportable to bulky, powerful, and deskbound. Because of how good laptops are nowadays, most people opt for sticking with a laptop to serve as their main computer. If a small laptop screen is an issue, an external monitor can be connected.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why should you buy a laptop, and not a desktop or a tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"50bb31e2-435e-4126-b36c-492c636e5ece\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile every computing platform has its loyal supporters, most people end up using a particular operating system because of key applications running on it, employer preferences, or budgetary constraints. Windows, which ranges from budget to premium, and Apple's MacOS, which is exclusive to premium devices, cover a broad spectrum. ChromeOS is mostly limited to mid-range devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-anonymous-browsing-these-extensions-are-the-next-best-thing-to-tor\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFor anonymous browsing, these extensions are the next best thing to Tor\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll Windows devices listed here meet the requirements for Windows 11. If you purchase a device with Windows 10 installed, you will be able to upgrade to Windows 11 if you choose to do so. Note that after October 14, 2025, Windows 10 support will end, and there will be no further security patches or feature updates.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which operating system should you choose: Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, or Linux?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"3aeb95bd-eeec-4c6e-b821-c4e92cddc133\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn general, the leading PC vendors have the most extensive range of offerings and the best-documented track records for product development and customer relations. Therefore, if you do not have a specialized use case or budgetary constraints, you will typically consider vendors such as Lenovo, HP, Dell, Apple, or Asus. These vendors currently lead the PC market in terms of shipments, along with several other well-known brands.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What brand of laptop is best?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"474586ca-463c-4daf-a6a4-836135e5d46d\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe good news is that you don't need to have the biggest, best, newest components to get a decent&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fhome-entertainment\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egaming laptop\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. To play most triple-A and indie titles, we recommend a rig with at least 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, a 120Hz refresh rate for the display, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Elso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-budget-gaming-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best budget gaming laptops you can buy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd if you want to try your hand at content creation, something like the Corsair Voyager a1600 is a sure bet. You might also want to consider equipping with accessories. An Elgato Steam Deck integration, for example, can offer streamlined workflows when editing videos, livestreaming, and even setting up video calls with channel moderators or collaborators.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for gaming?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c94ed06c-6b3a-490e-900d-77fabe44e8c5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIt really depends on the student, but there are some common factors to consider when shopping for a laptop for school. You'll want something small and lightweight for easier commutes to and from school and between classes.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-college\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for college: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll also want something with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical school day without needing to plug in. This is excellent for younger kids who may be forgetful and leave their charging cable at home. Also, look for a laptop with at least 4GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and cloud-storage backup to create duplicate copies of important files and classwork. You'll also want to avoid laptops with dedicated graphics cards aimed toward gaming to help cut down misuse and procrastination.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for students?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6358f23d-22d0-4167-91bf-77d2a99ca607\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhether you're looking for a single laptop for yourself or a fleet for your business, the best laptops for work offer great performance, multiple connectivity options, and durable builds.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou'll want to look for a model with at least 8GB of RAM, a 256GB storage drive, a quad-core CPU, and a display large enough to work on without being too bulky to travel with. You'll also want a model with at least eight hours of battery life to get through a typical day of work without needing to recharge constantly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for business?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"603e81b6-a53f-4f47-95a6-f6a7e840fd3e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe strongly recommend getting an \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-replaced-my-m1-macbook-pro-with-a-base-model-m4-and-it-blew-my-3000-laptop-away\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EM4 MacBook\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and purchasing&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffinal-cut-pro-on-the-ipad-a-surprisingly-touching-experience\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EFinal Cut Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, an editing software exclusive to the Mac ecosystem. Buying the\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmacbook-pro-m3-max-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E 2023 MacBook Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;is another good option. It sports an M2 Max chip and offers great performance for content creators. The machine can handle 4TB of footage with ease.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-laptop-for-video-editing\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best laptops for video editing: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, Apple MacBook Pros are a popular choice as are any laptops with powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and high-resolution displays such as the Dell XPS 13 and 15.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What are the best laptops for video editing?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EOther laptops we've tested\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"d857acd4-fa0e-4867-9d7b-e81384e85292\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe MacBook Air is a great alternative to the higher-end model as it's comparable performance and is more lightweight.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"MacBook Air M2 (2023)\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","title":"Apple MacBook Air M2","filename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F07\u002F27\u002F91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab\u002Fapple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":168636,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:37","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-07-27 03:17:45","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","alt":"Apple MacBook Air M2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"91cca84b-a0bd-49b1-9d88-e10f6f5a6aab","imageAltText":"Close-up of the MSI Stealth Studio laptop","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"apple-macbook-air-m2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F07\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cliff Joseph\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best alternative for content creators\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20","offerMerchant":"Apple","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.apple.com\u002Fshop\u002Fbuy-mac\u002Fmacbook-air\u002F13-inch-m2","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.amazon.com\u002FApple-2023-MacBook-256GB-Storage\u002Fdp\u002FB0C95F9VRH\u002F?tag=zdnet-buy-button-20"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"35529c48-6ed2-4108-8808-51814690a50e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EDell's 2024 Inspiron 14 2-in-1 is a great convertible laptop for the busy professional on the go. It's geared to easily handle office-related tasks like multitasking with documents or hosting video calls, and it only weighs 3.77 pounds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","title":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","filename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F19\u002F7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3\u002Fdell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":356982,"width":1600,"height":900,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-19 00:34:20","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","alt":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"7716bea8-0a0a-4db1-86b1-8eec46c4e9f3","imageAltText":"Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"dell-inspiron-14-2-in-1-main.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F19","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Cesar Cadenas\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best 2-in-1 laptop\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Dell","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dell.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fshop\u002Flaptops\u002Famd\u002Fspd\u002Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop\u002Fusei2hbts7445gxcn","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15734614?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dell.com%2Fen-us%2Fshop%2Flaptops%2Famd%2Fspd%2Finspiron-14-7445-2-in-1-laptop%2Fusei2hbts7445gxcn&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"5980fee4-a445-4969-9a3a-7e4b6073d6bf\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELaunched earlier this year as part of the new Chromebook Plus series, it's hard to believe this high-performing laptop is a Chromebook at all. The bright, 120Hz refresh rate display, LED keyboard, and Intel Core Ultra 5 processor makes for a solid cloud gaming laptop and fast, lightweight laptop.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","title":"Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE2 - 2","filename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F26\u002F334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":3337962,"width":6000,"height":3376,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:49:54","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-26 21:50:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","alt":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"334550a8-6f1b-4735-8a38-38704febacf0","imageAltText":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"acer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F26","imageWidth":6000,"imageHeight":3376,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Kyle Kucharski\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best Alternative Chromebook\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value","offerMerchant":"Best Buy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bestbuy.com\u002Fsite\u002Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black\u002F6576961.p","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshop-links.co\u002Flink\u002F?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Facer-chromebook-plus-516-ge-cloud-gaming-laptop-with-google-ai-16-2560x1600-120hz-intel-core-5-120u-8gb-ram-256gb-ssd-obsidian-black%2F6576961.p&publisher_slug=zdnet&article_name=__ARTICLE_NAME__&article_url=__ARTICLE_URL__&exclusive=1&u1=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EZDNET writer Taylor Clemons also contributed to this list.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2025-03-13 16:34:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"We've gone hands-on with the best laptops available from Apple, Asus, Acer, and more so you can find the best fit.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"c047e1cd-17ec-4b81-89b6-61e04233d0a4",image:{id:"14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6",filename:"dell-xps-14-1.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-08-05 16:01:10",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Person smiling at a laptop",credits:"Maskot\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003ESpace Black MacBook Pro (M3 Max) running MacOS Sonoma wallpaper\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F08\u002F05\u002F14e2e048-1cc4-4561-8a50-4636f1ee74f6\u002Fdell-xps-14-1.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:"4240x2384+0+0",typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Computing^Laptops",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best laptops you can buy: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-laptop",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best laptops of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"10a72f10-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"laptops",name:"Laptops",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10666ed8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"hardware",name:"Hardware",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10d0341c-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"mobility",name:"Mobility",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"110769e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"pcs",name:"PCs",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"11ec38e5-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"windows",name:"Windows",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Cheng Xin\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725\" data-image-filename=\"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2025\u002F01\u002F15\" data-image-width=\"1024\" data-image-height=\"683\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EUpdate: Microsoft has now rolled out its Copilot features worldwide. For details, see \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fits-official-all-your-office-apps-are-getting-ai-and-a-price-increase\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\"It's official: All your Office apps are getting AI and a price increase.\"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fem\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has begun expanding the reach of its Copilot feature set, bringing its AI capabilities to Office apps for anyone currently subscribed to Microsoft 365 Personal or Family.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor customers in the US and Europe, those features are only available with an extremely pricey \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-subscription-fee-worth-it\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot Pro subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. For Personal and Family subscribers, the upgrade costs an extra $20 monthly, which is more than double the cost of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fget-a-microsoft-365-license-for-40-with-this-deal\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebasic Microsoft 365 subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut that's all about to change.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-subscription-fee-worth-it\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft Copilot vs. Copilot Pro: Is the subscription fee worth it?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the Southern Hemisphere, the company is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnews.microsoft.com\u002Fapac\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F31\u002Funlock-your-potential-with-copilot-and-designer-in-microsoft-365-personal-and-family\u002F\"\u003Emaking Copilot part of all Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. According to an announcement I found last November, the change is effective for Microsoft 365 subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand; they also get access to the Microsoft Designer app for generating images.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver the past two months, current subscribers in those regions have been reporting that they got access to Copilot in their apps after they \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsupport.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Foffice\u002Fhow-to-find-and-enable-missing-copilot-button-in-microsoft-365-apps-c8482b93-4b96-4bb8-8ec9-5148f4d42441\"\u003Eupdated to the latest version\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. But with the start of the new year, Microsoft has started informing those customers that their subscription prices are about to rise substantially.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne unhappy customer signed on to a Microsoft Community board to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fanswers.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmsoffice\u002Fforum\u002Fall\u002Fwhy-has-subscriptions-increased-so-much\u002F5f8b62ba-4a2a-46da-b595-dba840049b9f\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecomplain about the sudden and unexpected price hike\u003C\u002Fa\u003E: \"I just got an email saying my family subscription is going from $129 a year to $179 a year. That's a big increase!\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes, it is. And what do those subscribers get for those hefty extra fees? Sorry, but this isn't an all-you-can-AI deal. As the announcement explains, \"Subscribers will receive a monthly allotment of AI credits to use Copilot in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Designer. The credits will also apply to apps like Paint, Photos, and Notepad on Windows.\" The option of a Copilot Pro subscription is available for subscribers who use more than the basic basket of credits.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the new features are free to current subscribers, the upgrade comes with two big gotchas. For Microsoft 365 Family subscribers, the added features are available only to the primary user and can't be shared with other members. And if the primary user doesn't want those features, they're nearly impossible to disable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyour-windows-10-pc-cant-be-upgraded-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-in-2025\u002F\"\u003EYour Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn paper, this is a good deal for current subscribers. Or at least that's what Microsoft is hoping those subscribers will think after they've had a chance to give the Copilot features a test drive. The current $20-a-month Copilot Pro subscription is prohibitively expensive. The new package offers a reasonable chunk of AI credits for just over $4 a month. Such a bargain, right?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut my quick survey of online forums suggests that very few customers are buying that math. And for those who neither want nor need those AI features, finding the alternative is a challenge. A Microsoft 365 Classic option is available, without the Copilot features, at prices that are similar to those in place before the AI-driven increase. But the only way to unlock that option is to try to cancel your current subscription. At that point, as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Foffice-watch.com\u002F2024\u002Fall-about-the-new-microsoft-365-classic\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOffice-Watch discovered\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Microsoft coughs up the lower-priced alternative.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMeanwhile, in the rest of the world -- including the US and Western Europe -- the free Copilot features aren't available -- yet. But I expect it's only a matter of time before this change expands to additional markets.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not unusual for Microsoft to try out new subscription offers on a regional basis before taking them to a worldwide market. That's exactly what this announcement looks like.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F\"\u003EThe best AI chatbots: ChatGPT, Copilot, and worthy alternatives\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnyone who's paid attention to Satya Nadella's Microsoft in recent years knows that the company is all in on AI, so it would be odd if there were no plans to roll out a similar feature set to the Microsoft 365 subscription base worldwide. Starting in the APAC region gives the company time to gauge customer reaction and also continue scaling up the capacity of servers that power Copilot features.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBased on the pricing in those test regions, pricing for customers in the US would probably increase by $50 -- from $69 to $119 for Personal plans and from $99 to $149 for Family subscriptions. Those data centers aren't going to pay for themselves.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe expanded offering is still brand new, but Reddit users from the region have already weighed in with complaints. One \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FOffice365\u002Fcomments\u002F1gj6c2q\u002Fcomment\u002Flvg9b5c\u002F?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button\"\u003Easked\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, rhetorically, \"I'm just meant to put up with unwanted bundleware that I never agreed to soaking up CPU cycles on my hardware  … because Microsoft needs to look like [its] AI spend is getting ROI to investors?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-introduces-ten-ai-agents-for-sales-finance-supply-chain-in-dynamics-365\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft introduces 10 AI agents for sales, finance, supply chain in Dynamics 365\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother Reddit user, who's apparently a graduate student in Taiwan, called the new Copilot features a \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.reddit.com\u002Fr\u002FOffice365\u002Fcomments\u002F1ghlhrf\u002Fthe_nightmare_of_copilot\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enightmare\u003C\u002Fa\u003E,\" adding that it can't be turned off. \"Doesn't Microsoft understand that Graduate\u002FPhd students receive an automatic fail or are charged with academic misconduct for any hint of AI assistance in their writing?\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn my testing of the Copilot Pro features in a Microsoft 365 in the Northern Hemisphere, I discovered that the option to turn off those prompts, which had been available in earlier releases, is no longer available. You can hide the AI panes above and to the right of the document, but the Copilot icon in the document itself is ever-present and can't be squelched.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELast November, I asked Microsoft if the company has plans to introduce similar features in the US and other worldwide remarks. A spokesperson replied, \"The company has rolled out changes in six markets to listen, learn, and improve. We don't have anything more to share today.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI hope they're listening.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2025-01-15 20:25:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Microsoft 365 subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, and some Asian markets just got an AI upgrade, along with a huge price increase. How long until customers in the US and Europe see the same?",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"5a717e42-80ad-49b1-83a0-75e9f06e37e5",image:{id:"19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2",filename:"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2025-01-15 20:04:49",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"copilot5gettyimages-2191761725",credits:"Cheng Xin\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2025\u002F01\u002F15\u002F19e9a1d4-1269-4349-9342-83cb476259c2\u002Fcopilot5gettyimages-2191761725.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1024,height:683,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"microsofts-copilot-ai-is-coming-to-your-office-apps-and-it-wont-come-cheap",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Microsoft's Copilot AI is coming to your Office apps - and it won't come cheap",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"923a7f65-24bc-4f58-89f4-3fbdc9502670",slug:"international",name:"International",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"926c7fe3-bac7-46e3-b421-bf633d90ee73",slug:"productivity",name:"Productivity",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"79d67b90-8175-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"charlieosborne",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Charlie",lastName:"Osborne",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0",filename:"charlie-osborne.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:00:38",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002F2e4c50de-700f-4193-ab8f-046747723cf0\u002Fcharlie-osborne.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Charlie Osborne is a cybersecurity journalist and photographer who writes for ZDNET and CNET from London. PGP Key: AF40821B",profile:b,title:"Contributing Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cp\u003EYou may worry about your online security but dread adding another subscription to your monthly budget with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-why-do-you-need-one-all-your-virtual-private-network-questions-answered\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Evirtual private network (VPN)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESure, there are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efree VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, but they often come with speed and bandwidth limitations. In other cases, free VPN services might be unrestricted, but asking how these VPN vendors make enough money to run their server networks -- such as through user data mining -- leads you to murky, vague answers and a question mark over how secure and private these services are. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want the best protection, consider choosing an option from our tested list of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Or, if you want to keep things as affordable as possible, there are cheap VPN providers that can do the job for as little as a few bucks per month and without requiring you to agree to shady data-sharing policies. These vendors already provide affordable services but occasionally offer genuine deals to compete in the saturated VPN market.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-new-vpn-and-why-free-isnt-always-best\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E3 things to consider when buying a new VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EWhat is the best cheap VPN right now?\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOur pick for the best cheap VPN overall is \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"ca6d7643-4dc0-4382-8645-aaae318697d7\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Surfshark\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E, a stable and low-cost VPN with plans for only $1.99\u002Fmonth. Surfshark is one of our favorite VPNs thanks to its affordable price point, reasonable speeds, and ease of use. It's even better when the occasional promotional deal rolls around, typically during the holidays.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt ZDNET, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewe've spent years testing nearly every VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E on the market, evaluating them for speed, security, and performance. We conduct frequent tests for DNS leaks and speed and monitor any recent security or performance concerns that emerge. Read on for the rest of our picks for the best cheap VPNs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EThe best cheap VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"cd2078cd-18da-4186-92c1-90dc82959613\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn our&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurfshark review\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;and tests, we found this VPN performs well as a top-quality VPN that doesn't break the bank.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark offers unlimited connections, a strong server network, WireGuard compatibility, and solid performance. Our testing confirmed that Surfshark VPN connections are stable, although speed loss is often only in the mid-range of what other providers offer. Despite this, Surfshark has earned a strong user base over the years and is known as a trustworthy VPN with consistently low pricing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpns-for-school\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPNs for school in 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe cheapest option, a two-year subscription called Surfshark Starter, costs $1.99 per month. Four months of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efree VPN access\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are included. This deal is worth considering, as typically, even at a "deal" rate, you will pay at least $2 per month. Alternatively, you can sign up for a yearly subscription at $2.99\u002Fmonth or pay $15.45 for one month of access.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers say they appreciate Surfshark's consistently cheap pricing and quick, efficient customer service.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESurfshark features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;| Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | \u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 100 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers | \u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days on Android, iOS, and macOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Surfshark VPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN overall\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Surfshark VPN Web","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","title":"surfshark-windows-1","filename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F20\u002F792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800\u002Fsurfshark-windows-1.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1093404,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:34","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-20 10:14:39","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"surfshark-windows-1","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"792b612d-1f0c-420c-93fb-e1bc6896f800","imageAltText":"Surfshark VPN Web","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"surfshark-windows-1.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786","offerMerchant":"Surfshark","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fsurfshark.com\u002Fpricing","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fget.surfshark.net\u002Faff_c?aff_sub=subid_value&aff_id=1511&source=ZDNET&offer_id=786"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Unlimited connections ~ Reliable network ~ Efficient customer service ~Attractive user interface\" data-dislike=\"~ Can be slower than some competitors\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"820ef425-d1ce-4d09-8081-8a45c8b756cb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is another top choice if you are looking for a cheap or free VPN plan. This Swiss VPN offers a comprehensive free option with support for up to 10 devices -- but you are limited to 10GB of monthly traffic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe user interface is clean and easy to use, and there is a handy button for enabling the kill switch, which protects your traffic if your internet connection drops without warning. However, PrivadoVPN lacks some of the advanced features offered by VPN competitors. There also appears to be little evidence of third-party auditing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrices begin at $1.11 per month for two years of access (with three months free) and $1.33 per month for an annual plan (including three months free), rising to $10.99 if you want to try out the software for a single month. Customers say they like it as a set-and-forget VPN, although some have reported technical issues.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-free-software-uninstallers\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBest free software uninstallers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile this option is cheaper than Surfshark, as the server network is far more limited, PrivadoVPN didn't manage to secure the top spot.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivadoVPN features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited, ten on a free plan | Ad-blocker | Two-factor authentication | Kill switch |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 48 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Android TV, Fire TV&nbsp;| 30-day money-back guarantee |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Free plan (credit card not required)&nbsp; &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PrivadoVPN\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN runner-up\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"privado vpn","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","title":"privado vpn","filename":"privado.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F20\u002F79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e\u002Fprivado.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":124919,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:13","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-09-20 09:06:28","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Privado | ZDNET","alt":"privado vpn","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"79fd01e0-3d0e-49b8-a449-71c94d17501e","imageAltText":"privado vpn","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"privado.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F09\u002F20","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F","offerMerchant":"PrivadoVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fprivadovpn.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fshareasale.com\u002Fr.cfm?b=2519239&u=514792&m=152571&afftrack=subid_value&urllink=privadovpn.com%2F"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~Affordable ~Easy to understand user interface ~Ad blocking\" data-dislike=\"~Little evidence of third-party audits ~ Low country and server numbers\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6e03e37b-7d2b-41de-b670-19149de99937\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is the VPN for you if you want a set-and-forget VPN that will last for years -- and at a very cheap price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is now known as Ivacy Powered by PureVPN after PureVPN purchased controlling stakes in the service. The VPN has servers in 65 countries, a zero-logs policy, split tunneling, and utilizes the WireGuard protocol. It does, however, limit you to 10 simultaneous device connections.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mobile-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EThe best mobile VPNs of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy is compatible with many devices and operating systems, including Windows, \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-mac-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EmacOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Android, iOS, Linux, and Kodi, as well as Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Some user reviews indicate that this VPN is a great option for torrenting, but during testing, we found that speeds were slow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA two-year subscription costs $2.15 per month (three months free), or $15.95 for one month of access. However, the best deal is for a five-year contract, coming in at only $1.69\u002Fmonth. Customers applaud the firm's support team, although some users would like to see improvements to Ivacy's apps.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIvacy VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E10 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, routers, browser extensions |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;65+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 30 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: $0.99 for 7 days\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Ivacy\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for the long term\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","title":"Ivacy VPN","filename":"ivacy.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef\u002Fivacy.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":136497,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:25","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 09:37:35","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"Ivacy VPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"6e794ba2-eed2-434f-851b-89e47e9b57ef","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"ivacy.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Ivacy","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ivacy.com\u002Fbuy-vpn\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Available on all major platforms ~ Reasonable server network for the price ~ Very cheap long-term plans\" data-dislike=\"~ Only 10 simultaneous device connections ~ Users report app issues\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"c74e6fe8-f09e-4c87-98ad-0c8085acb4e2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable, open-source VPN that is perfect for beginners because it's user-friendly. While the company's six-month plans are expensive, two-year subscriptions are very affordable.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fprivate-internet-access-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrivate Internet Ac\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ecess: A cheap, powerful, open-source VPN\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe VPN is open-source, so third parties can examine its code, which gives credibility to the company as a secure offering. If you want a VPN provider that takes this approach, PIA might be the best option for you.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EZDNET has consistently found PIA to be a solid VPN; customers say the same. PIA's VPN offers server connections in 91 countries, multi-hopping, split tunneling, ad and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-antivirus\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Emalware blocking\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and encryption capabilities. PIA takes security seriously with its \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-no-log-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eno-logs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E policy.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-malware-removal-software\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest software removal software\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the best price for this VPN is $2.19 per month, with two months of free access added to a two-year contract. Alternatively, a six-month subscription is equivalent to $7.50 per month.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EP\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Erivate Internet Access features\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E:&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003EUnlimited&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes | \u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, tvOS, routers, Fire TV, NAS |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;91 | \u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;No-logs policy |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E30 days | \u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Seven days, Android and iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Private Internet Access\" data-superlative=\"Best open source cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Private Internet Access VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","title":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","filename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002Fa5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e\u002Fprivate-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1592638,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:03","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Private Internet Access VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"a5f3dcbf-b031-473e-9cf5-6bb40bf7a11e","imageAltText":"Private Internet Access VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"private-internet-access-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","slug":"private-internet-access","label":"Private Internet Access","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"7295d38b-92c2-452a-98a4-96655092afda","name":"Private Internet Access","slug":"private-internet-access","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446046870,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:14:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"PIA","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.privateinternetaccess.com\u002F","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.dpbolvw.net\u002Fclick-9041660-14570828-1657804763000?sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Open source transparency ~ Dedicated IP availability ~ Affordable\" data-dislike=\"~ US-based ~ Limited plan options\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"497723b5-9c4b-4552-b57e-092c2ca52ca7\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is an affordable VPN that offers high levels of encryption, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, customizable security options, and a vast network of over 100+ countries. Unfortunately, simultaneous connections are limited to seven devices.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECustomers find this VPN very easy to use, fast, and stable. We've found this VPN provides reasonable speeds and is a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-streaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Egood option for streaming\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-torrenting-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etorrenting\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReview: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-review\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrently, the company is offering a deal on two-year subscriptions: $2.19 per month with two months free. There's also an interesting option you don't often find with VPN providers -- a six-month plan for $6.99 per month. A one-month contract is $12.99.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee for long contracts, which is more than most VPN providers. So, you can sign up for a plan, enjoy it, and you have weeks to decide if you want to commit to the contract.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECyberGhost VPN features: Simultaneous connections:&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E7 |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android TV, Fire TV, NAS routers |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;100+ |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Yes |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ELogging:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Payment information only |&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003EMoney-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 45 days&nbsp;|&nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: 24 days on macOS and Windows; three days on Android, seven days on iOS\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"CyberGhost\" data-superlative=\"Best cheap VPN for money-back guarantee\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"cyberghost screenshot","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","title":"Cyberghost VPN Web","filename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0\u002Fcyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":1502592,"width":4240,"height":2384,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-11-07 20:11:40","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-12-20 21:00:08","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","alt":"Cyberghost VPN Web","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"611e35c1-3452-44ea-862b-aaf8962cf2a0","imageAltText":"cyberghost screenshot","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"June Wan\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"cyberghost-vpn-web.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F11\u002F07","imageWidth":4240,"imageHeight":2384,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"June Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-offer=\"{"id":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","label":"CyberGhost VPN","edition":["US","ES"],"imageId":null,"imgWidth":null,"imgHeight":null,"objectType":"content_product_series","typeLabel":"Series","imgUrl":null,"icon":""}\" data-techobjectinfo=\"{"uuid":"d8853545-bb1f-4095-bb23-9aa846df1d55","name":"CyberGhost VPN","slug":"cyberghost-vpn","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1722446194960,"displayDate":"Wed Jul 31 2024 13:16:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time)"}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value","offerMerchant":"CyberGhost","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com\u002Fen_US\u002Fbuy","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.anrdoezrs.net\u002Fclick-9041660-15735261?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cyberghostvpn.com%2Fen_US%2Fbuy&sid=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\" data-like=\"~ Expansive server network ~ Fast ~ The best MBG available ~ Good option for streaming\" data-dislike=\"~ Limited simultaneous connections ~ Expensive monthly contract\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"b44d34bc-fead-456e-a9e3-17a7df81b564\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest cheap VPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBest price\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFree months?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo-log policy?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.99\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFour months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.11\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThree months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited, 10 on a free plan\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$1.69\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENone\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E10\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnlimited\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E$2.19\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETwo months\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E✓\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003E7\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Cp\u003E*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Cheap VPNs, compared\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"16208092-bb84-45d9-9f41-c46bc8ec9d93\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN depends on various factors besides price. If you choose a low-cost service but can't unblock the streaming services you want to use, then what did you really save? Start by asking yourself why you need a VPN. Then, test out a reputable provider with high-security standards.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want to learn more about how VPNs work and how to choose the best one for you, check out our guide: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-vpn-and-how-does-it-work\u002F"\u003EWhat is a VPN, and why do we need one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChoose this cheap VPN...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you want...\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESurfshark\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe best cheap VPN overall. Surfshark provides reasonable speeds and plenty of features wrapped up in an affordable package. Surfshark's VPN has long stood out as a top VPN provider that offers reliable, stable connections and security and is consistently priced to be budget-friendly.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivadoVPN is one of the cheapest options and also provides a free plan. You could try out this VPN's free solution, as long as you don't mind the 10GB monthly traffic limit. It's a good option for beginners who want to explore how VPNs work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIvacy\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAn affordable, long-term option. Although it's a relatively new VPN service provider, Ivacy provides reasonable speeds and is often able to unblock major streaming services.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPIA\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPrivate Internet Access is a cheap, powerful VPN powered by open-source technologies, and well worth it if you want an affordable subscription service with a high security standard.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECyberGhost is another top choice for a fast connection in an extensive server network at a reasonable price. This VPN has a long money-back guarantee and is our top pick&nbsp;if you want longer to decide.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\" data-hed=\"Which is the best cheap VPN for you?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9ee34014-6e49-4ae9-a563-0ace75fbcb97\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you are deciding what VPN to sign up for, there are several factors you should consider:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlan length\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Before signing up for a new VPN service, consider which subscription length is right for you. Month-by-month plans are considerably more expensive than longer plans, of which you can choose six-month to five-year plans. We find that the longest terms are almost always the cheapest.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPrice\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: The cost of your VPN subscription should naturally factor into your decision. Choose one that is affordable for you, especially if you are signing up for a year or more.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETax\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Some VPN providers, such as those based in the US, may add taxes to the cost of a contract.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUpfront cost\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Most VPNs market their wares at an equivalent monthly price, but they may require a higher upfront cost. You'll still secure a great monthly cost, but you might have to pay for the full plan in one go.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EFeatures\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many cheap VPNs don't offer advanced features on their basic or longest plans. You may need to pay more for a specific feature, such as a \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-manager\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Epassword manager\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EUse cases\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: If you want a VPN for a specific purpose beyond day-to-day browsing -- such as \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-travel-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Etraveling\u003C\u002Fa\u003E -- check whether the VPN is suitable. You may need to opt for a particular VPN if you want to use it in different countries, for example, or you may want to choose a VPN known for great streaming support.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERenewal terms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Automatic renewal and billing might sting you in the future, especially if the VPN's pricing has changed. You might want to turn off auto-renewal and shop around for a new deal instead.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-password-managers-for-business\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest password managers for business\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Factors to consider when choosing a cheap VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"61247c01-7215-4cf8-b002-15a9a8d5ad88\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWe tested and analyzed the best cheap VPNs using the following criteria to help you make an informed decision:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPerformance:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;We tested most of the VPNs on this list to ensure robust performance in terms of connection and speed. After all, there's no point in using a VPN if your connection continually drops or lags.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESimultaneous connections\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Many VPNs limit the number of devices you can connect to a service simultaneously. If you have a phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-smart-tv-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esmart TV you want to connect to a VPN\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, you need a service that allows at least five or six simultaneous connections.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESecurity\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: There's no point in using a VPN unless its security protocols and encryption levels are up to scratch. We also ensured the development team behind each recommended VPN cared about making security improvements over time and patching reported bugs.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKill switch\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: A kill switch prevents you from having an unprotected connection. It is an important feature for a VPN, as it protects you by preventing a return to a default Wi-Fi connection should your internet connection unexpectedly drop.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGeo-blocks and streaming\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: VPNs can be key to accessing local content and services while you're away from home. We ensured that our top recommendations performed well considering these factors and are unlikely to slow down your connection while streaming.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPlatforms\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: What systems and devices can you run the VPN on? Our VPN recommendations have to offer easy-to-use and intuitive apps suitable for various hardware. &nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECountries and servers\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: In how many different countries does the VPN have servers? This can include physical and virtual servers, and whether there are enough -- at least 50 or so -- to provide variety.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETrial length and price\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: Each VPN we recommend has a solid money-back guarantee of at least 30 days.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESupport\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E: As with any subscription software, you may encounter problems with installing apps, using the service, renewing, or canceling. We list VPNs with an available support team.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-we-test-and-review-vpns\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EVPN testing methodology page\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How we test VPNs\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"Ivacy VPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","title":"nordvpn-windows-2","filename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F07\u002F2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659\u002Fnordvpn-windows-2.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":260894,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:21:56","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-07 09:22:01","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"nordvpn-windows-2","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"2c4a4567-89cf-4da1-a2e4-700b4e7d3659","imageAltText":"Ivacy VPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"nordvpn-windows-2.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F07","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"6008aa9d-c74d-4261-8fcb-de56fe016f48\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EFree months, added as an incentive for users to sign up for a VPN service, are typically added to the length of your contract. For example, if you sign up for a two-year contract with three months free, you pay for 24 months of access and then enjoy an additional three months free.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn-trial\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EBest VPN trials of 2025\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How do free months on a VPN contract work?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"9a079617-8387-477b-b8c6-82024836dfe5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf you want your data to be secure, then yes. VPNs offer protection no matter what kind of device you use to transmit and receive data. Before you commit to a VPN service, it's a good idea to test it out and see how well it works with all your devices. The \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-android-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for Android\u003C\u002Fa\u003E may not be the same as the&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest VPN for iOS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and vice versa.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Should I use a VPN on my phone or tablet?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"e5ab44a0-02f1-48a8-9676-7252946f88d9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EA VPN may help you get cheaper flights by connecting you with foreign servers and hiding your IP address. That said, airline prices shift based on various factors, and the impact of changing your location could be negligible or, at the very least, hard to confirm.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's worth trying to use a VPN to save money on flights. We've managed to score slightly cheaper long-haul flights by appearing to come from the destination country, for example, but the discounts haven't been huge.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can using a VPN get you cheaper flights?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"382c19fb-c84f-40d4-b1d6-e5700c540f0e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ELet's be clear: Yes. A VPN will slow your connection because your data is encrypted, decrypted, and sent through intermediate servers. Your online gaming experience might suffer. If you're a first-person shooter player, you might have enough lag to miss shots. That said, both computers and VPNs have gotten much faster. Years ago, VPNs caused everything to slow down far more than today's services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENowadays, the negative impact is almost unnoticeable, especially with the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffastest-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Efastest VPN services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Most (but not all) VPN providers also limit the number of devices you can connect to simultaneously, so you may have to pick and choose which home devices to connect to.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a better gaming experience, check out our extensive research on the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-gaming-vpn\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebest gaming VPNs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does a VPN slow down my connection?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"02282252-d97a-4ba2-a169-641987626a31\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIn this article, we've focused on paid services, although some offer a free tier. We don't usually recommend free VPN services because we don't consider them secure, with a few exceptions, such as ProtonVPN and Windscribe.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERunning a good VPN service requires hundreds of servers worldwide and many networking resources -- it's expensive. If you're not paying to support that infrastructure, who is? Probably advertisers or data miners. What's the point of a VPN if it doesn't keep your data secure?&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat said, no tool can guarantee your privacy. First, anything can be hacked. Second, a VPN protects your data when it transits from your computer to the VPN service, but it doesn't protect what you put on servers or whatever cloud-based application you're using. It doesn't typically offer password security or multi-factor authentication unless you pay for these add-ons. Privacy and security require you to be diligent about your digital presence, and VPNs, while helpful, are not a miracle cure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the best free VPN service?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"89d1fd4e-f14e-48c4-ba2e-d8daecbe6ab9\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile we have found the best affordable VPNs on the market, some VPNs can be expensive. They may still only cost the equivalent of your monthly subscription to Netflix, but VPNs that cost upwards of $10 per month for long-term contracts are unusual.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUsually, these VPNs provide something others do not, and if they are known to provide a fast, secure, and trustworthy service, they can bump up the price. An example is Astrill VPN, which starts at $12.50\u002Fmonth. Why? It is one of the best options for Chinese nationals to circumvent the country's censorship and web restrictions.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Why are some VPNs so expensive?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"99789d42-5d87-4971-b911-8e508997b288\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou can, but paying for one month will be expensive. To deter customers from doing so, many VPN providers charge over $10 for four weeks of access. A better option could be to sign up for a one- or two-year contract, take advantage of a money-back guarantee -- which is usually 30 days -- and cancel before the month is up.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Can I pay for a VPN for one month?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"f867a329-6e4f-4bae-81f2-df513a964562\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf what we highlighted here doesn't suit your needs, you can try out other services that may meet your requirements. Below, you can check out other VPNs that are worth your consideration.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Are there alternative VPNs worth considering?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"293c5d7c-2d02-462f-a794-3b6effe82ec5\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhile not cheap at $4.99\u002Fmonth, this current promotional price is the lowest we've seen ExpressVPN. Consider this deal if you want a premium, fast VPN for less.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"ExpressVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","title":"expressvpn-windows-3","filename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F05\u002F22\u002F4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c\u002Fexpressvpn-windows-3.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":190112,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:12","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-05-22 09:49:17","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","alt":"expressvpn-windows-3","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4c3b45c0-359f-4b46-9bae-9b2de905091c","imageAltText":"expressvpn-windows-3","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"expressvpn-windows-3.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F05\u002F22","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best premium VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"ExpressVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.expressvpn.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"741c72e9-0d3b-4903-bf30-579089f7983c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EPureVPN is affordable at only $1.16 per month for five years and has a user interface suitable for beginners.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"PureVPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"surfshark","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","title":"PureVPN","filename":"purevpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F05\u002F04\u002Ff98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461\u002Fpurevpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":85970,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:18","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-05-04 09:31:27","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"PureVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"f98c054a-40f2-4070-a401-866ea9a8a461","imageAltText":"surfshark","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"purevpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F05\u002F04","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best long-term VPN alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder","offerMerchant":"PureVPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.purevpn.com\u002Forder","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fclick.linksynergy.com\u002Fdeeplink?id=IokOf8qagZo&mid=38687&u1=subid_value&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.purevpn.com%2Forder"}]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ba22d8d0-5f58-4178-b10e-d3b56ef99c7e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWindscribe is another free VPN alternative. Custom plans starting from as little as $1\u002Fmonth are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Windscribe\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"windscribe","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageData":{"id":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","title":"windscribe","filename":"windscribe.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F06\u002F05\u002F4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151\u002Fwindscribe.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":150115,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2024-06-05 08:24:09","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","alt":"windscribe","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"4295a832-96c2-4013-b8f8-a7ad24048151","imageAltText":"windscribe","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"windscribe.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2024\u002F06\u002F05","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Charlie Osborne | ZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free but VPN alternative with custom plan options\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":true,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Windscribe","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"on","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fwindscribe.com\u002F","url":""}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"a224b693-f277-45d8-a5b3-d8821eb3afeb\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EProton VPN is a free VPN option with high-security levels, albeit some restrictions. Paid plans are also available.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Proton VPN\" data-imagegroup=\"{"alt":"ProtonVPN","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","credits":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageData":{"id":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","title":"ProtonVPN","filename":"protonvpn.jpg","path":"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F03\u002F27\u002F5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b\u002Fprotonvpn.jpg","caption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","size":134307,"width":1296,"height":720,"dateCreated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:17:57","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"dateUpdated":{"date":"2023-03-27 08:18:04","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"needsModeration":false,"mimeType":"image\u002Fjpeg","deleted":false,"credits":"ZDNET | Charlie Osborne","alt":"ProtonVPN","restricted":false,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"preferred":false,"watermark":false,"doNotCrop":false,"doNotResize":false,"primaryCollection":null,"vanityUrl":null,"notes":null,"crop":null,"cropGravity":0,"preservedRegion":null,"isNew":false,"keywords":[],"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false,"typeName":"content_image"},"uuid":"5e649942-9afa-450c-a7f5-caaf502e406b","imageAltText":"ProtonVPN","imageCaption":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E","imageCredit":"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET","imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageFilename":"protonvpn.jpg","imageDateCreated":"2023\u002F03\u002F27","imageWidth":1296,"imageHeight":720,"imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}\" data-overridecaption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-overridecredit=\"Screenshot by Charlie Osborne\u002FZDNET\" data-linktext=\"Best free alternative\" data-linkurl=\"Design: Mini Listicle\" data-merchantoffers=\"[{"useMonetization":false,"monetizedUrl":"","offerMerchant":"Proton VPN","offerPrice":"","offerPriceRange":"","offerPriceText":"","offerType":"Single Product","monetizationStatus":"off","rawUrl":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value","url":"https:\u002F\u002Fgo.getproton.me\u002Faff_c?offer_id=25&aff_id=4706&url_id=885&source=ZDNET&aff_sub=subid_value"}]\" data-usepricing=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2050571\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Recommends\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F12922153-5c9c-495e-a36a-5dbbc9302a9f\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-12-10 15:56:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"VPN deals aren't always what they seem. We tested the best cheap VPNs that are consistently affordable while still providing speed and safety.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"9bdd9ab9-ab3d-4ea0-afca-86a646283223",image:{id:"3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64",filename:"surfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2023-11-07 20:11:41",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"VPN graphic hovering over laptop",credits:"NicoElNino\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2023\u002F11\u002F07\u002F3e5d7128-8a4d-42c9-ae10-d3ecb0729a64\u002Fsurfshark-vpn-mobile.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4240,height:2384,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"best-list",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security^VPN",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:"The best cheap VPNs: Expert tested",section:c,slug:"best-cheap-vpn",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The best cheap VPNs of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed",topic:{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"e5be9bf6-59dd-4954-b3b3-ee691565f832",slug:"vpn",name:"VPN",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"af36937c-c95c-4bf0-9c02-831f70ad9a0c",slug:"best-lists",name:"Best Lists",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Galeanu Mihai\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"stack of coins with graph charts\" data-image-filename=\"economy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F10\u002F30\" data-image-width=\"3546\" data-image-height=\"1712\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe digital economy has maintained a 17.7% share of GDP in Singapore, where small and midsize businesses (SMBs) as well as artificial intelligence (AI) are predicted to play key roles in fueling growth.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe nation's digital economy contributed SG$113 billion ($85.31 billion) to last year's GDP, accounting for SG$1 of every SG$6, according to the latest stats released by industry regulator Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EClocking a compound annual growth rate of 11.2% between 2018 and 2023, Singapore's digital economy almost doubled the nominal GDP growth rate of 5.8% for its total economy, IMDA said. Its digital economy comprises the information and communications sector, which contributed about one-third of the pie, while non-information and communications sectors accounted for the remaining two-thirds. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fdata-will-play-key-role-in-sustaining-sea-digital-economy-growth\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EData will play key role in sustaining SEA digital economy growth\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome 94.6% of SMBs have adopted digital technologies in more than one of six key areas, such as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EAI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsmbs-face-growing-cybersecurity-threats-but-basic-measures-can-lower-risks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecybersecurity\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, cloud, and data analytics. Those that did so under the government's Productivity Solutions Grant said they saw cost savings of 50% on average between 2018 and 2023, IMDA noted. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency added that SMBs in the country have access to 400 digital solutions pre-approved for deployment via its CTO-as-a-service platform, which have been tapped by 145,000 users to date. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMBs also can adopt AI-enabled applications on the platform, where 20% of pre-approved solutions are AI-enabled. IMDA said it plans to increase this figure and encourage an additional 15,000 SMBs to adopt AI solutions over the next two years. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThose looking to do so also can trial generative AI (Gen AI) in a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-for-generative-ai-use-cases-with-sandbox-options\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esandbox environment\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that caters specifically to SMBs. First introduced in February 2024, the second iteration of the sandbox is slated for launch in December with a curated list of 15 Gen AI solutions across various market segments. These include Gen AI for talent acquisition, generative web design, and virtual assistants for customer engagement agents. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA said more than 300 SMBs are expected to leverage the sandbox, with eligible applicants receiving up to 50% funding support to trial one of the Gen AI applications for three months. More than 150 had participated in the first run of the sandbox feature, which ended in May, and 80% of these businesses are running the Gen AI applications after the end of the three months. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthese-smbs-are-hot-threat-targets-but-theyre-shrugging-off-security-help\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThese SMBs are hot threat targets but they're shrugging off security help\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAI adoption rate among SMBs clocked at 4.2% last year, up from 3.5% in 2018. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA added that larger enterprises in Singapore also have turned to AI, with 44% rolling out such applications last year, up from 16.7% in 2018. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe technology sector is growing at more than twice the rate of the rest of the economy, at slightly more than 11%, which underscores the need for all companies, especially SMBs, to embrace the opportunities of digital as an enabler and for growth, said IMDA chief executive Lew Chuen Hong.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftime-for-businesses-to-move-past-generative-ai-hype-and-find-real-value\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETime for businesses to move past generative AI hype and find real value\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"There will always be global economic uncertainties driven by many macro trends that sometimes are out of our control, but technology as a structural driver will remain the case for the long run,\" Lew said. \"We will continue to see significant growth as far as digital and the digital economy is concerned.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"AI has significant potential in the long run and in any tech cycle. We will see some exuberance at the beginning, but at the same time, AI has demonstrated its impact in terms of transforming basics in all sectors,\" he said. \"The key here is how do we, as a very small country, invest in the right areas to allow the companies to maximize the advantages of this technology.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-10-30 19:10:43",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"With the digital economy contributing 17.7% of Singapore's GDP, smaller businesses and artificial intelligence are predicted to play key roles in fueling growth.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"e97daa79-6d90-4821-b3a6-c8840e54b6fb",image:{id:"634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31",filename:"economy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-10-30 02:41:18",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"stack of coins with graph charts",credits:"Galeanu Mihai\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F10\u002F30\u002F634f5b09-5338-437d-8ea6-155507417c31\u002Feconomy-digital-galeanu-mihai102024.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:3546,height:1712,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"how-singapores-smbs-and-ai-sustain-a-robust-digital-economy",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"How Singapore's SMBs and AI sustain a robust digital economy",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"4bbd52b3-12fc-4183-9f2a-1274944fbf8d",slug:"digital-transformation",name:"Digital Transformation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"294e47d5-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"Ed Bott",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Ed",lastName:"Bott",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e",filename:"ed-bott.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:06:03",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe98b0a76-a96a-4fbb-be02-00807405874e\u002Fed-bott.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Ed Bott is an award-winning technology writer with more than three decades' experience writing for mainstream media outlets and online publications. He has served as editor of the U.S. edition of PC Computing and managing editor of PC World; both publications had monthly paid circulation in excess of 1 million during his tenure. He is the author of more than 25 books, including Windows 10 Inside Out (now in its 4th edition) and Windows 11 Inside Out (2023).",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Andrew Brookes\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"keyboard at night\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-685007445.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F09\u002F16\" data-image-width=\"2000\" data-image-height=\"1500\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis software is licensed, not sold.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat sentence, which has scrolled past PC users' eyeballs for decades as they click through Windows license agreements without reading them, is what made Bill Gates rich. It is also the gateway to an insanely confusing thicket of legal verbiage, and Microsoft has made the topic even more bewildering through the years by adding layers of anti-piracy protection that are only indirectly related to the license itself. (And let's not even start on weaselly words like \u003Cem\u003Egenuine.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E)\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-microsoft-really-going-to-cut-off-security-updates-for-my-unsupported-windows-11-pc\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIs Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI've been studying Microsoft licensing agreements for more than two decades. During that time, I've written dozens of articles on the subject and have prepared testimony as an expert witness in criminal and civil cases where Microsoft licensing was at the crux of some serious disagreements. One thing I've learned along the way is that even people who work for Microsoft sometimes get confused about when a license is legitimate and when it's not.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf they have trouble sorting out license agreements, what chance do the rest of us have?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyes-you-can-upgrade-that-old-pc-to-windows-11-even-if-microsoft-says-no-these-readers-proved-it\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYes, you can upgrade that old PC to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no. These readers proved it\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost of the time, a Windows license is strictly a formality, something you can safely ignore. But occasionally, it matters, especially if you're building your own PC or upgrading to a different edition. If you're making IT purchases for a business that involves more than a few dozen PCs, a Windows license absolutely matters.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETo make this difficult topic a little easier, I've put together a list of questions and answers focused specifically on Windows PCs. Is your license valid? How can you tell? Should you care? \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELet's start with the most confusing one of all. What exactly is a Windows license, anyway?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"1f968b49-d230-4149-b028-565e3ba9854c\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EMaybe it's easier to explain what a Windows license&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eisn't\u003C\u002Fem\u003E. The 25-character product key you enter to install or activate Windows is not a license. A Windows sticker on the side of a PC is not a license. A Windows certificate of authenticity, complete with hologram, is not a license. And the activation status message on \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eyour Windows PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is absolutely not a license.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-a-tpm-and-why-does-windows-11-require-one\u002F"\u003EWhat is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll of those things are, potentially,&nbsp;\u003Cem\u003Eevidence\u003C\u002Fem\u003E&nbsp;that you possess a valid license. So, what is a license? It's a legal grant from the licensor (Microsoft) to the licensee (you) which gives you the right to use Microsoft Windows on a particular device, provided that you follow the terms of the license agreement. The license itself is an intangible thing, governed by a legal agreement between you and either Microsoft or one of its partners who resold the Windows license as part of a new PC. That license agreement is the thing you scroll through quickly without reading every time you install Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What is a Windows license?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"953ef176-585c-41f5-ad91-954c163b638e\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EYou almost certainly have a valid Windows license if you acquired it in any of the following ways:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea new PC with Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E preinstalled on it from a name-brand OEM.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy buying a retail copy of Windows (in a physical box or as a digital download) directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy acquiring a used or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhere-to-buy-used-laptop-deals\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Esecondhand PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E that came with Windows preinstalled.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBy purchasing or otherwise obtaining an upgrade license for a Windows edition directly from Microsoft or a well-known software reseller.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut here's the most fascinating and frustrating part of Windows licensing. If I sit down in front of your computer and (with your permission) do a thorough inspection, I cannot conclusively determine whether you have \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcan-you-still-get-a-windows-10-upgrade-for-free\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea valid Windows license\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fstill-have-a-windows-10-pc-you-have-5-options-before-support-ends-next-year\u002F"\u003EStill have a Windows 10 PC? You have 5 options before support ends next year\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI can confirm that the system is properly activated. I can also make an educated guess about the license status, and I will probably be right. But without seeing an audit trail of receipts for the PC and\u002For its system software, there's no way of knowing for sure.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Is my Windows license valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"7a91e389-a821-40a1-b65f-9a47cd74fd89\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003ETo quote Will Shakespeare, "Let me count the ways."\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed the product on too many PCs.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;When you \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuy a retail copy of Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it includes a license to install it on one and only one PC. If you manage to convince Microsoft's activation servers to accept a second (or third, or fourth) installation of that copy without removing it from the device where it was originally installed and activated, those extra installations are not properly licensed.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou used an evaluation or dev\u002Ftest edition for a production system.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Microsoft offers several subscription programs designed for developers and IT pros to evaluate its software and build test environments. A \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fvisualstudio.microsoft.com\u002Fsubscriptions\u002F#software-and-downloads?cat=visual-studio-professional-subscription" target="_blank"\u003EVisual Studio Professional subscription\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for example, includes access to current and past versions of Windows desktop and server editions, complete with product keys. But those licenses are only valid for development and test purposes, not for production systems.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou installed an enterprise upgrade without having a proper underlying license.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Every so often, I run across some poor benighted soul who announces that they're running Windows 10 LTSC (the \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-11-faq-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ELong Term Servicing Channel release\u003C\u002Fa\u003E). The only way to get an LTSC license is with a Windows Enterprise Volume License agreement, which is ... not cheap. Enterprise licenses are widely pirated. If you're running Windows Enterprise edition and can't tell me how you got the license, there's an excellent chance your license isn't valid.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EYou bought a Windows product key from a random seller on the internet.\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E&nbsp;Even legitimate websites get fooled by shady resellers who advertise Windows 10 or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 11 Pro\u003C\u002Fa\u003E at a price that's too good to be true. In many cases, they're reselling "gray market" Windows product keys that are part of an enterprise license or a Microsoft subscription. Microsoft could block or ban those diverted product keys, but they might not notice. Do you feel lucky?\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\" data-hed=\"OK, how could I end up with a license that's not valid?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"ea95a169-4869-49ea-aa0c-6de08da45f12\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EIf activation doesn't prove you have a valid license, why does it exist?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe interrupt this story for some ancient history. Back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, software piracy was an existential crisis for Microsoft. Windows was the core of the company's business, and independent local PC builders represented a disproportionate share of the Windows business. Unfortunately, a depressingly large number of those resellers bought a single license and installed it on multiple PCs. Microsoft created a network of activation servers designed to flush out "non-genuine" copies of Windows to prevent that sort of flagrant copying of retail and system builder packages.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhy-debloating-windows-is-a-bad-idea-and-what-to-do-instead\u002F"\u003EWhy 'debloating' Windows is a bad idea (and what to do instead)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHoo boy, did that go wrong. When I started at ZDNET, way back in 2006, I wrote a lot of words about the original Windows Genuine Advantage authentication software. I once called it&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fpictures\u002Fa-decades-worth-of-windows-mistakes-that-changed-microsoft-for-better-and-worse\u002F9\u002F" target="_blank"\u003E"the stupidest thing Microsoft ever did with Windows"\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI long ago lost count of the number of words I wrote about Windows Genuine Advantage and product activation, but I don't regret a single one of them. I know they made a difference. Microsoft removed the "kill switch" in Windows Vista Service Pack 1, and in \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsay-goodbye-to-windows-7-as-microsoft-ends-extended-support\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows 7\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the activation experience seemed to finally work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-hidden-windows-11-setting-lets-you-kill-unresponsive-apps-straight-from-the-taskbar\u002F"\u003EThis hidden Windows 11 setting lets you kill unresponsive apps right from the taskbar\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOver time, Microsoft discovered that it was in the company's best interests to tolerate a certain amount of casual copying as part of its goal of not pissing off legitimate customers. I can't remember the last time I received a complaint about \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-10-users-left-baffled-and-mad-over-microsofts-activation-glitch\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eproduct activation issues\u003C\u002Fa\u003E with Windows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EToday, the overwhelming majority of \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are sold by giant OEMs like Dell, HP, and Lenovo, which pay Microsoft for every license. (Even Microsoft's own \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-bought-the-cheapest-surface-pro-11-laptop-3-takeaways-as-a-windows-expert\u002F" target="_blank"\u003ESurface\u003C\u002Fa\u003E division pays the Windows side of the house for Windows licenses!) Only a tiny sliver of PCs these days are built by hobbyists or small system builders.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf someone in one of those groups tries to reuse a product key inappropriately (by activating multiple PCs using the same product key in a matter of days), the activation servers will object strenuously. But if you reuse a product key months after the first use, it's likely that Microsoft's activation servers will wave you right through.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"What's the point of Windows product activation?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"38b000a5-5667-44be-89e4-3f727d0c70f2\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you buy a PC with Windows preinstalled, you don't need to enter a product key \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffor-windows-11-setup-which-user-account-type-should-you-choose-how-to-decide\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ewhen you set it up for the first time\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The company that built that PC entered the product key as part of the process of preparing the system for delivery to you.&nbsp;\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-will-start-charging-for-windows-10-updates-next-year-heres-how-much\u002F"\u003EMicrosoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBig-name OEMs embed that product key into the system's firmware. Smaller system builders enter the product key using deployment tools. In either case, once you start up your brand-new PC and accept the license agreement, your copy of Windows is activated automatically, and that product key (which you never saw!) is no longer necessary. You can reinstall that edition of Windows on the same hardware as many times as you want, without having to enter a product key.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, when do you need a product key?\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-build-a-gaming-pc-for-550\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ebuilding your own PC\u003C\u002Fa\u003E or setting up a virtual machine, you need to enter a product key to complete activation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIf you're \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Eupgrading an existing Windows installation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E&nbsp;to a different edition, you need to enter a product key to perform the upgrade and then activate the new installation.\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's it.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Do I really need a product key?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"85b16c7d-a14e-4998-95f7-ffa04d969179\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EAs my favorite&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.directionsonmicrosoft.com\u002Fanalysts\u002Fwes-miller"\u003EMicrosoft licensing expert, Wes Miller\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, is fond of saying, the answer to every licensing question is "That depends." This one is no exception.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you purchased \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-windows-laptop\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ea PC with Windows preinstalled\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, the OEM who built the device paid Microsoft for the Windows license and passed the cost along to you. For a big OEM (think Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, or Acer), the price list for Windows licenses is a closely guarded secret. I generally just figure that a license for \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-windows-home-edition-to-pro-and-why-you-would\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EWindows Home\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is built into the price of the PC and a Windows Pro license adds $50-100 to that total.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-upgrade-your-incompatible-windows-10-pc-to-windows-11\u002F"\u003EHow to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmaller PC makers who don't qualify to purchase licenses in bulk from Microsoft purchase licenses as part of the OEM System Builder program. The price for those shrink-wrapped packages is a little steeper, and the conditions of installation are more convoluted. But that cost is also built into the price of the PC. For my back-of-the-envelope calculations, I figure that this type of license costs about $30-50 more than the bulk price offered to the giants.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're building your own PC or \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-create-the-perfect-windows-11-virtual-machine\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ecreating a virtual machine\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for permanent use, you need to supply a license for use in that device, regardless of whether it's physical or virtual. In most cases, that means paying Microsoft (or one of its partners) for a retail license. You'll pay much more than a reseller for this privilege. On average, your back-of-the-envelope budget for a retail copy of Windows should be about $99 for Home and $149 for Pro.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:&nbsp;\u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-screen-record-in-windows-10-or-11\u002F"\u003EHow to screen record in Windows 10 or 11\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere's where things get interesting, though. You can probably score a much better discount than that, in deals that are widely advertised on reputable websites, including ZDNET and CNET. I regularly see advertisers offering Windows Pro for as little as $20 or $29. I know from experience that those gray market copies probably don't represent proper&nbsp;licenses for Windows. And yet Microsoft doesn't seem to care. Should you? Well, that leads to my next question.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"How much should a Windows license cost?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"cnetlisticle\" data-id=\"496bcb41-f44c-4e62-9b9f-37f438f2be99\" data-edition=\"us\" data-description=\"\u003Cp\u003EI have no doubt there is a junior lawyer in Microsoft Licensing, probably a recent grad from the law school of the University of American Samoa, who is obsessed with tracking down every Windows license that has even the slightest irregularity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut those hard-liners are the exception, not the rule. Over time, Microsoft has discovered that its activation servers are most effective when they're configured to the most generous settings. If you used a product key six months ago, chances are it will work again, because there's little benefit for Microsoft in making it hard for you to \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-factory-reset-your-windows-10-pc\u002F" target="_blank"\u003Ereinstall Windows\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href="https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-set-up-god-mode-in-windows-11-and-why-you-should\u002F" target="_blank"\u003EHow to set up God Mode in Windows 11 (and why you should)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft occasionally audits its larger customers, but if you're a hobbyist or a small business, you're literally too small to bother with. If you can successfully activate your new installation of Windows 11 Home or Pro, it doesn't really matter if your license has some sort of technical flaw. The license police are not going to bust down your door. You should concentrate on your business, not on the esoterica of Microsoft licensing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-hed=\"Does Microsoft care whether my license is legal?\" data-imagegroup=\"{}\" data-merchantoffers=\"[]\" data-usepricing=\"true\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F11d06a52-f745-42cd-a335-edf5631018f1\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 09:30:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Microsoft has made Windows licensing and activation ridiculously complex. Here's what you need to know.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"fe19dbf1-be63-49a9-a27b-0ab7c21dbf81",image:{id:"73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1",filename:"gettyimages-685007445.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-09-16 02:22:15",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"windows-11-styl2-2.jpg",credits:"Screenshot by Ed Bott",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F09\u002F16\u002F73284f19-9383-43a6-b48c-e233e3b569e1\u002Fgettyimages-685007445.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2000,height:1500,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"analysis\u002Fopinion",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Operating Systems^Windows^Windows 11",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"is-your-windows-license-legal-should-you-even-care",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Is your Windows license legal? Should you even care?",topic:{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"41040cf0-0abb-4cd0-aad1-1cb0e38b334c",slug:"windows-11",name:"Windows 11",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1048432a-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"enterprise-software",name:"Enterprise Software",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"fbc9d7cd-1e46-40da-8283-856aa31ddaf9\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Rafael Henrique\u002FSOPA Images\u002FLightRocket via Getty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Microsoft Copilot logo in magnifying glass\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-2141955299.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F29\" data-image-width=\"5000\" data-image-height=\"3333\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmall and midsize businesses (SMBs) in Singapore can now run \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbuild-2024-microsoft-enhances-productivity-with-new-copilot-transforming-teamwork-and-projects\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot for Microsoft 365\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for half the price, as the country rolls out initiatives to drive the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) among local organizations. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder the program, government agency Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) will absorb 50% of licensing costs for the Microsoft generative AI (GenAI) tool over a 12-month subscription period. Each SMB will be able to purchase up to 50 licenses at the subsidized rate, with EnterpriseSG targeting to fund more than 1,000 small businesses through the scheme. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbuild-2024-microsoft-enhances-productivity-with-new-copilot-transforming-teamwork-and-projects\u002F\"\u003EHow Microsoft's new AI Copilot features could transform teamwork and projects\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECopilot for Microsoft 365 is currently \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"88b62a52-11eb-44ba-95dc-e0069636c413\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.microsoft.com\u002Fen-us\u002Fmicrosoft-365\u002Fenterprise\u002Fcopilot-for-microsoft-365#Pricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"priced at $30 per user per month\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E under an annual $360 subscription fee. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMBs will have until November 20 to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.enterprisesg.gov.sg\u002Fgrow-your-business\u002Fboost-capabilities\u002Fproductivity-and-digitalisation\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-for-smes-programme\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esign up for the program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and need to meet certain criteria: They must have no more than 200 employees and must be locally registered companies with operations in Singapore. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe SMB program also encompasses training workshops customized to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eguide SMBs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in their Copilot deployment for productivity gains. The businesses can further leverage AI Singapore's series of training schemes and workshops to learn about other AI applications.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, EnterpriseSG will further assist SMBs that are ready for \"more sophisticated AI integration\" or need tailored AI applications, rather than off-the-shelf offerings.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency has introduced an \"applied AI\" program, in which Institutes of Higher Learning will work with SMBs to establish AI problem statements and build customized AI applications. The aim is to help these businesses identify specific pain points and develop AI strategies and implementation roadmaps.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere, EnterpriseSG will provide a 50% subsidy to offset some of the associated costs for SMBs looking to develop and deploy these tailored AI tools. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-build-adds-sentiment-analysis-automatic-video-dubbing-to-azure-ai-speech\u002F\"\u003EMicrosoft releases upgrades to Azure AI Speech at Build 2024\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe scheme will start next month in partnership with Nanyang Polytechnic and Singapore Polytechnic, both of which participants can tap for their technical expertise and industry experience in AI, according to EnterpriseSG. The agency aims to facilitate more than 100 SMBs in the program and hopes to progressively rope in more institutes of higher learning. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe initiatives are part of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-to-accelerate-ai-development-with-investment-in-compute-and-talent\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESingapore's efforts to help local companies access AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E applications and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcompanies-have-to-figure-out-the-skills-they-need-to-reap-ai-benefits\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edevelop related capabilities\u003C\u002Fa\u003E so they can improve operational efficiencies and drive business growth, Singapore's deputy prime minister and minister for trade and industry Gan Kim Yong said during Tuesday's announcement.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEnterpriseSG and Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) earlier this year launched a GenAI sandbox touted to provide SMBs with \"ready to use\" tools in customer engagement, marketing, and sales, including chatbots and content generation tools. Since its launch, more than 140 SMBs have incorporated these applications into their operations, EnterpriseSG said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fevery-copilot-pc-microsoft-just-announced-to-take-on-apples-m3-macbooks\u002F\"\u003EEvery Copilot+ PC Microsoft just announced to take on Apple's M3 MacBooks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIMDA on Tuesday also announced an expanded collaboration with Microsoft to help organizations that are further along their digital journey to identify use cases and deploy their own customized GenAI applications. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EParked under IMDA's GenAI x Digital Leaders scheme, the initiative is aimed at larger and more digitally mature businesses keen to build up their in-house digital capabilities and tap GenAI to enhance productivity.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency will work with Microsoft to run workshops that help these organizations better understand GenAI and identify use cases. EnterpriseSG will conduct these workshops over the next two years and encompass one-on-one guidance on prototyping and scoping of customized GenAI use cases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program aims to reach at least 200 enterprises, with participating companies offered access to Microsoft's partner network and GenAI tools, including Azure OpenAI and Copilot.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fyou-can-make-big-money-from-ai-but-only-if-people-trust-your-data\u002F\"\u003EYou can make big money from AI - but only if people trust your data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn March, Microsoft said it was working with SkillsFuture Singapore to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-inks-pact-to-train-singapore-smbs-in-ai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Earm 2,000 SMBs over three years with the knowledge to tap AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E tools. The software vendor also unveiled plans to train up to 100,000 National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) members with fundamental AI skills and work with the Institute for Adult Learning to integrate AI into the education curriculum, with plans to jointly develop and test AI tools and methodologies to enhance the learning experience. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"For most companies [and] most SMBs, you don't need to know how to code, how to deploy code, and how to use AI solutions. You just want to use apps without all the fuss,\" Tan Kiat How, a senior minister of state, said in a statement.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingapore hopes to address this through partnerships with industry players and initiatives, such as SME Go Digital, Tan said at a luncheon hosted by IMDA and Microsoft. The SMB program includes a list of pre-approved digital tools, 20% of which currently are AI-enabled, he said, adding that the aim is to eventually have all solutions on the list be AI-enabled.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-05-21 19:03:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The limited-time offer is part of a government-funded subsidy and partnership to drive the adoption of generative AI applications.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"c402fde2-7e60-4acd-a081-9615bc157663",image:{id:"fbc9d7cd-1e46-40da-8283-856aa31ddaf9",filename:"gettyimages-2141955299.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-04-29 13:56:24",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Microsoft Copilot logo in magnifying glass",credits:"Rafael Henrique\u002FSOPA Images\u002FLightRocket via Getty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F29\u002Ffbc9d7cd-1e46-40da-8283-856aa31ddaf9\u002Fgettyimages-2141955299.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:5000,height:3333,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"singapore-smbs-can-now-run-microsoft-copilot-at-a-discount",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Singapore SMBs can now run Microsoft Copilot at a discount",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10580cdc-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"government-asia",name:"Government: Asia",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f53351ad-6d72-447e-a4e3-0d6c02af6fca\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"weerapatkiatdumrong\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924\" data-image-filename=\"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F25\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThey may be hot targets of cybercriminals, but small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are prioritizing other enterprise applications for adoption over security tools. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECybersecurity tools rank low in adoption among the various categories of applications whose costs are partly \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esubsidized for SMBs in Singapore\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, said Andy Choi, deputy director of SME Go Digital at Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). This despite 30% to 50% of SMBs that Choi had interacted with having experienced at least one ransomware attack. \"I think many [SMBs] overestimate how safe they are,\" he said during a panel discussion organized by trade association SGTech. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-is-changing-cybersecurity-and-businesses-must-wake-up-to-the-threat\u002F\"\u003EAI is changing cybersecurity and businesses must wake up to the threat\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaunched in 2017, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.imda.gov.sg\u002F-\u002Fmedia\u002Fimda\u002Ffiles\u002Fprogramme\u002Fsmes-go-digital\u002Fsmesgd-factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESME Go Digital program\u003C\u002Fa\u003E aims to help these businesses adopt and use digital technologies, providing grants for a range of enterprise applications. The program encompasses digital solutions bundled in starter packs, offered by banks and telco partners, that span key categories such as accounting, HR, digital marketing, digital transactions, and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-skills-concerns-hamper-singapore-smb-digitalisation-efforts\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecybersecurity\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. SMBs that sign up for 18-month contracts receive price waivers for any two solutions for at least six months.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHR, accounting, and e-commerce applications -- rather than cybersecurity -- have among the highest adoption rates among the SMBs, Choi told ZDNET during the event. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith smaller businesses a hot target of cybercriminals, it is a concern that security remains low in priority and an afterthought for these vulnerable organizations, according to the panelists. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESMBs need to comprehend the risks associated with their digital transformation efforts, said Kevin Reed, CISO for data security vendor Acronis. Cyber attackers today, he said, do not simply breach networks; they steal credentials and hijack data, so their victims can be exploited for ransom. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EReed added that while big ransom payments, such as the recent \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cbsnews.com\u002Fnews\u002Funitedhealth-ransom-paid-change-healthcare-attack\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E$22 million UnitedHealth reportedly paid\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to recover its data, often made the headlines, most ransom payouts are much smaller in numbers to better cater to SMBs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fregulations-still-necessary-to-compel-adoption-of-cybersecurity-measures\u002F\"\u003ERegulations are still necessary to compel adoption of cybersecurity measures\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECybercriminals prefer to target these organizations since they often lack the resources to hire dedicated cybersecurity specialists and the skills to secure their assets, he said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFurthermore, there is unlikely anyone to investigate or track down perpetrators in the event of a security incident, noted Aleks Farseev, SGTech exco member as well as co-founder and CEO of SoMin.ai.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost SMBs \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffaced-with-likelihood-of-ransomware-attacks-businesses-still-choosing-to-pay-up\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eusually end up paying the ransom\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \"trust\" that the payment will lead to the recovery of their data, Farseev said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn fact, ransomware attacks are the biggest threat to SMBs, according to the 2024 Sophos Threat Report, which defines SMBs as companies with no more than 500 employees. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The value of data as currency has increased exponentially among cybercriminals, and this is particularly true for SMBs, which tend to use one service or software application, per function, for their entire operation,\" noted Christopher Budd, the security vendor's director of X-Ops research. Cyber attackers that succeed in stealing credentials, for instance, can get the password for the targeted company's accounting software. They then can access the company's financials and funnel funds into their own accounts, Budd said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-ai-firewalls-will-secure-your-new-business-applications\u002F\"\u003EHow AI firewalls will secure your new business applications\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe added that more than 90% of all cyberattacks reported to Sophos last year involved data or credential theft, through various attacks including ransomware, data extortion, unauthorized remote access, and simple data theft.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESpecifically, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fa-deep-dive-into-the-operations-of-the-lockbit-ransomware-group\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ELockBit\u003C\u002Fa\u003E is the ransomware group responsible for most SMB cases handled by Sophos' incident response team. Akira and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Finside-a-ransomware-incident-how-a-single-mistake-left-a-door-open-for-attackers\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBlackCat\u003C\u002Fa\u003E round out the top three groups behind ransomware attacks targeting SMBs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, almost half of malware detections were keyloggers, spyware, and infostealers, which attackers used to steal data and credentials. With the stolen data, cybercriminals can gain unauthorized remote access, roll out ransomware, or extort their victims, according to Sophos. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen they choose to pay the ransom, SMBs put themselves at risk of potentially violating local regulations, cautioned Choi. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmedibank-wont-pay-ransom-as-more-stolen-data-shows-up-on-dark-web\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIn Australia\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, for instance, organizations that make ransomware payments can be charged if they suspect or know that the funds may be used to fund terrorism. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDennis Chung, Microsoft's Singapore CSO, recommended SMBs instead seek help from the authorities when they encounter a ransomware attack. The local police operates a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-releases-blueprint-to-combat-ransomware-attacks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecounter-ransomware taskforce\u003C\u002Fa\u003E alongside other government agencies, including Ministry of Defence and Monetary Authority of Singapore, that offers help for companies that report such attacks including mitigation and recovery steps they can take. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\"\u003EThe best VPN services: Expert tested and reviewed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETapping such community support also can provide useful background data and information sharing, such as decryption keys for attacks that may involve the same ransomware groups, Chung said.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESupport and guidance specifically tailored for SMBs will better address the needs of these businesses, which often lack the budget or expertise to manage their cybersecurity needs, said Conrad Chan, product portfolio lead for Singapore telco M1. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPointing to the curated list of subsidized digital solutions under IMDA's SME Go Digital scheme, he said such provisions -- as well as consultancy assistance under the program's CTO-as-a-service -- can ensure these companies, including micro SMBs, start thinking about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-urges-nation-to-adopt-security-by-design-mindset\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esecurity by design\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEchoing Choi's observation, Chan noted that security seldom is a priority or top concern for SMBs, most of which still believe they are unlikely to experience a breach. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany also do not know where to start, even if they are want to beef up their security posture, and few have the skills or budget to do so, he added. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChung also urged SMBs to stop regarding cybersecurity as an afterthought and start including the necessary security measures as part of their digital transformation journey. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-04-25 18:44:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Grants are available to offset deployment costs, yet cybersecurity tools remain low in demand among the smaller companies that need them most.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"fb2328f4-2b46-4fdb-a8a9-2b8823a0afa4",image:{id:"f53351ad-6d72-447e-a4e3-0d6c02af6fca",filename:"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-04-25 18:14:59",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"padlockhole2gettyimages-473158924",credits:"weerapatkiatdumrong\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F25\u002Ff53351ad-6d72-447e-a4e3-0d6c02af6fca\u002Fpadlockhole2gettyimages-473158924.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"these-smbs-are-hot-threat-targets-but-theyre-shrugging-off-security-help",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"These SMBs are hot threat targets but they're shrugging off security help",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1029c8e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"data-management",name:"Data Management",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"9a23272b-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"David Gewirtz",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"David",lastName:"Gewirtz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"de4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945",filename:"david-gewirtz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 15:19:52",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fde4475ef-be59-4858-beb8-6f7696c85945\u002Fdavid-gewirtz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"In addition to hosting the ZDNET Government and ZDNet DIY-IT blogs, David Gewirtz is an author, U.S. policy advisor, and computer scientist. He is featured in The History Channel special The President's Book of Secrets, is one of America's foremost cyber-security experts, and is a top expert on saving and creating jobs. He is also director of the U.S. Strategic Perspective Institute as well as the founder of ZATZ Publishing.\r\n\r\nDavid is a member of FBI InfraGard, the Cyberwarfare Advisor for the International Association for Counterterrorism & Security Professionals, a columnist for The Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security, and has been a regular CNN contributor, and a guest commentator for the Nieman Watchdog of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. He is the author of Where Have All the Emails Gone?, the definitive study of email in the White House, as well as How To Save Jobs and The Flexible Enterprise, the classic book that served as a foundation for today's agile business movement.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"Blue Host on a MacBook screen\" data-image-filename=\"20240409-124438.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F09\" data-image-width=\"4000\" data-image-height=\"2252\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt seems like there are an almost unlimited number of web hosting providers who will serve your website for a monthly fee. In our tested list of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-web-hosting\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebest web hosting services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, we spotlighted providers that offer a wide range of plans. When doing a full review of a single hosting provider, I set up the most basic account possible and run the service through a barrage of tests. In this article, I'll dive into \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"431e2cf7-e1ef-405b-a105-ca3d5e140155\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002F\" data-monetized-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbluehost.sjv.io\u002Fc\u002F159047\u002F795082\u002F11352?&sharedid=zdnet&partnerpropertyid=1980086&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bluehost.com%2F&subId1=subid_value\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost's\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E offerings based on my hands-on testing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwp-engine-review\u002F\"\u003EWP Engine review: A solid managed-hosting provider for WordPress\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBecause there are so many variables among plans and offerings, not only among hosting providers, but within the plans offered by any one provider, it can be difficult to get a good comparison. I've found that one of the best ways to see how a provider performs is to look at the least expensive plan they offer. You can expect the least quality, the least attention to detail, and the least performance from such a plan. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EBluehost at a glance\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"147d4c36-7c0c-4e5c-88a4-78166d5f4bb9\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Shared hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting a $2.95 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"12325339-4ff2-4185-aa10-06e55165bceb\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Online store hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $9.95 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"c5a32168-2421-4a0e-889c-4a7dd5a7e88c\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Virtual private server (VPS) hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $31.99 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b2ed79a4-dd42-4556-ba79-5e65d562826f\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Dedicated server hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $91.98 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"d47664c6-bd82-446b-82b2-f1fe05003476\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Cloud hosting\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E starting at $29.99 per month\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPrice bump after end of period: Yes\u003C\u002Fli\u003E\u003C\u002Ful\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \t \tHow web hosting provider pricing really works \u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor this series of hosting reviews, I'm testing the most basic, most entry-level plan a vendor is offering. In the case of Bluehost, it's their appropriately named Basic plan. To get pricing information, I went to the company's main site at \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"b3ecfeac-22af-4f32-ba64-e9a55f126406\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002F\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost.com\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"8670469b-00ca-4295-a57f-34485c91b895\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003ERegular, non-incognito window in Chrome\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"shared-web-hosting-plans-fast-secure-shared-hosting-bluehost-2021-04-24-19-03-38.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-26-412x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2500\" data-image-height=\"2138\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs with most every hosting provider, Bluehost's published pricing is somewhat misleading. There is no option to get billed only $2.95 per month. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile it looks like you can get the Single Shared Hosting plan for $2.95 per month, that's only if you prepay for a full year, which means you're actually paying $35.40. There's a gotcha though. When you renew, you're going to pay more. Four times more.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0e81a2b0-2bef-4e7f-9033-a11011256891\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-25-432x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-14-25-432x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1134\" data-image-height=\"832\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt is weird, though, because if you sign up for just a year, you're paying less per month for that first year. But then your price will jump by more than quadruple what you paid when you signed up. I talked a lot about \u003Cem\u003Elock-in\u003C\u002Fem\u003E and \u003Cem\u003Eswitching costs\u003C\u002Fem\u003E in my \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-build-a-website\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHow to create a website: The step-by-step guide\u003C\u002Fa\u003E overview. Read it, because Bluehost (and many other hosting providers) have business models that count on the switching costs being so painful that you'll suck up a huge upcharge simply to avoid moving your site.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOn the other hand, if you pay for three years (and this is not just a commitment, you're paying that $178.20 upfront), the company implies you're paying more per month for the first year. Of course, you're not. You're either plunking down $178.20 for three years or $35.40 for one year -- and then paying big to continue.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-web-hosting\u002F\"\u003EThe best web hosting services of 2024: Expert tested\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAgain, this is not unusual -- I focus on these pricing gimmicks in my reviews because it can be really unpleasant to suddenly get a bill that's hundreds or even thousands of dollars (depending on the plan) more than you expected. Second, switching from one hosting provider to another hosting provider can be a very time-consuming and possibly expensive job, fraught with hassles and potential points of failure. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt least half of the hosting vendors I've looked at over the years do these promo deals, with big jumps in renewal fees, so Bluehost isn't alone in this somewhat predatory practice. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn any case, let's move on.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \t \tWhat the Bluehost Basic plan includes \u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMost bottom-end plans are for one website, and Bluehost is no different. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBefore we move into the details, let's spend a moment talking about what a base plan really is. All websites are not created equal. While you might be able to pay under three bucks a month to run your website, I pay about a hundred bucks each month to run \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fanatomy-of-a-wordpress-site\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emy small fleet of sites\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA base site is designed for a business or an individual who wants a basic online presence. That's a bunch of pages, some product or service images, and a lot of text. If you want to run complex web applications, or you expect a lot of traffic, a basic site is not for you. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-cheap-web-hosting\u002F\"\u003EThe best cheap web hosting services\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're just trying to establish an online presence, starting simply is a good way to go. In this series, we're reviewing the least expensive program each hosting provider offers. That's going to be what the majority of buyers will want, and it will give us a good insight into the company. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost offers a number of pretty solid features in their Basic plan. The base plan includes 10GB website space, one website, and a basic SSL certificate, and what they describe as unmetered bandwidth. This \u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"4fc61bc2-d4cc-4ccf-ba77-6dbf7c47be71\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fhelp\u002Farticle\u002Fshared-hosting-prices#shared-hosting\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Help Page\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E provides more details:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"62a7a249-3553-439a-9ade-32c2409681c6\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-19-262x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-11-at-13-07-092x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"2616\" data-image-height=\"1920\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBe careful, though. In practice, if you push your account near the limits, or use an excessive amount of bandwidth, it's likely that the service will throttle you back. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fen.wikipedia.org\u002Fwiki\u002FBluehost\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBluehost was one of the earliest providers\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to institute server throttling when \"unlimited\" resource usage got to be too much. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are some wins, most notably that even the basic plan is hosted on SSDs. Even if a site is using caching (which reduces the load on a server), having fast drives is always a plus. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company does have 24\u002F7 chat and phone support, and Bluehost offers a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fhelp\u002Farticle\u002Frefundpolicy\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E30-day money-back guarantee\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It's not as long as some competitors, but it is a fair amount of time for you to get a simple site up and running and see how things work. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \t \tGetting started with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnce your account is created and you log in, you're immediately presented with an upsell:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"02ac1f74-531b-453c-9d7a-f4a2fd00d482\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-22-382x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-22-382x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2594\" data-image-height=\"1516\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAfter that, I was presented with this installation status window:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"4247b1cb-f9ea-4ab5-ad0c-cdffc70446b6\" data-size=\"medium\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-25-132x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-25-132x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1256\" data-image-height=\"968\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI went ahead and clicked Log In To WordPress. I got the following screen. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a30b9bc0-18fa-42e0-b50e-1274f9d59976\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-28-082x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-28-082x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2618\" data-image-height=\"1470\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI have to admit that I'm getting a little impatient. I want to see the dashboard so I can see what I can do with this service. Since there is no option to simply go to the dashboard, I guessed that \"I'm following a tutorial\" might imply that Bluehost was going to let me do something not pre-scripted.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EStrangely enough, I now have two tabs open, with two dashboards. Here's the first, which is a panel inside the actual WordPress site dashboard:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"05983cb4-b02e-422c-aced-483be3ca990e\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-33-242x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-33-242x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2882\" data-image-height=\"1726\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd here's the second:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"185181f6-8201-4f9c-8a48-914b967a9e87\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-34-392x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-34-392x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2874\" data-image-height=\"1666\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere does not appear to be anything that allows full site customization through something like cPanel. The cPanel email option shown above is for setting up email. But there's not full cPanel interface, which is disappointing. However, I did eventually find a more advanced dashboard. You get to it in the second dashboard shown above, by hitting Settings under the Welcome statement:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0b9110ab-7c6d-47f1-8303-78248734d7fb\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-02-122x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-02-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2854\" data-image-height=\"1882\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tBasic WordPress access with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI decided to work in the version of the Bluehost dashboard presented inside the WordPress dashboard. There are options to... wait... nope. Can't look at them yet. Another upsell just popped up and blocked my access to the dashboard:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f704452b-e7d3-4538-b595-ac40c970ef5b\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-44-192x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-44-192x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2858\" data-image-height=\"2006\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's actually driven by a WordPress plugin, so that means there are probably a ton of unnecessary WordPress plugins preinstalled. I'll check on that in a bit.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBack in settings, there's an option to install WooCommerce to add an online store. There's a $9.95 a month Online Store plan, so I'm guessing that somewhere along the installation and configuration process for WooCommerce, there will be an option to upgrade the plan. There's a performance tab, which basically allows you to turn on and off site-wide caching.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-taking-on-more-work-doesnt-mean-it-replaces-you-here-are-12-reasons-to-worry-less\u002F\"\u003EAI taking on more work doesn't mean it replaces you. Here are 12 reasons to worry less\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's a very simple settings option, where you can turn off the Coming Soon page status, enable automatic WordPress updates, specify the number of revisions to save, and manage comments. Most of these can also be managed from the WordPress dashboard, so this seems like just another way to control the same thing.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOoh, this is interesting. Bluehost provides a staging site, even in the base plan. They get some big points for that. It's always nice to having a staging site, and many more expensive plans don't come with one. Granted, this is a staging site managed inside the main WordPress install (which can be a bit dicey when things go waaaay bad), but it's still a great feature for a bottom-level plan.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"a13db3f6-f1a8-4148-b992-79669e04b6b2\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-49-492x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-49-492x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2540\" data-image-height=\"1074\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENow, let's switch over to the WordPress Plugins dashboard. There's a lot installed here. Many of these are popular WordPress plugins, all offer upsells, and many of them add a lot of overhead to a WordPress installation. Many plugins, once installed, leave a lot of cruft in the WordPress database, so even if they're unistalled, the database winds up with a  lot of former plugin pollution. Fortunately, in that hidden advanced settings panel I found above, there is an option to delete the entire site and start over.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere is a partial list of everything that's preinstalled:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"f91d8fd8-2d37-461e-843b-c0697c4a3193\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EPartial list of installed plugins\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-51-232x\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-15-51-232x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"2852\" data-image-height=\"2000\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMany of them are also flashing red notifications, begging for attention.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tQuick security checks with Bluehost\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESecurity is one of the biggest issues when it comes to operating a website. You want to make sure your site is safe from hackers, doesn't flag Google, and can connect securely to payment engines if you're running an e-commerce site of any kind. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile the scope of this article doesn't allow for exhaustive security testing, there are a few quick checks that can help indicate whether Bluehost's most inexpensive platform is starting with a secure foundation. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first of these is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbetter-than-the-best-password-how-to-use-2fa-to-improve-your-security\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emultifactor authentication\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (MFA). It's way too easy for hackers to just bang away at a website's login screen and brute-force a password. In the past, many of my sites have been pounded on by some hacker or another, but because I have some relatively strong protections in place, the bad actor hasn't been able to get in. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsaving-hours-of-work-with-ai-how-chatgpt-became-my-virtual-assistant-for-a-data-project\u002F\"\u003ESaving hours of work with AI: How ChatGPT became my virtual assistant for a data project\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnfortunately, the basic Bluehost plan doesn't appear to support multifactor authentication at the dashboard level. Any WordPress site can add an MFA plugin to support authentication at the website level, but it would be nice for Bluehost to offer MFA at the hosting level. They do allow you to set a PIN code, so if you're contacting support for help, they can verify that you're you. But that's not the same as real MFA.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost includes a free AutoSSL certificate, which is configured and enabled by default. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs my last quick security check, I like to look at the versions of some of the main system components that run web applications. To make things easy, I chose four components necessary to safe WordPress operation. While other apps may use other components, I've found that if components are up-to-date for one set of needs, they're usually up to date across the board. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHere are my findings (using the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwordpress.org\u002Fplugins\u002Fhealth-check\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EHealth Check & Troubleshooting plugin\u003C\u002Fa\u003E), as of the day I tested, for Bluehost's Basic plan: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ctable class=\"MsoNormalTable\" style=\"border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;border:none; mso-border-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-yfti-tbllook:1536;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-border-insideh:1.0pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:1.0pt solid black\" width=\"624\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" border=\"1\"\u003E\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EComponent\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EVersion Provided\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECurrent Version\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow Old\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:1\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPHP \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.3.4 \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.3.4\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:2\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMySQL \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5.7.23-23\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E5.7.44\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E68 months \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:3\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EcURL \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.7.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E8.7.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECurrent\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003Ctr style=\"mso-yfti-irow:4;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes\"\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenSSL \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E1.1.1w\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003E3.2.1\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003Ctd style=\"width:117.0pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black 1.0pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black 1.0pt; padding:5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt 5.0pt\" width=\"156\" valign=\"top\"\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnsupported\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Ftd\u003E\u003C\u002Ftr\u003E\u003C\u002Ftbody\u003E\u003C\u002Ftable\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn general, these results are fairly good -- especially considering how out of date some of Bluehost's competitors have been when I checked their versions. That said, you kind of need to know the component to know how to read these results. Bluehost has current versions of PHP (the language that runs WordPress) and cURL, a library used for many supporting services.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMySQL can be confusing. The current version of MySQL is 8.0.23, but the production MySQL release process jumped from 5.7 to 8.0. While the MySQL 8.x branch is being updated, so is the MySQL 5.7.x branch. In that branch, at 68 months out of date, Bluehost's MySQL is getting a quite long in the tooth. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESSL is far worse. This is the security environment that provides encrypted communications to your website. It's what's indicated by that little lock in your browser's address bar. Bluehost is running an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.openssl.org\u002Fblog\u002Fblog\u002F2023\u002F09\u002F11\u002Feol-111\u002Findex.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eunsupported and obsolete version of OpenSSL\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This is not new news. It's now seven months since the entire OpenSSL 1.1.1 track has been end-of-lifed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBluehost says that it's not really a problem, because they \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdocs.cpanel.net\u002Fknowledge-base\u002Fsecurity\u002Fpci-compliance-and-software-versions\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebackport\u003C\u002Fa\u003E security code into their implementation. Brent Lundell, senior director of hosting infrastructure at Bluehost told me this:\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOpenSSL is commonly backported by various software packages and operating systems, leveraging an older version (such as 1.1.1) while backporting the security patches to prevent regular rewrites of other portions of the software base. In Bluehost's case, OpenSSL 1.1.1 is compiled upstream by WebPros, which will backport security patches into v1.1.1 and ensure we're running a fully secured version.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003C\u002Fblockquote\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat's a credible statement, but I still don't like it. If a security product has been obsoleted, it just raises the hairs on the back of my neck to still keep running it, even if a separate team is keeping it secure. I'd be far more comfortable moving to the actively supported code. Based on Lundell's response and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.redhat.com\u002Fen\u002Fblog\u002Fexperience-bringing-openssl-30-rhel-and-fedora\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esome reading I did on the topic\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, it's quite likely their implementation is safe. Still, it seems wrong somehow.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EBluehost performance testing\u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENext, I wanted to see how the site performed using some online performance testing tools. It's important not to take these tests too seriously. We're purposely looking at the most low-end offerings of hosting vendors, so the sites they produce are expected to be relatively slow. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fi-used-chatgpt-to-write-the-same-routine-in-12-top-programming-languages-heres-how-it-did\u002F\"\u003EI used ChatGPT to write the same routine in 12 top programming languages. Here's how it did\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThat said, it's nice to have an idea of what to expect. The way I test is to use the fresh install of WordPress with the standard theme TwentyTwenty. I then performance test the \"Hello, world\" page, which is mostly text, with just an image header. That way, we're able to focus on the responsiveness of a basic page without being too concerned about media overhead. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst, I ran two \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftools.pingdom.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EPingdom Tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E tests, one hitting the site from San Francisco and the second from Germany. Here's the San Francisco test rating: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"7a50c4fb-59e4-4bbf-b467-88cab2d5d3e8\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"website-speed-sf-pingdom-tools-2021-04-25-22-08-30.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-25-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1510\" data-image-height=\"630\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not stellar, but a good solid B rating is all you can really expect from a bottom-of-the-barrel plan. It's certainly workable and shouldn't incur any Google juice SEO penalties. Here's the same from Germany: \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"0ec42934-2b3a-4f45-b1a9-432ddb43fe90\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Screenshot by David Gewirtz\u002FZDNET\" data-image-alt-text=\"website-speed-germany-pingdom-tools-2021-04-25-22-09-47.png\" data-image-filename=\"cleanshot-2024-04-08-at-16-26-122x.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F04\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1494\" data-image-height=\"644\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlso, definitely good enough for a small site. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E \tSupport responsiveness \u003C\u002Fh3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere's not much to say here. I had only one interaction, late on a Sunday night. I did get connected with human via chat within about five minutes. The individual was nice and clearly wanted to help. I particularly liked how they let me know that some of the information would take a few minutes to dig up, so I wasn't left hanging, wondering if they'd gone home for the night. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E \tZDNET's buying advice\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan data-shortcode=\"commercelinkshortcode\" data-id=\"1326d8bb-1401-4c7c-a96c-bad011ffb321\" data-raw-url=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bluehost.com\u002Fpricing\" data-link-shortcode-text=\"Bluehost\" data-use-monetization=\"true\" data-edition=\"us\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fspan\u003E is a workable web hosting provider, but certainly not spectacular. Having out-of-date and discontinued security libraries, even for a basic plan, even if it's been kept secure by a different team, makes me nervous. The offering of two different dashboards, opened at just about the same time, was confusing. The packing of the site with a ton of upsell plugins was just plain annoying. But performance was good enough, especially for the base price.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cem\u003EYou can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to follow me on Twitter at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003E@DavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Facebook at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdavidgewirtz\"\u003EFacebook.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, on Instagram at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u002F\"\u003EInstagram.com\u002FDavidGewirtz\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and on YouTube at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fuser\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\"\u003EYouTube.com\u002FDavidGewirtzTV\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fem\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-04-12 12:00:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"There's a reason Bluehost is one of the most popular web hosting providers around. I look at what it's like using the service and dig deep inside its implementation.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"77667c37-b21f-4b95-ac6a-0a83c039af03",image:{id:"a6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463",filename:"20240409-124438.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-04-09 17:07:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"shared-web-hosting-plans-fast-secure-shared-hosting-bluehost-2021-04-24-19-03-38.png",credits:"Kerry Wan\u002FZDNET",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F09\u002Fa6d640aa-c262-4fb3-ad39-fb3167f96463\u002F20240409-124438.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:4000,height:2252,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"product-promo",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Services & Software^Web Hosting",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"bluehost-review",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Bluehost review: Good performance, integrated dashboard, and solid support",topic:{id:"f6a63221-9e83-4e81-b4de-9c5396dbcbe2",slug:"web-hosting",name:"Web Hosting",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f6a63221-9e83-4e81-b4de-9c5396dbcbe2",slug:"web-hosting",name:"Web Hosting",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10e2a445-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"networking",name:"Networking",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"112a7545-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"reviews",name:"Reviews",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"f1f7db06-c6f9-4e80-8187-60ad48f035a1",slug:"zdnet-recommends",name:"ZDNET Recommends",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"67f7915b-998d-4435-ab60-ed51e5aeba02\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Thomas Barwick\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"security-cloud-datacenter-skills\" data-image-filename=\"security-cloud-datacenter-skills.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F03\u002F29\" data-image-width=\"2120\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECybersecurity attacks continue to climb in Asia-Pacific, even as organizations in markets such as Singapore struggle to adopt the necessary security measures due to a lack of knowledge. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe region saw a 15% \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwatch-out-generative-ai-will-level-up-cyber-attacks-according-to-new-google-report\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eincrease in cyberattacks\u003C\u002Fa\u003E in 2023, clocking an average of 1,963 attacks weekly, with ransomware leading the pack. The financial industry was the fourth-most targeted sector by ransomware in Asia-Pacific, according to findings from FS-ISAC (Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center), which analyzed data from its members.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-101-everything-on-how-to-protect-your-privacy-and-stay-safe-online\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECybersecurity 101: Everything on how to protect your privacy and stay safe online\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe industry group further highlighted the growing sophistication of adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures, or TTPs, that now encompass SEO poisoning and QR code phishing. Threat actors also want to tap \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-generative-ai-and-why-is-it-so-popular-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerative artificial intelligence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (AI) to scale and automate attacks, including \"poisoning\" and manipulating generative AI tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFS-ISAC named four new threats the financial sector has to safeguard against, including increased geopolitical hacktivism activities, new extortion tactics that align with global regulations, and efforts to achieve cryptographic agility.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe organization noted that online adversaries are anticipated to roll out misinformation campaigns and DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks against critical information infrastructures amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts and a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-powered-misinformation-is-top-global-risk-amid-easier-access-to-tools\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eyear of elections globally\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. It added that DDoS attacks accounted for 35% of attacks targeting the financial services sector in 2023.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-vpn\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best VPN services (and how to choose the right one for you)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, threat actors are tweaking their tactics to leverage upcoming global regulations in 2024 and weaponizing disclosure requirements to extort companies leading up to compliance deadlines.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Threat actors will exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructures and leverage any tool available to destroy trust in the security of our systems,\" Teresa Walsh, FS-ISAC's chief intelligence officer and EMEA managing director, said. \"The financial services sector operates in a cyber landscape that is endlessly dynamic, as cybercrime and fraud converge, and emerging technologies create additional opportunities for exposure. In order to maintain trust in the sector, companies must prioritize proactive cyber hygiene to ensure operational resilience in the face of an attack.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003ESingapore organizations face a knowledge gap\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBusinesses that are hindered by a lack of expertise find it tough to adopt the necessary safeguards. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations in Singapore, for instance, have adopted an average of 70% of essential cybersecurity measures across five key categories, according to a study by Cyber Security Agency (CSA), which lists assets, backup, and response among the five areas.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-iphone-vpn\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe best VPN services for iPhone and iPad (yes, you need to use one)\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe government agency responsible for the country's cybersecurity strategy urges businesses to adopt all essential measures to avoid exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. Its study polled 2,036 large enterprises and small and midsize businesses (SMBs) between May and August 2023. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECSA's cybersecurity certification schemes, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-offers-certification-scheme-to-tag-companies-with-robust-security-posture\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECyber Essentials and Cyber Trust\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, outline national cybersecurity standards to guide companies on what processes to prioritize. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Partial adoption of measures is inadequate and unless all essential measures are adopted, organizations are still exposed to unnecessary cyber risks,\" CSA said in its report. The organization said there's room for improvement since just one in three organizations have fully implemented at least three of the five Cyber Essentials categories of measures.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F6-simple-cybersecurity-rules-you-can-apply-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E6 simple cybersecurity rules you can apply now\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EQueried about why they had not adopted cybersecurity measures, 59% of organizations in the study pointed to a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-skills-concerns-hamper-singapore-smb-digitalisation-efforts\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elack of knowledge or experience\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as a top challenge. CSA attributed this deficit to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fapac-faces-2-1m-shortage-in-cybersecurity-professionals\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Etalent shortage in cybersecurity\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcybersecurity-teams-need-new-skills-even-as-they-struggle-to-manage-legacy-systems\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efast-changing threat landscape\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnother 46% of organizations believed they were unlikely to be a target of cyberattacks and, hence, chose not to adopt all essential security measures. Some 36% cited the low returns on investment as a reason, while 31% pointed to the lack of budget as a challenge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore than eight in 10 companies acknowledged having experienced a cybersecurity incident within the past year, including 49% that encountered such incidents several times in the year. These typically include \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-releases-blueprint-to-combat-ransomware-attacks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eransomware\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, social engineering scams, and exploitation of misconfiguration of their cloud deployment. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAmong organizations that have experienced security incidents, 99% suffered a business impact, 48% of enterprises encountered business disruption, and 46% suffered data loss. Another 31% of businesses incurred financial loss, including 27% that suffered such losses from incident response measures.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"While organizations have put in place some measures to protect their assets, this is not sufficient given the increasing frequency and scale of cyber threats that we are facing today,\" CSA Chief Executive David Koh said. \"Organizations should make cybersecurity a priority and take advantage of the [government's] \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsmbs-face-growing-cybersecurity-threats-but-basic-measures-can-lower-risks\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efunding support\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapores-guidelines-to-bolster-mobile-app-security-are-optional-for-now\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eresources\u003C\u002Fa\u003E available to catch up. Doing this only after an incident has happened will be much more costly.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Ch2\u003EUsing generative AI to beef up security\u003C\u002Fh2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations in Singapore are also looking to use generative AI to improve their cybersecurity posture. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs many as 81% of decision-makers expect their budgets for generative AI to increase over the next three years, and 53% believe adopting the technology will improve resources, such as employees' time and operational efficiency. Another 52% anticipate improved customer experiences, while 46% expect generative AI to help scale their global business through augmenting translation and research capabilities, revealed a study commissioned by data search and observability vendor, Elastic.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F2024-is-the-year-of-generative-ai-implementation-and-optimization\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E3 ways to accelerate generative AI implementation and optimization\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe global report was conducted by Vanson Bourne and surveyed 3,200 IT decision-makers in Europe, the US, and Asia-Pacific, the latter of which included 1,200 respondents from Singapore, Japan, India, and Australia. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe study found that 99% of organizations in Singapore face IT security challenges, including maintaining current security practices and detecting and responding to threats. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll respondents in the city-state believe generative AI will beef up their security postures, including 51% who said the technology can automate security responses based on their security protocols. Another 50% expect generative AI to improve security report generation and predictive capabilities. Almost half (49%) believe such tools will improve entity recognition capabilities and another 49% think generative AI can detect anomalies. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHowever, almost all respondents in Singapore noted that generative AI adoption is being slowed, with 42% pointing to fears around regulations as a barrier. Some 40% cited the skills gap in implementing generative AI technologies in-house as a challenge, while 39% noted the potential for the technology to generate convincing inaccurate information.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAsked about the apparent paradox between wanting to use generative AI to automate security tasks and the skepticism of its data accuracy, Chris Walker, Elastic's Asia-Pacific Japan vice president of solutions architecture, noted the importance of basic \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-seeks-expanded-governance-framework-for-generative-ai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edata governance and management\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations need the right competencies to apply generative AI to their operations and ensure the data used to train AI models is relevant and grounded, Walker said during a media briefing to discuss the study's findings. This approach will ensure the generative AI-powered responses they receive are trustworthy and the potential risks mitigated, including hallucinations.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmy-two-favorite-chatgpt-plus-plugins-and-the-remarkable-things-i-can-do-with-them\u002F\"\u003EMy two favorite ChatGPT Plus features and what I can do with them\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EApart from automating processes, such as quarantining, generative AI can also be tapped to surface information cybersecurity professionals can review and act on, he said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations will first have to address challenges they may face to extract insights from \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-gold-rush-makes-basic-data-security-hygiene-critical\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Etheir data\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"More than any other market in the region, organizations in Singapore struggle to access and leverage data stored across multiple systems and formats,\" Ravi Rajendran, Elastic's Asean area vice president, said. \"Users face the challenge of identifying the relationship between different data points and they are searching for ways to break down data silos and better leverage that data.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe continued: \"Although AI is where investment is concentrated, this is fundamentally an issue of search. Using GenAI to process data by searching and summarizing and using it to better manage records is a key area of interest for organizations here.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWalker added: \"\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-is-changing-cybersecurity-and-businesses-must-wake-up-to-the-threat\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGenAI is now a game-changer\u003C\u002Fa\u003E for businesses. When integrated effectively with powerful search and observability tools, GenAI can address long-term global challenges faced by companies and unique challenges that the markets in Asia-Pacific are tackling.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F6765f19d-41fe-11e4-b6a0-d4ae52e95e57\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-04-01 17:37:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"It's time for organizations to wake up to the cyber threat as new vectors, including generative AI, increase in importance.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"e1adee09-df97-4e5e-a0c0-8c76c97f83a7",image:{id:"b8b76174-edbf-42c5-b68c-b63bc19bb5c6",filename:"gettyimages-1215119276.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-02-19 18:53:44",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Lock with wheels turning inside",credits:"Andriy Onufriyenko\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F02\u002F19\u002Fb8b76174-edbf-42c5-b68c-b63bc19bb5c6\u002Fgettyimages-1215119276.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2187,height:1371,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Tech^Security",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"the-biggest-challenge-with-increased-cybersecurity-attacks-according-to-analysts",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"The biggest challenge with increased cybersecurity attacks, according to analysts",topic:{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"113c25b6-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"security",name:"Security",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1029c8e8-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"data-management",name:"Data Management",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"50801e7d-011f-4199-ae96-03411c8ec733\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Eugene Mymrin\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"AI fusing a block together\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-1950805446.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F03\u002F06\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has inked several partnerships to drive \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-ai-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-about-artificial-intelligence\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eartificial intelligence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (AI) adoption and skillsets in Singapore, particularly among small and midsize businesses (SMBs).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe tech giant is working with SkillsFuture Singapore to arm 2,000 SMBs over three years with the knowledge to tap AI tools. Microsoft is also teaming up with the Institute for Adult Learning to integrate AI into the education curriculum, with plans to jointly develop and test AI tools and methodologies to enhance the learning experience, Microsoft said in a statement on Wednesday.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwant-to-work-in-ai-how-to-pivot-your-career-in-5-steps\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWant to work in AI? How to pivot your career in 5 steps\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe company will also work with NTUC LearningHub to train up to 100,000 National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) members with fundamental AI skills. The aim is to boost members' AI literacy and prepare them for the evolving workforce, according to Microsoft.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe collaboration has resulted in several online and in-person training programs focused on how AI can be \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ffinding-the-path-toward-success-as-organizations-bring-ai-into-the-workplace\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eapplied in the workplace\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, said NTUC LearningHub CEO Jeremy Ong. He said this approach will ensure NTUC's members are \"ready for the future of work\" and part of a workforce that can harness AI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fis-prompt-engineer-displacing-data-scientist-as-the-sexiest-job-of-the-21st-century\u002F\"\u003EIs prompt engineer displacing data scientist as the 'sexiest job of the 21st century'?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft is also working with EnterpriseSG and AI Singapore to drive the adoption of Microsoft Copilot among local SMBs and identify industry-specific use cases for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-generative-ai-and-why-is-it-so-popular-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerative AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. The partners will jointly develop resources to help SMB leaders with change management and redesigning business workflows, Microsoft said, adding that the company will look to add customized AI use cases for businesses in the longer term.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese efforts will allow SMBs to scale the benefits of AI and boost productivity and operations. In addition, the software vendor will collaborate with Infocomm Media Development Authority to support digitally mature SMBs in accessing expertise and resources to implement generative AI tools.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESoh Leng Wan, EnterpriseSG's assistant CEO for manufacturing and engineering, believes Copilot can be \"an easy way\" for SMBs to start tapping AI to drive employee productivity and improve business workflows.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft has also introduced an initiative to develop AI solutions for key industry sectors. Its Microsoft AI Pinnacle Program encompasses the development of roadmaps for strategic AI use cases that provide clear returns on investment and operationalized AI use cases that deliver business impact.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new initiative will establish an AI Center of Capabilities, comprising AI accelerators and toolsets, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-identifies-six-generative-ai-risks-sets-up-foundation-to-guide-adoption\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eresponsible AI frameworks, and a governance\u003C\u002Fa\u003E program. The initiative will also provide training programs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-chatgpt\u002F\"\u003EHow to use ChatGPT\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMicrosoft AI Pinnacle Program was launched with five participating organizations -- Certis, HTX, Mediacorp, Seatrium, and Synapxe -- from various sectors, including health care and maritime.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"The program will facilitate co-creation and co-innovation of AI use cases and foster an AI-first culture and ecosystem,\" Microsoft said. \"Through this, the program aims to inspire new ways of work and support organizations in building capabilities to tap opportunities in the era of AI.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe program will include the rollout of Copilot for business functions such as HR, finance, and marketing. Participating organizations can also work with Microsoft Research and its partners to develop new AI capabilities.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaurence Liew, AI Singapore's director of AI innovation, has urged generative AI software vendors to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-leaders-urged-to-integrate-local-data-models-for-diversitys-sake\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eincorporate regional and local data models\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to ensure their products better reflect a diverse global population. For example, integrating the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fnew-research-initiative-aims-to-build-large-language-ai-model-for-southeast-asia\u002F\"\u003ESoutheast Asian Languages in One Network\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (SEA-LION) large language model (LLM) will help these generative AI tools to generate more accurate responses, Liew said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELiew noted that most \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F\"\u003Epublic generative AI tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E today are non-Asian focused and might have \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-safety-and-bias-untangling-the-complex-chain-of-ai-training\u002F\"\u003Einherent data bias\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. LLMs such as SEA-LION are more \"culturally sensitive\", which he said will ensure generative AI responses better reflect the region's societal mix.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F6-ai-tools-that-can-supercharge-your-everyday-life-and-work\u002F\"\u003E6 AI tools to supercharge your work and everyday life\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn January, Singapore released a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehandbook to help local businesses navigate their adoption of generative AI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and acquire the skills to support such initiatives. Dubbed Generative AI for the Tech Workforce, the resource guide aims to assist Singaporean organizations, such as SMBs, that want to integrate the technology into their environments.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Singapore government last month \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-to-accelerate-ai-development-with-investment-in-compute-and-talent\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eset aside at least SG$1 billion\u003C\u002Fa\u003E ($741.97 million) to accelerate AI development in the country, including securing access to the necessary compute power and skillsets. Plans are also underway to upgrade the country's national broadband network and build a new cybersecurity command hub.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe investments aim to support the Singapore government's efforts to tap technology across key sectors and are part of its fiscal 2024 budget, running through to March 2025.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-03-07 10:24:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The tech giant is working with government agencies to help 2,000 smaller businesses adopt AI tools, including Copilot.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"4880c2c0-9b2a-4f13-8f11-58822b1b9763",image:{id:"50801e7d-011f-4199-ae96-03411c8ec733",filename:"gettyimages-1950805446.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-03-06 20:54:58",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"AI fusing a block together",credits:"Eugene Mymrin\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F03\u002F06\u002F50801e7d-011f-4199-ae96-03411c8ec733\u002Fgettyimages-1950805446.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"microsoft-inks-pact-to-train-singapore-smbs-in-ai",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Microsoft inks pact to train Singapore SMBs in AI",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"31533fa5-2e59-44f2-94c5-4603d9695bae\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Yuichiro Chino\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"global-data-gettyimages-1337196402\" data-image-filename=\"global-data-gettyimages-1337196402.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F01\u002F19\" data-image-width=\"2121\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ETech giants currently pushing out generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) tools are urged to incorporate regional and local data models to ensure their products better reflect a diverse global population. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIntegrating the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fnew-research-initiative-aims-to-build-large-language-ai-model-for-southeast-asia\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESoutheast Asian Languages in One Network\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (SEA-LION) large language model (LLM), for instance, will help these GenAI tools generate more accurate responses, according to Laurence Liew, director of AI innovation at AI Singapore. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-lenovo-works-on-dismantling-ai-bias-while-building-laptops\u002F\"\u003EHow Lenovo works on dismantling AI bias while building laptops\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe related a test in which his team had input a question specific to a recent Asian election, asking SEA-LION and a more popular global public Gen AI platform to predict the outcome. As it turned out, the former generated a more accurate result, he said.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe current iteration of SEA-LION runs on two base models: a 3-billion-parameter model and a 7-billion-parameter model. Its training data is composed of 981 billion language tokens, which AI Singapore defines as fragments of words created from breaking down text during the tokenization process. These fragments include 623 billion English tokens, 128 billion Southeast Asia tokens, and 91 billion Chinese tokens.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELiew said that most \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Epublic Gen AI tools\u003C\u002Fa\u003E today are non-Asian focused and, hence, may have\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fai-safety-and-bias-untangling-the-complex-chain-of-ai-training\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E inherent data bias\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. LLMs such as SEA-LION are more \"culturally sensitive\", which he said will ensure Gen AI-generated responses better reflect the region's societal mix. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAsian countries such as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.nationthailand.com\u002Fbusiness\u002Ftech\u002F40035784\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThailand\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgovernment.economictimes.indiatimes.com\u002Fnews\u002Ftechnology\u002Findias-first-indigenous-genai-bharatgpt-unveiled\u002F106899694\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIndia\u003C\u002Fa\u003E also have developed their own LLMs.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENoting that SEA-LION is \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fcustomized-test-benchmarks-and-openness-crucial-as-generative-ai-models-evolve\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eopen source\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Liew added that AI Singapore hopes the likes of Microsoft and Google can incorporate such regional and local LLMs for organizations that operate in this region.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELaunched in May 2017, AI Singapore is a government-wide collaboration that gathers all Singapore-based research institutions, startups, and companies that develop AI products. The national program aims to drive the country's AI capabilities and is supported by several government agencies, including the Smart Nation and Digital Government Office and Economic Development Board.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fthis-is-why-open-source-generative-ai-models-are-a-step-behind-gpt-4\u002F\"\u003EWhy open-source generative AI models are still a step behind GPT-4\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELiew further highlighted growing interest among businesses in adopting Gen AI products. He pointed to the multiple discussions his team has had with Microsoft, which had noted a flood of requests from enterprise customers for \"thousands of seats\" to roll out \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmicrosoft-copilot-vs-copilot-pro-is-the-pro-flavor-worth-the-subscription-price\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECopilot\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot every organization, though, feels it has the IT infrastructure to support its Gen AI adoption. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EJust 30% feel their company has the IT assets that are essential to deploy Gen AI, according to a study commissioned by Telstra International. Conducted by MIT Technology Review Insights, the study polled 300 C-level executives and business leaders, with 66% from Asia-Pacific markets -- including Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and India -- and 17% each from Europe and the Americas. The survey was conducted between November and December 2023. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-to-accelerate-ai-development-with-investment-in-compute-and-talent\u002F\"\u003ESingapore looks to accelerate AI development with investment in compute and talent\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome 67% of early Gen AI adopters felt their hardware was \"modestly conducive\" for rapid adoption. About half said likewise for their storage infrastructure. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhile 76% said they had worked with Gen AI in some way last year, only 9% said their organization had adopted it widely. Most cited automation of low-value tasks as the key reason for doing so, while others pointed to customer service, strategic analysis, and product innovation.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome 60% acknowledged that Gen AI would substantially disrupt their industry over the next five years, with 78% treating the technology as a competitive opportunity. Only 8% viewed it as a threat. Some 65% said their organization was actively looking at new and innovative ways to use Gen AI to extract value from data. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgenerative-ai-should-be-more-inclusive-as-it-evolves\u002F\"\u003EGenerative AI should be more inclusive as it evolves, according to OpenAI's CEO\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAsked about barriers to adoption, 77% pointed to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-seeks-expanded-governance-framework-for-generative-ai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eregulatory, compliance, and data privacy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E considerations, while 56% highlighted budget as a constraint. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ERespondents also noted a shortage of the necessary skills, with machine learning engineers, AI data scientists, and translators among the top talent needed.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"As the world becomes increasingly digitized and human-to-machine interactions flourish, being able to process data to drive informed real-time or near real-time business decisions is paramount,\" said Geraldine Kor, Telstra International's South Asia managing director and head of global enterprise. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"However, building end-to-end capabilities to handle large datasets, accurately contextualize the data for business value, and ensure the responsible and ethical application of AI is extremely challenging,\" said Kor, who discussed the survey findings at a media briefing Monday that included Liew as a guest. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fmove-over-gemini-open-source-ai-has-video-tricks-of-its-own\u002F\"\u003EMove over Gemini, open-source AI has video tricks of its own\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, organizations continue to operate in a global climate that is fraught with geopolitical issues and an uncertain economic landscape. This will impact their decisions on how to invest their IT spend and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fglobal-players-look-to-create-baseline-to-evaluate-generative-ai-applications\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewhether this should include GenAI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, Kor said. She recommends that companies start by identifying one specific function to which to apply Gen AI. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Singapore, like most countries, is still in the early stages of adopting Gen AI, with the technology only recently becoming available in productivity suites suitable for a wider audience,\" Liew said. \"The requirements for effective implementation of Gen AI include access to real datasets, AI engineers, and computer infrastructure.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECompanies also face a dilemma in acquiring the necessary hardware, he noted. \"Choices include outright purchase and pay-as-you-go outsourcing, both of which carry their own risks. Additionally, data quality, storage, and talent remain bottlenecks for effective deployment,\" he said. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-chatbot\u002F\"\u003EThe best AI chatbots: ChatGPT isn't the only one worth trying\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHe added that AI Singapore is looking to plug some of these gaps with initiatives such as the AI Apprenticeship Programme and LLM Application Developer Programme. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingapore in January also published a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehandbook to help local companies\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, including small and midsize businesses, navigate their adoption of Gen AI and acquire the necessary skill sets to support such initiatives. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-03-05 14:13:00",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Incorporating the SEA-LION large language model, for instance, will help ensure Gen AI-generated responses more accurately reflect the Southeast Asian population.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"5a801430-2bb6-4c20-8ba5-f2dce6d98554",image:{id:"31533fa5-2e59-44f2-94c5-4603d9695bae",filename:"global-data-gettyimages-1337196402.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-01-19 16:32:07",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"global-data-gettyimages-1337196402",credits:"Yuichiro Chino\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F01\u002F19\u002F31533fa5-2e59-44f2-94c5-4603d9695bae\u002Fglobal-data-gettyimages-1337196402.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2121,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"ai-leaders-urged-to-integrate-local-data-models-for-diversitys-sake",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"AI leaders urged to integrate local data models for diversity's sake",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"0feec2d0-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"big-data",name:"Big Data",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10c1d40e-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"microsoft",name:"Microsoft",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"371a7418-10d6-11e4-9732-00505685119a",username:"sjvn",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Steven",lastName:"Vaughan-Nichols",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"e2171bd1-84f6-4ca8-9801-2abdeb61a365",filename:"steven-vaughan-nichols.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 18:47:37",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fe2171bd1-84f6-4ca8-9801-2abdeb61a365\u002Fsteven-vaughan-nichols.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols is a freelance writer and technology analyst. Besides ZDNET, he works with Foundry (Formerly IDG Communications), The Register, The New Stack, and Cathey Communications. He does not own stocks or other investments in any technology company.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"68e9d3a9-4a3d-4dd0-bb49-f94af8380cad\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"IBM\" data-image-alt-text=\"IBM LinuxONE 4 Express\" data-image-filename=\"linuxone4-express.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F02\u002F11\" data-image-width=\"1920\" data-image-height=\"1080\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWhen you think of mainframes, you may recall those days of hulking machines with blinking lights and 9-track tape drives spinning. How things have changed. These days, Big Blue's latest  \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ibm.com\u002Fproducts\u002Flinuxone-4\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIBM LinuxONE 4 Express\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, a pre-configured rack mount system, would pass without remark in most small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUntil they started using it. Then, it would be a different story.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F40-years-of-gnu-and-the-free-software-foundation\u002F\"\u003EA look back at 40 Years of GNU and the Free Software Foundation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe IBM LinuxONE 4 Express, the newest member of the Rockhopper mainframe family, comes with up to a maximum of 16 \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ibm.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fintegrated-facility-for-linux\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIntegrated Facility for Linux (IFLs)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. These Linux-only system boards are powered by a 4.6GHz IBM 8-core Telum processor. This 7nm architecture chip can support as much as 864GB of memory. Storage? It's a rack mount, so you can add pretty much any storage you like. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Telum chip also includes an AI coprocessor. The goal is to enable you to use AI to deal with transactions in close to real-time. For example, IBM claims you can use the Telum chip to catch \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnewsroom.ibm.com\u002F2021-08-23-IBM-Unveils-On-Chip-Accelerated-Artificial-Intelligence-Processor\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efinancial transaction fraud before it can be processed\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. Color me impressed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe new mainframe is also designed -- when used with IBM's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ibm.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fgdps\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGDPS\u003C\u002Fa\u003E software and DS8000 series storage with HyperSwap -- to deliver 99.999999% (eight 9s) availability when running \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.redhat.com\u002Fen\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ERed Hat\u003C\u002Fa\u003E's be-spoke Kubernetes  \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.redhat.com\u002Fen\u002Ftechnologies\u002Fcloud-computing\u002Fopenshift\u002Fcontainer-platform\"\u003EOpenShift Container Platform\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESteven Dickens, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ffuturumgroup.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EThe Futurum Group\u003C\u002Fa\u003E VP and practice leader, said: \"With the new LinuxONE 4 Express solution, IBM is uniquely positioned to handle mission-critical workloads with high availability. When you combine this with the system's cybersecurity posture, IBM is well positioned for market traction.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECybersecurity? The new mini-mainframe comes with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ibm.com\u002Fdocs\u002Fen\u002Flinux-on-systems?topic=virtualization-secure-execution\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIBM Secure Execution for Linux\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. This is a hardware-based security technology that protects data run in Linux \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.redhat.com\u002Fen\u002Ftopics\u002Fvirtualization\u002Fwhat-is-KVM\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EKernel Virtual Machines (KVM)\u003C\u002Fa\u003E guests from being viewed or modified by the server environment. With Secure Execution, you can protect individual workloads not only from external attacks but also insider threats. This includes data in use, a particularly critical stage of security for digital assets use cases.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwindows-security-how-to-protect-your-home-and-small-business-pcs\u002F\"\u003EWindows security: How to protect your home and small business PCs\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAll these capabilities can be used to run medical imaging applications safely with protected data using AI. For example, health insurance companies could analyze large volumes of medical records in near real-time to validate process claims.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou can also use it for such traditional mainframe jobs as workload consolidation: IBM claims that users who move Linux workloads from a comparable x86 server to an IBM LinuxONE 4 Express can save over 52% on their total cost of ownership (TCO) over five years.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMoreover, the LinuxONE 4 Express can be used to set up \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fred-hat-and-ibm-announce-a-hybrid-cloud-software-marketplace\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehybrid clouds\u003C\u002Fa\u003E using Red Hat products. Tina Tarquinio, IBM Z and LinuxONE's VP of product management for IBM Z and LinuxONE, said: \"IBM LinuxONE 4 Express is a chance for startups and small to medium-sized businesses to build an intentional hybrid cloud strategy from the ground up. IBM brings the power of the hybrid cloud and AI in the latest LinuxONE 4 system to a simple, easy-to-use format that fits in many data centers,\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAs Rick Schoonmaker, IBM's director of Z and LinuxONE hardware product management, said, \"The new LinuxONE 4 Express is built to simplify the experience for SMBs and start-ups by offering three pre-configured machine sizes and pricing options as well as full solution add-on packages.\" \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe LinuxONE 4 Express starts at $135,000 -- for a new mainframe that's dirt cheap -- and will be available starting February 20.  \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fif-ai-is-the-future-of-your-business-should-the-cio-be-in-control\u002F\"\u003EIf AI is the future of your business, should the CIO be the one in control?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt's not just IBM touting the benefits of the LinuxONE 4 Express. Steve McDowell, a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnand-research.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ENAND Research\u003C\u002Fa\u003E enterprise infrastructure industry analyst, observed: \"It addresses a common challenge for growing businesses -- an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.forbes.com\u002Fsites\u002Fstevemcdowell\u002F2024\u002F02\u002F07\u002Fibm-brings-mainframe-to-the-masses-with-linuxone-4-express\u002F?sh=5c7917633ba0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIT infrastructure that can adapt and evolve\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to meet their changing requirements. By offering a scalable solution, IBM is not just selling a product but providing a long-term value proposition.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMcDowell added, \"Another strategic decision is the focus on simplicity and ease of use. SMBs, which may have small IT departments, benefit significantly from LinuxONE 4 Express's pre-configured, easy-to-deploy nature, reducing the barriers to adoption.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ECould there be a mainframe in your future? I cut my computing teeth on mainframes when they really were big iron machines, so I've always had a soft spot for them. But that doesn't matter. When you look at all that the LinuxONE 4 Express brings to the table, I can see it working well for many businesses. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"9bc4482b-c699-437c-8123-48740950d561\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F9bc4482b-c699-437c-8123-48740950d561\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-02-12 16:36:50",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"Moving your Linux workloads from a x86 server to this amazingly inexpensive mainframe can save 52% TCO over five years, IBM claims.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"42d5cdd6-9143-4ca4-b17f-e3aef373add7",image:{id:"4c96e0ae-3b0d-4945-b3b1-c58f8588a732",filename:"ibm-linux-main-screenshot-2024-02-12-111312.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-02-12 16:13:51",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"ibm-linux-main-screenshot-2024-02-12-111312",credits:"IBM",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F02\u002F12\u002F4c96e0ae-3b0d-4945-b3b1-c58f8588a732\u002Fibm-linux-main-screenshot-2024-02-12-111312.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:824,height:593,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Home & Office^Smart Office^Office Hardware & Appliances",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"linuxone-4-express-how-ibms-budget-mainframe-could-be-right-for-you",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"LinuxONE 4 Express: How IBM's budget mainframe could be right for you",topic:{id:"f6766034-0530-4765-8be5-effa45e1c660",slug:"office-hardware-appliances",name:"Office Hardware & Appliances",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"f6766034-0530-4765-8be5-effa45e1c660",slug:"office-hardware-appliances",name:"Office Hardware & Appliances",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"101518dd-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"cloud",name:"Cloud",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10764a79-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"ibm",name:"IBM",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10b2a4fa-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"linux",name:"Linux",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"10f422bf-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"open-source",name:"Open Source",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"57b89c3b-5b67-4357-bd53-58c9f516a044",slug:"business",name:"Business",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"889072e1-a2de-4cf1-a10c-8100af0d4b43\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"Weiquan Lin\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"man-ai-gettyimages-1337227407\" data-image-filename=\"man-ai-gettyimages-1337227407.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F01\u002F24\" data-image-width=\"2120\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA handbook has been released to help Singapore businesses navigate their adoption of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-generative-ai-and-why-is-it-so-popular-heres-everything-you-need-to-know\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egenerative artificial intelligence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (GenAI) and acquire the necessary skillsets to support such initiatives. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDubbed Generative AI for the Tech Workforce, the resource guide aims to assist local organizations, including small and midsize businesses (SMBs), looking to integrate the technology into their environment, said SGTech. The guide also will aid these companies in acquiring the skillsets and retraining to facilitate the transition, said the local technology trade association, which has more than 1,000 corporate members, including MNCs, SMBs, and startups. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fif-ai-is-the-future-of-your-business-should-the-cio-be-in-control\u002F\"\u003EIf AI is the future of your business, should the CIO be the one in control?\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe resource guide was developed alongside SkillsFuture Singapore and AI Singapore, which are government agencies tasked with developing the country's skills development programs and AI capabilities, respectively. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESGTech is a skills development partner under \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-wants-widespread-ai-use-in-smart-nation-drive\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESingapore's National AI Strategy\u003C\u002Fa\u003E 2.0, where it is \"responsible for articulating job roles and skills requirements\" across both technology and non-technology sectors to support GenAI.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPut together based on inputs from 30 companies, the resource guide highlights three enterprise \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-for-generative-ai-use-cases-with-sandbox-options\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Euse cases for GenAI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E as well as the GenAI employee profiles and skillsets needed, including GenAI developers and solution providers. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOne case study, for example, looks at how a global organization in the raw materials industry developed a system to ingest and classify documents across different departments in a bid to improve productivity. \"The ability to incorporate information from all users meant everybody in the company was involved in training the model, not just the tech team. This accelerated the rate at which the large language model could learn, hence, delivering greater benefits to the company,\" the SGTech guide noted. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F64-of-workers-have-passed-off-generative-ai-work-as-their-own\u002F\"\u003E64% of workers have passed off generative AI work as their own\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt added that applying GenAI here enabled the company to more quickly extract data and better focus on other activities, such as generating and acting on the data insights. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe resource guide also outlines three levels of GenAI tech talent profiles and the technical expertise required for each. For instance, GenAI solution providers are tasked with tapping the relevant large language models to fit specific use cases, while \"power users\" leverage GenAI for specialized tasks that require a greater understanding of prompt design and domain-specific knowledge.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBenjamin Mah, SGTech's co-chair of talent steering committee, said: \"The future of work relies on the flexibility of individuals and organizations to adopt technological advancements. This publication serves as a guide, directing professionals and enterprises toward a future where skills development seamlessly aligns with technological innovation.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fglobal-tech-spending-expected-to-keep-climbing-on-ai-demand\u002F\"\u003EGlobal tech spending expected to keep climbing on AI demand\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingapore last week released a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-seeks-expanded-governance-framework-for-generative-ai\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edraft governance framework on GenAI\u003C\u002Fa\u003E to address emerging issues, including incident reporting and content provenance. The draft document encompasses proposals from a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-identifies-six-generative-ai-risks-sets-up-foundation-to-guide-adoption\u002F\"\u003Ediscussion paper\u003C\u002Fa\u003E published last June, which identified six risks associated with GenAI, including hallucinations, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fgenerative-ai-brings-new-risks-to-everyone-heres-how-you-can-stay-safe\u002F\"\u003Ecopyright challenges\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and embedded \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-must-take-caution-with-ai-use-review-approach-to-public-trust\u002F\"\u003Ebiases\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, and a framework on how these can be addressed. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe proposed GenAI governance framework also draws insights from previous initiatives, including a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fglobal-players-look-to-create-baseline-to-evaluate-generative-ai-applications\u002F\"\u003Ecatalog on how to assess the safety of GenAI models\u003C\u002Fa\u003E and testing conducted via an \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-for-generative-ai-use-cases-with-sandbox-options\u002F\"\u003Eevaluation sandbox\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-01-24 21:07:55",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The resource guide includes use cases on how to incorporate generative artificial intelligence and acquire the skillsets to support such initiatives.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"adfb402c-f752-45e9-8776-7c6739752359",image:{id:"889072e1-a2de-4cf1-a10c-8100af0d4b43",filename:"man-ai-gettyimages-1337227407.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-01-24 20:57:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"man-ai-gettyimages-1337227407",credits:"Weiquan Lin\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F01\u002F24\u002F889072e1-a2de-4cf1-a10c-8100af0d4b43\u002Fman-ai-gettyimages-1337227407.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2120,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"singapore-smbs-offered-handbook-on-training-their-workforce-for-genai",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Singapore SMBs offered handbook on training their workforce for GenAI",topic:{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"4bbd52b3-12fc-4183-9f2a-1274944fbf8d",slug:"digital-transformation",name:"Digital Transformation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0d8cfdbe-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0",username:"eyu",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Eileen",lastName:"Yu",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2",filename:"eileen-yu.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-13 06:39:20",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F13\u002F2dd68a59-269a-4024-8e9e-8d4f16fbc2d2\u002Feileen-yu.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Currently an independent business tech journalist and panel moderator based in Singapore, Eileen Yu has over 20 years of industry experience with various publications including ZDNET, IDG, and Singapore Press Holdings. \r\n\r\nShe covers industry developments in Singapore and other Asian markets, with special focus on China, and aims to drive discussions around cybersecurity, data, and government policies.\r\n\r\nEileen majored in Journalism at The University of Queensland, Australia, where she wrote an honours thesis titled: To Censor or Not: The Great Singapore Dilemma.",profile:b,title:"Senior Contributing Editor",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"9c6e4b92-dc70-41a0-8853-3465b3ad4ba3\" data-size=\"large\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"RomanBabakin\u002FGetty Images\" data-image-alt-text=\"Singapore government buildings\" data-image-filename=\"gettyimages-587200388.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F01\u002F10\" data-image-width=\"2119\" data-image-height=\"1414\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Singapore government has been called on to provide funding support so large enterprises can continue with their \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fwhat-is-digital-transformation-everything-you-need-to-know-about-how-technology-is-reshaping\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edigital transformation\u003C\u002Fa\u003E programs and smaller businesses can begin their sustainability journeys. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese measures are necessary to safeguard the country's prosperity amid an increasingly uncertain global climate, according to a report released by KPMG in Singapore (KPMG) and the Singapore Business Federation (SBF). \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fenterprises-will-need-ai-governance-as-large-language-models-grow-in-number\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EEnterprises will need AI governance as large language models grow\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe document outlines recommendations on what the government should include in its upcoming budget to maintain Singapore's appeal as a destination for foreign direct investment in light of growing competition from other financial hubs. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EDeputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong is scheduled to deliver the nation's fiscal 2024 budget plan on February 16. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe report suggests that advocating innovation, digitalization, and ESG (environmental, social, and corporate governance) will place Singapore in a good position to attract global capital and talent. Organizations can also boost their competitiveness if they are given support to digitalize, decarbonize, and globalize.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002F3-ways-to-find-a-great-ai-partner-for-your-enterprise\u002F\"\u003E3 ways to secure the best AI partner for your business\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThese measures will be integral to helping enterprises, particularly small businesses, deal with rising costs and a challenging business environment in a softening global economy.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EResearch suggests just 25% of companies in Singapore are confident the economy will improve during the next 12 months, compared to 41% the year before, according to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sbf.org.sg\u002Fnewsroom\u002Fmedia\u002Fpress-releases\u002Fdetail\u002Fsingapore-business-sentiment-weakens-amidst-economic-uncertainties-tightening-credit-cost-increases-and-manpower-challenges\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ESBF's latest national business survey\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESome 58% of companies cite increased business costs as the top challenge, with 75% pointing to manpower costs as the key contributor. The survey respondents would like more support from the government for their ESG initiatives, as well as adoption of AI tools and global expansion. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe SBF survey, which polled 1,056 companies, also anticipates 2024 being a more challenging year for local businesses that will face headwinds in domestic and international markets. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"We recommend the government takes the lead to streamline procurement practices with smaller enterprises that may rely heavily on government projects,\" KPMG and SBF said in a joint statement. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"To tackle manpower constraints, Singapore must maintain its openness to overseas talent and strengthen policies that promote the development of local talent. A public-private review of business competitiveness is needed to identify opportunities for cost mitigation even as we press ahead with industry transformation.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Ftwo-divergent-skills-that-matter-in-an-ai-world-math-and-business-development\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETwo divergent skills that matter in an AI world: Math and business development\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe report authors call for a tiered support model to facilitate companies in their digitalization roadmaps, spanning from a lower-tier grant support covering 20% of backoffice and operational digitalization initiatives, to a top-tier grant of 60% in funding support for the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-looks-for-generative-ai-use-cases-with-sandbox-options\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eadoption of artificial intelligence\u003C\u002Fa\u003E (AI) and digital ledger technologies. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe report also suggests the government should reassess existing grants and subsidies, such as the Enterprise Innovation Scheme or Productivity Solutions Grant, and allow smaller companies to pay only the net cost of digital solutions to help them with their cash flow. Services providers can then claim the rest of the subsidies directly from the government. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGrant programs, the report suggests, should be expanded to include digital projects where development work is led out of Singapore, but involve resources from the region. The Enterprise Development Grant, for example, currently stipulates that such development work must be fulfilled locally. This restriction could stifle progress as businesses might not be able to access resources and skillsets to drive the work in a timely manner.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition, a universal grant program that covers the cost of AI and machine learning adoption and employee upskilling will be helpful for businesses looking to build training datasets and carry out data analysis and testing. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESmaller companies will also appreciate support in upskilling and retraining employees in emerging technologies, including AI, to acquire the necessary capabilities to handle \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-identifies-six-generative-ai-risks-sets-up-foundation-to-guide-adoption\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enew cyber threats\u003C\u002Fa\u003E.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso:\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fnew-operating-model-to-compete-in-ai-economy\u002F\"\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBusinesses need a new operating model to compete in an AI-powered economy\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOrganizations would further benefit from reskilling that can support their ESG development journey, which the government can provide through enhanced tax deductions for accredited training programs and tax subsidies. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe Singapore government can collaborate with sectoral agencies and trade associations to establish decarbonization industry roadmaps, with the aim of facilitating organizations' transition to a greener ecosystem. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor instance, the report recommends that the Enterprise Financing Scheme - Green initiative is expanded to boost lending by eligible financial institutions and help smaller companies begin \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fhome-and-office\u002Fsmart-office\u002Fsingapore-firms-struggle-to-align-sustainability-goals-with-business-objectives\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Etheir sustainability journeys\u003C\u002Fa\u003E. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe report also calls for the establishment of data-sharing platforms to facilitate the exchange of ESG data, such as greenhouse gas emissions associated with certain activities. This process will enable businesses to carry out checks on internal data or make estimates when information is not available. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFurthermore, Singapore could look to calibrate its property tax policies to offer lower rates for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fsingapore-wants-only-data-centres-that-are-efficient\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egreen commercial and industrial buildings\u003C\u002Fa\u003E, which would motivate building owners to meet greener building requirements. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"c1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002Fc1c64b97-f918-4f5b-acae-43981f87d8e6\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-01-10 11:15:38",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"A new report calls on the Singapore government to provide financial support that will help companies accelerate their digital transformation and sustainability programs.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"6f3bd025-8246-4987-8406-5190dff364f5",image:{id:"9c6e4b92-dc70-41a0-8853-3465b3ad4ba3",filename:"gettyimages-587200388.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-01-10 01:24:01",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"Singapore government buildings",credits:"RomanBabakin\u002FGetty Images",caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F01\u002F10\u002F9c6e4b92-dc70-41a0-8853-3465b3ad4ba3\u002Fgettyimages-587200388.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:2119,height:1414,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Business^Digital Transformation",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"singapore-urged-to-fund-support-for-ai-adoption-and-decarbonization",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"Singapore urged to fund support for AI adoption and decarbonization",topic:{id:"4bbd52b3-12fc-4183-9f2a-1274944fbf8d",slug:"digital-transformation",name:"Digital Transformation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},topics:[{id:"4bbd52b3-12fc-4183-9f2a-1274944fbf8d",slug:"digital-transformation",name:"Digital Transformation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:a,topicPath:[]},{id:"1140e374-ec91-11e3-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"singapore",name:"Singapore",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:i,slug:"smb",name:"SMB",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"3414bf30-82eb-4a6a-a561-f193482f1643",slug:"artificial-intelligence",name:"Artificial Intelligence",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"9d3e6108-0023-11e4-95d2-02911863765e",slug:"innovation",name:"Innovation",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]},{id:"bf2e3932-df7a-4251-ad3f-833d25aa550c",slug:"sustainability",name:"Sustainability",typeName:"content_topic",uuid:c,primary:d,topicPath:[]}],hubTopicPathString:b,type:"content_article",typeName:c,url:c,isSponsored:d},{author:{id:"0a6fffc2-2220-44ba-99e4-4c567f6f57bb",username:"maria-diaz-zd",profileUrl:b,email:b,firstName:"Maria",lastName:"Diaz",jobTitle:b,dateCreated:{created:b,date:b,timezone:b,updated:b,published:b},image:{id:"d89921b7-c002-40ef-8401-f002f1a769e9",filename:"maria-diaz.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2022-08-05 14:44:33",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:b,credits:b,caption:b,path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2022\u002F08\u002F05\u002Fd89921b7-c002-40ef-8401-f002f1a769e9\u002Fmaria-diaz.jpg",cropGravity:b,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:b,height:b,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},socialProfileIds:b,authorBio:"Maria Diaz is a staff writer based in the Raleigh-Durham, NC area with a passion for home automation and a background in graphic design, photography, and filmmaking. She has a bachelor's in Mass Communication and experience in journalism.",profile:b,title:"Staff Writer",bio:c,bureau:"US",awards:c,expertise:c,authorDisclosure:b},body:"\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"image\" data-uuid=\"6d7f29e6-b17c-4106-9815-e6478efed657\" data-size=\"original\" data-float=\"none\" data-image-caption=\"\u003Cp\u003EAI-generated images courtesy of iStock.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\" data-image-credit=\"iStock\" data-image-alt-text=\"Generative AI by iStock\" data-image-filename=\"istock-ai.jpg\" data-image-date-created=\"2024\u002F01\u002F08\" data-image-width=\"1920\" data-image-height=\"1080\" data-image-do-not-crop=\"false\" data-image-do-not-resize=\"false\" data-image-watermark=\"false\" data-lightbox=\"false\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGetty just announced its artificial intelligence-powered image generator called Generative AI by iStock that creates commercially safe images licensed to use in marketing materials, social media posts, online ads, and more. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fcollection\u002Fces-2024-whats-next-in-tech\u002F#link={%22role%22:%22standard%22,%22href%22:%22https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fcollection\u002Fces-2024-whats-next-in-tech\u002F%22,%22target%22:%22%22,%22absolute%22:%22%22,%22linkText%22:%22CES%202024:%20What's%20Next%20in%20Tech%22}\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECES 2024: What's Next in Tech\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"43ff04cc-043a-4a39-bf5a-936b1b4e6e35\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F43ff04cc-043a-4a39-bf5a-936b1b4e6e35\" data-float=\"right\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe biggest concern with using AI-generated images is the risk of copyright infringement, as the AI models behind image generators like OpenAI's \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fhow-to-use-dall-e-3-in-chatgpt\u002F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDALL-E 3\u003C\u002Fa\u003E are trained on vast amounts of images available online, regardless of copyright status. This can result in the generation of images that could resemble copyrighted art created by someone else and are invariably created with influence from other people's work.\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThis copyright concern is why different companies, like Adobe and now Getty, are instead creating AI image generators trained on their libraries of licensed images, providing users the same protection they would get when using images from the Adobe or Getty library. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fbest-ai-art-generator\u002F\"\u003EThe best AI image generators\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Using AI, creatives can produce anything they can imagine. Our own VisualGPS research shows that 42% of SMBs and SMEs are already using AI‑generated content to support their marketing efforts,\" said Grant Farhall, iStock's Chief Product Officer. \"Our AI Generator is easy to use, produces relevant and high‑quality visuals, and is backed by our legal protection so customers can now safely use this new service, in combination with our amazing pre‑shot library, to elevate their work.\"\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EiStock's AI image generator is powered by Picasso from NVIDIA. This is a foundry or environment with several visual foundational models for custom image and video generation, and the model used for Generative AI by iStock is trained on proprietary data from Getty Images' libraries. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EiStock users can pay $15 for every 100 AI generations. One generation is each time a user enters a prompt to generate an image. Each generation delivers four AI-generated images to choose from, and the users can choose to download one or all four. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAlso: \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Farticle\u002Fnvidia-makes-the-case-for-the-ai-pc-at-ces-2024\u002F\"\u003ENvidia makes the case for the AI PC at CES 2024\u003C\u002Fa\u003E\u003C\u002Fstrong\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\"Our main goal with Generative AI by iStock is to provide customers with an easy and affordable option to use AI in their creative process, without fear that something that is legally protected has snuck into the dataset and could end up in their work,\" Farhall explained. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe images created using Generative AI by iStock are not added back to the iStock creative library for others to download. They are backed by iStock's legal indemnification of up to $10,000. \u003C\u002Fp\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"pinbox\" data-uuid=\"4a5bc65a-fed6-4f89-b4a6-276f887cad90\" data-uri=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fcomponent\u002Feditorial\u002F4a5bc65a-fed6-4f89-b4a6-276f887cad90\" data-float=\"none\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv data-shortcode=\"newsletter\" data-id=\"2051361\" data-copy=\"ZDNET Tech Today\" data-image=\"{"id":null,"alt":null}\"\u003E\u003C\u002Fdiv\u003E",gallery:b,category:b,children:b,contentType:c,contentUrl:c,coreImages:b,date:b,datePublished:{created:b,date:"2024-01-08 19:42:12",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},description:"The AI image generator is trained on Getty's extensive image library to create commercially safe images for use in advertising and other marketing materials.",filterKey:b,filterLabel:b,genreGroups:b,icon:c,nodeId:c,subCategory:b,id:"29feb689-622b-4273-8944-1dc68d34ddf2",image:{id:"30e8f924-4385-4a30-9ee0-a28f36e5d952",filename:"istock-ai.jpg",dateCreated:{created:b,date:"2024-01-08 19:17:09",timezone:"UTC",updated:b,published:b},alt:"istock-ai",credits:b,caption:"\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\u002Fp\u003E",path:"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zdnet.com\u002Fa\u002Fimg\u002F2024\u002F01\u002F08\u002F30e8f924-4385-4a30-9ee0-a28f36e5d952\u002Fistock-ai.jpg",cropGravity:p,crop:b,typeName:"content_image",imageUrl:b,width:1920,height:1080,bucketPath:b,bucketType:b,title:b},label:c,metaData:{typeTitle:"news",hubTopicPathString:"Innovation^Artificial Intelligence",relatedItems:[]},name:c,promoTitle:c,section:c,slug:"generative-ai-by-istock-lets-users-create-commercially-safe-images",startYear:b,summary:c,title:"'Generative AI by iStock' lets users create images without copyright-infringement 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