Macworld

iCloud Private Relay might leak your IP address, even when you use Safari

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 17:13:46 +0000

A pair of security researchers found a critical problem with Apple’s iCloud Private Relay feature. Even when using Safari, a website can fairly easily get your real IP address.

Researchers Talal Haj Bakry and Tommy Mysk just disclosed the issue. Apple is aware of it; according to a report form 404 Media, Mysk said, “We have already informed them. They said the issue was ‘dire,’ but they let us disclose the issue. They didn’t provide any time when they will address this.”

Here’s how it works, in basic terms: iCloud Private Relay is a nice security feature but it is not a VPN. It only works when you use Safari. Passkeys—the helpful biometric alternative to remembering different passwords for every site—operate outside the browser, using the WebAuthn framework on Apple devices. So if you set up a website to make a request for a Passkey credential origin, it’s not protected by iCloud Private Relay because the Passkey request is technically happening outside the browser.

Of course, if you’re an everyday user, you don’t have any reason to know or suspect this. You’re using Safari, you have the paid iCloud+ Private Relay service turned on, you should be hidden, right?

The issue also affects browsers that use WebKit’s proxy relay, including some Tor browsers. The researchers built a proof-of-concept site you can use to check if you’re affected.

We don’t know when Apple is going to address the issue, but a vulnerability in Hide My Email that exposed real email addresses was fixed very quickly by Apple after the issue became public. That only required a back-end server fix, while this iCloud Private Relay issue might require a software update on devices. The fact that Apple let the researchers disclose the issue before the fix means Apple wants users to know about the problem and suggests it could take some time to fix.

iCloud Private Relay is not a VPN

This is a good time to remind everyone that iCloud Private Relay is not a VPN. A traditional VPN routes all the internet traffic for your entire device through other servers, sometimes providing other features as well at the core network level. iCloud Private Relay operates only in the Safari browser. It’s a nice perk of iCloud+, but not a full VPN substitute.

That difference is the root cause of this new issue. You can be browsing with Safari and a website can make a special kind of request that happens outside the usual browser stack—by design—and thus is not affected by iCloud Private Relay. Apple will obviously need to address this quickly.

If you’re interested in a real VPN, check out our list of the best VPNs.

When is Apple’s next event? Dates, rumors, and what to expect

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:19:05 +0000

Macworld

Apple’s WWDC keynote may be long behind us now, but Apple’s event calendar for 2026 is far from finished. With iOS 27, macOS 27 Golden Gate, and the latest Apple Intelligence and Siri updates now unveiled, attention is turning to the company’s next big launch.

Apple rarely confirms event dates far in advance, and there’s no guarantee an event will take place within its usual window. That leaves Apple fans – and anyone considering a new Apple device – wondering when the next Apple event will happen and what might be announced.

Luckily, Apple’s annual schedule is predictable, giving us a good idea of when the next keynote will happen – and which products are likely to launch. Based on Apple’s long-established schedule and reliable rumours, we can make informed estimates about when the next keynote is likely and which products could headline it.

From the iPhone 18 lineup and new Apple Watches to potential Mac and iPad updates, here’s everything we know about Apple’s next event and what you can expect to see. Read on for a closer look at all of the events Apple is expected to hold in 2026 and beyond, and what could launch.

When is Apple’s next event?

Beginning of September (expected)

Apple has not yet announced the date of its next event, although the company has asked Apple Store staff to apply for the ” Event Support Experience Program.” Employees enter a lottery for the opportunity to assist with an Apple event scheduled for the first half of September.

Based on Apple’s typical event schedule, we expect the company’s next event to be the annual iPhone launch in September 2026.

Looking at Apple’s event history over the past several years, we predict the September event will take place during the week beginning September 7, with September 8 or 9 the most likely dates, although it could be pushed back to September 15.

As in previous years, Apple is expected to livestream the event, allowing viewers around the world to watch the company unveil its latest products. One notable change this year is that the keynote is expected to be hosted by John Ternus, who is set to succeed Tim Cook as Apple’s CEO following Cook’s retirement

Apple event calendar 2026

Timescale	Event theme	Dates	Products
March	Special Experience	2-4 March	Launched: iPhone 17e, MacBooks Neo, Pro & Air, iPad Air
June	WWDC	June 8	Expected: iOS, macOS, other software, Mac updates, AI news
September	[iPhone event]	TBC	Expected: iPhone 18, new Apple Watch
October or November	[Late fall event]	TBC	Possible: Macs and iPads?

Apple has held two events so far in 2026, although the first was not an event in the traditional sense. On March 4, the company invited select media to hands-on “experiences” in multiple locations. In the run-up to that date, Apple also launched several products via press release, including the iPhone 17e, M4 iPad Air, and MacBook Pro M5 Pro and M5 Max, M5 MacBook Air and the MacBook Neo.

The second event was WWDC, which began with a keynote on June 8. At the WWDC keynote Apple outlined the upcoming changes to its operating systems, including iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate.

Looking ahead to the fall, Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, a foldable iPhone Ultra, and more at an Apple event in September.

A second, late-fall event in October or November is possible, though less certain and typically focused on Macs or iPads.

Foundry

FAQ

What will Apple announce at the next event?

Apple’s September event is the biggest and most watched Apple event of the year. It’s the venue at which Apple unveils the new iPhones and Apple Watches for the next year.

We expect Apple to launch the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and Apple Watch Series 12 at a September event. Apple may also reveal the new folding iPhone, thought to be called the iPhone Ultra.

Rumors also point to a new and improved HomePod and Apple TV. The iPad and iPad mini are also overdue an update so may arrive at the same event.

We may also see updates to the Mac Studio and Mac mini.

What time does the next Apple event start in U.S., U.K. and other global time zones

Apple keynotes usually start at 10 am PT. That translates to the following times in the countries where most of our readers live:

U.S.: 10 am PDT, 11 am MDT, 12 pm CDT, 1 pm EDT
Canada: as above, plus 2 pm ADT
U.K.: 6 pm
Europe: 7 pm CEST, 8 pm EEST
India: 10:30 pm IST
Australia: next day — 1 am AWST, 2:30 am ACST, 3 am AEST
New Zealand: next day — 5 am NZST

The timings are generally the same for all Apple Keynotes, but can be slightly different if Apple holds the event during the period of a couple of weeks when the clocks have changed in the U.S. but not elsewhere (in 2026 the clocks will change in the U.S. on November 1, while in the U.K. they change on October 25).

Sometimes Apple holds events at different times, for example, in October 2023 the event was held in late afternoon in San Francisco, which meant it was midnight in the U.K.

If Apple doesn’t hold an event and instead just issues a press release that usually happens around 8 am PT, 11 am ET and 4 pm U.K. time.

How long do Apple events usually last?

Apple keynotes usually last between one and two hours and feature CEO Tim Cook along with various other Apple executives – with Apple’s John Ternus, stepping into the CEO role in September 2026, it is likely we will see more of Ternus in future keynotes.

WWDC and the September event tend to be longer keynotes; the spring and late-fall events can be slightly shorter.

For example, the September 2024 event was 1 hour 38 minutes.

How often does Apple hold events?

There can be as many as four Apple events in a year:

Spring Event
WWDC in June
iPhone Event in September
Late Fall Event in October

This event calendar is by no means set in stone, though, with the spring and October events being less regular. Some years, Apple doesn’t hold a spring event at all. In 2025 Apple only held two events preferring instead to announce new products via press release.

Does Apple take part in other events?

Apple doesn’t participate in big industry-wide events such as CES, IFA or E3. Instead Apple invites the press and industry professionals to Apple Park to hear all about its latest products and services. Apple calls these ‘events’ and it streams them live online to millions of viewers.

Does Apple ever announce products without an event?

Apple frequently announces products without a keynote event, often opting for press releases or multi-day announcement windows. In recent years, the company has increasingly reserved its large-scale media events for major flagship launches, such as the primary iPhone lineup in September, while using press releases for iterative updates or “chip bumps” that may not warrant a full hour-long presentation.

How to watch an Apple event

Apple events are typically broadcast across several digital platforms, allowing viewers to tune in from almost any device. While the company previously restricted access to its own hardware or the Safari browser, these barriers have been removed in recent years.

You can access live Apple presentations through the following official channels:

YouTube: This is often considered the easiest way to watch. Apple streams its keynotes live on its official YouTube channel, which can be accessed via any web browser or the YouTube app on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs .
Apple.com: The company hosts a dedicated “Events” page on its official website. For the best experience on a PC, it is recommended to use Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 or later .
Apple TV App: The stream is available within the Apple TV app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV hardware. Keynotes are usually listed in the app’s lineup a day or two before the event begins .
Apple Podcasts: Apple also showcases its events through the Podcasts app on Apple devices, where you can watch the video presentation

You may also like to tune in to our Live Blog which will provide minute-by-minute text updates and analysis as products are announced.

Following the end of the event, detailed breakdowns will also be available on the Macworld Podcast, which can be found on Spotify, Soundcloud, and Apple Podcasts.

When is the iPhone 18 event and what will launch?

Apple

When is the iPhone event?

September 2026 (TBC)

Apple’s iPhone launch event has become a regular fixture in September (aside from 2020 event when it was delayed until October – and the early January launches).

In recent years the event has been held on September 9, so we could see Apple make the unveiling in the week of September 7 in 2026, with the event perhaps taking place on September 8 or 9.

What will Apple launch at the September 2026 event?

We can be pretty confident that at least one new iPhone will launch in late 2026, although there may be some changes to the line up: we may see the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max launch in September, but the iPhone 18 may be held back until the spring of 2027. There are also rumors of a folding iPhone – aka iPhone Ultra launching in September.

Alongside the new iPhone 18 Pro we may see new Apple Watches. In 2026 the Apple Watch Series 12 should get a chip update, since the Series 11 is using the same chip as the Series 10 did. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is said to be getting a fingerprint scanner.

Apple is also rumored to have some upgrades coming to the HomePod and Apple TV to better equip them for Siri AI.

Find out more about the September iPhone event in our dedicated article.

Will Apple have a second fall event in 2026?

Apple

Will there be a late fall event in 2026

The last time Apple held a late fall event was October 30, 2023, and before that October 18, 2021. So a late fall event isn’t unprecedented, but it is uncommon. Right now there is no way of knowing if Apple will hold a late fall event in 2026, or indeed, if it ever will again. Usually this event is to launch consumer Macs, but in recent years Apple hasn’t felt the need to hold an event to do that. Nearer the time we will know if there are big things planned that might warrant an event.

What will Apple launch at the late fall 2026 event?

Mac or iPad launches are the most likely reasons for an Apple event during this timeframe, but Apple has not felt the need to hold a dedicated Mac event since the “Scary Fast” presentation in 2023, when it introduced the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips alongside updated MacBook Pro models. There could still be Mac-related announcements this year, particularly if Apple has yet to refresh the Mac mini or Mac Studio. The rumored touchscreen MacBook Pro could also make an appearance.

The timing of any new Mac releases will likely depend on whether the supply chain has fully recovered from the component shortages that have affected the industry throughout the year. These shortages have also lead Apple to raise prices for iPads and Macs.

As for iPads, a new iPad or iPad mini are long overdue, so an October event would be a likely venue for those launches, if they don’t arrive in September.

For more information about Apple’s late fall events read: Apple’s October Event: Date, time and what will launch.

Will Apple hold a spring event in 2027?

Michael Simon / Foundry

Apple’s spring events have become increasingly unpredictable. The company has not held a traditional spring event since May 2024, although it did invite members of the media, including Macworld, to a “Special Apple Experience” in 2026.

Rather than a keynote presentation, the March 4, 2026 gathering was a hands-on showcase that followed three days of product announcements, including the MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e, and M5 MacBook Air.

Will Apple take a similar approach to spring product launches in 2027? It’s certainly possible. The format appeared to work well, allowing each product announcement to receive its own media coverage rather than competing for attention during a single event.

Apple is expected to Apple will release three iPhone models in spring 2027:

iPhone 18 (base model)
iPhone 18e
iPhone Air 2

Apple may also update the MacBook Air with an M6 processor in spring 2027. A report from early August 2026 notes that Apple is currently struggling with memory shortages that are impacting MacBook Air stock, and the M6 update is seen as a potential, though not guaranteed, fix for the supply issues.

When is WWDC 2027

Foundry

When is the WWDC keynote?

In 2026 the WWDC keynote was on Monday June 8. In 2025 it started on Monday June 9. We expect WWDC will start on Monday 7 June in 2027.

WWDC generally runs from the Monday to Friday in the second week of June.

What Apple could launch at WWDC

WWDC is Apple’s big developer event at which it reveals plans for the operating systems that run on Apple hardware.

In June 2027 we expect Apple to unveil details of the iOS 28, iPadOS 28, the new macOS 28, updates to watchOS, tvOS, HomePod software, and an update to Apple’s realityOS.

Apple sometimes announces new hardware at WWDC, usually the high end models targeted at power users, so we could see new Macs.

Following the keynote on the Monday, developer events and sessions will run throughout the week. You can read more about WWDC date, times and everything you need to know in a separate article.

What did Apple launch at past events

So far in 2026 Apple has held an ‘experience’, which rather than being an event in the traditional sense, was a chance for journalists to get a look at products Apple had launched in the days prior, including MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e. The company also hosted the WWDC keynote on June 8, at which it revealed it’s plans for Apple Intelligence and Siri in iOS 27, macOS 27 and the other operating systems.

In 2025 Apple only held two events. The first was its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 9, at which it introduced the new features coming in the next version of its operating systems, and the second was the huge September 9 Apple Event where it launched new Apple Watches, new AirPods Pro and the new iPhones for 2025.

Apple doesn’t have to hold an event to launch new products though. Prior to WWDC, Apple launched a new iPhone 16e via press release on February 19, a new iPad and iPad Air via press release on March 4, and a new MacBook Air and Mac Studio on March 5.

Apple then went on to launch a new M5 MacBook Pro and M5 iPad Pro in October. No event was held to mark these launches.

In 2024, Apple held three events: one on Tuesday, May 7, at which it launched new iPads; a keynote to kick off WWDC on June 10; and an event on September 9 at which Apple unveiled the new iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10 and the AirPods 4. In October 2024 there was no event, but Apple did announce new products (iMac, Mac mini and MacBook Pro) via press release.

In 2023 there were three events: WWDC in June, an iPhone event in September, and Apple’s second fall event on October 30 (or after midnight on October 31 if you weren’t in the U.S.).

In 2022 Apple held three events: a spring event on March 8, WWDC on June 6, and the iPhone 14 launch on September 7. In other years Apple has held four events though.

Foundry

When were Apple’s past events?

Spring Apple events have been held on the following dates:

2026: ‘Experience’ Wednesday March 4
2025: No event
2024: Tuesday May 7
2023: No event
2022: Tuesday March 8
2021: Tuesday April 20
2020: No event
2019: Monday March 25
2018: Tuesday March 27
2017: No event
2016: Monday March 21
2015: Monday March 9
2014: No event
2013: No event
2012: Wednesday March 7

WWDC events have fallen on the following dates:

WWDC 2026: June 8 (8-12)
WWDC 2025: June 9 (9-13)
WWDC 2024: June 10 (10-14)
WWDC 2023: June 5 (5-9)
WWDC 2022: June 6 (6-10)
WWDC 2021: June 7 (7-11)
WWDC 2020: June 22 (22-26)
WWDC 2019: June 3 (3-7)
WWDC 2018: June 4 (4-8)
WWDC 2017: June 5 (5-9)

Here are the past few Apple September event dates:

2025: Tuesday, September 9
2024: Monday, September 9
2023: Tuesday, September 12
2022: Wednesday, September 7
2021: Tuesday, September 14
2020: Tuesday, September 15
2019: Tuesday, September 10
2018: Wednesday, September 12
2017: Tuesday, September 12

In the past, Apple has held a second fall event on the following dates:

2025: No event
2024: No event
2023: Monday, October 30
2022: No event
2021: Monday, October 18
2020: Tuesday, October 13 and Tuesday, November 10
2019: No event
2018: Tuesday, October 30
2017: No event
2016: Thursday, October 27
2015: No event
2014: Thursday, October 16
2013: Tuesday, October 22
2012: Tuesday, October 23
2011: Tuesday, October 4

Best earbuds for iPhone 2026: Top picks for sound, comfort & value

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:50:03 +0000

Macworld

Wireless headphones or earbuds (whatever you call them) are essentially the standard now, with Bluetooth earbuds being convenient and the sound quality difference to wired not being that noticeable to typical people (we realize audiophiles ‘know’).

The market is huge, but here are the best wireless earbuds we’ve tested for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and Macs. If you do want a wired connection some of these do offer it in addition to Bluetooth, but we also have a round-up of the best wired headphones and a comparison of over-ear headphones read our comparison of AirPods Max vs other over-ear headphones. We also have a comparison of all the AirPods.

When testing these best earbuds we considered some of the important factors to consider when choosing headphones. Such as whether they support ANC, which is Apple’s codec, or the aptX codec that is now used with many Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, but isn’t supported by Apple (although there are some earbuds, such as the B&W Pi8 below that include a transmitter for aptX support. We explain what to look for when choosing earbuds below.

Best headphones and earbuds for iPhone 2026

PROMOTION

Baseus MC2: All-Day Ease, $49.99 now!

The best earbuds are the ones you forget you’re wearing. MC2 stays easy on your ears with CloudComfort 2.0. Enjoy up to 55 hours of listening and IP67 protection for sweat, rain, and everyday plans. Use code MC2OWSPR at checkout.

Unlock the Lowest Price

We’re comparing all the best earbuds with Apple’s own offerings: the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC. Also included are various options from Apple-owned subsidiary Beats, which by association benefits from a lot of Apple-specific features. But just how well do they compete with headphones from the likes of Bose, Sennheiser, Bowers & Wilkins and Sony?

1. Apple AirPods Pro 3rd-generation (2025) – Best earbuds for iPhone

Pros

Excellent comfort and secure fit
Improved sound and bass
Outstanding active noise cancellation
Accurate workout heart-rate tracking

Cons

Few major new features
Charging case stores less
Limited upgrade over Pro 2

Price When Reviewed: $249

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

Apple AirPods Pro 3 are premium true wireless earbuds from Apple. Released in September 2025, they add heart-rate monitoring, foam-infused eartips, stronger ANC, improved sound, longer battery life and IP57 water resistance.

Why we like them

The AirPods Pro 3 refine an already excellent formula with noticeably better comfort, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound and longer battery life while keeping the same launch price. Heart-rate tracking is a useful bonus, making them an easy recommendation for most Apple users.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for iPhone users wanting premium wireless earbuds with excellent noise cancellation, secure all-day comfort and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. They’re especially appealing for fitness enthusiasts who can benefit from the new built-in heart-rate monitoring.

What are the biggest strengths

More comfortable foam-infused eartips with five sizes
Excellent fit that stays secure during exercise
Improved sound with deeper bass and wider soundstage
Significantly stronger ANC and better Transparency mode
Accurate heart-rate monitoring during supported workouts
Longer battery life without a price increase

What are the compromises

Few genuinely new audio innovations
Uses the same H2 chip as before
Charging case stores less reserve power
Existing AirPods Pro 2 owners gain limited benefits
New eartips aren’t compatible with older models
Heart-rate tracking only works during workouts

What is battery life like

Battery life increases to around eight hours with ANC enabled, while the case provides roughly 16 additional hours. A five-minute charge delivers about one hour of listening time.

How good is the ANC

Active Noise Cancellation is substantially improved, thanks to new microphones, redesigned eartips and computational enhancements. Apple claims twice the ANC of the previous generation, with noticeably better Transparency mode too.

Verdict

The AirPods Pro 3 aren’t a revolutionary upgrade, but they successfully improve almost every aspect of Apple’s best earbuds. Better fit, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound, longer battery life and useful heart-rate tracking make them easy to recommend. AirPods Pro 2 owners may not need to upgrade immediately, but everyone else gets one of the best premium wireless earbuds available.

Read our full Apple AirPods Pro 3 review

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds – Best earbuds for noise cancellation

Pros

Class-leading noise cancellation
Detailed, lively sound
Secure, comfortable fit
Excellent companion app

Cons

Wireless charging costs extra
Spatial audio drains battery
Premium price

Price When Reviewed: $299.99

Best Prices Today:

$299

View Deal

Bose

$299

View Deal

$299.99

View Deal

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are premium true wireless earbuds from Bose, featuring class-leading active noise cancellation, immersive spatial audio, customisable ear tips and stability bands, plus app-based fit testing.

Why we like them

The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds combine outstanding active noise cancellation with detailed, engaging sound that reveals subtle musical details. They’re comfortable thanks to multiple ear tip and stability band options, while the Bose app helps achieve the best possible fit for consistently excellent listening.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for frequent travellers, commuters and anyone who wants exceptional noise cancellation without sacrificing sound quality. They also suit listeners who value a secure fit and don’t mind paying a premium for top-tier performance.

What are the biggest strengths

Industry-leading active noise cancellation dramatically reduces aircraft engines and other low-frequency sounds.
Rich, detailed audio with impressive clarity across bass, vocals and instruments.
Comfortable, secure fit with multiple ear tip and stability band combinations.
Helpful Bose app includes a Seal Test for optimal fit.

What are the compromises

Premium pricing compared with many rivals, even with regular discounts.
Wireless charging requires purchasing a separate optional charging case.
Immersive Audio mode is only moderately convincing for spatial sound.
Battery life falls noticeably when using spatial audio features.

What is battery life like

Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, dropping to roughly four hours when using Immersive Audio. The charging case supplies approximately three additional full charges.

How good is the ANC

The active noise cancellation is among the very best available, suppressing deep aircraft engine noise so effectively it can seem almost silent, making travel and commuting significantly more comfortable.

Verdict

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds remain one of the strongest premium true wireless options thanks to exceptional active noise cancellation, detailed sound quality and a secure, comfortable fit. They’re expensive and the optional wireless charging case feels unnecessary at this price, but frequent discounts make them easier to recommend, especially for travellers and regular commuters seeking best-in-class ANC.

Read our full Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review

3. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 – Best earbuds for working out

Pros

Outstanding detailed sound
Excellent sound customisation
Future-ready Bluetooth features
Improved battery protection

Cons

Bulky charging case
ANC trails class leaders
iPhone misses key features

Price When Reviewed: $299.95

Best Prices Today:

$179.95

View Deal

$179.95

View Deal

$179.95

View Deal

$179.95

View Deal

$179.99

View Deal

Sennheiser

$299.95

View Deal

The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are premium wireless in-ear earbuds from German audio specialist Sennheiser. They feature Bluetooth 5.4, Auracast support, IP54 protection, wireless charging and 7mm True Response drivers.

Why we like them

The Momentum True Wireless 4 deliver exceptionally balanced, detailed audio with rich bass, crisp highs and extensive sound customisation. Improved battery life, better durability and support for future Bluetooth technologies make them an excellent long-term choice, while strong noise cancellation and a secure fit add everyday versatility.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for music lovers who prioritise sound quality above everything else, especially Android users who can benefit from advanced Bluetooth features. They’re also well suited to commuters, travellers and fitness users wanting premium audio and a secure fit.

What are the biggest strengths

Outstanding, highly detailed sound with rich bass and clear mids and highs.
Extensive personalisation via 5-band EQ, Sound Check and custom controls.
Bluetooth 5.4 adds Auracast, aptX Lossless and LC3 for future compatibility.
Secure fit with multiple ear tips and fins plus durable IP54 dust and water resistance.

What are the compromises

Active noise cancellation is good but still behind Bose, Sony and AirPods Pro.
iPhone users cannot currently benefit from most new Bluetooth 5.4 features.
Charging case remains noticeably larger than many competitors.
Design is virtually unchanged from the previous generation and may feel dated.

What is battery life like

Battery life reaches around seven hours with ANC enabled, extending to roughly 30 hours using the charging case. An eight-minute quick charge provides approximately one hour of playback.

How good is the ANC

Noise cancellation is effective for everyday commuting and travel, reducing most background noise well. However, it doesn’t quite match class-leading rivals like Bose, Sony or Apple’s AirPods Pro, particularly in windy conditions.

Verdict

The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are among the best-sounding premium wireless earbuds available, combining superb audio quality with impressive customisation, improved durability and future-focused Bluetooth technology. Android users benefit most from the new features, while iPhone owners gain fewer advantages over the previous model. If sound quality is your top priority, they’re an outstanding choice despite slightly behind-the-pack ANC.

Read our full Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 In-ear review

4. Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 – Best for aptX sound

Pros

Exceptional sound quality
Innovative smart charging case
aptX Lossless support
Comfortable redesigned fit

Cons

Premium price tag
Average battery life
Large earpieces

Price When Reviewed: $399

Best Prices Today:

$399

View Deal

Bowers & Wilkins

$399

View Deal

$489.99

View Deal

$499

View Deal

$499

View Deal

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium true wireless earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins. Their standout smart charging case doubles as an aptX transmitter for wired devices and Apple products.

Why we like them

The Pi8 combine superb hi-fi sound with a genuinely innovative charging case that unlocks higher-quality aptX audio from Apple devices and wired sources. Their redesigned fit improves comfort, while powerful 12mm drivers deliver rich, detailed sound that stands out from most premium wireless earbuds.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for audiophiles and frequent travellers who prioritise outstanding sound quality over price. Apple users wanting better-than-AAC wireless audio and anyone regularly using in-flight entertainment systems will especially appreciate the versatile smart case.

What are the biggest strengths

Outstanding, detailed and dynamic sound quality
Unique smart case retransmits wired audio wirelessly
Supports AAC, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless
Comfortable redesigned shape with four ear-tip sizes
Large 12mm drivers deliver powerful, refined performance
Excellent low-frequency noise reduction for travel

What are the compromises

Significantly more expensive than many rivals
Battery life is respectable rather than class-leading
Earpieces remain relatively large
ANC trails AirPods Pro for higher-frequency sounds
Smart case benefits may be unnecessary for casual listeners
Pi6 offers similar experience for less if aptX retransmission isn’t needed

What is battery life like?

Battery life reaches up to 6.5 hours per charge with ANC enabled, while the smart charging case extends total listening time to around 20 hours between mains charging.

How good is the ANC?

Noise cancellation is very effective, especially against low-frequency sounds like aircraft engine rumble. However, it doesn’t suppress higher-frequency background noise quite as effectively as Apple’s AirPods Pro.

Verdict

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium earbuds aimed squarely at listeners who value sound quality above all else. Their excellent audio performance, comfortable redesign and genuinely innovative smart charging case justify much of the high asking price. Battery life and ANC are good rather than class-leading, but the Pi8 remain among the most compelling luxury true wireless earbuds available.

Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 review

5. Apple AirPods Pro 2nd-generation (2023) – Best value AirPods

Pros

Excellent sound quality
Outstanding noise cancellation
Class-leading transparency mode
Useful Apple ecosystem features

Cons

No lossless audio
Premium purchase price
Stem controls feel fiddly

Price When Reviewed: $249

Best Prices Today:

$92

View Deal

$234

View Deal

$249

View Deal

$249.99

View Deal

$263.86

View Deal

The AirPods Pro 2 might have been officially discontinued by Apple when the AirPods Pro 3 arrived, but we still see them for sale offering outstanding value for most buyers. That’s why they are still on our list. Despite the arrival of the new AirPods Pro, these are still premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds. They feature the H2 chip, USB-C charging case, hearing health features, swipe volume controls and seamless integration with Apple devices.

Why we like them

While the AirPods Pro 3 introduce improvements such as better ANC, longer battery life, heart-rate tracking and a more secure fit, many of the software features people use every day – such as Hearing Aid, Live Translation, Conversation Awareness and Adaptive Audio – are also available on the AirPods Pro 2 through software updates.

Who are they best for

They are best for iPhone, iPad and Mac users wanting premium everyday earbuds with strong ANC, comfortable all-day wear and effortless Apple ecosystem integration. Frequent travellers, commuters and users interested in hearing health features will benefit most.

What are the biggest strengths

Richer, clearer sound with significantly stronger bass
Excellent Active Noise Cancellation for travel and commuting
Best-in-class Transparency mode with Adaptive Transparency
Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes, including XS
Handy swipe volume controls on each earbud
Deep Apple ecosystem integration with useful smart features

What are the compromises

More expensive than many rivals
Better pure sound quality available elsewhere
No lossless, hi-res or LE Audio support
Stem swipe controls can be awkward
Most advanced features require Apple devices
Six-hour battery trails some competitors

What is battery life like

Battery life is rated at up to six hours of listening from the earbuds on a charge, with around 24 hours total using the charging case. Apple Watch charging is also supported.

How good is the ANC

Active Noise Cancellation is excellent, blocking substantially more outside noise than the original AirPods Pro. Adaptive Transparency intelligently reduces sudden loud sounds while still allowing important environmental sounds to remain audible.

Verdict

The AirPods Pro 2 remain among the best premium wireless earbuds for Apple users. They combine impressive sound quality, highly effective ANC, exceptional transparency mode and excellent ecosystem integration in a comfortable, refined package. While audiophiles can find better-sounding alternatives and battery life isn’t class-leading, the overall user experience is polished, reliable and difficult to beat within Apple’s ecosystem. As long as you can find them on sale.

Read our full AirPods Pro 2 USB-C review

6. Apple AirPods 4 with ANC – Best AirPods for most people

Pros

Excellent overall sound quality
Effective active noise cancellation
Improved, more comfortable fit
Useful wireless charging caser

Cons

Fit varies by user
ANC limited by open design
Close to Pro pricing

Price When Reviewed: $179 with Active Noise Cancelation

Best Prices Today:

$91

View Deal

$148.99

View Deal

$149.99

View Deal

$149.99

View Deal

$169

View Deal

$179

View Deal

$179

View Deal

$179

View Deal

$179

View Deal

Apple AirPods 4th gen (2024) – Wireless (USB-C) Charging case

$Not Available

View Deal

Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are open-fit true wireless earbuds. They include the H2 chip, Adaptive Audio, Transparency, Conversation Awareness, and a USB-C charging case with Find My speaker support.

Why we like them

The AirPods 4 with ANC deliver many premium features previously reserved for the AirPods Pro while keeping the familiar open-ear design. They sound excellent, offer genuinely useful noise cancellation, include smart conversation features, and have a more comfortable fit than earlier standard AirPods.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for Apple users who dislike silicone ear tips but still want active noise cancellation and premium features. They’re also well suited to commuters, casual listeners, and anyone wanting excellent everyday wireless earbuds without stepping up to the AirPods Pro.

What are the biggest strengths

Clear, balanced sound with strong bass and crisp vocals
Surprisingly effective ANC for an open-fit design
Comfortable fit improves over previous AirPods
Conversation Awareness works well during one-to-one chats
Wireless charging case with Find My speaker adds convenience
Excellent voice quality for calls and podcasts

What are the compromises

Open design limits maximum noise cancellation
Fit depends heavily on individual ear shape
AirPods Pro fit more securely with silicone tips
No MagSafe charging support on the case
ANC reduces battery life noticeably
AirPods Pro can be similarly priced on sale

What is battery life like

With ANC enabled, Apple rates battery life at four hours plus 20 hours from the case. Disable ANC and it rises to five hours with 30 hours total. Testing slightly exceeded estimates.

How good is the ANC

The ANC is impressively effective for open-fit earbuds, reducing most everyday noise while preserving awareness. It cannot completely block sound, however, so the AirPods Pro remain the stronger choice for isolation.

Verdict

The AirPods 4 with ANC successfully bridge the gap between Apple’s standard AirPods and the AirPods Pro. They offer excellent sound, genuinely useful noise cancellation, a more comfortable fit, and several premium features at a lower price than the Pro model. Their biggest limitation is the open design, which affects both fit and ultimate noise isolation, but they’re an excellent all-round choice for many listeners.

Read our full Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) review

7. Beats Powerbeats Fit – Best for running and gym workouts

Pros

Secure flexible wingtip fit
Strong workout stability
Long total battery life
Works well with Android

Cons

No wireless charging
Older H1 chip
ANC trails AirPods Pro 3

Price When Reviewed: $199.95

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

The Powerbeats Fit are true wireless sports earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. They feature flexible wingtips, Apple’s H1 chip, USB-C charging, Adaptive EQ, and up to 30 hours’ battery.

Why we like them

The Powerbeats Fit are designed for active lifestyles, offering a secure fit that stays comfortable through runs, gym sessions and workouts. They deliver dependable Apple ecosystem features, solid sound quality, good battery life and broad compatibility with Android devices, making them more versatile than many sports earbuds.

Who are they best for?

They’re ideal for runners, gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts who need earbuds that stay firmly in place during exercise. They’re also a smart choice for users who switch between Apple and Android devices and value stability over premium audio performance.

What are the biggest strengths

Flexible wingtips provide an exceptionally secure workout fit.
Comfortable design remains stable during running and training.
Up to 30 hours total battery life with charging case.
Excellent Apple integration including Siri, Find My and automatic device switching.
Better Android support than AirPods.

What are the compromises

No wireless charging; USB-C cable only.
H1 chip limits audio and feature improvements.
Noise cancellation is noticeably weaker than AirPods Pro 3.
Missing XXS ear tip option.
Sound quality isn’t as detailed or immersive as Apple’s latest earbuds.

What is battery life like

Expect up to seven hours of listening from the earbuds alone, extending to around 30 hours with the charging case. That’s excellent for travel, commuting and multiple workout sessions.

How good is the ANC?

Noise cancellation is solid for everyday use, reducing background distractions effectively. However, it performs closer to the original AirPods Pro than AirPods Pro 3, whose ANC is significantly more powerful.

Verdict

The Powerbeats Fit are an excellent choice for anyone who prioritises comfort and stability during exercise. Their secure wingtip design, lengthy battery life and Apple-friendly features make them dependable workout companions. While sound quality and ANC fall behind the AirPods Pro 3, they’re more versatile across platforms and remain one of the strongest sports-focused true wireless earbuds available.

Read our full Powerbeats Fit review

8. Beats Studio Buds+ – Best alternative to AirPods

Pros

Fun transparent design
Improved sound quality
Effective active noise cancellation
Strong battery life

Cons

No wireless charging
Missing Apple ecosystem features
AirPods Pro sound better

Price When Reviewed: $169.99

Best Prices Today:

$99.95

View Deal

$99.95

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

$119.99

View Deal

$169.95

View Deal

$169.99

View Deal

$169.99

View Deal

Beats

$169.99

View Deal

Beats Studio Buds+ Earbud Noise-Cancelling Bluetooth Earphones – Transparent

$Not Available

View Deal

The Beats Studio Buds + are true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple subsidiary. Released in 2023, they feature a distinctive transparent design, USB-C charging and support for Apple and Android.

Why we like them

The Beats Studio Buds + combine stylish design, improved sound quality, capable active noise cancellation and long battery life at a price similar to standard AirPods. Physical buttons are easier to use than AirPods controls, while Android compatibility makes them a genuinely flexible choice across different devices.

Who are they best for

They’re best for people who switch between Apple and Android devices, or anyone wanting effective ANC, comfortable earbuds and eye-catching styling without paying AirPods Pro prices. They’re less suited to users deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem.

What are the biggest strengths

Unique transparent design with alternative colours
Better sound than previous Studio Buds
Improved ANC and transparency performance
Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes
Physical button controls are intuitive
Strong battery life and competitive pricing

What are the compromises

No wireless charging support
Lacks Apple’s H1 or H2 chip
Misses automatic device switching
No personalised spatial audio or Conversation Boost
No in-ear detection for auto pause
ANC and sound quality trail AirPods Pro

What is battery life like

Battery life is rated at up to six hours with active noise cancellation enabled or nine hours without it. The charging case provides roughly three additional full recharges.

How good is the ANC

Noise cancellation is noticeably improved over the original Studio Buds and performs well for the price. However, it still falls short of the more advanced and adaptive AirPods Pro system.

Verdict

The Beats Studio Buds + are an excellent alternative to standard AirPods, offering better sound, effective ANC, impressive battery life and standout styling at a competitive price. They also work well with both Apple and Android devices. However, users wanting the full Apple ecosystem experience and the very best sound should still choose AirPods Pro if their budget stretches further.

Read our full Beats Studio Buds+ review

9. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 – Best for active lifestyles

Pros

Secure, comfortable earhook fit
Excellent workout stability
Heart rate monitoring
Strong battery endurance

Cons

Missing AirPods Pro features
Heart rate limitations

Price When Reviewed: $249

Best Prices Today:

$199.95

View Deal

$199.95

View Deal

$199.97

View Deal

$199.99

View Deal

$229.02

View Deal

$249.99

View Deal

The Beats’ Powerbeats Pro 2 are premium fitness-focused true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple-owned company. They feature Apple’s H2 chip, secure earhooks, built-in heart rate monitoring, and USB-C charging.

Why we like them

The Powerbeats Pro 2 combine an exceptionally secure fit with improved sound, effective noise cancellation and class-leading workout comfort. Heart rate monitoring adds genuine fitness appeal, while Apple’s H2 chip delivers fast pairing, excellent transparency mode and seamless integration across Apple devices, making them superb exercise companions.

Who are they best for

They’re best for runners, gym-goers and anyone wanting earbuds that stay securely in place during intense exercise. Apple users will benefit most, though Android owners also receive a stronger feature set than they would with AirPods.

What are the biggest strengths

Secure earhooks stay firmly in place during workouts.
Smaller, lighter design improves comfort over long sessions.
H2 chip enables excellent transparency mode and strong ANC.
Built-in heart rate monitoring works with supported fitness apps.
Long battery life and fast charging reduce downtime.
Improved Android support with dedicated Beats features.

What are the compromises

Lacks several AirPods Pro software features, including Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.
Heart rate monitoring is limited to supported apps.
Apple Watch overrides earbud heart rate readings.
Sound is slightly brighter than AirPods Pro 2.
Wireless charging supports Qi only, not MagSafe or Qi2.

What is battery life like

Battery life is excellent, with up to 10 hours of listening per charge, or around 8 hours using ANC or transparency mode. The charging case provides approximately 3.5 additional charges.

How good is the ANC

Active noise cancellation is a major improvement over the original model, delivering strong everyday performance. Transparency mode is particularly impressive, sounding natural and approaching the excellent standard set by AirPods Pro 2.

Verdict

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are among the best fitness earbuds available, combining a secure fit, long battery life, heart rate monitoring and excellent Apple ecosystem integration. While they miss several AirPods Pro software features and their sound is slightly brighter than Apple’s flagship earbuds, they’re an outstanding choice for workouts and active lifestyles.

Read our full Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review

10. Bowers & Wilkins Pi6

Pros

Rich, detailed sound quality
Comfortable long-wearing fit
Strong battery endurance
Competitive premium pricing

Cons

ANC trails top rivals
No wireless charging
No spatial audio

Price When Reviewed: $249

Best Prices Today:

$147.99

View Deal

$249

View Deal

B&W

$249

View Deal

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins, featuring 12mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.4, IP54 durability and multipoint connectivity.

Why we like them

The Pi6 deliver the refined, engaging sound quality Bowers & Wilkins is known for at a more accessible price than the flagship Pi8. They’re comfortable for extended listening, offer useful app customisation, solid battery life and excellent overall value despite a few premium feature omissions.

Who are they best for?

They’re ideal for listeners who prioritise sound quality over cutting-edge features. Frequent commuters, music lovers and anyone wanting premium wireless earbuds around AirPods Pro pricing will appreciate their balanced audio, comfortable fit and dependable battery performance.

What are the biggest strengths?

Detailed, dynamic sound with excellent balance
Large 12mm drivers inspired by B&W headphones
Comfortable fit with four ear-tip sizes
Eight-hour battery life with ANC enabled
Multipoint Bluetooth connection for two devices
IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday use

What are the compromises?

ANC is good, not class-leading
No Qi wireless charging support
No Pi8 smart charging case
No spatial audio functionality
App lacks full EQ presets
Higher-frequency sounds remain noticeable with ANC enabled

What is battery life like?

Battery life is impressive, offering up to eight hours of playback with active noise cancellation switched on. The USB-C charging case provides an additional 24 hours of listening time.

How good is the ANC?

Noise cancellation performs well against low-frequency sounds such as engine rumble but is less effective with voices and higher-frequency noise, leaving rivals from Bose, Sony and Apple with the advantage.

Verdict

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are an excellent choice if your priority is premium sound quality without paying flagship prices. Their engaging audio, comfortable design and long battery life make them highly appealing, even if the ANC, wireless charging and feature set don’t quite match the very best competitors. For music-first buyers, they’re easy to recommend.

Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 review

11. Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless

Pros

Excellent value for money
Comfortable lightweight fit
Impressive sound quality
Effective everyday ANC

Cons

ANC not class-leading
Average battery endurance
Limited long-haul suitability

Price When Reviewed: $199.95

Best Prices Today:

$99.95

View Deal

$99.95

View Deal

$99.95

View Deal

$99.95

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

$129.99

View Deal

Sennheiser

$199.95

View Deal

Designed as a more affordable alternative to its Momentum earbuds (above), Sennheiser’s Accentum True Wireless are in-ear wireless earbuds made by German audio specialist Sennheiser. They feature 7mm drivers, IP54 water and dust resistance, AAC and aptX support, plus adjustable EQ.

Why we like them

The Accentum True Wireless deliver impressive sound quality and capable active noise cancellation at a much lower price than many premium rivals. They’re comfortable enough for extended listening, include useful app customisation features, and provide a balanced combination of performance, practicality and affordability for everyday listening.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for listeners wanting premium audio features without paying flagship prices. Great for commuters, casual travellers and everyday users who value comfort, strong sound quality and reliable noise cancellation more than maximum battery life.

What are the biggest strengths

Outstanding value compared with premium rivals.
Rich, detailed sound from the same 7mm drivers used in the Momentum range.
Lightweight, comfortable design with four ear-tip sizes.
IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday outdoor use.
Handy companion app with five-band EQ and adjustable transparency mode.

What are the compromises

Active noise cancellation doesn’t match the very best premium earbuds.
Six-hour battery life is respectable rather than exceptional.
Charging case provides only around 2.5 additional charges.
Better suited to daily commuting than long-haul travel.
Lacks the outright premium performance of Sennheiser’s Momentum earbuds.

What is battery life like

Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, while the charging case provides roughly two and a half extra charges, making it well suited to everyday use.

How good is the ANC
Active noise cancellation performs well for everyday commuting and reducing typical background noise, although it doesn’t block sound as effectively as more expensive flagship competitors in particularly noisy environments.

Verdict

The Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless strike an excellent balance between price and performance. They offer impressive sound quality, comfortable all-day wear, practical features and effective everyday noise cancellation without the premium price tag. While battery life and ANC aren’t class-leading, they’re more than good enough for most users, making these an easy recommendation for affordable everyday wireless earbuds.

Read our full Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless review

12. Beats Solo Buds

Pros

Surprisingly clear, punchy sound
Excellent 18-hour battery life
Secure, comfortable ear fit
Compact, pocket-friendly case

Cons

No active noise cancellation
Charging case lacks battery
Missing premium smart features

Price When Reviewed: $79.99

Best Prices Today:

$38

View Deal

$49.99

View Deal

$69.95

View Deal

$69.95

View Deal

$69.99

View Deal

$78

View Deal

$79.95

View Deal

$79.99

View Deal

$79.99

View Deal

Beats

$79.99

View Deal

The Beats Solo Buds are affordable true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. Released in mid-2024, they feature a tiny USB-C charging case, four ear tip sizes and 18-hour battery life.

Why we like them

The Beats Solo Buds deliver impressive value with punchy, enjoyable sound, an exceptionally long battery life for earbuds, and a secure fit thanks to four sizes of silicone ear tips. They’re comfortable, easy to control using physical buttons, and outperform older standard AirPods in several key areas.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for budget-conscious listeners who want reliable everyday wireless earbuds with long battery life and comfortable fit. They’re particularly well suited to Apple users, but also work well with Android devices, making them a versatile affordable option.

What are the biggest strengths

Clear, punchy sound that exceeds expectations for the price.
Outstanding 18-hour battery life from the earbuds.
Secure fit with four sizes of silicone ear tips.
Compact, lightweight case that’s easy to carry.
Physical button controls are simple and reliable.
Excellent value compared with similarly priced rivals.

What are the compromises

No active noise cancellation or transparency mode.
Charging case has no built-in battery for top-ups.
Lacks automatic device switching and multipoint Bluetooth.
No in-ear detection for automatic play/pause.
Call voice isolation isn’t as strong as premium earbuds.
No personalised Spatial Audio features.

What is battery life like

Battery life is excellent. The earbuds are rated for up to 18 hours on a single charge, outperforming many rivals, although the charging case must be plugged into USB-C to recharge them.

How good is the ANC

There isn’t any active noise cancellation. Instead, the silicone ear tips provide passive noise isolation, reducing some outside sound, but they can’t match dedicated ANC earbuds in noisy environments.

Verdict

The Beats Solo Buds prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for enjoyable wireless earbuds. Their clear sound, secure fit and exceptional battery life make them an excellent value buy, especially for everyday listening. While you’ll miss premium features like ANC, multipoint Bluetooth and a battery-equipped charging case, they’re an easy recommendation for budget-conscious shoppers

Read our full Beats Solo Buds review

13. Apple AirPods 4 (without ANC)

Pros

Comfortable redesigned fit
Excellent sound quality
H2 chip performance
Great Apple ecosystem integration

Cons

No active noise cancellation
No wireless charging
Shorter earbud battery life

Price When Reviewed: $129 without Active Noise Cancelation

Best Prices Today:

$59

View Deal

$99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

$119.95

View Deal

$129

View Deal

$129.99

View Deal

Apple AirPods 4 are true wireless earbuds from Apple. They feature the H2 chip, redesigned open-ear fit, USB-C charging, Personalised Spatial Audio and improved sound, but omit ANC and wireless charging.

Why we like them

The standard AirPods 4 deliver many of the same upgrades as the pricier ANC model, including improved sound, a more secure fit and Apple’s H2 chip. They represent a significant step forward from the AirPods 2 while keeping the same affordable starting price, making them excellent everyday earbuds.

Who are they best for

They’re ideal for Apple users wanting premium everyday wireless earbuds without paying extra for noise cancellation. They’re especially suited to commuting, calls and casual listening where comfort, convenience and seamless Apple device integration matter more than advanced isolation.

What are the biggest strengths

Comfortable redesigned open fit
H2 chip improves responsiveness
Strong, balanced audio quality
Personalised Spatial Audio support
Excellent Apple ecosystem integration
USB-C charging convenience
Improved durability with IP54 rating
Great value at entry price

What are the compromises

No Active Noise Cancellation
No Transparency mode
No Adaptive Audio features
No Conversation Awareness
USB-C charging only
No wireless charging support
No Find My case speaker
Shorter battery than AirPods 3

What is battery life like

Battery life is rated at up to five hours per charge, with the USB-C charging case extending total listening time to around 30 hours. A five-minute charge provides about one hour’s playback.

How good is the ANC

There isn’t any Active Noise Cancellation. Users wanting ANC, Transparency mode or Adaptive Audio must choose the more expensive AirPods 4 with ANC, as these features aren’t included on the standard model.

Verdict

The standard AirPods 4 are an excellent upgrade over Apple’s older entry-level AirPods, offering noticeably improved comfort, sound quality and smarter features thanks to the H2 chip. While missing ANC and wireless charging limits their appeal for frequent travellers, they remain one of the best value options for Apple users wanting dependable everyday wireless earbuds.

How to choose earbud headphones

There are a few factors to consider before you hit that buy button.

Type

Earbuds, or in-ear headphones, typically fall into three main categories:

Earbuds – the type of headphones included with every iPhone and iPod and sit loosely in your outer ears. Although earbuds don’t produce outstanding sound, they’re compact and relatively inexpensive. Apple’s stock ‘buds are actually decent as earbuds go; you’re not going to get a huge upgrade in sound quality by simply replacing them with a different model. Still, there are a few alternatives out there that provide modest improvements if you’re looking for a new set. Recommendations:

In-Ear-Canal Headphones: These headphones, also known as canalphones, use silicone or foam eartips that fit snugly—and fairly deep—in your ear canals. Like earplugs, they block most external noise, so they’re great for travel and noisy environments. They’re also capable of producing stunning audio quality. On the other hand, some people find canalphones to be uncomfortable, and the best ones come with an equally stunning price tag. If you decide to spend the big bucks on a set of high-end canalphones, we enthusiastically recommend going all-in and getting custom eartips—tips custom-made for your particular ears. The process requires an audiologist visit to get impressions taken of your ears, but the benefits include substantially better comfort. (On some models, you may gain better noise isolation and better sound quality, as well.) A step above custom eartips are custom in-ear monitors, which place the actual headphone circuitry in larger, custom-made earpieces.

Canalbuds: Canalbuds, which occupy a middle ground between earbuds and in-ear-canal models, have become quite popular. Compared to canalphones, canalbuds generally use smaller eartips that sit just inside the ends of your ear canals instead of deep inside them. Good canalbuds easily best earbuds in terms of audio performance and noise isolation, but fall short of good canalphones in those areas. On the other hand, canalbuds tend to be more comfortable than true canalphones because they don’t sit so deep and don’t fit so tightly; they’re also usually less expensive. (See our in-ear-canal-headphone primer, linked above, for more information on canalbuds.)

Battery life

This is crucial as many in-ear headphones have tiny batteries that help to keep the weight down but may only last for a few hours. That might be fine if you just want to listen to some music while you’re working out, but won’t be much use on a long journey by train or plane.

However, some in-ear headphones, such as Apple’s AirPods, also include a charging case that can top up the battery, so that’s something you should check on before buying any in-ear headphones.

Noise canceling

Some headphones are specifically designed for people who travel a lot or use headphones in noisy conditions and provide active noise-canceling (ANC) option that helps to block out background noise on trains and planes – although this can add quite a lot to the overall price of the headphones.

Note this isn’t to be confused with passive noise isolation (or often referred to as canceling), which is just the way physically having headphones in/on blocks sound – like putting earplugs or ear defenders on.

Sound quality

We’d always recommend trying out any new headphones in a store or showroom whenever possible, but we realise that’s not always practical or hygenic.

Compatibility

Most wireless headphones support Apple’s preferred AAC Bluetooth codec, ensuring good compatibility with iPhones, iPads and Macs. Many also support additional codecs such as aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LDAC or LC3/LE Audio, which can deliver higher bit rates, lower latency or improved efficiency when paired with compatible Android phones and other devices.

Apple devices have never supported Qualcomm’s aptX family of codecs, instead relying on AAC for Bluetooth audio. While this has often been attributed to Apple’s preference for controlling its own audio ecosystem, it also means Apple users can’t take advantage of newer Qualcomm codecs such as aptX Adaptive or aptX Lossless when using third-party headphones.

That isn’t necessarily the drawback it once was. AAC remains a very capable codec, and Apple’s implementation is widely regarded as one of the best, delivering consistent sound quality and excellent battery efficiency. However, Android users with compatible devices may be able to enjoy higher-resolution or lower-latency wireless audio through codecs such as LDAC or aptX Lossless.

For Apple users, the most important thing is that headphones support AAC, as this provides the best wireless experience across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. If a pair also supports codecs such as aptX Adaptive or LDAC, that’s a useful bonus if you also own Android devices or other compatible hardware.

There are a few exceptions. Some premium headphones and earbuds, such as the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8, include a smart charging case that can act as a wireless audio transmitter. By connecting the case directly to a USB-C or 3.5mm audio source, it can stream audio to the earbuds using aptX Adaptive, bypassing the Bluetooth limitations of the source device and potentially improving sound quality and reducing latency.

It’s also worth noting that all of the Bluetooth headphones featured here work with Apple Watch, making them ideal for workouts, runs and listening on the go.

The gorgeous all-black Apple Watch Ultra 3 is $100 off right now

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:42:20 +0000

Macworld

Even if you’re not a fan of large watches, it’s hard not to be enthralled by the black titanium Apple Watch Ultra 3. And today it’s hard not to be impressed by the price too: Amazon is selling the black Apple Watch Ultra 3 with the Black Ocean Band for $699, a savings of $100 and the best price we’ve ever seen for this model.

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the king of smartwatches. It features a 49mm scratch-resistant crystal display built around arugged titanium case. On the right side, you’ll find a raised shelf for the Digital Crown, while the exclusive Action button is on the left side. It also has precision dual-frequency GPS, MIL-STD 810H shock resistance, and 100m water resistance for diving, as well as 5G and satellite communication built right in.

It’s all powered by Apple’s S10, with 64GB of storage and a display so bright it can be used as a flashlight. You also get 42 hours of battery life (72 hours in low-power mode), and a slew of health and fitness sensors and features, including sleep tracking, temperature sensing, ECG, blood-oxygen, and Heart Rate Power Zones.

Keep in mind that Apple is expected to announce the Apple Watch Ultra 4 at its September iPhone event, but we’re not expecting any major changes other than a faster chip. And since this model is already compatible with watchOS 27 and Siri AI, you won’t be missing out on much.

Even if you’re not an extreme athlete, the Apple Watch Ultra is one of the best smartwatches on the market and it’s even better at this price. So go grab one before it’s gone.

Are Apple’s live events returning for the iPhone Ultra launch?

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 12:45:41 +0000

Macworld

As we count the weeks until the iPhone event, a Bloomberg report from Mark Gurman caused a bit of a stir this week. It wasn’t about features, design, or pricing—rather, it was about staffing at the September event.

According to a memo seen by Bloomberg News, Apple has instituted a lottery to give retail workers “the opportunity to participate in the Event Support Experience Program.” According to the memo, the event will take place the first two weeks of September, and winners will be selected by Aug. 17, per the memo. Winning employees will help “organize lines, check in guests, greet attendees, offer directions and support the security teams.”

Gurman says that Apple has long used retail employees for events like these, but I can’t remember a report like this previously. I searched for anything about a lottery or staffing opportunity and couldn’t find anything about a similar program in prior years. So opening the opportunity to head to Apple Park to all U.S. workers appears to be a new thing.

Here’s where the plot thickens, so to speak. In a post on X promoting the story, Gurman wrote, “NEW: Apple gears up for in-person iPhone event in the first half of September, asking retail employees to apply for a lottery to work the event.” The story he links to doesn’t mention anything about an “in-person” event, but obviously the employees will need to be on-site to work the event.

The use of the phrase “in-person” is a loaded one. Apple hasn’t held a live keynote since September 2019 when it unveiled the iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 5. Since then, it has presented prerecorded online keynote presentations, sometimes inviting members of the press to watch at Apple Park.

However, there are signs that Apple could be returning. Back in March, Apple unveiled the MacBook Neo at events around the world to small crowds. It wasn’t anything resembling a full keynote, but at the New York event, incoming CEO John Ternus (then VP of Hardware) was on hand to introduce the new machine and lead attendees to the hands-on area. And he just happens to be taking over as CEO on September 1, mere days before the iPhone event.

If there was going to be a perfect time when Apple would return to in-person events, it’s this now. Not only is it John Ternus’ first event as CEO, but it’s also widely expected that Apple will introduce its first folding phone at the event as well. That easily makes it one of the most anticipated events of the past decade, so what better time to gather people for an old-fashioned live keynote?

Whatever the format, Apple will likely hold its iPhone event on Wednesday, September 9, or Tuesday, September 15. Along with the folding iPhone, Apple is also expected to release the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, and possibly Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini refreshes.

Nimble SharePower review: A power bank that splits in two to share

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 12:22:26 +0000

Macworld

At a glance

Expert's Rating

Pros

One 10K battery or two 5K sections
Built-in USB-C connectors
Charges four devices at once
Faster than wireless
Three cute colors

Cons

Not wireless
Don’t lose that shared section
iPhone 15 and later

Our Verdict

The Nimble SharePower operates as one stacked 10K portable charger or two divided 5K battery packs. It’s a neat idea, well done—letting you share a power bank without being tethered to your desperately unpowered friend by a cable when charging your own iPhone at the same time.

Price When Reviewed

This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined

Best Pricing Today

Price When Reviewed

$79.95

Best Prices Today: Nimble SharePower Portable Battery Charger

$79.95

View Deal

What is it? A modular 10K power bank that splits into two separate 5K battery packs with built-in USB-C connectors.

Who is it for? iPhone 15 or later owners who desire the flexibility of shareable power banks.

Who shouldn’t buy it? Owners of the iPhone 14 and older, or those looking for a magnetic power bank to wirelessly clamp to the back of their device. Instead, they should look to the best magnetic wireless portable chargers.

The Nimble SharePower isn’t magnetic in a charging capacity, so won’t clamp onto the back of your iPhone to immediately begin charging, but it is clever in another way: it’s a sharable battery that will serve not just you but a very grateful friend, colleague or trustworthy stranger.

SharePower is a 10,000mAh portable charger with a difference. Unlike a typical 10,000mAh power bank, the Nimble SharePower splits into two completely independent 5,000mAh chargers that can be shared between two people. Each half has its own built-in USB-C connection and extra USB-C port, allowing up to four devices to be charged simultaneously when separated. It’s a genuinely useful twist on the standard portable charger, making it ideal for iPhone 15 and newer users who regularly share power with friends, family or colleagues without being tethered together by a charging cable.

Magnetically modular

Together the SharePower measures 3.1 x 2.8 x 1 inch (78 x 70 x 25mm) and weighs 7.6oz (216g). Divided, the two parts are roughly equal, with the cabled module being the slightly larger.

The two parts come together magnetically and won’t fall apart without a meaningful effort.

Nimble

The section with the built-in 29.5-inch (75mm) USB-C cable has a standard four-dot battery capacity display, while the other—featuring an integrated flip-up USB-C connector—features a TFT LCD digital display showing the actual percentage remaining.

The cable also works as a handy carry loop.

How much charge does it actually provide?

Many 10K power banks are made up of two 5K cells. Nimble has just separated them more cleanly so they can work independently.

In Macworld’s famous real-world recharging tests we used one of the modules to recharge an iPhone 16 Pro from 0% to 87% before the power bank half section ran dry. That’s not far off the highest 5K score we’ve recorded (90%), from the Ugreen MagFlow Air 5K. As the Ugreen is a wireless charger, some of its power would have been lost due to wireless charging’s inherent inefficiency, and so the SharePower’s test score is maybe as high as it is die to the stronger wired connection (we used the built-in cable).

If both SharePower modules perform the same, that’s a high 175% score combined, which should keep two iPhones charged for at least another day’s use.

Which iPhones does SharePower work with?

The fact that both battery sections have built-in USB-C connectors means it’s good only for iPhones 15 and later. iPhone of an older vintage (14 and earlier) use Apple’s old Lightning connector and so aren’t supported using the two integrated USB-C connectors. Time to buy a new phone or one of the best magnetic wireless power banks. Alternatively you could connect to an older iPhone with a USB-C to Lightning cable—indeed in our tests we had two USB-C iPhones, a USB-C-cabled Apple Watch charger, and a USB-C to Lightning cable for our ageing AirPods case.

Don’t restrict this charger to just your iPhone. It can just as well charge your USB-C iPad, and as mentioned earlier, even a MacBook if you can leave it untouched during charging.

Will it charge faster than wireless?

Wired charging is always faster than wireless as it’s more efficient, with less power wasted in the connection between the charger and the phone’s coils.

You don’t have to divide SharePower into its two halves. You can use it stacked with a possible 35W USB-C PD total output to charge three devices: one via the short integrated USB-C cable, and two more via the side USB-C ports—20W USB-C PD per module when split in Share Mode.

When used as one unit—Stack Mode—it can charge at 35W PD, which is just about enough to keep a MacBook Air or small Pro going, and certainly fine for a MacBook Neo.

Wireless charging has a maximum of 25W, but that’s difficult to maintain due to the heat produced at such an output via wireless. Charger makers introduce fans to cool the devices down to reduce the chance of the phone throttling the power in order to stay safely cool. You don’t get as much chance of that with wired charging so charging speed stays faster for longer.

Nimble

How many devices can SharePower charge at the same time?

Each half of the Nimble SharePower has one of the USB-C ports for a second device, so separated you can charge four drives in total.

Section one has the USB-C cable and a USB-C port. Section two has the flip-up USB-C connector and a USB-C port. It’s simple therefore when split to charge two iPhones plus, say, an Apple Watch and your AirPods case at the same time.

In joined Stack Mode, three devices can be charged simultaneously as the foldaway USB-C connector is hidden when the two halves are magnetically joined.

Both halves can be recharged themselves at the same time as they join up with tiny pogo pins.

If you want a magnetic wireless portable charger to share, you could opt for a power bank such as the Kuxiu S3 that boasts a 25W magnetic wireless iPhone charging pad, a built-in USB-C cable, and a spare USB-C port. Its three device-charging prowess is one behind that of the SharePower when split and requires all the charging devices to be attached to the one unit, where the SharePower physically divides into two parts.

Wireless charging is neater than the split SharePower’s wired charging, but when sharing between people Nimble’s approach is much more convenient.

Nimble

Of course, you must remember to ask for the shared half to be returned or suddenly the Nimble SharePower becomes the once-shared power. This is where your generosity in the airport Departures lounge might come back to haunt you.

How much does the Nimble SharePower cost?

You can buy the Nimble SharePower at Apple and Apple UK or direct from Nimble. It costs $79.95 or £59.95.

It is available in three colors: white, pink, or blue. If you get excited, buy two of different colors, and mix and match.

Should you buy the Nimble SharePower?

Iniu P63 Cougar 25K (100W) Power Bank review: Smallest 25K power bank

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 11:08:47 +0000

Macworld

At a glance

Expert's Rating

Pros

Smallest 25K power bank
High battery capacity
100W max output
USB-C cable handle
Enticing colors

Cons

P64 better for 16-inch MacBook Pro

Our Verdict

We loved the diminutive Iniu P62 that offered a 20K battery in the smallest possible form, and cooed over the 140W/25K P64. Now the 100W/25K P63 looks like the sweet spot between compact size and recharging power both in terms of capacity and output.

Price When Reviewed

This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined

Best Pricing Today

Price When Reviewed

$69.99

Best Prices Today: INIU Cougar P63 25000mAh (100W) Power Bank

$66.99

View Deal

What it is: A high-capacity portable charger in a unique compact form.

Who is it best for? MacBook owners with the need to recharge their devices on the move.

Who shouldn’t buy it? 16-inch MacBook Pro owners are better served by the 140W PD P64 power bank.

Even magnetic wireless power banks are starting to look ordinary these days, and—as shiny as pillar-shaped laptop power banks can be—it’s difficult to get too excited about one on looks alone.

Power purists will scoff and tell me off for judging a power bank on anything other than milliamp hours and total wattage output, but as a Mac user I do reserve some aesthetic disposition.

In among the best laptop power banks we’ve tested are a selection from Iniu, which dares to be different and serves up some portable chargers that are as cute as they are powerful.

How the Iniu P63 compares with the P62 and P64

We have already reviewed two of Iniu’s power banks, this review looks at the third in comparison.

P62: Best for MacBook Air owners and anyone who wants the smallest, most affordable laptop power bank. (See our review of the P62)
P63: Best for 13- and 15-inch MacBook Air and 14-inch MacBook Pro owners, and a great choice for 16-inch Pro users who don’t need maximum charging speed.
P64: Best for 16-inch MacBook Pro owners who want full-speed 140W USB-C PD 3.1 fast charging. (See our review of the P64)

The 20000mAh Iniu P62 can be bought in a stunning orange version, while the 25000mAh P64 is available in standout white and red colorways. Iniu clearly doesn’t carry over its unique design skills into its product-naming process.

The only downside to the 20K P62 is its maximum 65W total power output. It has three ports, a removable USB-C cable, and enough power to keep a medium-sized MacBook going all day. In our recharge tests the P62 repowered a 14-inch MacBook Pro from 0% to 87%. The P64 on the other hand can output the full 140W that a 16-inch MacBook Pro requires for Apple-certified fast-charging (PD 3.1). Its 25K battery pack scored 119% in our real-world tests.

There’s a middle-ground Iniu laptop power bank that’s as cute as the P62 and nearly as powerful as the P64. You won’t be surprised to know that Iniu calls it the P63.

Simon Jary

Iniu Power bank specs compared

Iniu P62

Battery capacity: 20000mAh (65Wh)
Fastest Power Output: 65W
Total Power Output: 65W
Power Input: 45W
USB ports: 1x USB-C (65W PD 3.0); 1x USB-C (35W); 1x USB-A (18W).
Dimensions: 4.3 x 2.8 x 1.1 inches (110 x 71 x 29mm)
Weight: 11.4oz (324g)
Macworld Test Score: 87%

Iniu P63

Battery capacity: 25000mAh (90Wh)
Fastest Power Output: 100W
Total Power Output: 110W
Power Input: 65W
USB ports: 1x USB-C (100W PD 3.0); 1x USB-C (45W); 1x USB-A (18W).
Dimensions: 4.3 x 2.7 x 1.4 inches (110 x 70 x 36mm)
Weight: 13.8oz (392g)
Macworld Test Score: 109%

Iniu P64

Battery capacity: 25000mAh (92.5Wh)
Fastest Power Output: 140W
Total Power Output: 145W
Power Input: 80W
USB ports: 1x USB-C (140W PD 3.1); 1x USB-C (45W); 1x USB-A (18W).
Dimensions: 6.3 x 3.2 x 1 inches (159 x 81 x 25mm)
Weight: 17.5oz (496g)
Macworld Test Score: 119%

In our real-world testing, the Iniu P63 achieved a Macworld Test Score of 109%, delivering substantially more usable power than the P62’s 87% thanks to its larger 25K battery and higher efficiency. While it doesn’t quite match the P64’s 119% score, it comes surprisingly close despite costing less and being considerably smaller and lighter. In practical terms, that means the P63 offers enough power to comfortably recharge every MacBook model on the go, making it an excellent all-round performer unless you specifically need the P64’s faster 140W charging for a 16-inch MacBook Pro.

The Iniu P62 is the best choice if your priorities are the smallest size and lowest price, making it ideal for lighter MacBook users. The P63 is the sweet spot of the range, combining a larger 25K battery, faster 100W charging and only a modest increase in size, giving it the best balance of portability, capacity and value. The P64 is the premium option, worth paying extra for only if you specifically need 140W USB-C PD 3.1 charging to fast-charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro at its maximum supported speed.

Which power bank has the highest capacity?

25000mAh power banks such as the Iniu P63 and P64 are at the high end of the portable charger capacity scale. Manufacturers are keen to keep the rated watt-hour (Wh) below 100Wh as that is the maximum allowed on board a plane, even in your hand luggage.

Ratings in milliamp hours (mAh) are fine to compare power banks at a glance, but the Wh rating is more important, and accurate. Both the P63 and P64 are labelled 25000mAh power banks but the P64’s 92.5Wh capacity is marginally more than the P63’s 90Wh.

The highest we’ve seen is 99.9Wh from the ReelCharge ReelPro and Sandberg Survivor, both labelled as 27000mAh. Anything with a battery capacity over 100Wh, we have reviewed in our tests of the best portable power stations.

Our real-world tests bear this out. The P64 scored a little higher (8% in relative terms) than the P63 despite both being labelled as 25000mAh.

Simon Jary

Which is the smallest laptop power bank?

You could charge a MacBook using any PD (Power Delivery) power bank, even one meant for an iPhone Air. However, we class a laptop power bank as one of at least 20000mAh.

At 4.3 x 2.8 x 1.1 inches (110 x 71 x 29mm) the Iniu P62 is the smallest laptop power bank we have tested. However, the P63 really isn’t that much bigger despite its 38% larger battery capacity. It measures 4.3 x 2.7 x 1.4 inches (110 x 70 x 36mm), so it’s a little deeper but otherwise the same.

Iniu claims that this size reduction is made possible by use of a high-density TinyCell and innovative HyperStack circuit technology, but every premium power bank manufacturer claims its technology is the smallest and safest. In the case of making a small power bank, Iniu’s claim can be taken at face value.

Which power bank is best for each MacBook?

Starting with the MacBook Neo, its required 20W PD makes it happy to work with any power bank. In its case, even a 10K power bank might suffice for its smaller (36.5Wh) battery capacity but the P62 is ample.

The 13-inch MacBook Air has a battery capacity of around 52WH and the 15-inch Air is 66.5Wh. 14-inch MacBook Pro batteries are around 72Wh and the 16-inch is 99.6Wh—any higher and you might not be permitted to take it with you on a flight.

If you do own a 16-inch MacBook Pro, the P64 is your choice as it boasts the 140W power output that laptop demands to charge the fastest.

While the P63 suits the MacBook Air, 14-inch MacBook Pro owners should look to the P63. That power bank is also fine for the 16-inch if you don’t mind the slower charging speed.

Want to know the exact battery capacity of your laptop? Read our MacBook battery capacities compared list.

INIU

Scoring high on the cute-o-meter

Iniu’s P-series power banks have a more compact, curvaceous shape than most laptop power banks, eschewing the standard pillar shape.

The company also offers a range of colors to choose from, differing from the regulation gray/silver tone seen everywhere else.

P62: Black, Metallic Silver, Metallic Coffee, Metallic Black
P63: Black, Metallic Silver, Metallic Coffee, Metallic Black, Red and Yellow.
P64: Black, White

We had seen the P62 in blue, red, orange, yellow and white colors, so you might need to buy now if you want the brightest colors. Also check the listings on Amazon, where you might find extra colors.

INIU

Which ports are found on the power banks?

If all you want to charge is your MacBook, a USB-C port is what’s required. But most high-capacity power banks offer a set, including extra USB-C and a legacy USB-A port, and some include one or more integrated cables. The Ugreen Nexode Pro Laptop Power Bank (25K) has two built-in cables.

P62: 65W USB-C, 36W USB-C, 18W USB-A
P63: 100W USB-C, 45W USB-C, 18W USB-A
P64: 140W USB-C, 45W USB-C, 18W USB-A

110W output is possible, using the P63’s two USB-C ports together at 65W+45W. But note that, as with most power banks, total power output dips when using more than two ports. In the case of the P63, the first USB-C port can handle 65W while 15W is shared by the other two ports.

Both the smaller power banks ship with a detachable 100W USB-C GoCord Cable, while the P64 comes with a non-attachable 240W USB-C to USB-C cable.

Simon Jary

How much does the Iniu P63 power bank cost?

The mid-range Iniu P63 power bank is priced at $69.99 / £66.99 at Amazon but is sometimes cheaper direct from Iniu. This is an affordable price for such a high-capacity power bank.

In comparison, the P62 costs $50.99 / £58.99, and the P64 $94.99 / £89.99. Check the links as discounts are frequent.

Should you buy the Iniu P63 power bank?

The Iniu P63 hits the sweet spot in the company’s laptop power bank lineup. It packs a generous 25K battery and fast 100W charging into a remarkably compact design that’s only slightly larger than the 20K P62, while costing significantly less than the 140W P64. Unless you own a 16-inch MacBook Pro and need Apple’s fastest charging speeds, the P63 delivers the best balance of size, capacity, performance and value.

I pushed iOS 27’s AI photo editing tools to the limit

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Macworld

iOS 27 is Apple’s most AI-centric release to date, introducing the highly anticipated Siri chatbot and other smart features across the system. One of the notable additions is the AI editor in the built-in Photos app, which features the Reframe, Extend, and Clean Up tools.

To test how effective these AI-powered image manipulators are, I applied them to a wide range of photos I’ve taken with my iPhone 17 Pro Max. Here are some of the great and not-so-great results.

Reframe

In iOS 26, Apple introduced Spatial Scenes, a Photos app feature that detects subjects and adds a 3D effect that reacts to your iPhone’s movements. iOS 27’s new Reframe tool similarly analyzes the scene and allows you to tweak the angle or composition of your shot. Once set, the AI model will regenerate your image with the updated point of view.

To minimize hallucinations, Reframe limits perspective changes to areas it can comprehend, so you may be locked to a specific direction when reframing a certain image. Additionally, by default, you cannot repeatedly reframe an image in the same direction, but I was able to bypass this limitation by saving reframed photos to Files and then saving them again to the Photos app.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Reframe (second); another attempt at Reframe (third).}

For the first test, I reframed a photo of Beirut’s corniche twice. I was pleasantly surprised by how accurately it changed the handrail’s perspective. It also maintained the rainbow’s arc and correctly generated the rest of the rocky shore. It did, however, incorrectly move the trash cans and streetlights away from the handrail.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Reframe (second); another attempt at Reframe (third).}

Next, I reframed a photo of an iced latte overlooking the city of Byblos. The first edit was highly realistic, preserving the texture and shape of the ice cubes. The second edit similarly generated parts of the wooden table in a very realistic manner, although the distant background looked clearly artificial.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Reframe (second); another attempt at Reframe (third).}

The third test was exceptionally disappointing, as the AI model seemingly failed to recognize a regular airplane. The first edit bent the aircraft, while the second incorporated irrelevant components.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Reframe (second); another attempt at Reframe (third).}

For the fourth test, I reframed a Ferris wheel at sunset, which the AI similarly failed to properly regenerate. The first edit wrecked its circular form and skipped generating new cabins where necessary. The second Reframe surprisingly fixed the circular shape (for the most part) but still didn’t add in the missing gondolas.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Reframe (second); another attempt at Reframe (third).}

Next, I headed to the mountains and reframed a lavender shrub looking over a village. The first edit was highly realistic and somehow enhanced the photo’s colors and added more clarity to the background. The second edit, on the other hand, completely ruined the shot through obvious AI hallucinations and pattern repetition.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Reframe (second); another attempt at Reframe (third).}

For the final test, I reframed myself blowing a fluffy dandelion in the middle of nowhere. The first edit failed to maintain the stem’s structure and made me look older. The second edit distorted my face and the dandelion’s stem further, but it did accurately generate the lake’s surface.

While several first edits look believable, I don’t see myself using the Reframe feature, as it doesn’t deliver the actual truth. Still, many users will appreciate the ability to effortlessly change the perspective of their shots.

Extend

Extend is essentially the opposite of cropping, letting you generate nonexistent parts of an image along its edges and expand it accordingly. Like Reframe, Extend restricts multiple image extensions to limit AI hallucinations, but I was similarly able to bypass it.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Extend (second); another attempt at Extend (third).}

For the first test, I headed to the Port of Tripoli, where I attempted to generate a cropped lifebuoy and the background boats towards the right. Unfortunately, Extend failed to recognize the object and limited my extensions to the image’s left edge, producing underwhelming results with both edits.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Extend (second); another attempt at Extend (third).}

For the next test, I had very low expectations, as it was a dimly lit photo of my car’s interior. To my surprise, the first extension correctly identified the infotainment system’s display and generated a relevant result. The second edit similarly estimated the car’s borders, accurately generating the left mirror and window.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Extend (second); another attempt at Extend (third).}

The third test was a tricky, close-up shot of cement boulders. Both extensions correctly detected the objects’ patterns and generated realistic results.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Extend (second); another attempt at Extend (third).}

Next, I had Extend generate the bottom section of a cropped lighthouse. The AI precisely replicated the colors and pattern, including those of the clouds. The second extension correctly generated a lifelike sea, which I found impressive, but it also hallucinated a second extra-large lighthouse.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Extend (second); another attempt at Extend (third).}

For the fifth test, I attempted to extend the buildings on Jounieh’s hillside. In both edits, the AI model concealed the view by generating dull buildings on the left and right sides, and it inserted generic cars on its made-up road.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); first attempt to use Extend (second); another attempt at Extend (third).}

Lastly, I extended a dark alley twice, and the feature maintained the original photo’s vibe by generating suitable cars and buildings.

Like most AI features, Extend’s results can be unpredictable. Sometimes It’ll fail to extend a well-lit shot yet somehow manage to get a complex setting right.

Clean Up

Clean Up in Apple Photos first launched with iOS 18, letting you remove unwanted people or objects in images. With iOS 27, Apple is upgrading Clean Up by letting you pick between Fast and High Quality edits. The former mode is comparable to Clean Up on iOS 18 and 26, letting you quickly remove clearly identifiable items. The latter mode analyzes selected items’ surroundings and generates more realistic edits, even in tricky shots. To evaluate Clean Up on iOS 27, I edited each photo using both modes separately.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); Fast Clean Up (second); High Quality Clean Up (third).}

For the first test, I removed people visible on the cobblestone street. The Fast edit clearly looked like a manipulated image, while the High Quality one looked far more realistic.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); Fast Clean Up (second); High Quality Clean Up (third).}

In the second test, I removed the cranes and people at the Port of Beirut. The Fast result similarly looked clearly AI-generated, while the High Quality one looked much cleaner. The difference is particularly obvious when inspecting the gavel’s edges and the Act for Justice text.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); Fast Clean Up (second); High Quality Clean Up (third).}

Next, I decided to Clean Up the buildings blocking my sunset view, minus the old lighthouse. The Fast mode expectedly failed miserably, while the High Quality one generated a usable result. While you could tell the latter edit is AI-generated, its precision is still admirable, given that it had to make up a significant portion of the shot.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); Fast Clean Up (second); High Quality Clean Up (third).}

The fourth test pushed Clean Up to its limits by attempting to remove a wide range of complex objects in front of two kittens. The first edit unsurprisingly did not pass, while the second actually managed to perfect the scene. It correctly generated the kittens’ bodies, along with convincing paws.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); Fast Clean Up (second); High Quality Clean Up (third).}

Clean Up 1.0 infamously failed to generate human faces. To see if the latest iteration of the feature addresses that, I hid my face with a camera and had Clean Up on iOS 27 handle it. The Fast mode behaved as expected, disfiguring my face with a digital whirl. Meanwhile, the High Quality mode successfully generated the covered parts of my face, but the end result looks nothing like me. While a welcome improvement, the AI model should ideally take on-device selfies into account. This would allow it to generate more realistic images of iPhone users.

^{Original, unedited photo (first); Fast Clean Up (second); High Quality Clean Up (third).}

Finally, I used Clean Up to clear my view as I tanned on the sandy beach. The Fast mode struggled to remove a couple of items, and its edits looked too artificial. Conversely, the High Quality mode handled the task professionally.

While the High Quality Clean Up mode consumes significantly more time and power, its results are infinitely more reliable. The Fast mode is fine for basic quick edits, like removing specks and blemishes.

Every new Apple product coming in 2026 & 2027

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:28:01 +0000

Macworld

It’s already shaping up to be a huge year for Apple, with a wave of new products arriving in the first half of 2026, including the MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e.

But there’s plenty more to come. Rumors suggest Apple is developing lots of new devices, from refreshed iPhones, iPads, and Macs to smart home products and the long-awaited foldable iPhone.

Alongside new hardware, Apple will introduce the next generation of its software platforms before the end of 2026. At WWDC 2026 in June, the company revealed the software foundation that will power its next generation of devices, including the transformation of Siri into Siri AI, deeper AI integration across apps and services, and enhanced cross-device experiences. These developments are expected to play a key role in shaping Apple’s upcoming products.

In this article, we take a look at the Apple devices most likely to launch next. Drawing on the latest reports, supply-chain leaks, and industry analysis, we examine what’s on the horizon – and what it could mean for Apple users.

What to expect from Apple in 2026

Biggest launches: iPhone Fold, iPhone 18 Pro redesign
Most meaningful upgrades: Under-display Face ID, OLED iPad mini
Big leadership shift: It has been confirmed that John Ternus will replace Tim Cook as CEO in September 2026

Apple’s roadmap for 2026: At a glance

In the fall of 2026, Apple’s roadmap will come under the direction of incoming CEO John Ternus. Current CEO Tim Cook will remain as executive chairman, but the shift from an operations-focused leader to one with deep hardware engineering roots could signal a more product-driven approach – and a renewed emphasis on standout hardware. Ternus will take over as CEO just as Apple is reportedly preparing a major Siri overhaul, alongside potential launches including its first touchscreen MacBook and the iPhone 18 Pro.

Product	Expected release	Key rumours	Should you wait?
iPhone 18 Pro & Max	September 2026	No notch, under-display Face ID	Maybe
iPhone Fold	September 2026	The first foldable iPhone	Maybe
Apple Watch Series 12	September 2026	Blood pressure monitoring unlikely	Blood pressure monitoring unlikely
iPad mini	Fall 2026	Larger OLED screen	Yes
iPad	Fall 2026	Apple Intelligence support	Yes
Mac mini	Fall 2026	M5 & M5 Pro chip	Yes
Mac Studio	Fall 2026	M5 Pro & Max chip	Yes
MacBook Pro with Touchscreen	Late 2026-early 2027	Touch screen	No
Apple Smart Glasses	Preview in late 2026 possible	Heads-up display	Yes
iPhone 18	Spring 2027	To launch with iPhone 18e	No

Every New Apple Product Launched in 2026… so far

Here is what Apple has already announced in 2026:

AirPods Max 2: Improved audio and the H2 chip. Find out more here: AirPods Max 2 guide.
MacBook Neo: Apple’s brand new, low-cost Mac laptop. Find out more here: MacBook Neo guide.
MacBook Air M5: Now with the M5 chip. Read about the 2026 MacBook Air here: MacBook Air M5 guide.
MacBook Pro M5 Pro & M5 Max: A significant upgrades over the M4 series. Read: MacBook Pro M5 Pro & Max guide.
Studio Display: Finally gets Thunderbolt 5 and a better webcam.
Studio Display XDR: With mini-LED technology and ProMotion up to 120Hz.
iPhone 17e: The new, entry-level, iPhone replaces the iPhone 16e. Read more here: iPhone 17e guide.
iPad Air M4: The iPad Air now has an M4 chip. Read more here: iPad Air M4 guide.
AirTag 2: Four years on Apple updated the AirTag, read our review here: AirTag 2nd gen review.

And… RIP Mac Pro: Apple has confirmed that it is discontinuing its tower workstation.

Read on to find out what new products to expect at Apple’s next event and throughout 2026.

Every New Apple Product Launching in 2026

In the sections below we’ve split the upcoming new products into categories including Mac, iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, Home, AirPods, and some new product categories.

Apple Intelligence, Siri and AI

iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate, will introduce a massive overhaul to Siri and expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities.

The All-New Siri AI

The most significant update is the transformation of Siri into Siri AI, a conversational assistant powered by Apple Intelligence.

Key Siri AI features coming later in 2026 include:

Onscreen Awareness: Siri will understand and interact with what is displayed on your screen. For example, if a friend texts you an address, you can ask Siri to save it to a contact without leaving the app.
Dedicated Siri App: A new standalone app will allow you to revisit previous conversations, pin important chats, and sync history across all Apple devices via iCloud.
App Actions: Siri will be able to perform tasks within apps using natural language, such as editing a recently sent message or adding a song to a specific playlist.
Visual Intelligence: On iPhone, a new Siri mode in the Camera app will allow users to point their phone at objects to ask questions or perform actions based on what they see. On Mac, users can select onscreen content to ask Siri questions about images or documents.
Voice Customization: Users can personalize Siri with more natural voices and adjust the pace and expressiveness of the speech. This feature requires a M3 Mac with 12GB RAM or newer, or iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone Air and newer.

Apple Intelligence Across Apps

Beyond Siri, Apple Intelligence is being integrated system-wide to automate tasks and enhance productivity. Apple Intelligence will play a larger role across the iPhone, iPad, Mac, smart home devices, and future product categories.

Major updates include:

Safari Productivity: The browser will automatically group tabs into topics, monitor pages for changes (like price drops) with a “Notify Me” feature, and even build custom extensions based on natural-language descriptions.
Smarter Photo Editing: New tools include Spatial Reframing to improve composition after a photo is taken, an Extend tool to fill in missing areas when straightening horizons, and an upgraded Clean Up tool for removing distractions.
Writing Tools and Communication: Mail and Messages will gain smarter replies that mimic a user’s writing style . System-wide Writing Tools will generate text from scratch, rewrite drafts, and adapt tone to match specific contacts.
Image Playground: This tool has been revamped with better language models to create more natural-looking photorealistic images. It also allows users to create custom wallpapers on iOS 27.
Intelligent Automation: The Shortcuts app will feature a “Describe a Shortcut” ability, allowing users to create complex automations simply by explaining what they want in plain English.

What new iPhones are coming in 2026 (and should you wait)?

Foundry

Based on current industry analysis and supply chain information, Apple has some significant changes planned for the iPhone in 2026, with an iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max and the introduction of a foldable iPhone expected alongside the release of iOS 27.

iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max

September 2026 update expected

The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to launch in September 2026. The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to be the first to use Apple’s own C1 modem instead of Qualcomm’s. The base model may see a RAM increase to 12GB to better support on-device AI functions. A major redesign is expected, which could include a new Dark Cherry color, under-display Face ID, a completely hidden notch and the front camera could move to the upper-left corner of the display. Read about the iPhone 18 Pro here: iPhone 18 Pro rumors.

Foldable iPhone

September 2026 introduction possible

After years of rumors, Apple’s first foldable phone, potentially named the iPhone Ultra, is projected to debut in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. It is expected to be a book-style foldable with a 7.8-inch inner display. Read more here: Apple’s folding iPhone rumors.

iPhone 18

Spring 2027 launch expected

Reports suggest that Apple could delay the iPhone 18 and release that handset alongside the iPhone 18e in the spring of 2027.

Should you buy now or wait?

With prices expected to rise, buying an iPhone 17 Pro now is not the bad idea it would normally be, and with the iPhone 18 launch not expected until the spring, now is a good time to buy. Read: When is the best time to buy an iPhone.

What new iPads are coming in 2026 (and should you wait)?

Britta O’Boyle

Don’t expect major redesigns for the iPads this year. Instead, Apple is likely to focus on faster chips and other internal upgrades. That said, both the iPad and iPad mini are due for an update – particularly the entry-level iPad, which currently lacks support for Apple Intelligence. Here’s what we expect Apple to announce:

iPad mini

Late 2026 update possible

The current iPad mini (A17 Pro) was released in October 2024, and Apple’s update cycle for this model is generally infrequent. Based on current reports and analysis, the next significant update to the iPad mini is not expected until late 2026, with some speculation pointing toward 2027.

One rumored upgrade for the 2026 iPad mini is the transition to an OLED display, which could reduce manufacturing costs and improve battery life. There is also the possibility of a slightly larger screen, with a move from the current 8.3- to 8.7-inches suggested. There is also speculation that a future foldable Apple device could potentially replace the iPad mini line entirely, though this remains uncertain.

Internal code leaks suggest the future iPad mini could be upgraded to an A19 Pro chip, which would provide a significant performance boost over the current A17 Pro. A A18 Pro chip upgrade is also possible. Read our round up of iPad mini rumors.

iPad

Late 2026 update possible

When the standard iPad was updated in March 11, 2025, the biggest disappointment was that it featured a A16 chip and therefore didn’t support Apple Intelligence. Apple looks set to rectify that in 2026 with an upgrade to the A18 or A19 chip, with the latter offering 50% better performance. The release timeline for an iPad with an A18 or A19 chip is anticipated before the end of 2026, in fact, Apple code suggest the company may be planning an update sooner-rather-than-later.

Read more about the 2026 iPad in our rumor round up.

Should you buy now or wait?

With the iPad prices increasing in June you may want to hold off buying one now. If you are going to pay more at least get the most up-to-date model, or buy from Apple’s Refurbished Store to get a bargain. Read Should I buy an iPad now or wait?

Which Macs are worth waiting for in 2026?

2026 is expected to be a significant year for the Mac, with Apple’s first touchscreen Mac rumored as part of a MacBook Pro redesign. March 3 saw the launch of the M5 MacBook Air and M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro and March 4 saw Apple introduce the a new entry-level laptop – the $599 MacBook Neo.

Updates to the Mac Studio and Mac mini are expected in 2026. These Macs have become popular for running AI models locally; however, global RAM shortages – driven by AI companies purchasing large amounts of memory for data centres – are having a knock-on effect on availability. Current models are constrained and, in some cases, unavailable, while the release of new models may also be delayed due to ongoing DRAM supply shortages. The RAM shortages have also had an effect on prices, with Mac prices increasing by $300 to $500 in June. If these Macs are delayed further it is likely to be due to these global supply chain issues.

One Mac that won’t be getting an update is the long-neglected Mac Pro. Apple has confirmed that the Mac Pro will be discontinued in favor of the Mac Studio.

Mac mini

Fall 2026 update expected

Simon Jary / Foundry

The next Mac mini is expected to feature Apple’s M5 and M5 Pro chips. While the update was originally anticipated earlier in 2026, current reports suggest the launch has been delayed due to ongoing global RAM shortages.

As for new features, expectations include improved AI and graphics performance, faster SSDs, higher base storage configurations, and possible price increases. We don’t expect any major design changes, however. The current Mac mini received a significant redesign in October 2024, shrinking the chassis to just 5 by 5 inches. For more details, see our Mac mini M5 rumors guide.

Mac Studio

Fall 2026 update expected

The current Mac Studio comes in two configurations: one with the M4 Max and one with the M3 Ultra. The M3 Ultra is faster than the M4 Max, but how much more powerful would an M4 Ultra – or even an M5 Ultra – be? Hopefully, we won’t have to wait long to find out.

Apple is expected to release a new Mac Studio with an M5-series chip in 2026. The launch was anticipated for WWDC, but like the Mac mini, the launch may be delayed due to the global RAM shortages. Read more here: M5 Mac Studio rumors.

iMac

Possible 2026 update

The current M4 iMac was released in October 2024, so an M5 update might seems timely and could be released alongside other potential M5 Mac updates.

The current iMac design was introduced in 2021 and is not expected to change soon. It is still considered fresh, and its components are not outdated. However, there are calls for Apple to introduce a larger screened iMac, something that has been missed since Apple discontinued the 27-inch model. Many feel that the 24-inch screen is too small. Read about the larger iMac rumors.

Touchscreen MacBook Pro

Possible late 2026 introduction

Foundry

There are rumors that the MacBook Pro will get a redesign including notch-free OLED touchscreen, potential 5G connectivity and a thinner body. At one point it was expected that this new MacBook Pro would feature M6 Pro and Max chips, but the latest indications are that Apple will use M5 Pro and M5 Max chips instead in an effort to keep the project on schedule.

Read the rumors about the M6 MacBook Pro with a touch screen.

Should you buy now or wait?

With the prices of Macs increasing in June due to the global RAM shortages you may want to hold off buying one now. If you are going to pay more at least get the most up-to-date model, or buy from Apple’s Refurbished Store to get a bargain. Read the following for more guidance:

Upcoming Apple Watches in 2026

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

Apple updated all the Apple Watches in September 2025. Launching the Apple Watch Series 11 a new Apple Watch Ultra and a new Apple Watch SE. In 2026 the Apple Watch Series 12 and a new Apple Watch Ultra 4 are expected.

With the Apple Watch rather than hardware changes the real interest tends to be the health and fitness related features. The following capabilities are expected in future iterations:

Non-invasive blood glucose monitoring: This has been a long-rumored feature for the Apple Watch, but it is still considered to be a few years away with the technology unlikely to be ready for a 2026 release.
AI-Powered Health and Fitness Coach: Apple has long been rumored to be working on a sophisticated AI coach. Recent reports from early 2026 suggest this project was “scaled back” to allow individual AI-driven features to ship sooner rather than waiting for a complete overhaul.
Health+ Service Overhaul: There are ongoing rumors regarding a new service tier called “Health+” that would expand upon Fitness+. This service might integrate new AI-powered health features into a single subscription, potentially bundled with hardware purchases.
Daily Readiness and Stress Tracking: Unlike competitors such as the Oura Ring 4 or Garmin, the Apple Watch currently lacks a “daily readiness” score or native stress tracking. Experts suggest these are obvious areas for future software or hardware updates.

Other new features could include Touch ID integration and microLED displays reaching 4,000 nits brightness. A thinner case, magnetic bands, and enhanced AI capabilities could also be on the cards.

If you have an older Apple Watch and are wondering whether to upgrade, this could be a good time as with watchOS 27 the compatibility list is smaller than ever and only the Watch SE 3, Series 9, 10 and 11, Apple Watch Ultra 2 and 3 – and the new models – will be compatible.

Apple Watch Ultra 4

September 2026 update possible

Rumors indicate that the Ultra 4 could have an A12 chip and better battery life. A fingerprint scanner is also rumored, but unlikely. There may be new health sensors coming, but blood pressure monitoring is unlikely beyond hypertension alerts.

Apple Watch Series 12

September 2026 update likely

A chip update to the A12 is likely, but beyond that little is known.

Should you buy now or wait?

If you need an Apple Watch today, the SE 3 is the safest buy, while the Series 11 and Ultra 3 are worth waiting on with new models expected in September. Waiting could bring new features, lower prices on current models, or both, making it the smarter choice for most buyers. Read more: Should I buy an Apple Watch now or wait?

Upcoming AirPods

According to a brief update in Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter for Bloomberg in August, Apple is aiming to launch camera-equipped AirPods this fall.

The new earbuds are expected to resemble the upcoming AirPods Pro 3, although it’s not yet clear whether they will also include a heart rate sensor.

The cameras are said to include both visible-light and infrared sensors, but they reportedly won’t be designed for taking photos or recording video, as their placement and image quality would make them unsuitable for those tasks. Instead, the cameras are expected to enable AI-powered features, such as hand gesture recognition, adapting audio based on the surrounding environment, and detecting whether someone is speaking directly to you or simply talking nearby.

Upcoming Apple Home devices

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

Apple is expected to significantly expand its smart home ecosystem in 2026 and 2027 with new devices beyond its traditional Apple TV and HomePods.

Rumored products include a smart home hub that combines HomePod functionality with a touchscreen, an updated HomePod mini 2 and next-generation Apple TV are also expected.

This strategic push could help Apple catch up with competitors like Amazon and Google in the smart home market.

Apple’s push into the smart home market will be heavily reliant on a significantly improved Siri, which is expected to launch with iOS 27 and macOS 27 in the fall.

New and updated products are said to include:

HomePod mini 2

Fall 2026 introduction

Foundry

A new HomePod mini is said to be on the way with a faster processor that can take advantage of the new Siri AI.

HomePod 3

Fall 2026 introduction

A new HomePod with an updated chip is also expected.

Apple TV

Fall 2026 update

The current Apple TV isn’t compatible with Siri so an update is needed. Apple TV leaks indicate a rumoured Apple TV is on Apple’s roadmap and that the update will bring Apple Intelligence to the set top box.

New Smart Hub

Possible 2026 introduction

Multiple reports have suggested Apple will launch a smart home hub. Apple is said to be working on a number of HomeHub related products including a device said to mount a camera on a robot arm that can follow you around!

New Smart Display

Possible 2026 introduction

Also rumored is an iPad like smart display that allow you to control your home devices via HomeOS software. This may come with both a speaker base and a wall mount.

HomePod Touch

Possible 2026 introduction

A new HomePod smart speaker with a screen is said to be coming. Read more here: New HomePod rumors.

Upcoming Vision devices, AR and spatial computing

Apple Smart Glasses

Possible 2026 introduction, 2027 launch

Unlike the bulky Vision Pro headset, the upcoming smart glasses from Apple are expected to follow a form factor similar to the Ray-Ban Meta glasses. This will be Apple’s first product built specifically for “Visual Intelligence.” It will likely handle tasks such as live translations, music playback, phone calls, and turn-by-turn directions. Apple could provide a first glimpse or “preview” of the glasses by the end of 2026.

Vision Pro

Possible 2027 update

Prior to 2026, Apple’s spatial computing strategy has focused on the high-end market, but reports indicate a more affordable version of the headset is in development. Apple has reportedly paused work on a successor to the high-end Vision Pro and will instead release a cheaper Vision Pro.

What Apple launched in 2025

Here’s a quick look at what Apple released in 2025:

February 2025: iPhone 16E – the replacement for the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 brought Apple Intelligence support to the entry-level iPhone.
March 2025: iPad Air M3 and A16 iPad launched on March 4 and MacBook Air M4 and M4 Max Mac Studio on March 5.
September 2025: Apple introduced four new iPhones: iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Mac, and the iPhone Air. We also saw the new AirPods Pro 3 and three new Apple Watches: the Series 11, Ultra 3 and SE 3.
October 2025: Apple announced a new M5 processor and released the M5 MacBook Pro, M5 iPad Pro, and a update to the Vision Pro, featuring the new chip.

What Apple launched in 2024

Here’s a quick look at what Apple released in 2024:

The Vision Pro headset arrived in the U.S. on February 2.
The M3 MacBook Air launched on March 4.
The M2 iPad Air, the M4 iPad Pro, and the Apple Pencil Pro all launched on May 7.
iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus launched on September 9.
iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max launched on September 9.
Apple Watch Series 10 launched on September 9.
AirPods 4 launched on September 9 and new colors (and USB-C) for the AirPods Max were introduced.
iPad mini A17 Pro launched on October 15.
Apple launched the M4 iMac, Mac mini, and MacBook Pro the week of October 28.

What Apple launched in 2023

Apple hit the ground running in 2023 and closed the year with the Vision Pro, although it didn’t arrive until 2024:

M2 Mac mini
Mac mini with M2 Pro
14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip
New full size HomePod (bit of a surprise this one!)
A larger 15-inch MacBook Air
A new Mac Pro with the M2 Ultra
A new Mac Studio, also with M2 Ultra and M2 Max.
iPhone 15, Plus, Pro and Pro Max
2023 Apple Watch Series 9 And Ultra 2
M3 iMac
M3, M3 Pro and M3 Max MacBook Pro (14-inch and 16-inch)
And of course, the brand-new Vision Pro headset was unveiled

What Apple launched in 2022

12.9-inch and 11-inch M2 iPad Pro
10.9-inch iPad, 10th generation
iPhone 14 and 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max
Apple Watch Ultra
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
iPhone SE (3rd generation)
iPad Air (5th generation)
Mac Studio (1st generation)
Studio Display
M2 MacBook Air
M2 13in MacBook Pro

What Apple launched in 2021

HomePod mini in new colors
MacBook Pro with M1 Pro and M1 Max
AirPods (3rd generation)
Apple Watch Series 7
iPhone 13-series
iPad mini (6th generation)
iPad (9th generation)
iMac M1
iPad Pro M1(3rd and 5th generation)
Apple TV 4K (2nd generation)
AirTag

What Apple launched in 2020

AirPods Max
MacBook Air M1
13-inch MacBook Pro M1
Mac mini M1
iPhone 12-series
HomePod mini
iPad Air (4th generation)
Apple Watch SE
iPad (8th generation)
Apple Watch Series 6
27-inch iMac (Intel)
13-inch MacBook Pro (Intel)
iPhone SE
MacBook Air (Intel)
iPad Pro (2nd and 4th generation)

For information about what Apple launched in the decade before that read:

Best Apple products of the decade (2010-2019)

One-time payment, years of project planning — Microsoft Project Pro 2024 is just $49 through 8/9

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Macworld

TL;DR: Grab a lifetime Microsoft Project Professional 2024 license for $48.99 (reg. $1,129) with code AUG25 through Aug. 9 and simplify planning, scheduling, and resource management.

Every project starts with good intentions. Then the deadlines shift, priorities change, and suddenly you’re trying to manage an entire team’s workload with a spreadsheet that stopped making sense three revisions ago.

There’s no need to stress. Through Aug. 9, you can get a Microsoft Project Professional 2024 lifetime Windows license for just $48.99 (reg. $1,129) with the code AUG25.

Designed for project managers, team leaders, consultants, and anyone juggling multiple moving pieces, Microsoft Project helps you build realistic schedules, assign resources, and keep projects on track from kickoff to completion.

Pre-built templates help you get started quickly, while automatic scheduling adjusts task dates based on dependencies, saving you from constantly updating timelines by hand.

As projects grow, built-in reports like Burndown and Resource Overview make it easier to see what’s working—and what isn’t. You can compare actual progress against your original plan, run “what-if” scenarios before making changes, and visualize task relationships with multiple timeline views.

This is the kind of software that can save hours by making planning a whole lot smarter.

Get Microsoft Project Pro 2024 lifetime license for just $48.99 with code AUG25 through Aug. 9.

Microsoft Project Professional 2024: Lifetime License for WindowsSee Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Apple invites retail workers to pitch in with iPhone event support

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 19:31:39 +0000

Macworld

As Apple prepares for what is rumored to be one of the biggest iPhone events of all time, it’s turning to retail employees for support. In a memo to U.S. retail stores seen by Bloomberg, Apple announced a lottery system to give workers “the opportunity to participate in the Event Support Experience Program.”

It’s not clear whether this is a new program, but Mark Gurman of Bloomberg notes that Apple has “relied on retail employees to help staff major product launches for years.” However, the report suggests that the lottery is new for 2026, so perhaps previous events were limited to California retail workers. In the memo, Apple says it is “excited” to offer U.S. retail workers this opportunity.

The lottery doesn’t mean this year’s event will be a return to the in-person keynotes that were common before the COVID pandemic. In fact, Gurman reports that they will simply help “help organize lines, check in guests, greet attendees, offer directions and support the security teams,” similar to WWDC in June.

The memo says the event will take place in the first half of September, as is customary for iPhone events. Our best guess for a date is either Wednesday, September 9, or Tuesday, September 15.

Apple is expected to launch several new products at this year’s iPhone event, including the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, and the brand-new folding iPhone Ultra.

Best Antivirus for Mac (2026): Tested & ranked by experts

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 16:05:32 +0000

Macworld

It wasn’t long ago that Macs were considered secure enough on their own. But as Apple devices have grown in popularity, macOS has become an increasingly attractive target for attackers. Today’s threats are less about traditional viruses and more about phishing, fake updates, malicious downloads, and scams designed to trick users into installing malware themselves. At the same time, AI tools are accelerating vulnerability discovery and exploit development, making rapid patching more important than ever.

Apple includes built-in protections such as XProtect and Gatekeeper, and macOS security is stronger than ever. However, these defenses mainly target known threats and can’t fully prevent social-engineering attacks or credential theft. Modern antivirus tools – with features like anti-phishing protection, malicious site blocking, behavior monitoring, and password and identity safeguards – therefore remain essential for Mac users. To see which ones actually defend against today’s threats, we’ve tested the leading antivirus apps for Mac and you can see our recommendations below.

We’ve tested the top Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios, performance benchmarks, and independent lab results, alongside usability, performance and reliability checks. Use this guide to find the best antivirus for your needs. Below are our expert picks for 2026, including the best overall, best value, and best free options.

What’s new this month: On June 29, Apple released macOS Tahoe 26.5.2, delivering dozens of security fixes for vulnerabilities across the operating system. The update patches flaws in Safari and WebKit that could potentially leak sensitive information between websites, allow malicious web content to crash apps, or trigger memory corruption. Apple also said that several fixes originally planned for macOS 26.6 were brought forward into 26.5.2.

Apple told Reuters it is accelerating security releases because AI is reducing the time it takes attackers to identify and weaponize vulnerabilities, despite there being no evidence that the patched flaws were being actively exploited.

Security researchers also uncovered a new Mac malware campaign dubbed “Reaper” at the end of May. Distributed through convincing fake software installers, Reaper relies on social engineering to trick users into running malicious AppleScripts. Once installed, it can steal browser data and documents, search for cryptocurrency wallets, and collect financial information.

Best Mac Antivirus in 2026: At a Glance

The best antivirus for Mac in 2026 is Intego ONE, thanks to its Mac-specific design, strong protection, and low performance impact. Norton 360 and Bitdefender are also top alternatives.

Scroll down for full reviews and testing results.

How we test Mac Antivirus

We test Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios and independent lab data from AV-Test and AV-Comparatives.

Starting with a clean macOS system, we downloaded malware samples and visited malicious websites to measure protection against online and offline threats, including Windows-based malware.

We also assessed system performance, ease of use and macOS integration, along with features like ransomware protection, VPNs and firewalls.

Only products that deliver strong protection without slowing down your Mac make our top recommendations.

Best Mac Antivirus: Benchmarks

We compared independent lab results with our own real-world testing to identify the best Mac antivirus software for 2026.

Antivirus	AV-Test Protection	AV-Comparatives Score	Our Malware Detection	Performance Impact (Our Tests)	Scan Speed	Overall Score
Intego	6 / 6	Approved	99%	Low	Fastest	4.7 / 5
Norton 360	6 / 6	Approved	100%	Medium	Medium	4.7 / 5
Avast One	6 / 6	Approved	99%	Medium	Medium	4.5 / 5
Moonlock	5.5 / 6	Not available	100%	Low	Fast	4.4 / 5
Surfshark	6 / 6	Approved	100%	Low	Fast	4.4 / 5
Avira Free	5.5 / 6	Approved	97%	Low	Fast	4.4 / 5
AVG Internet Security	6 / 6	Approved	99%	Low	Medium	4.5 / 5
Bitdefender	6 / 6	Approved	100%	Low	Fast	4.8 / 5
ESET	6 / 6	Approved	95%	Low	Fast	4 / 5

Best Mac Antivirus: Our top picks tested and ranked

We’ve tested and reviewed the best Mac antivirus software below. Our summaries explain how each product performed, why it ranks where it does, and its key features – with links to our full, in-depth reviews.

Updated July 3, 2026.

1. Intego ONE – Best antivirus for Mac users

Pros

Extremely fast malware scanning
Excellent firewall control options
Strong macOS-focused protection

Cons

Mac only

Price When Reviewed: Intego ONE Essential from $2.50 a month/one device/first year, then $3.33 a month or $29.99 for the first year and then $39.99 a year.

Best Prices Today:

Intego (annual)

$29.99

View Deal

Intego ONE is a powerful Mac-focused security suite with excellent malware detection, extremely fast scan speeds, and strong firewall controls. Specifically designed for macOS, it works seamlessly with Apple’s XProtect and Gatekeeper tools.

Why we picked it as our top choice

Intego ONE stands out for its outstanding malware detection, very fast scan speeds, and powerful firewall controls, making it one of the most reliable security tools specifically tailored for macOS. Intego delivers reliable, no-fuss security that integrates seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem.

Key strengths include:

Near-perfect malware detection rates.
Industry-leading scan speeds.
Firewall with excellent visibility and control over network activity.
Clean interface with no aggressive upselling
Designed specifically for macOS, not a ported PC app

Intego delivers consistent, real-world protection with better usability for Mac users.

Key features

Antivirus: Full, quick, custom scans and scheduling (Intego ONE Essential)
Firewall: With network monitoring and rule creation (Intego ONE Essential)
VPN: With 51 global servers, Lightway protocols (Intego ONE Complete)
SmartClean: Disk cleanup, app uninstaller, system optimisation (Intego ONE Advanced & Complete)

Who’s it for?

Intego ONE has a user-friendly interface, making it well suited to Mac users who want easy security management while prioritising powerful malware protection, strong performance, and advanced network control.

Intego is ideal if you:

Use a single Mac or MacBook
Want strong protection without complexity
Prefer software designed specifically for Apple systems

Considerations & drawbacks

Mac-only (no cross-platform support)
Fewer extras than some rivals (e.g. no password management)

Verdict

If you want the most Mac-native antivirus experience, Intego is the best choice. It may not have the longest feature list, but it focuses on what matters most: effective protection, ease of use, and seamless macOS integration.

Read our full Intego ONE review

2. Avast One – Best for malware and phishing protection

Pros

Excellent malware protection
Outstanding Email Guard
Capable VPN
Comprehensive security suite

Cons

Excessive upselling and fragmentation
Basic AI Assistant
Occasional malware detection gaps
Some interface limitations

Price When Reviewed: Premium Security: $49.99 first year / renews at $77.99/yr, Ultimate: $49.99 first year / renews at $109.99/yr

Best Prices Today:

Avast

$49.08

View Deal

Avast One is a comprehensive security suite for Mac that combines antivirus protection with phishing defense, a VPN, and privacy tools in a single application. It helps protect against malware, malicious websites, and email threats while keeping system impact low, making it a strong all-round security solution for everyday users.

Why we picked it

Avast One impressed with excellent malware detection, outstanding phishing protection, and a capable VPN that has little impact on Mac performance. Features such as Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site provide effective real-world protection against spam, phishing, and fraudulent websites.

Key strengths include:

Excellent malware protection
Outstanding phishing and spam filtering
Effective VPN with low system impact
Comprehensive security feature set
Strong web and email protection

Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site work particularly well together, providing some of the strongest real-world phishing and scam protection we’ve seen.

Key features

Real-time malware protection
Email Guard for phishing and spam detection
Web Guard and Real Site website protection
Integrated VPN
AI Assistant for security advice

Who’s it for?

Best for Mac users who want a feature-rich security suite with particularly strong phishing protection.

Avast is ideal if you:

Want all-in-one security rather than a basic antivirus
Need excellent phishing and email protection
Want a built-in VPN
Prefer security software with minimal performance impact
Value comprehensive web protection

Considerations & drawbacks

Frequent upselling throughout the app
Confusing, fragmented subscription options
AI Assistant provides limited value
Missed some malware installers during testing
Some interface limitations

Verdict

Avast One is one of the strongest all-round security suites for Mac, combining excellent malware protection, first-rate phishing defenses, and a capable VPN. Its confusing subscriptions, constant upselling, and underwhelming AI Assistant prevent it from being an easy recommendation, but its core protection is excellent.

Read our full Avast One review

3. Norton 360 – Best all-round, multi-platform security suite

Pros

Virus Protection Promise
Instant reassurance for scams
Includes Norton’s VPN and Password Manager

Cons

Some features Windows only

Price When Reviewed: Standard (3 devices): $39.99 for first year, usually $94.99 a year; Deluxe (5 devices): $29.99 for first year, usually $119.99 a year

Best Prices Today:

Norton Security (first year, 1 device)

$39.99

View Deal

Norton 360 is one of the most comprehensive security suites available for Mac, combining antivirus protection with a wide range of additional features, including a VPN, password manager and AI-powered scam detection.

A well-known and trusted name in cybersecurity, Norton also offers its Virus Protection Promise, meaning you’ll get your money back if it can’t remove a virus from your device.

Why we picked it

Norton stands out for its all-in-one feature set and excellent lab performance, making it ideal for users who want complete protection across multiple devices.

Key strengths include:

Top scores in AV-Test and AV-Comparatives (June 2025)
All-in-one suite: antivirus, VPN, password manager and more
AI-powered Genie Scam Protection for real-time threat advice
Strong cross-platform support (Mac, iOS, Windows, Android)
Good value considering the breadth of features

The addition of Norton’s Genie Scam Assistant is particularly impressive, offering real-time help with suspicious emails and messages — a useful tool as phishing attacks become more sophisticated.

Key features

Real-time antivirus, anti-malware and ransomware protection
Built-in VPN for secure browsing
Password manager
Genie Scam Protection (AI assistant)
Dark web monitoring (on select plans)
Multi-device support

Who’s it for?

Best for users who want a full-featured security suite across multiple devices.

Norton is ideal if you:

Want an all-in-one security solution
Use multiple devices (Mac, iPhone, Windows, Android)
Value extra features like VPN and identity protection
Want real-time help spotting scams

Considerations & drawbacks

macOS version feels less fully featured than Windows version
Some features (e.g. cloud backup) are not available on Mac
Interface and settings can feel complex for beginners
In our testing, missed a small number of threats and struggled with some file types (e.g. ZIP files)
Browser protection didn’t block all suspicious links in testing

Bottom line

If you want a feature-rich, all-in-one security suite, Norton 360 is one of the best options available. While it’s not as Mac-focused as Intego, it offers excellent protection, powerful extras and strong cross-platform coverage, making it a great choice for households with multiple devices.

Read our full Norton 360 review

4. MacPaw Moonlock – Great antivirus protection for beginners

Pros

Excellent malware detection
Fast scanning performance
Useful built-in VPN
Helpful security guidance
Clean, focused interface

Cons

Leaves some support files behind
No phishing website blocking
No scan time estimates
Trial requires payment information

Price When Reviewed: 1 Mac: $54 per year; $13.50 a month; $150 one time payment (licences for more Macs available)

Best Prices Today:

MacPaw (annual)

$45

View Deal

Moonlock is MacPaw’s dedicated antivirus and security app for Mac, combining malware protection with a VPN, system security checks and educational guidance. It aims to keep Macs protected from malware and online threats while helping users understand and improve their overall security without unnecessary complexity.

Why we picked it

Moonlock impressed with excellent malware detection, effective real-time Active Protection, a capable VPN and helpful educational resources. Rather than simply blocking threats, it also teaches users better security habits, making it particularly approachable for less technical Mac owners.

Key strengths include:

Excellent malware detection and removal
Active Protection blocks threats before installation
Built-in VPN with solid performance
Helpful security education and guidance
Flexible purchase options, including a one-time licence

We particularly like how Moonlock’s Security Advisor focuses on helping users develop better security habits through clear, practical guidance.

Key features

Quick, Balanced and Deep malware scanning
Real-time Active Protection
Built-in VPN
Network Inspector for blocking traffic from selected regions
System Protection and Security Advisor with security recommendations

Who’s it for?

Best for Mac users who want strong malware protection with straightforward security tools and guidance rather than an overwhelming all-in-one suite.

Moonlock is ideal if you:

Want effective malware protection with minimal fuss
Appreciate built-in security guidance and learning resources
Prefer a clean, Mac-focused security app
Want integrated VPN protection
Like the option of a one-time purchase instead of only subscriptions

Considerations & drawbacks

Security Advisor is more informational than practical
Menus and navigation can be confusing
Scan scheduler only allows 15-minute intervals
VPN defaults to the nearest server automatically
Some features and options are buried in the interface

Bottom line

Moonlock delivers excellent malware protection backed by effective Active Protection, a capable VPN and useful security guidance. While its interface and menus need refinement, it’s a strong first standalone security suite from MacPaw and well worth considering for Mac users seeking straightforward protection.

Read our full MacPaw Moonlock review

5. Surfshark One – Best for privacy and multi-device protection

Pros

Supports unlimited devices
Excellent malware protection
Includes VPN, identity and privacy protection

Cons

Cheaper options available

Price When Reviewed: Surfshark One, 24 months at $2.49 a month with 3 free months (Total for 27 months: $67.23); 12 months at $3.39 a month with 3 free months (Total for 15 months: $50.85); or $17.95/month.

Best Prices Today:

Surfshark

$50.85

View Deal

Surfshark One+ Antivirus is best suited to Mac users who want antivirus protection, a VPN, and privacy tools combined in one affordable package. It performs especially well for home users, remote workers, and small offices that prefer a simple all-in-one solution instead of managing several separate subscriptions. The software integrates smoothly with macOS and causes very little slowdown during everyday use.

Why we picked it

The best aspect of Surfshark One+ is the combination of strong malware protection and an excellent built-in VPN. During testing, the antivirus engine detected nearly all malware samples, while the VPN delivered stable connections and advanced privacy features normally found in standalone VPN services.

Key strengths include:

Excellent malware detection
Powerful VPN with advanced features
Low system impact on Macs
Affordable introductory pricing
Strong privacy and identity tools

The biggest advantage of Surfshark One+ is its overall value. Users receive antivirus protection, VPN services, identity monitoring, and privacy features in one subscription, making it a convenient and cost-effective cybersecurity package.

Key features

Real-time malware protection
Surfshark VPN with MultiHop and Dedicated IP
Identity breach monitoring
Alternative ID privacy feature
Surfshark private search engine
External drive scanning

Who’s it for?

Surfshark One+ is best for users who want strong Mac protection alongside privacy-focused tools and VPN functionality.

Surfshark One is ideal for:

Remote workers and travelers
Home users wanting simple security
Privacy-conscious Mac users

Considerations & drawbacks

Weak phishing and scam-site browser protection
Slow full-system scans
Some beta tools feel unfinished
Browser extensions can be unreliable
Renewal prices rise significantly after discounts

Verdict

Surfshark One+ Antivirus is a strong choice for Mac users who want reliable malware protection, a feature-rich VPN, and privacy tools in one affordable package. While weak browser phishing protection prevents it from being among the very best security suites, it still offers excellent overall value for everyday users.

Read our full Surfshark One review

6. Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac – Customizable, user-friendly protection

Pros

Clean, customisable and easy to navigate
Low system impact

Cons

Missed some threats in our testing
Limited extras

Price When Reviewed: $24.99 per year for 1 device (usually $49.99), $29.99 per year for 3 devices (usually $69.99)

Best Prices Today:

Bitdefender (first year, 1 device)

$24.99

View Deal

Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is a malware protection app that combines real-time antivirus scanning with tools such as ransomware protection, a browser extension and a basic VPN. It helps protect your Mac from malicious software while offering a straightforward, customizable interface that integrates well with macOS.

Why we picked it

Bitdefender impressed with its clean, customizable interface, straightforward scanning options and the ability to quickly scan external drives. The generous trial period and good macOS integration also make it easy to try and use, particularly alongside Apple’s built-in Gatekeeper protection.

Key strengths include:

Clean, customizable and easy-to-use interface
Simple scanning of external drives and removable media
Works well alongside macOS Gatekeeper
Generous free trial period
Good range of core security tools

One standout strength is how easy it is to scan external drives on demand, making it particularly useful for users who regularly connect USB drives or other removable storage.

Key features

Real-time malware protection with Bitdefender Shield
On-demand and scheduled malware scanning
External drive and removable media scanning
Browser extension for web protection
Included VPN (200MB daily limit)

Who’s it for

Bitdefender is best for Mac users who want an easy-to-use antivirus with a customizable interface and straightforward malware scanning.

Bitdefender is ideal if you:

Prefer a simple, uncluttered security app
Frequently scan external drives or USB devices
Want security that complements macOS protections
Like being able to customize the interface
Want a generous trial before subscribing

Considerations & drawbacks

Malware can slip through if Bitdefender Shield is disabled
Occasional freezes during full-system scans
Safari anti-phishing protection is limited
Included VPN is restricted to 200MB per day and frequently encourages upgrades
Overall malware protection still has room for improvement under some circumstances

Verdict

Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac delivers a polished interface, useful core features and convenient scanning tools, especially for external drives. However, inconsistent malware blocking under certain conditions, occasional scan freezes and limited web protection prevent it from being among the strongest Mac antivirus solutions.

Read our full Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac review

7. AVG Internet Security for Mac – Best for ease of use

Pros

Easy to use
Strong malware protection
and removal
60-day trial available

Cons

Mac only

Price When Reviewed: $3.89 a month for 1 Mac ($46.68 for the first year, then $77.99 a year), or $4.99 a month for 10 devices ($59.88 for the first year, then $99.99 a year).

Best Prices Today:

AVG

$46.68

View Deal

AVG Internet Security for Mac is a reliable, feature-rich option that combines strong protection with a clean, easy-to-use interface. Best known for its free antivirus, AVG’s premium suite builds on that foundation with broader security tools and consistently strong lab performance.

In independent testing, AVG achieved top scores from AV-Test (Protection, Speed and Usability) and maximum ratings from AV-Comparatives across Mac malware, Windows malware and potentially unwanted applications – confirming its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

Why we picked it

AVG stands out for its balanced mix of protection, usability and features, making it a strong choice for users who want dependable security without complexity.

Key strengths include:

Top scores in independent lab tests (AV-Test and AV-Comparatives)
Strong malware and phishing protection
Clean, intuitive interface
Effective malware removal capabilities
Generous 60-day trial and 30-day money-back guarantee

While it doesn’t dramatically outperform rivals in any one area, AVG delivers consistently solid performance across the board.

Key features

Real-time malware and threat protection
Web and phishing protection
Email security tools
Ransomware protection
Scheduled and on-demand scans

Who’s it for?

Best for cautious Mac users who want reliable, no-fuss protection with the option to try before they buy.

AVG is ideal if you:

Want strong protection without a steep learning curve
Prefer a clean, easy-to-navigate interface
Like the flexibility of a long free trial before committing

Considerations & drawbacks

Mac-only (separate products needed for other platforms)
Scan activity could be communicated more clearly
Missed some test scenarios (e.g. fake installer in our testing)
Doesn’t stand out as strongly as top competitors
AVG uses the same core engine as Avast

Verdict

AVG Internet Security for Mac is a well-rounded and trustworthy antivirus solution. It may not lead the pack in any single category, but its strong lab results, ease of use and solid protection make it a dependable choice for most Mac users.

Read our full AVG Internet Security for Mac review

8. ESET HOME Security – Best for power users seeking control

Price When Reviewed: Essential: $49.99 a year for one device; Premium: $79.99 a year for one device; Ultimate $179.99 a year for five devices

Best Prices Today:

ESET (first year, 1 device)

$34.99

View Deal

ESET Cyber Security is a Mac security suite that combines antivirus, anti-phishing, spam filtering, ransomware and identity protection with a powerful built-in VPN. It focuses on delivering strong malware protection and extensive customization for security-conscious Mac users who want deep control over their security software.

Why we picked it

ESET impressed us with its excellent malware protection, highly configurable VPN, and administrator-level customization. It runs lightly in the background while providing strong real-time protection, making it particularly appealing to experienced Mac users who value configurability over simplicity.

Key strengths include:

Excellent malware protection with over 95% of malware samples blocked or quarantined
Feature-rich VPN with multiple protocols, router support and Kill Switch
Extensive administrator-level customization and security controls
Minimal impact on everyday Mac performance
Strong real-time protection that quietly removes threats in the background

Its standout strength is the combination of outstanding malware protection and one of the most configurable VPN implementations bundled with Mac antivirus software, giving advanced users an exceptional level of control.

Key features

Real-time antivirus and malware protection
Anti-phishing and spam filtering
Ransomware and identity protection
Built-in VPN with WireGuard, IKEv2, UDP, TCP, Stealth and WStunnel support
Advanced VPN features including router support, Kill Switch and automatic connection rules

Who’s it for?

Best for advanced Mac users and administrators who want deep control over their security software alongside excellent malware protection and a capable VPN.

ESET is ideal if you:

Want administrator-level security customization
Need excellent malware protection with minimal performance impact
Value a powerful built-in VPN with advanced networking features
Prefer security-focused software over all-in-one maintenance utilities
Are comfortable configuring advanced security settings

Considerations & drawbacks

Discord compatibility issues caused update and launch failures during testing
Scheduled scans failed to execute reliably
Logging tools are limited and lack useful export options
Scan progress indicators provide little feedback during long scans
Interface and settings are aimed at experienced users rather than beginners

Verdict

ESET Cyber Security Ultimate delivers excellent malware protection, an outstanding bundled VPN and exceptional configurability while remaining light on system resources. Although software bugs and a few usability issues prevent it from feeling fully polished, it’s a compelling choice for experienced Mac users who prioritize security and control over simplicity.

Read our full Eset Home Security review

Other Mac antivirus software we tested

Macworld reviews many more antivirus products than you see in our ranking above. Not appearing in our top six doesn’t mean a product isn’t going to do a good job of protecting your Mac, merely that it failed to stand out among the best of the competition. You’ll find some more top contenders below, with links to our full reviews for more details. We wouldn’t advise installing any Mac antivirus without first checking our antivirus software reviews.

(For PC antivirus, see our sister site PCWorld’s guide to the best Windows antivirus.)

Avira Prime

Read our review

Price When Reviewed: From $59.99 for first year, then $109.99 a year.

Best Prices Today: $59.99 at Avira – Prime (first year, 5 devices)

Why we recommend it: Avira Prime offers a sleek, modular approach to antivirus with solid customization, a zippy Quick Scan, and strong cleanup tools. While Full Scan times drag and phishing defense needs sharpening, features like unlimited VPN and Identity Assistant shine.

Who’s it for: Avira Prime seems best suited for privacy-focused users who want full control without overwhelming complexity.

Read our full
Avira Prime review

Malwarebytes Premium Security

Read our review

Price When Reviewed: Standard plan $59.99; Plus plan $79.99; Ultimate plan starts at $279.99 (currently $139.99) a year for three devices

Best Prices Today: $59.99 at Malwarebytes (first year, 1 devices)

Why we recommend it: Malwarebytes for Mac is a user-friendly tool that delivers fast malware detection, external drive scanning, VPN and identity tools.

Who’s it for: It’s best for casual users seeking set-it-and-forget-it defence, not power users needing granular control or all-surface threat coverage.

Read our full
Malwarebytes Premium Security review

McAfee Total Protection

Read our review

Price When Reviewed: Single: $29.99 (1 device) for first year, usually $89.99; Essential: $39.99 (5 devices) for first year, usually $119.99 a year

Best Prices Today: $29.99 at McAfee Total Protection (first year, 1 device)

Why we recommend it: McAfee Total Protection covers the bases with solid antivirus, real-time scanning, and a basic VPN feature, but stumbles with vague alerts, an outdated WebAdvisor protection system, and noticeable performance hits.

Who’s it for: It’s a decent all-in-one for casual users wanting broad protection, but power users or privacy hawks might want something leaner, faster, and easier to configure.

Read our full
McAfee Total Protection review

Is free antivirus for Mac good enough?

Free antivirus software can provide basic protection, but it often lacks advanced features such as ransomware protection, firewalls and real-time web security. Paid options offer more comprehensive, all-round protection.

Apple includes built-in security tools like XProtect and Gatekeeper, which block known malware and unverified apps. However, in our testing, it was still possible to install Mac malware or suspicious software if warnings were ignored, showing that Apple’s protections alone are not foolproof.

Free third-party antivirus tools offer an advantage in that they are updated more frequently and can protect against a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans and ransomware.

The core antivirus engine is often the same in both free and paid versions. The difference lies in the extra features included in premium suites, such as web and phishing protection, VPNs, identity monitoring, parental controls and customer support.

Ultimately, you get what you pay for. If security is a priority, a paid antivirus offers the most complete protection. However, if you’re on a tight budget, a free antivirus is still better than relying solely on Apple’s built-in security tools.

If you’re on a really tight budget, a free antivirus is still going to do a better job of protecting you than Apple’s security tools. For some low-priced AV options, check out the best Mac antivirus deals for the best prices.

What’s the best free Mac antivirus?

Here are the best free antivirus for Mac apps we have reviewed:

Apple Gatekeeper & XProtect – Review | Built into macOS
Avast Security for Mac – Review | Download
Avira Free Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download
AVG Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download
Bitdefender Virus Scanner for Mac – Review | Download
Intego VirusBarrier Scanner – Review | Download
Malwarebytes Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download

Best Mac Antivirus: Specs Comparison

Developer	Product Name	Malware Protection	Ransomware Protection	Adware Prevention	Anti Phishing Protection	Email Protection	Firewall	VPN	iOS Version	Parental Controls	Support	Trial/Free version
Intego	Intego ONE	Excellent, Mac focused	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Email/Phone	30 day trial and free option
Surfshark	Surfshark One	Strong	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	Chat/Email	30-day money back guarantee
AVG	Internet Security for Mac	Good	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Email	60 days
Avast	Premium Security	Very good	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Email/Forum	60 days
McAfee	Total Protection	Good	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Phone/Chat	30 days/money-back guarantee
Trend Micro	Antivirus for Mac	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Email	30 days
Norton	Norton 360	Very strong	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Phone/Chat	30-day money-back
Avira	Avira Prime	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Email	30 days
Bitdefender	Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Email/Chat	30 days
MacPaw	Moonlock	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes	No	Email	7 days
Pocket Bits LLC	BitMedic Pro Antivirus	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	Email/Support Form	7 days
Sophos	Sophos Home Premium for Mac	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Chat/Email	30 days
ESET	ESET HOME Security	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Email/Phone	30 days
Malwarebtyes	Malwarebytes Premium Security	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	Email/Forum	14 days

Why you can trust Macworld for antivirus advice

Macworld has been testing Mac software since the launch of the Mac in 1984, giving us decades of experience and deep expertise in Apple’s ecosystem. We understand how Macs work – and how best to protect them.

While Apple includes built-in security tools to combat malware, today’s threat landscape means additional protection is often worthwhile. Our antivirus reviewers have decades of industry experience, including hands-on work supporting users and solving real-world IT and security issues.

Our recommendations are based on a combination of independent lab data, structured testing and real-world usage – not just specifications or vendor claims. We regularly review and update our rankings to reflect the latest threats, software updates and performance improvements.

How we test Mac antivirus software

To identify the best antivirus software for Mac, we combine hands-on testing, real-world threat simulation and independent lab data. Our goal is to assess how effectively each product protects your Mac without compromising performance, usability or value.

Real-world testing environment: We begin with a clean installation of macOS, which is then cloned for each antivirus product. Each app is installed and tested in isolation to ensure results are not affected by other software — particularly important as antivirus tools can sometimes flag each other as threats.

We simulate real-world attack scenarios by:

Downloading known malware samples
Visiting malicious and phishing websites
Testing suspicious files and drive-by downloads
Running malware in controlled conditions

This allows us to evaluate how well each product detects and blocks both online and offline threats, including Mac-specific malware, adware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). We also assess how effectively each tool detects and handles Windows-based malware, which can still pose a risk when sharing files.

Independent lab validation: To support our findings, we reference results from leading independent testing organisations:

AV-Test
AV-Comparatives

These labs evaluate antivirus software against large sets of known malware and potentially unwanted applications, measuring detection rates, false positives and overall protection. Where lab data is unavailable, we carry out more extensive in-house testing using real malware samples.

Performance impact: Antivirus software should protect your Mac without slowing it down. We measure performance by assessing:

System responsiveness during full and quick scans
Impact of real-time protection on everyday tasks
Background CPU and resource usage

We prioritise solutions that deliver strong protection with minimal noticeable slowdown, since overly demanding software is more likely to be disabled by users.

Features, usability and user experience: We spend time using each product to evaluate how intuitive and practical it is in daily use. This includes:

Ease of installation and setup
Interface design and macOS integration
Clarity and relevance of alerts and notifications

We also assess additional features, including:

Ransomware protection
Web and phishing protection
Firewalls and network monitoring
VPNs and privacy tools
Password managers and parental controls

Importantly, we consider whether these features are genuinely useful or simply added complexity.

Value for money: We evaluate pricing and overall value, including:

Subscription costs and renewal pricing
Number of devices covered
Features included at each tier

Our focus is on products that offer a strong balance of protection, performance and features at a reasonable price.

Should I get an antivirus for my Mac?

Scenario	Recommendation
Low-risk user (App Store only, trusted devs, automatic updates on)	Apple’s built-in tools are sufficient.
High-risk user (downloads from various sites, torrents, handles sensitive data)	Paid antivirus is strongly recommended.
Business user (handles client data, shares files with Windows PCs)	Paid antivirus is recommended for an extra safety layer.
User wanting extra features (VPN, password manager, phishing protection)	Paid antivirus is worthwhile for the bundled features.

Best Mac Antivirus: FAQ

Do Macs need antivirus software?

Yes – while Macs are generally more secure than Windows PCs and include built-in protections like XProtect and sandboxing, which helps limit how far malware can spread, these measures are not enough to defend against modern threats such as phishing, adware and ransomware.

Adding a dedicated antivirus tool helps close those gaps, provides broader coverage against evolving threats and extra layer of security when browsing the web or downloading files.

For more detail, see our guide to whether Macs need antivirus, along with our Mac security tips and advice on how to remove a virus from a Mac.

Do iPhones need antivirus software?

You may be considering a Mac Antivirus that also offers to protect your iPhone, but is that protection really necessary?

Apple’s iOS is designed with strong built-in security, including app sandboxing, strict App Store review processes and system-level protections that prevent traditional viruses from infecting your device. This makes it very difficult for malware to spread in the same way it can on other platforms. So, no – iPhones generally don’t need antivirus software.

However, iPhones are not completely risk-free. Threats like phishing attacks, malicious websites and data breaches can still affect users. Instead of installing an antivirus app the best advice is to keep iOS up to date, avoid clicking on suspicious links, use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and don’t download anything unless you are sure it is safe.

How does antivirus software protect your Mac?

Mac antivirus software protects your device using a combination of on-demand scans and real-time (always-on) protection.

On-demand scanning checks files when you run a manual or scheduled scan. This can take time, especially on systems with lots of data, and may temporarily use more system resources. For best results, scans are often scheduled to run at convenient times. See how to scan a Mac for malware

Real-time protection works continuously in the background. If malware arrives – for example via an email attachment or downloaded file – the antivirus can detect and block it immediately. Suspicious files are typically quarantined, meaning they are moved to a secure location where they can’t cause harm while you decide whether to delete or restore them.

The effectiveness of these two layers of protection is the most important factor when choosing antivirus software, but additional features can also make a difference.

Many Mac antivirus tools now include ransomware protection, which prevents unauthorised apps from accessing sensitive folders such as Documents or Photos. Only trusted apps are allowed access, and you can customise these permissions.

Web protection is another key feature, often delivered via browser extensions. This helps block malicious websites, phishing attempts and unsafe downloads, reducing the risk of accidentally exposing personal information.

Should my Mac antivirus include a VPN?

Yes, a VPN can be a useful addition to Mac antivirus software. It encrypts your internet connection, helping protect your data – especially on public Wi-Fi. However, built-in VPNs are often limited, so a dedicated VPN service usually offers better performance and features.

Some Mac antivirus packages include a built-in VPN (virtual private network), although VPNs are also widely available as standalone products. For many users, VPNs are appealing because they can mask your location and allow access to region-restricted content, such as streaming services.

More importantly, a VPN improves security by encrypting your internet connection, which is particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks. This helps protect your data from interception and reduces the risk of cyberattacks.

While we generally recommend a dedicated Mac VPN service for the best performance and features, a VPN included with antivirus software can still be a useful extra. Just be aware that bundled VPNs often come with limitations, such as data caps or reduced functionality, and may prompt you to upgrade to a full subscription.

What is the best value Mac antivirus?

Value means different things to different users. For some, it’s the best free option; for others, it’s a reasonably priced product with the most useful features. We define value as the best overall balance of protection, performance and features – and for protecting a single Mac, we believe Intego offers the best value.

That said, there are ways to save money on even the top antivirus products. Most Mac antivirus apps are sold as annual subscriptions, often with significant discounts for the first year. When that period ends, you can switch providers to take advantage of new introductory offers, or opt for longer-term plans (such as two- or three-year subscriptions) to reduce the overall cost.

Many antivirus suites also cover multiple devices, including Windows PCs and Android smartphones. If you have several devices in your household, a multi-device plan can offer excellent value.

For the latest offers, see our guide to the Best Mac Antivirus deals, which includes the most affordable options.

How to spot fake Mac antivirus software?

Because many of us are waking up to the idea that malware is a threat to the Mac, malware writers have made it their business to play on that fear. There have been cases of malware writers disguising their viruses as antivirus apps – two notable examples are Mac Auto Fixer and MacDefender. It’s important to always read reviews on reputable sites such as Macworld before installing any software on your Mac or MacBook.

At the same time, don’t believe everything you read. MacKeeper is a great example of an antivirus program that has got a bad rap, but it’s worked hard to repair its reputation. It has gained Apple Notarization, which means the software has been checked by Apple for malicious components, and the company has garnering certification from various bodies to prove it isn’t a PUP (potentially unwanted program), including an AV-Test certificate. That said, we haven’t recommended it here, and that’s simply because we feel that there are better options available. If you have already installed MacKeeper and wish to try one of our alternative recommendations, we explain How to uninstall MacKeeper.

What can’t Mac antivirus protect you from?

Using a Mac antivirus product, especially one that includes tools to improve your online privacy, may lull you into believing you’re completely safe from personal and private information leaking out and that you no longer need to keep your wits about you. That’s not quite the case. While there’s no reason to panic, you should still practice caution – and there are a few more issues you should consider when using Mac antivirus, too.

First, an antivirus for Mac product may upload the complete text of files flagged to the cloud, where it can be analyzed by separate tools hosted there. This practice is normal and sensible: some malware can detect when a running process may examine it, and will then engage in subterfuge. Antivirus software makers also can access their massive databases to examine files with characteristics that trigger their algorithms – certain elements that match known malware. As a result, security researchers discover new viruses, worms, Trojans horses, and the like. However, helping the greater good means you’ll have to be comfortable with trusting a third-party with your file contents. Where appropriate, we noted privacy policy issues in individual reviews.

Second, this software may also rely partly or entirely on cloud-based checks of URLs, malware, and the like. Accordingly, an antivirus package might upload every URL you visit, metadata about files, signatures of files, information about your computer’s hardware, a list of running or installed applications, and more. Companies vary on their disclosure of such policies, and may not let you opt out of this kind of sharing. We note issues in each review as appropriate.

Third, antivirus software makers also get a sense of what behavior is happening on your computer that’s being monitored or blocked, and may use that information for their own purposes. In some cases, you can opt out of this information gathering.

Apple has never recommended a third-party virus cleaner, and has instead focused on the Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions found within macOS, which are regularly updated with operating system updates.

How good is Apple’s virus protection?

It’s actually very good, and there isn’t much that gets past it in the way of viruses and malware, given its Xprotect and Gatekeeper features – but these can be overridden, and questionable software can be installed and activated if the user knows what they’re doing.

Still, the protection is present, it’s updated well, and Apple keeps a good eye on things, but new viruses and malware are sent out from bad actors all the time, and this is where a good third-party application can come in handy.

We have tested Apple’s own solution against a range of malware samples. While it did a reasonable job overall, we found instances where questionable applications could be installed without any warning. A helpful analogy is to think of Apple’s built-in antivirus system, XProtect, as the lock on your Mac’s front door, while a paid antivirus solution acts more like an alarm system with security cameras. Third-party tools update their virus definitions – including not just viruses, but also adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware – several times a day, often more frequently than Apple’s protections, providing real-time defense against new and emerging threats.

During our testing of Apple’s malware protections, recovery options were limited. In some cases, the only solution was to wipe the Mac and restore from a backup made before the risky behavior – hoping nothing had already spread. Apple does not offer dedicated malware removal support or guarantees if an infection occurs, nor does it protect against cross-platform threats across multiple devices. Paid antivirus software typically includes these services, along with additional features such as web and phishing protection, vulnerability patching tools, VPNs, password managers, parental controls, secure cloud backup, and dark web monitoring.

That said, macOS’s built-in security may be sufficient for low-risk users who install apps only from the App Store or trusted developers, keep automatic updates enabled, avoid pirated software, do not disable Gatekeeper, have limited exposure to risky email attachments, and do not handle sensitive client data.

Ultimately, investing in a reputable security suite for Mac adds an extra layer of protection – and for many users, it’s a case of being safe rather than sorry.

Is there free virus protection for Mac?

The Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions serve as free virus protection for macOS, but you can also get basic virus protection from many of the well-known antivirus providers, we have some recommendations above.

10.

How to choose the best Mac antivirus for your needs

There are a lot of Mac antivirus programs to choose from. What you want is one that offers a familiar and easy-to-use interface that works well on a Mac – a key reason why we recommend Intego’s antivirus. You should also look for antivirus with a good detection rate – not just for Mac viruses, but also for PC viruses, unless you want to be passing viruses on to friends and clients running Windows. Low impact on system resources is also critical, especially if your Mac isn’t the most powerful model.

Consider the type and number of devices you want to protect – are you looking for an app to cover one Mac, or Mac, iPhone, iPad and even a PC? Your budget matters here, too: do you prefer a subscription model or a one-time payment?

Mac antivirus vendors typically offer different add-ons, and it is certainly a case of you get what you pay for: free products will have fewer bells and whistles, but the most comprehensive Mac security suites will include password managers, parental controls, cloud storage and more. The underlying antimalware engine will usually be the same for all security products from a particular company, so you can save money if you don’t need all those extra features.

11.

When are Apple’s built-in protections sufficient

For many users, Apple’s layered security – XProtect, Gatekeeper and Rapid Security Responses – is more than adequate. If you fit into the “low-risk” category described below, you can probably rely on macOS alone.

You only download apps from the Mac App Store or trusted developers. Gatekeeper ensures that only notarized software from identified developers can run, and XProtect scans these apps for known malware on launch.
You keep automatic updates enabled. Apple regularly updates XProtect’s malware definitions in the background, and with macOS Tahoe, Background Security Improvements can now install critical patches silently without requiring a restart.
You avoid pirated software, torrents, and “cracks.” These are common vectors for malware that can bypass Apple’s checks if a user overrides warnings.
You do not handle sensitive client data or work in a high-risk environment. For casual home use, the built-in tools are generally enough to block the most obvious threats

12.

When paid Antivirus is worthwhile

Despite Apple’s strong foundation, there are clear gaps that third-party software fills.

You frequently install software from various internet sources. In our hands-on testing, we have found that it is still possible to install malware by ignoring or bypassing Gatekeeper warnings. Our testers were able to install trojans, fake apps, and software that requested access to the microphone, webcam, and keystrokes.

You want protection against phishing and malicious websites. Apple’s XProtect primarily focuses on known malware files. It does not offer the same level of real-time web and phishing protection that suites like Avast One or Bitdefender provide.

You need more frequent updates and broader threat coverage. Third-party tools update their virus definitions several times a day, often more frequently than Apple’s updates. They also cover a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware.

You want features like a firewall, VPN, password manager, or identity monitoring. Apple does not offer a dedicated, configurable firewall for macOS (it relies on the built-in one) and does not include a VPN, password manager, or dark web monitoring in its security suite. Paid suites bundle these features.

You share files with Windows users. An unprotected Mac can unknowingly harbor Windows viruses that won’t affect macOS but can be passed on to friends and colleagues. A good antivirus will detect and clean cross-platform threats.

ESET HOME Security Ultimate Review: Great VPN, strong Mac protection

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:34:30 +0000

Macworld

At a glance

Expert's Rating

Pros

Excellent bundled VPN
Extensive security customization
Strong malware protection
Minimal background impact
Powerful administrator controls

Cons

Discord compatibility issues
Weak scan progress indicators
Limited logging tools
Scheduler doesn’t work
Some UI rough edges

Our Verdict

ESET HOME Security Ultimate combines excellent malware protection with an outstanding built-in VPN and extensive customization for experienced Mac users. Bugs including a broken scheduler, limited logging and Discord compatibility issues dull an otherwise powerful security suite. It’s worth downloading the trial.

Price When Reviewed

This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined

Best Pricing Today

ESET (first year, 1 device)

$34.99

View Deal

Price When Reviewed

Essential: $49.99 a year for one device; Premium: $79.99 a year for one device; Ultimate $179.99 a year for five devices

Best Prices Today: Eset Home Security

ESET (first year, 1 device)

$34.99

View Deal

1 year, 1 Mac (Premium) $55.99 (usually $79.99)

1 year, 5 Mac (Premium)$125.99 (usually $179.99)

1 year, 1 Mac (Essential)$34.99 (usually $49.99)

What it is: ESET HOME Security Ultimate is a Mac security suite combining ESET’s Cyber Security antivirus app, anti-phishing, firewall, spam protection, and an advanced VPN with extensive customization for security-conscious users.

Who is it best for? Power users and administrators who value deep configurability over simplicity, and want robust malware protection, an excellent VPN, and granular security controls.

Who shouldn’t buy it? Casual Mac users seeking a simple, set-and-forget antivirus, or anyone who needs flawless reliability, polished interfaces, and bug-free compatibility with every application.

At a glance
Protection: ★★★★☆
Performance: ★★★★☆
Features: ★★★★☆
Ease of use: ★★★☆☆
Value: ★★★★☆

ESET takes a focused approach to Mac security. Rather than attempting to bundle every imaginable system utility into one package, it concentrates on antivirus protection, phishing prevention, spam filtering, ransomware protection, identity protection, and a surprisingly feature-rich VPN.

For this review, I tested ESET Home Security Ultimate with the bundled ESET Cyber Security antivirus (at version 9.0.6700.0) on macOS Tahoe 26.6, evaluating malware detection, VPN performance, phishing protection, system performance and overall usability. While the software delivers excellent protection and impressive configurability, several software bugs prevent it from reaching its full potential.

Find out how ESET compares to the best Mac Antivirus apps in our group test.

What’s included with ESET HOME Security?

The ESET HOME Security subscription is available in Essential, Premium and Ultimate tiers.

Essential includes the core Mac security features: antivirus and anti-malware protection, anti-phishing protection and Wi-Fi security.
Premium builds on Essential with additional security features, although the review focuses primarily on the Ultimate tier rather than detailing every Premium-exclusive capability.
Ultimate adds ESET VPN with VPN for Router support, Identity Protection and Ransomware Remediation.

How good is the ESET Cyber Security malware protection?

Foundry

Antiviral and anti-malware features have long been ESET’s bread and butter, and there was plenty to be impressed with here, even if its presentation could have used some improvement. A full scan of a local SSD with more than 800GB of data was completed in roughly four hours. The scans ran well in the background, and the application quickly and quietly removed suspect files as they surfaced, disabling the vast majority of malware before it became executable.

Throughout testing, ESET Cyber Security removed and/or quarantined more than 95% of the 130-plus malware samples tested. It quietly deleted suspect files in the background with little interruption to the user, helping to stop threats before they could cause damage. During testing it also allowed pseudo versions of popular applications such as Discord, Xcode and Transmission to be copied into the Applications folder, although macOS Gatekeeper and XProtect prevented them from launching.

Not every threat was completely eliminated. ESET allowed parts of the Conduit, CrateDepression (decimal.rs), DevilRobber, FinSpy, Inqtana, JacksBot, KandyKorn, Rubilyn, ShaiHulud and XCodeSpy malware samples to remain or launch development files. However, its overall detection rate was strong, and its antivirus and anti-malware protection dovetailed well with macOS Gatekeeper and XProtect, proving as effective as anything I had tested.

How good is the VPN?

Foundry

The VPN client, which comes with the ESET HOME Security Ultimate tier, came out swinging and didn’t let up. The client came loaded with a healthy selection of VPN protocols that could be switched on the fly, including WireGuard, IKEv2, UDP, TCP, Stealth and WStunnel. During performance tests it streamed and downloaded well, offered easy geolocation switching, and delivered performance on par with many standalone VPN clients.

An impressive set of proxy and LAN settings geared towards routers offered auto-connect and Kill Switch features, while VPN for Router support extended protection beyond the Mac itself. The VPN implementation is one of the suite’s strongest features, providing a wide range of protocols, extensive configuration options, and performance comparable to dedicated VPN software.

How good is the phishing protection?

ESET Cyber Security’s anti-spam and anti-phishing features weren’t perfect, but they were still impressive and helped prevent the worst elements of an email’s spam folder from ruining the day. The filter caught most of the questionable links that were clicked, including casino links, purported Cash App payment scams, farm equipment discounts and other suspicious content.

The filter still allowed access to purported solar refund sites and ED medication pages claiming to be endorsed by Bill Gates. Even so, its performance proved more reliable than some competing products, and the feature conveyed the feeling that it would stop the worst of the junk and phishing attempts from coming back to haunt you.

Is ESET easy to use on a Mac?

Foundry

ESET Cyber Security was fairly easy to install. After downloading, the application requested Full Disk Access along with kernel and network extension permissions to complete its setup. Once installed, it focused on a simpler set of tools than many competing security suites, concentrating on antivirus and anti-malware protection, a VPN client, and phishing and spam protection rather than trying to include every possible system utility.

The software proved straightforward to use day to day, with scans running well in the background and suspect files being quietly removed as they surfaced. However, its extensive array of settings made it particularly well suited to experienced users. The settings allowed control over almost every aspect of the software, including whitelists, malware tolerances, network functions and actions taken when questionable files were found. This administrator-level functionality offered exceptional flexibility, although it could feel unwieldy for casual or home users.

ESET Cyber Security’s Help & Support section may not offer the hippest interface in the universe, but it worked well and generally got the job done. Quick links from the home screen to the company’s help page, knowledge base and technical support sections addressed a good variety of general questions.

One omission is worth noting. The software lacked a quick link to ESET’s YouTube channel, which is full of useful tutorials. This seems like a quick fix waiting to happen, and offering handy links as needed could only make this section of the software stronger.

How well did ESET perform in testing

Foundry

ESET Cyber Security performed smoothly and reliably and there was little noticeable impact on the Mac during testing. The software ran well in both the foreground and the background, and, with the exception of a Discord compatibility issue, played nicely with everything on the test Mac. The antivirus and anti-malware scans weren’t the fastest the I’ve seen, but they were still quick, thorough and unobtrusive, and none of the background functions appeared to take a noticeable toll on system performance.

The full scan of a local SSD containing more than 800GB of data took about four hours, during which time ESET Cyber Security removed and/or quarantined more than 95% of the 130-plus malware samples tested. It quietly removed suspect files in the background as they surfaced, disabling the vast majority of malware before it became executable while allowing normal day-to-day use of the Mac to continue uninterrupted.

During performance tests the VPN streamed and downloaded well, offered easy geolocation switching, and supported a wide range of protocols including WireGuard, IKEv2, UDP, TCP, Stealth and WStunnel. The VPN’s performance and feature set is on par with many standalone VPN clients.

However, several bugs prevented it from feeling completely polished. The Scheduler function failed during multiple tests, the VPN required a macOS certificate to be reauthorized before it would work correctly, scan logs lacked useful detail and convenient export tools, and the software prevented Discord from updating and launching successfully, sending the application into an infinite loop that required the Mac to be rebooted to stop.

How we tested

Testing was performed on macOS Tahoe 26.6 using real-world malware detection, VPN evaluation, phishing protection, background performance analysis, and overall usability testing. More than 130 malware samples from the Objective-See archive were used to evaluate real-time detection and quarantine effectiveness.

What holds ESET back

While ESET Cyber Security performed well overall, there were some bugs to work out. The antivirus and anti-malware scan interface could have been more informative, lacking an elapsed timer, percentage complete readout and estimated time until completion. The scan logs were also limited, failing to clearly identify what malware had been detected or its potential effects, and there were no convenient import or export tools.

A macOS certificate had to be reauthorized before the VPN would work correctly, and the Scheduler function failed during multiple tests. The most significant compatibility issue occurred with Discord, as ESET Cyber Security prevented the application from updating and launching successfully, sending the process into an infinite loop that required the Mac to be rebooted to stop.

These bugs detracted from an otherwise powerful and highly configurable security suite. Clearly there is still some work to do.

How much does it cost and which ESET HOME plan should you buy?

The branding is a little confusing because, historically, you could purchase ESET Cyber Security as a standalone Mac antivirus application. Today, it is delivered through the ESET HOME Security subscription range.

You buy an ESET HOME Security Essential, Premium or Ultimate subscription, then download and activate ESET Cyber Security on your Mac. Depending on your subscription tier, additional features such as the VPN, file encryption and identity protection are unlocked.

There is usually an offer that reduces the price for the first year.

ESET HOME Security Essential

Includes: Antivirus, Anti-phishing, Wi-Fi protection
Starts at $49.99 for 1 device for 1 year

ESET HOME Security Essential is probably the sweet spot for most people, offering the antivirus and anti-phishing features along with a firewall, web and email scanning and more.

ESET HOME Security Premium

Adds ESET LiveGuard cloud threat analysis and premium protection features.
Starts at $79.99 for 1 device for 1 year

ESET HOME Premium isn’t great value for Mac users because some of its features are Windows only.

ESET HOME Security Ultimate

Adds VPN, VPN for Router, Identity Protection and Ransomware Remediation, alongside the core antivirus and anti-phishing features
Starts at $179.99 for 5 devices for 1 year

HOME Security ultimate is a good option if you want a premium VPN with your antivirus and want to protect more than one device.

Should you buy ESET HOME Security with ESET Cyber Security for Mac?

ESET HOME Security rings all the right bells, offering antivirus and anti-malware protection that dovetailed well with macOS Gatekeeper and XProtect, and, if you opt for the Premium or Ultimate tier, an impressive VPN client. Its extensive settings and level of customization made it particularly well suited to advanced users and administrators who wanted granular control over their security environment.

While several bugs prevented it from feeling completely polished, there was still plenty to like. Take advantage of the free 30-day trial, which requires no payment information, to see whether ESET Cyber Security is the right fit for your Mac.

The M5 MacBook Air is selling out. Grab one now for $100 off before it’s gone

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 14:38:55 +0000

Macworld

Buying a MacBook these days isn’t as straightforward as it was just a few weeks ago. For one, everything is more expensive; for another, some configurations are no longer available; and that model you wanted yesterday might not be available today.

So when you see a sale, you should jump on it. Like today: Amazon is selling the 13-inch MacBook Air for $1,199, a savings of $100. Just yesterday, we reported that Apple was scrambling to keep this model in stock due to memory constraints, so we recommend grabbing one if you’re in the market.

We’ll admit, this is the same MacBook that sold for $1,099 just a few weeks ago. But aside from the price increase, you’re getting a fantastic machine with a gorgeous 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, an incredibly thin and light design, Apple’s excellent Magic Keyboard, all-day battery life, silent fan-less operation, and a good selection of expansion ports, including fast-charging with MagSafe, a headphone jack, and two Thunderbolt ports. And with an M5 chip and 16GB of RAM, it’s ready for the new Siri AI this fall and good for years of macOS updates.

In our 4.5-star review, we praised the Air’s “world-leading single-thread performance ” and “drastically improved storage performance.” And even at a little more than before, you’re going to love it too.

Apple is finally making copy-paste work between iPhones and PCs

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 12:20:13 +0000

Macworld

Universal Clipboard is one of the most underrated features in the Apple ecosystem. Copy a bit of text or a URL on your iPhone, and you can paste it with a nearby Mac, eliminating the need to jump through hoops just to get text from one device to another.

Now that functionality is coming to PCs too. As spotted by Macrumors, Microsoft has taken advantage of Apple’s “Interoperability Requests” system in the EU to lobby for “a basic level of cross-device productivity that users already expect when working across devices.” Microsoft explains that it’s a highly requested feature by its users and requires “explicit, repeated user action and cannot function as a continuous, system-level experience comparable to what is available between iOS and macOS.”

The feature was requested in March and approved on June 26. However, Apple explains that replicating Universal Clipboard across Windows “will ultimately not be feasible or appropriate to provide an interoperability solution, including if providing effective interoperability would compromise the integrity of the operating system.” Therefore, it plans to “introduce a new solution that will follow similar patterns to the Accessory Notifications and Accessory Live Activities frameworks that were introduced on iOS26.5.”

It will enable you to create an extension to share and import pasteboard items with paired accessories. The system will notify your extension when items are copied into the clipboard; then your extension can use the Accessory Transport Extension framework to share the contents with your accessory as necessary using available transports.

To adopt this solution, you will need to adopt AccessorySetupKit in order for the user to consent to the necessary permissions allowing the pasteboard to be shared with your accessory.

This solution will require the user to perform a one-time consent to sharing the pasteboard with each paired accessory that will receive this functionality.

Apple says the feature won’t be available until fall 2027, presumably as part of iOS 28. It’s not clear whether it has any plans to bring the feature to the rest of the world, but we’ll be keeping our fingers crossed.

HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock review: Huge SSD, limited ports

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 11:44:47 +0000

Macworld

At a glance

Expert's Rating

Pros

4x Thunderbolt 5 ports
140W Power Delivery
16TB-capable SSD slot

Cons

Only 10 ports
Low device charging
Screwdriver not included for SSD

Our Verdict

While this dock boasts the highest claimed capacity for its integrated SSD slot, 16TB SSDs are not a realistic proposition right now. Its basic set of ports may be all you need, but Consider alternatives if you want a broader expansion range.

Price When Reviewed

This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined

Best Pricing Today

Price When Reviewed

$399.99

Best Prices Today: HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock

$323.99

View Deal

$399.99

View Deal

Hyper

$399.99

View Deal

What is it? A Thunderbolt 5 dock with massive storage capacity but few other ports.

Who is it for? MacBook users who need fast storage and multiple monitors.

Who shouldn’t buy it? People looking for extra USB-C and fast-charging ports.

Docking stations with integrated SSD bays are becoming increasingly common, often paired with more expansion ports than most people will ever use.

If you want a fast dock with a built-in SSD enclosure the bulk of your options are bristling with ports aplenty. The Sonnet Echo 21 SuperDock has 20 ports as well as an SSD slot, the Kensington EQ Pro Dock has 19, the Ugreen Maxidock provides a still generous 17.

The HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock takes a different approach. The integrated SSD bay is the HyperDrive Next’s standout feature, supporting up to 16TB of ultra-fast Thunderbolt 5 storage. However, It includes just 10 ports, making it a simpler, more focused option that will suit users who prioritise storage over extensive connectivity.

What ports does the HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock have?

The HyperDrive Next includes four Thunderbolt 5 ports, two USB-A ports, 2.5Gb Ethernet, an SD card reader, a 3.5mm audio jack and 140W host charging. Missing are HDMI, DisplayPort, extra USB-C ports, microSD, and higher-power downstream charging for connected devices.

One upstream Thunderbolt 5 port (80Gbps, 140W)
Three downstream Thunderbolt 5 ports (80Gbps, 15W)
1x USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W)
3x USB-A (10Gbps, 4.5W)
M.2 SSD Enclosure (up to 16TB capacity)
Ethernet (2.5Gb)
3.5mm combo audio jack (front)
180W power supply

Simon Jary

There are no dedicated ports so all displays will need to be via the three downstream Thunderbolt ports, which is a flexible approach with the proviso that you may have to add adapter cables if your monitor demands either DisplayPort or HDMI.

While a DisplayPort or HDMI port can be useful, leaving the choice up to the user means the Thunderbolt ports can be used for either video or other devices as required. An HDMI port when your display has a USB-C connection is probably a wasted one, and when there are only ten each port is going to count.

There are no extra USB-C ports, with Thunderbolt again the supplied equivalent. Rather than including four legacy USB-A ports we’d have much preferred dropping a couple for even one USB-C port rated at over 20W for fast iPhone or iPad charging. More on the dock’s power outputs later.

USB-A can be useful, but surely four is overkill these days when USB-C is the standard and anyone with a Thunderbolt 5 computer will surely have jettisoned the old rectangular connector on their latest kit.

Simon Jary

Fast 2.5Gb Ethernet is becoming the norm on top-end docking stations, and its inclusion here is appreciated. Even if your network remains trusty Gigabit Ethernet (1GbE), it will work with faster standards such as 2.5GbW and future-proof your investment when/if you do upgrade networks.

Likewise, the Thunderbolt 5 ports are fully backwards compatible even with the MacBook Neo as well as older Thunderbolt 3 or 4 MacBook Pro and Air models.

Without the Ethernet we’d class the HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock as more of a hub than a docking station. Ten is about the same number of ports as get on a high-end Thunderbolt hub—the CalDigit Element 5 has nine, including four TB5, two USB-C and three USB-A.

The HyperDrive doesn’t have either an SD or MicroSD card reader for easily accessible portable storage, although its air vents initially made me think it did. But it does have its integrated SSD slot.

How much storage do you really need?

Turn the HyperDrive Next Dock over and you’ll see a hatch that covers the built-in SSD enclosure.

There was no little screwdriver in the box to open the hatch, but any PH1-type screwdriver will do the job. Every single other dock with SSD enclosure that we’ve tested came with a screwdriver, and if you don’t have a mini crosshead to hand, you’ll be frustrated.

The slot supports NVMe M.2 form factors 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 and can accommodate drives with a capacity of up to 16TB in total. The previous highest single-slot dock SSD we’ve seen supported is half that at 8TB. The reason is that 16TB SSDs are extremely rare and eye-wateringly expensive—you’ll be looking at around $20,000 to snag one. The cost of the screwdriver may be incidental to this.

While the dock supports up to a claimed 16TB SSD, drives that large remain prohibitively expensive for most buyers. A 2TB or 4TB SSD offers the best balance of price and capacity, while 8TB makes sense only for professionals with demanding storage requirements.

If you can afford 8TB, that’s a more palatable $1,500, with 4TB ($500), 2TB ($300) and 1TB ($195) options favoring most pockets. Note that storage is volatile to demand, and is at the expensive end at the time of writing.

There’s no doubt that a dock with an SSD enclosure is a flexible way of adding fast storage, especially compared with buying it at the point of purchase from Apple.

Hyper states that you can also use the M.2 slot to install a PCIe-based AI accelerator card, but to my knowledge none are compatible with Mac. (The same goes for the promised Thunderbolt Share software that enables direct PC-to-PC data transfers, screen sharing, and peripheral control using a single Thunderbolt cable, which is Windows only.)

Simon Jary

Connecting your monitors

While storage slots are becoming standard on docks, the main reason for buying one is usually the ease of adding multiple displays without using up all your MacBook’s available Thunderbolt ports.

If connecting to USB-C or Thunderbolt or monitors you need just a decent data cable, but if your chosen display requires HDMI or DisplayPort you’ll need to add an adapter cable at an extra cost. Most of the best monitors for Mac allow for direct USB-C connection.

What display setups can the Hyper Next handle?

With so many downstream Thunderbolt ports, you can connect up to three displays if your Mac supports it.

Macs with an M5 Pro or Max can handle up to three 4K displays at 60Hz with this dock. M1/M2/M3 Pro or Max, plus all M4/M5 variants, and MacBook Air M3 (with lid closed) support up to two 6K displays at 60Hz. Older MacBook Air models with a base M1/M2 chip support only a single 6K display, and the MacBook Neo one 4K monitor.

A single 8K display at 144Hz is also possible with the higher-end Macs.

Windows PCs support up to three 4K@60Hz displays, depending on the connected computer.

Simon Jary

How much power can the ports output?

The upstream Thunderbolt 5 port can supply up to 140W of power (PD 3.1) to your connected laptop, which is enough to fast-charge even the top-end 16-inch MacBook Pro.

The dock is less able, however, at outputting to other devices, which might be because of its now rather average 180W power supply. 180W was a decent total output when docks had to reach only 100W for maximum laptop power delivery but take that 140W out of the 180W total and there’s not a whole lot left for other devices, especially as the dock will require some of that power itself, as will the SSD enclosure when in use.

None of the Thunderbolt ports can deliver more than 15W of power, which is enough to charge a connected iPhone or iPad but not fast-charge them. Forget USB-A as it’s not up to fast-charging anyway.

If Hyper had included a 20W or 30W USB-C port or allowed for one of the Thunderbolt ports at that power output, and then boosted the power supply to 240W, this dock would become a lot more helpful on the average Mac user’s desk.

Simon Jary

Design and build

Despite having only 10 ports, the HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock is quite a chunky black slab, measuring 7.6 x 3.1 x 2.1 inches (194 x 78 x 52mm). It’s also surprisingly heavy at 4.13lbs (1.88kg). It’s not trying to call itself portable so this shouldn’t matter, and having some bulk and heft is no bad thing when placed on a desk.

Its darkness is more of an issue, with the port labelling difficult to read easily in even bright light. Again, once you know the layout, it’s less of a problem, and it’s easy to see which are USB-A and which are Thunderbolt. But it seems needlessly dark, in my view.

There’s a power button, which I do appreciate, as it gives me reassurance that no power is being drawn by my MacBook when it’s not in use.

Is the HyperDrive Next worth its $399 price?

The HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock is priced at $399.99, either direct or via Amazon. As I write, it is not available outside of North America.

It’s true that you can buy Thunderbolt 5 docking stations for around $300, but if you add a Thunderbolt 5 SSD enclosure, that will add another $200, so the $399 price of the HyperDrive Next is not as pricey as it first seems.

Comparing to docks with SSD slots, the Kensington EQ Pro Thunderbolt 5 Dock has an MSRP of $449 but comes packed with twice as many downstream ports as the HyperDrive, and the Ugreen Maxidock as 17 ports but costs $499—although both can be found a little cheaper online (as can the HyperDrive).

The Satechi CubeDock is priced at the same $399 as the HyperDrive Next and has 12 ports, including a 30W USB-C and card readers. If you own a Mac mini, this is an alternative you should consider as it will prettily sit on top of the Mac.

Read our in-depth reviews for all your choices for best Thunderbolt dock.

Should you buy the HyperDrive Next?

The HyperDrive Next Thunderbolt 5 Dock boasts the highest-ever claimed capacity for its integrated SSD slot, although 16TB SSDs are not a realistic proposition right now. Its basic set of ports may be all you need but consider alternatives if you want a broader expansion range.

Best USB-C hubs and adapters for Mac 2026

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 11:20:00 +0000

Macworld

USB-C and its Thunderbolt variant are the most up-to-date standards of the USB connector. They allow data-transfer speeds of up to 80Gbps, can fast-charge devices up to 240W, and conveniently fit in a port either way up—which means that you can wave bye-bye to the age-old USB guessing game of “Which way does it go in?”.

USB-C is no one-trick pony—handling data transfer, video output and power input. You’ll find faster variants of USB-C (called Thunderbolt 3, 4 or 5) on Macs. Each version of Thunderbolt is backwards compatible with USB-C so the adapters reviewed here will all work with modern Macs—from the MacBooks Neo, Air and Pro, through to the desktop iMac, Mac mini and Studio. USB-C’s 5-10Gbps speeds will limit some of Thunderbolt’s more impressive 40 to 80Gbps potential but for most people even 5Gbps is fast enough. If super-fast data transfer is one of your requirements, a number of hubs reviewed below do use Thunderbolt or 40Gbps USB4. Find out more in our Thunderbolt 5 vs Thunderbolt 4 vs Thunderbolt 3 comparison and also our chart at the end showing all the ports of Apple’s recent Macs.

Apple

In general, an “adapter” works with a single port (such as USB-A or Ethernet) while a “hub” gives you multiple ports. If you require even more, then look for a “docking station” or “dock“. Docks usually come with their own power supply, while hubs require a separate USB-C charger if you need a power source. If you’re after a full desktop setup for your MacBook, look out for our recommendations for the best USB-C and Thunderbolt docking stations for MacBooks.

Apple sells its own range of USB-C adapters to HDMI, VGA and more, but they are overpriced and underpowered compared to the premium USB-C hubs and adapters we have reviewed here. We haven’t included the many much cheaper but lower-quality versions you can find online as we recommend only from trusted and tested makers.

Look for each hub’s video capability for connecting to external displays. Most support only one monitor, but some offer two—note that more than two usually requires an extra software install.

Passthrough power will likely also be of interest to MacBook users. 60W Power Delivery (PD) will work even for the 16-inch MacBook Pro (just), but more watts equals a faster charge.

Note that the ports on the MacBook Neo are USB-C and only one of them is properly data-ready at 10Gbps, with the other just for charging. Read more on how the MacBook Neo’s USB-C ports are different. As it has just one data port, a USB-C hub becomes a must for expanding the Neo’s potential—read our roundup of the best MacBook Neo accessories.

Below the list of our favorite USB hubs and adapters, we describe the types of ports you might require from a hub and what to look for in each.

Plugable 9-in-1 USB-C Hub Multiport Adapter – Best overall USB-C hub

Pros

9 ports inc Ethernet, 60Hz 4K display via HDMI
10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
125W Power Delivery (PD)

Price When Reviewed: $49.95

Best Prices Today:

$49.95

View Deal

$49.95

View Deal

$49.95

View Deal

$49.95

View Deal

$69.99

View Deal

9 Ports: 2x USB-C, 3x USB-A, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, UHS-II SD Card Reader, UHS-II MicroSD Card Reader
Monitors: 1x 4K/60Hz via HDMI
Passthrough power: 125W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

This 9-in-1 hub is bristling with top-end ports and—with an unrivaled 125W of laptop passthrough power—is a great match for larger laptops.

A seven-inch cable connects the hub to your MacBook at 10Gbps and a possible 125W passthrough charging when the hub is connected to a powerful enough USB-C charger—that’s the highest passthrough charging we’ve seen in a USB-C hub. Total power output from the hub to laptop and devices is 140W.

There’s one dedicated 10Gbps USB-C data port, HDMI 2.0 port with 4K 60Hz support, and both SD and MicroSD card readers at fast UHS-II media-transfer speeds. If you need to attach legacy devices there are two USB-A ports, also at 10Gbps. One of these can drive 7.5W of power to the connected device. There’s also a much slower 480Mbps USB 2.0 port that good for a memory stick or mouse/keyboard.

With its extra USB-A port and faster SD card readers, the 9-in-1 Plugable USB-C Hub beats our long-time USB-C hub champ, the Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C Hub, reviewed below. If you prefer DisplayPort to HDMI the Anker 565 should be considered even with its slower card readers.

Plugable has recently released an even more capable version, the 10-port USBC-10IN1E, reviewed below. that is very similar to the 9-port hub but with 2.5Gb Ethernet and support for a single external display at up to 8K/30Hz, with the option of 4K/144Hz. Choose this model if you need the more pro-level ports, but it’s still a 10Gbps hub. Keep reading if you need a 40Gbps hub.

CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 Hub – Ultimate USB-C hub

Pros

9 ports inc four Thunderbolt 5
Five USB ports
80Gbps
180W total power

Cons

Pricier than other hubs reviewed here

Price When Reviewed: $249.95

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

9 Ports: 4x Thunderbolt 5, 2x USB-C, 3x USB-A
Monitors: Up to 4x 6K/60Hz (M5 Max); 2x 6K/60Hz (M4/M5, M1/M2/M3 Pro/Max)
Passthrough power: 90W
USB-C speed to Mac: 80Gbps

Thunderbolt is USB-C on steroids, and Thunderbolt 5 is the latest, fastest and most capable version. Only the most recent top-level Macs have Thunderbolt 5 but it’s backwards compatible all the way back to USB-C so even the MacBook Neo can use it although only at its own 10Gbps bandwidth. Thunderbolt 3 and 4 Macs will be pegged back to 40Gbps, but the CalDigit Element 5 Hub is easily the fastest hub we’ve tested.

Measuring just 4.5 x 2.75 x 1 inches (114 x 70 x 25mm) and weighing a mere 7oz (200g) this hub is dwarfed by the Thunderbolt docking stations but is still a match for them if you add a few inexpensive adapters such as an Ethernet adapter or card reader, for example.

It can connect up to dual 6K or 8K/60Hz extended displays on Macs with dual display support over its single Thunderbolt connection. On M5 Pro the Element 5 Hub can support up to three extended displays and on M5 Max it can support up to four extended displays.

More of a mini dock than a hub and priced much higher than the more standard USB-C hubs reviewed here, it’s the ultimate hub but may be overkill for your requirements.m

Read our full CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 Hub review

Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C Hub – Great value USB-C hub

Pros

8 ports inc Ethernet, 60Hz 4K display via HDMI
10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
85W PD

Cons

Can get warm during use
UHS-I SD reader

Price When Reviewed: $49.99

Best Prices Today:

$35.99

View Deal

Anker

$49.99

View Deal

$49.99

View Deal

8 Ports: 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, UHS-I SD Card Reader, UHS-I MicroSD Card Reader
Monitors: 1x 4K/60Hz via HDMI
Passthrough power: 85W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

The Anker 555 USB-C 8-in-1 Hub is compact and powerful, offering greater specs than some of the other leading options on this list. It’s one of two similar USB-C hubs from the company, and we start with the best-value option.

The 555 offers two USB-C ports—one that supports 85W USB-C Power Delivery, while another supports data transfers up to 10Gbps. You also get speedy 10Gbps transfer rates through two additional USB-A ports, where many rivals max out at 5Gbps.

The Anker 555 is special as it offers an HDMI port that supports 4K 60Hz resolutions, where most are limited to 4K 30Hz. For 4K 60Hz resolution, your device must support DP 1.4. This includes MacBook Neo, MacBook Air (from 2020), and MacBook Pro (from 2018) and iPad Pro (from 2018).

Also included are SD and MicroSD card reader slots. These are rated at UHS-I (104MBps) so not the fastest. If you transfer a lot of data via SD cards, look for a hub with faster UHS-II (312MBps).

The Gigabit Ethernet port is great for those times when Wi-Fi just won’t do.

It’s also incredibly light at just under 4.5oz (130g) and compact so you can take it anywhere. At $49.99 / £79.99 it’s hard to deny this hub’s value for money. In our experience, it does get warm with use but Anker says this is normal.

Anker

The higher-end $69.99 / £89.99 Anker 565 USB-C Hub, shown above, is as fast at 10Gbps plus offers eleven ports instead of the 555’s mere eight, and is equally lightweight at 4.8oz (136g). The extra ports are one USB-A and an audio jack, which isn’t a remarkable boost—but it does include a top-end DisplayPort 1.4 video connection as well as HDMI so offers greater video flexibility. If the inclusion of a native DisplayPort is important to you, then the 565 is a better solution (read our full Anker 565 11-in-1 USB-C Hub review) than maybe even the Plugable 9-in-1 reviewed above.

Satechi OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter – Best portable USB-C hub

Pros

7 ports inc Ethernet, 60Hz 4K display via HDMI
10Gbps USB-C
80W PD
Magnetic
Highly portable

Cons

UHS-I SD reader

Price When Reviewed: $59.99

Best Prices Today:

$59.99

View Deal

$59.99

View Deal

$59.99

View Deal

Satechi

$59.99

View Deal

$59.99

View Deal

$59.99

View Deal

7 Ports: 1x USB-C PD, 2x USB-A, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader
Monitors: 1x 4K/60Hz via HDMI
Passthrough power: 80W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

Uniquely round and magnetic with a coiled USB-C cable, the Satechi OntheGo 7-in-1 calls itself a “Multiport Adapter” but it’s really a hub, boasting seven ports, alongside its integrated 10Gbps USB-C cable. None of the ports are at the very top-end pro level but they are capable enough for most users and with a 2.55-inch (6.5cm) diameter and weighing 2.4oz (68g) it is easily pocketable.

It will clamp to the back of an iPhone—iPhone 15 or later to take advantage of the USB-C—or any surface using the included magnetic 3M Adhesive Ring.

Satechi

The OnTheGo Multiport Adapter is available as a black 7-in-1 version and a 5-in-1 model that can be purchased in any of the four MacBook Neo colors (pictured above).

Read our full Satechi OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter review

Ugreen 4-in-1 USB 3.0 Hub – Best budget hub for multiple USB-A ports

Pros

Inexpensive
Four 5Gbps USB-A ports
10W device charger
Two cable length options

Cons

Limited to USB-A ports
No passthrough charge to host

Price When Reviewed: $15.99

Best Prices Today:

$9.99

View Deal

$9.99

View Deal

$14.99

View Deal

5 Ports: 1x USB-C, 4x USB-A
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

If all you need from an adapter is the ability to connect a bunch of legacy USB-A devices to your MacBook, this simple adapter should do the trick.

The Ugreen USB-C 4-port hub is a slim and inexpensive adapter that allows you to add four full-size USB 3.0 ports that can handle data transfer at up to 5Gbps. It has recently been upgraded to feature a further USB-C port that can supply a 10W charge for connected devices, but not the host computer. While all four ports can be used simultaneously, a maximum of two hard drives can be connected at one time.

It looks the part with most modern MacBooks, and is an easy way to connect memory sticks, a printer or other older devices that don’t come with USB-C. It is available with either a short 0.5-foot or 2-foot integrated cable.

Anker USB-C to USB-A Adapter – Best simple USB-C to USB-A adapter

Pros

Simple USB-A adapter
Small
2-pack

Cons

Just the one port

Price When Reviewed: $15.99

Best Prices Today:

$8.98

View Deal

1 Port: 1x USB-C to USB-A
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

There’s a misconception that USB-C is an inconvenience for people with a bunch of devices still reliant on legacy USB-A, hence the existence of little adapters like this one from Anker. Products like this are there to help us bridge the gap.

This cute little adapter is simply to allow you to plug in one standard USB-A device or cable at a time, great for using a USB stick, for example. Just don’t misplace it—it’s tiny. If you do lose it, don’t worry as this is sold in a two-pack!

EZQuest USB 4 Dual Display 8-in-1 Hub (Pro Series) – Best native USB-C hub for dual Mac screens

Pros

Two 4K monitors at 60Hz
No extra software required
8x USB-C ports, inc 3x USB4

Cons

Passthrough power only 77W

Price When Reviewed: $149.99

Best Prices Today:

$119.99

View Deal

$119.99

View Deal

EZQuest

$149.99

View Deal

8 Ports: 4x USB-C, 3x USB4, 1x USB-C passthrough charging
Monitors: 2x 4K/60Hz (M4/M5, M1/M2/M3 Pro/Max)
Passthrough power: 77W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

There are many USB-C hubs with more than one HDMI port but most are restricted to Mirrored Mode (where all external screens show the same image as on the MacBook) or in only partially Extended Mode (where the external displays show a different image to the MacBook but are the same themselves). That’s a Mac limitation only, not the fault of the hubs themselves, which work fine for Windows. Blame Apple.

The EZQuest 8-in-1 Hub is built on Intel’s JHL8140 USB4 chipset that makes a hub-based two-display setup a plug-and-play solution for Mac users. You can connect an 8K monitor at 30Hz or two 4K displays at 60Hz—with no need to install third-party software.

The Satechi Pro Hub Max Adapter, reviewed below, can also support two displays natively but uses two of the MacBook’s Thunderbolt ports to achieve this. The EZQuest is the only single USB-C connection to do this without DisplayLink.

One non-data USB-C port supplies up to 100W to the hub, which distributes it as 77W to the connected laptop and 23W shared between the ports. Other hubs reviewed here offer greater passthrough to your MacBook but 77W should be enough to keep even the MacBook Pro humming while you work.

Even using two of the USB4 ports for displays, the hub has five more 10Gbps data ports spare to connect other devices. That’s the same as you get from EZQuest’s Slim Gen 2 Hub Adapter 6-in-1 (5x 10Gbps USB-C and one PD), which is reviewed below. If you require just one 4K/60Hz display and a bunch of fast USB-C ports this $79 hub might be all you need, but if two displays is in your dreams, go for the 8-in-1.

Base-level M1 and M2 Macs plus the MacBook Neo are sadly hampered by a single-screen limitation. The EZQuest 8-in-1 Hub can’t help these users, who will need to install special DisplayLink or InstantView drivers to support more than one external display; see the Plugable HDMI Adapters reviewed below.

Plugable USB-C Quad 4K HDMI Adapter – Best DisplayLink USB-C hub for up to 4 Mac screens

Pros

Four 4K monitors at 60Hz
100W passthrough charging
Works with even M1/M2 MacBooks

Cons

No other ports

Price When Reviewed: $124.95

Best Prices Today:

$179.95

View Deal

$179.95

View Deal

$179.95

View Deal

$254.99

View Deal

5 Ports: 4x HDMI, 1x USB-C passthrough charging
Monitors: Up to 4x 4K/60Hz using DisplayLink software
Passthrough power: 100W
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

Using DisplayLink software—a simple download—the Plugable USB-C Quad 4K HDMI Adapter (USBC-7400H) can support four 4K external displays, all showing a different image to the MacBook and each other—so full Extended Mode, and even on lowly M1/M2 Macs. It also features 100W passthrough USB-C charging. See below this list of hub recommendations for a graphic showing the differences between Mirrored and Extended Modes on the Mac.

Plugable

If you need only two external displays in full Extended Mode, the $89.95 / £109.95 Plugable USB-C Dual HDMI Adapter (USBC-6950M) shown above features two HDMI ports but no passthrough charging.

Satechi Pro Hub Slim Adapter – Best 40Gbps USB4 hub for Mac

Pros

USB4
40Gbps data transfer
7 ports inc 4K/60Hz display HDMI

Cons

Uses two MacBook ports
No device charging from USB-A and USB-C ports
UHS-I card readers

Price When Reviewed: $79.99

Best Prices Today:

$79.99

View Deal

$79.99

View Deal

$79.99

View Deal

Satechi

$79.99

View Deal

$79.99

View Deal

7 Ports: 1x USB4, 1x USB-C, 2x USB-A, HDMI, SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader
Monitors: 1x 6K/60Hz via USB4 and 1x 4K/60Hz via HDMI
Passthrough power: 100W
USB-C speed to Mac: 40Gbps

All of the portable USB-C hubs reviewed here are compatible with the Mac’s Thunderbolt 3, 4 and 5 ports, but most feature slower USB-C connections (5Gbps or 10Gbps) compared to Thunderbolt (40Gbps for TB3 and TB4, and 80Gbps with TB5).

The $79.99 Pro Hub Slim, available in either Silver, Space Gray or Midnight, requires a MacBook with two adjacent Thunderbolt ports on one side, but offers 40Gbps bandwidth via its USB4 port. You can connect a 6K/60Hz display using this port, plus a 4K/60Hz display using the HDMI port.

That same port allows for 96W of passthrough charging, and there’s a separate 10Gbps USB-C port plus two 10Gbps USB-A and UHS-I card readers.

Plugable 5-in-1 USB-C Hub – Best budget 40Gbps USB-C hub for Mac

Pros

40Gbps data transfer
6K display at 60Hz via USB-C
5 ports inc Ethernet
Affordable

Cons

Uses two MacBook ports

Price When Reviewed: $32.95

Best Prices Today:

$29.95

View Deal

$29.95

View Deal

$32.95

View Deal

5 Ports: 1x USB-C, 2x USB-A, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, Audio jack
Monitors: 1x 6K/60Hz via USB=C
Passthrough power: 100W
USB-C speed to Mac: 40Gbps

While not certified as either USB4 or Thunderbolt 4, this compact and very portable 5-in-1 USB-C hub (AMS-5IN1E) offers 40Gbps data-transfer via its USB-C port, and is designed for the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros introduced after 2021, or MacBook Airs introduced after 2022. A smart cutout keeps access to those MacBooks’ MagSafe charger port.

The inclusion of the 40Gbps USB-C port is useful as the hub uses the two Thunderbolt or USB4 ports in its flush side connection to the MacBook. But, in return, it gives you two 5Gbps USB-A ports (4.5W charging) and Gigabit Ethernet. The audio jack port is also covered but replicated on the hub.

The 40Gbps USB-C port can be used to connect a display up to 6K at 60Hz, or offer passthrough charging at up to 100W.

Plugable 10-in-1 USB-C Hub (USBC-10IN1E) – Best pro-level 10Gbps USB-C hub

Pros

10 ports inc 2.5Gb Ethernet
8K/30Hz or 4K/144Hz display via HDMI
10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
125W PD

Cons

UHS-I card readers

Price When Reviewed: $74.95

Best Prices Today:

$74.95

View Deal

$104.99

View Deal

10 Ports: 2x USB-C, 3x USB-A, HDMI 2.1, 2.5Gb Ethernet, SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader, Audio Jack, 125W laptop charging
Monitors: 1x 8K/30Hz or 4K/144Hs via HDMI
Passthrough power: 125W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

This is the pro-level version of the 9-port Plugable USBC-9IN1E that we awarded Best Overall USB-C Hub to; see review above. It has the same 10Gbps data-transfer speed and impressive 125W passthrough MacBook charging, but with faster Ethernet (2.5GbE vs 1GbE) and support for either an 8K/30Hz or 4K/144Hz display.

Unless you need multiple external displays or 40Gbps bandwidth, this hub should offer everything you need for a pro setup in a portable form.

The 8K display support is great and the 144Hz 4K refresh rate option will please video professionals and gamers alike.

2.5Gb Ethernet will help future-proof your system, unless you are looking to 10GbE.

Read our full Plugable 10-in-1 USB-C Hub (USBC-10IN1E) review

Satechi USB-C Multiport Adapter 8K With Ethernet V3 – Best USB-C hub for multiple fast ports

Pros

5x USB-C ports: 3 at 10Gbps
85W passthrough PD
60Hz 4K display via HDMI
Ethernet
UHS-II SD card reader

Cons

No device charging from USB-C ports
No USB-A
8K for Windows only

Price When Reviewed: $99.99

Best Prices Today:

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

Satechi

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

8 Ports: 5x USB-C, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, SD Card Reader
Monitors: 1x 4K/60Hz via HDMI
Passthrough power: 85W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

This USB-C hub has four USB-C ports but no USB-A. If you no longer have need for old-time USB-A by buying this hub you won’t be wasting money on a port you don’t require. If you have USB-A peripherals, such as an older memory stick, then you should look for a hub with a Type-A USB port.

Three of the USB-C ports offer fast 10Gbps data transfer, and one at 5Gbps. A fifth USB-C port is for attaching a power source, most likely a USB-C wall charger. If the charger is rated at 100W, all that power can be distributed via the hub, including up to 85W PD to the host laptop or tablet. However, aside from the pass-through PD port, none of the USB ports can output power to connected devices.

The EZQuest USB-C Slim Gen 2 Hub Adapter 6-in-1, reviewed here lower down, has four 10Gbps USB-C ports, each with 7.5W device charging, plus two more for 4K/60Hz monitor support and 80W passthrough charging, but it lacks the Ethernet and card reader.

And the SD card reader is also top-notch at 312MBps, compared to some that are UHS-I at 104MBps.

Despite the 8K in its name, the HDMI 2.1 port can support only as high a resolution as an external 4K display at 60Hz refresh rate, as well as display options of 2K/144Hz and 1080p/240Hz. Apple display limitations mean that its potential 8K/30Hz display support is limited to Windows machines.

It’s at the high end for price but you get high-end, premium and future-proof ports for your money.

It is available in Apple MacBook-matching Space Gray, Silver, and Midnight colors.

Read our full Satechi USB-C Multiport Adapter 8K With Ethernet V3 review

Plugable USB-C to 5Gbps Ethernet Adapter

Pros

5G Ethernet

Cons

No other ports

Price When Reviewed: $39.95

Best Prices Today:

$29.95

View Deal

$29.95

View Deal

$29.95

View Deal

$39.95

View Deal

1 Port: 5Gb Ethernet
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

For even faster speeds when connected to a supporting network, this one-function adapter adds an inexpensive route to 5Gbps Ethernet. It’s simple yet effective if you need more ports, you’ll pay more for such fast network speeds.

It’s backwards compatible with 1Gb and 2.5Gb networks, so is more future proof than a 2.5Gb adapter if you are always after the fastest data transfers.

The cable is short at 4.7 inches (12cm) but you shouldn’t need any longer for a network adapter.

If you want fast Ethernet but more ports, check out some of the Satechi hubs also reviewed here. Plugable also offers a USB-C to 2.5GbE Adapter, listed lower down this list.

EZQuest USB-C Slim Gen 2 Hub Adapter 6-in-1 – Best hub for most 10Gbps USB-C ports

Pros

Six USB-C ports
4x 10Gbps
4K at 60Hz
80W passthrough

Price When Reviewed: $79.99

Best Prices Today:

$69.99

View Deal

6 Ports: 6x USB-C
Monitors: 1x 4K/60Hz via USB-C
Passthrough power: 80W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

This USB-C hub loves USB-C so much that it boasts only that type of port, of which there are six—seven if you count the connector that links to the laptop.

Four of these are rated at 10Gbps for data transfer, which is about as fast as you can get before you have to switch up to 40Gbps Thunderbolt as 20GBps USB-C hubs are rare.

Another can link up to an external display up to 4K in resolution and at a action-screen-friendly 60Hz refresh rate. You can either connect direct to a USB-C monitor, or use a USB-C to either DisplayPort or HDMI adapter.

The sixth USB-C port can handle 100W of PD 3.0 power input, 80W of which is reserved for the MacBook if it needs that much. Each of the 10Gbps ports can deliver 7.5W, up to a maximum 15W across all four at the same time.

If you require two 4K/60Hz displays and a bunch of fast USB-C ports, consider the EZQuest USB 4 Dual Display 8-in-1 Hub (Pro Series) reviewed above.

Satechi 4-In-1 USB-C Hub With 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet

Pros

3x USB-C ports (10Gbps)
2.5G Ethernet

Cons

No passthrough charging

Price When Reviewed: $44.99

Best Prices Today:

$44.99

View Deal

$44.99

View Deal

$44.99

View Deal

Satechi

$44.99

View Deal

$44.99

View Deal

$44.99

View Deal

4 Ports: 2.5Gb Ethernet, 3x USB-C
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

There are hubs with more ports but this 4-in-1 USB-C hub offers three fast 10Gbps USB-C ports and very fast 2.5Gb Ethernet.

The Satechi USB-C Multiport Adapter 8K With Ethernet V3, reviewed above, boasts more functionality but at twice the price and with standard 1Gb Ethernet. The Satechi 4-port USB-C Hub, reviewed below, offers an extra USB-C port but none at 10Gbps, and no 2.5Gb Ethernet.

This hub could be in your sweet spot if you need a bunch of fast USB ports and faster Ethernet. There’s no passthrough charging, so you’ll need a spare Thunderbolt port on your MacBook for power.

Plugable 6-port or 10-port USB-C Chargers – Best hubs for multiple USB-C charging ports

Pros

6x or 10x 100W USB-C ports
Priority charging

Cons

No USB-A (if you need it)
Maximum 100W total power

Price When Reviewed: $79.95

Best Prices Today:

$79.95

View Deal

$79.95

View Deal

$79.95

View Deal

$79.95

View Deal

$79.95

View Deal

6 or 10 Ports: 6x or 10x USB-C charging ports
Passthrough power: 100W
USB-C speed to Mac: n/a

This multi-port hub is not for data transfer but is the best for charging multiple USB-C devices up to 100W utilizing clever priority-charging technology that distributes power across all connected devices—prioritized in the order you choose from left to right. As devices reach full charge, the now greater available power is reallocated down the line.

The $79.99 Plugable PS-6CC and $119.99 Plugable PS-10CC can neatly and efficiently charge up to 6 or 10 hungry devices at the same time and at an optimum power distribution without you having to resort to multiple chargers and a desk full of indistinguishable snaking cables.

Satechi 4-Port USB-C Hub with PD – Best budget hub for multiple USB-C ports

Pros

4x USB-C ports
10Gbps
Compact

Cons

Passthrough power only 75W

Price When Reviewed: $39.99

Best Prices Today:

$39.99

View Deal

$39.99

View Deal

Satechi

$39.99

View Deal

$39.99

View Deal

4 Ports: 4x USB-C
Passthrough power: 75W
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

Sick of hubs that still think USB-A is a thing? If what you want is more USB-C ports, the Satechi 4-Port USB-C Hub With Power Delivery has plenty for you. Each port is USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 so 10Gbps, which has recently been upgraded from 5Gbps. Also upgraded is the PD Power Delivery via the USB-C ports for passthrough charging.

You can save a few bucks by buying the 5Gbps non-PD version but this new model is superior and well worth the few extra dollars.

Startech.com 7-Port USB-C Hub – Best hub for multiple USB-A and -C ports

Pros

7 fast USB ports
65W power supply included

Cons

Only 2x USB-C ports
No passthrough charging to laptop

Price When Reviewed: $124.99

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

7 Ports: 2x USB-C, 5x USB-A
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

If it’s just USB ports you need to add, then you find more than enough on Startech.com’s 7-Port USB-C Hub, although we’d have preferred more USB-C ports, which here are outnumbered by legacy USB-A.

There are five USB-A ports, all rated at a speedy 10Gbps, with one offering 12W of device-charging power. One of the two 10Gbps USB-C ports can also charge connected devices at 12W. The other USB ports each offer a small charge of 4.5W.

Even 12W is not powerful enough to fast charge an iPhone but it’s enough to keep most connected devices powered up.

The hub is self-powered via its 65W power supply.

Hyperdrive Dual 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub – Best dual-4K InstantView hub for M1/M2/M3 Macs

Pros

10 ports
100W PD
4K 60Hz display via HDMI
Supports two displays on M1/M2/M3/Neo MacBook

Cons

UHS-I card readers

Price When Reviewed: $199.99

Best Prices Today:

$159.99

View Deal

Hyper

$199.99

View Deal

10 Ports: 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A, 2x HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader, Audio jack
Monitors: 1x 4K/60Hz and 1x 4K/30Hz using DisplayLink software
Passthrough power: 100W
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

This hub has enough different ports to call itself a docking station. It has two HDMI ports, two USB-C ports (one PD and one 5Gbps), SD/microSD/SD readers (UHS-I), two 5Gbps USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio combo jack for headphones, and Gigabit Ethernet.

It doesn’t have its own power supply but offers passthrough PD charging at a more than healthy 100W.

It’s a great set of ports, but that’s not it’s biggest plus for users of Apple’s plain M1/M2/M3/Neo-based MacBooks, which don’t support more than one external display. The plain M3 MacBooks can connect two displays but only if the MacBook’s lid remains closed. The smarter M4/M5 and M1/M2/M3/M4/M5 Pro and Max chips do support multiple displays.

If that is a problem for you there is a hardware solution in the Hyperdrive Dual 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub, which lets non-Pro/Max Macs connect two external displays. There is some light software installation involved for M1/M2/M3 users, and you need to allow InstantView access to your Privacy settings in System Preferences. There are alternative solutions for adding two or more monitors to an M1, M2, M3 MacBook.

One HDMI port allows for 4K at 60Hz, and the other 4K at 30Hz. If you want two or more 4K screens at 60Hz and are willing to do without the extra USB ports and so on, look at the Plugable Quad and Dual 4K HMDI adapters reviewed earlier in this article. These are cheaper and offer superior display specs.

Plugable USB-C to 2.5Gb Ethernet Adapter – Best simple, budget adapter for 2.5GbE

Pros

2.5G Ethernet
100W passthrough

Price When Reviewed: £29.95

Best Prices Today:

$29.95

View Deal

$29.95

View Deal

$29.95

View Deal

$29.95

View Deal

$44.99

View Deal

1 Port: 1x USB-C, 2.5Gb Ethernet
Passthrough power: 100W
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

If all you need is a USB-C adapter that will add super-fast Ethernet to your computer, the Plugable USB-C to 2.5Gb Ethernet Adapter offers 2.5x network speeds compared to standard Gigabit Ethernet on supporting networks. A side USB-C port offers 100W passthrough charging to the laptop.

The short cable isn’t braided like the £39.95 Satechi USB-C 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter but the adapter is cheaper and just as able.

U.K. customers may find the Ugreen USB-C to Ethernet Adapter 2.5G cheaper, although it lacks the laptop passthrough charging.

Plugable USB-C to HDMI Multiport Adapter – Budget alternative to Apple AV Multiport Adapter

Pros

Inexpensive AV adapter
4K display via HDMI
Passthrough PD

Cons

4K display at 30Hz

Price When Reviewed: $29.95

Best Prices Today:

$39.95

View Deal

$39.95

View Deal

$39.95

View Deal

$39.95

View Deal

3 Ports: 1x USB-C, 1x USB-A, 1x HDMI
Monitors: 1x 4K/30Hz avia HDMI
Passthrough power: 100W
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

Apple got a lot of flack when moving to USB-C because it meant that many of its users had to buy one or more adapters to replicate the ports they were used to, and needed.

It wasn’t so much that we needed adapters, but more to do with the price Apple was charging for its simple USB-C hubs and adapters.

Take, for example Apple’s USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter, which at $69 is a lot for just an HDMI port, one USB-A port and a passthrough-power USB-C port.

Plugable has a much cheaper alternative, at about a third of the price. And it looks pretty identical.

Aside from the price, the one drawback shared with the Apple version is that the HDMI connection can connect a 4K external display at 30Hz rather than the full 60Hz, which may put off gamers. But otherwise, this is a great alternative at a fraction of the price, and can charge at 60W.

Satechi Stand & Hub Mac Mini M4 – Best USB-C hub for M4 Mac mini

Pros

SSD enclosure option
Three USB-A ports and SD card slot at the front
Housing for NVMe SSD
Eases access to the mini’s power button

Cons

No device charging

Price When Reviewed: $99.99

Best Prices Today:

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

Satechi

$99.99

View Deal

$99.99

View Deal

4 Ports: 3x USB-A, SD Card Reader
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

We tend to think of hubs for laptops, such as Apple’s MacBooks, which lack more than one or two USB-C ports and so require a dock to add further devices. The Mac Mini and Mac Studio, you’d think, have an army of ports in comparison to Apple’s laptops.

Apple’s latest M4 Mac mini does at least add a couple of USB-C ports and an audio jack at the front—sadly lacking for its earlier M1 and M2 Mac mini models, see below—but it doesn’t have any legacy USB-A ports or card readers.

The Satechi Stand & Hub for the M4 Mac mini adds three USB-A ports—two at 10Gbps and one at 480Mbps—at the front, plus an SD card reader. Inside the Hub is an enclosure that enables you to add an NVMe SSD at up to 4TB NVMe storage—so adding more hidden storage at prices much cheaper than offered by Apple at purchase.

It fits neatly under the mini and, in our tests, didn’t suffer the same Wi-Fi problems as its M1/M2 sibling, although it has three fewer ports.

Read our full Satechi Stand & Hub Mac Mini M4 review

Satechi Stand Hub for Mac Mini – Best USB-C hub for M2 Mac mini

Pros

Neat USB-C hub for Mac mini
SSD enclosure option

Cons

Impacts mini’s Wi-Fi strength
No device charging

Price When Reviewed: $79.99

Best Prices Today:

$79.99

View Deal

Satechi

$79.99

View Deal

7 Ports: 1x USB-C, 3x USB-A, SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader, Audio jack
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

Before Apple miniaturized the Mac mini even further in 2024, the 2018-2023 Mac mini models boasted two Thunderbolt 3 / USB4 (fast USB-C) ports, two old-school USB-A ports, HDMI 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm headphone jack. That sounds like a lot, but Apple accessory specialist Satechi believes the Mini needs maxing.

Satechi’s Type-C Aluminum Stand & Hub for Mac Mini expands these capabilities with seven ports: including a USB-C data port, three USB-A ports, micro/SD card readers, and another 3.5mm headphone jack port. (Note that you can’t charge devices connected to the USB ports, as they are there for syncing and data transfer only.)

The crucial point is that these points are front-facing, and not tucked around the back with the unwieldy and unsightly power supply. It also lifts the Mini off the desk, and its built-in air vents help regulate temperature and encourage airflow.

There is a superior model, the 10Gbps Satechi Stand & Hub For Mac Mini / Studio With NVMe SSD Enclosure, which includes an integrated slot where you can insert an SSD card to add affordable fast storage, accessible when connected to your Mac mini or Mac Studio. Read our Satechi Stand & Hub With SSD Enclosure review.

Both of the Satechi M1/M2 Mac mini Stand Hubs, however, can have a negative impact on the mini’s Wi-Fi signal strength, so it’s recommended to use the wired Ethernet option instead.

HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub for 24in iMac – Best hub for iMac

Pros

6 ports
USB-C (10Gbps)
2x USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W)
4K 60Hz display via HDMI
Color matches your iMac

Cons

UHS-I card reader
24in iMac only

Price When Reviewed: $79.99

Best Prices Today:

$52.97

View Deal

Hyper

$79.99

View Deal

6 Ports: 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A, 1x HDMI, SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader
Monitors: 1x 4K/60Hz via HDMI
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

You might not think a desktop Mac needs a hub, but the 24in iMac is quite lacking, having either just two Thunderbolt ports on the entry-level model or two Thunderbolt and two USB-C at the top-end. These ports are also all hidden away at the back, which can mean snaking cables all over your desk.

Five of the ports on this hub that clamps to the underside of the iMac are front-facing ports for easy access to memory cards, USB storage, or storage cards. There are two USB-C ports and one USB-A port (all rated at a speedy 10GBps). The USB-A port can charge a phone at 7.5W.

The UHS-I (104MBps) SD and microSD card readers aren’t the fastest but should suffice. Such memory cards are an affordable way of adding portable storage, and will also delight camera users.

At the rear of the hub is an HDMI port that can support an external 4K display at 60Hz.

Hyper also sells a 5-in-1 iMac USB Hub with two USB-C (5Gbps) and three USB-A (5Gbps and one that charges at 7.5W).

Quite brilliantly, the hubs can color-match with your 24in iMac, with 7 iMac color faceplates included.

Plugable USB-C 6-In-1 Mounted Hub for 24in iMac – USB-C hub for iMac

Pros

6 ports
USB-C (10Gbps)
1x USB-A (10Gbps, 4.5W)
2x USB-A (480Mbps)

Cons

UHS-I card reader
24in iMac only

Price When Reviewed: $63.95

Best Prices Today:

Check

6 Ports: 1x USB-C, 3x USB-A, SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

While not as colorful as the HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub, this USB-C hub for the 24-inch iMac offers a set of basic ports slung under the iMac screen at a slightly lower price.

It brings four USB ports within easy arm’s reach, so you don’t need to fiddle around at the back of the computer.

It lacks the HyperDrive’s HDMI port but gains an extra USB-A port, although at a slow 480Mbps and with little charging power.

Ugreen USB-C SD 4.0 Card Reader – Best USB-C SD Card adapter

Pros

Simple UHS-II SD card reader
Inexpensive

Price When Reviewed: $21.99

Best Prices Today:

$17.99

View Deal

$21.99

View Deal

2 Ports: SD Card Reader, MicroSD Card Reader
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

Apple’s current MacBook Pro models have an SDXC card slot that is great for adding affordable portable storage cards but is mid-speed at 250MBps rather than the format’s top 312MBps. SD cards are a very inexpensive way to add portable storage to your laptop, from 32GB up to 1TB, as well as being the digital photographer’s friend.

Ugreen’s neat SD card reader is top-speed and features slots for both SD and MicroSD cards. It features a decent-length (220mm) USB-C cable so that it doesn’t impede other ports on your MacBook.

Cable Matters USB-C to VGA Adapter – Best USB-C to VGA Adapter

Pros

VGA and HDMI ports

Cons

4K display at 30Hz

Price When Reviewed: $20.99

Best Prices Today:

$17.99

View Deal

2 Ports: HDMI, VGA
Monitors: 1x 4K/30Hz via HDMI and 1x HD/60Hz via VGA
USB-C speed to Mac: 10Gbps

This simple adapter makes a USB-C port into a VGA port for older displays and projectors, and also can handle two external displays.

VGA was once the most popular video connector but is seen less these days, being overtaken by DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort and direct USB-C.

It supports HD at 60Hz resolutions via VGA, and 4K at 30Hz through its HDMI port. It isn’t compatible with supporting two displays on an M1/M2/Neo MacBook.

Cable Matters USB-C to DVI Adapter – Best USB-C to DVI Adapter

Pros

DVI port

Cons

HD display only

Price When Reviewed: $19.99

Best Prices Today:

Check

1 Port: DVI
Monitors: 1x HD/60Hz via DVI
USB-C speed to Mac: 5Gbps

If you need to connect to a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) display or projector, this adapter does the trick.

It can support resolutions up to 1,920-x-1,080 at 60Hz.

Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter

Pros

Thunderbolt 2 adapter

Price When Reviewed: $49

Best Prices Today:

$44.97

View Deal

$49

View Deal

1 Port: Thunderbolt 2
USB-C speed to Mac: 20Gbps

This adapter is designed to help owners of really quite old Macs smoothly transition to using USB-C. You may well have devices such as hard drives and external displays that use Thunderbolt 2 connections. This little gadget lets you keep using them with your MacBook or new MacBook Pro.

It also allows new Thunderbolt 3, 4 and 5 devices to connect to a Mac with Thunderbolt 2 ports–but to take advantage of it this way round Apple advises you need to be running macOS Sierra or above.

Which extra ports do you need in a hub

Many MacBook users connect their laptop to one or more external displays for greater screen space. You can connect to monitors using USB-C (via adapters to non-USB-C monitors) or better a dedicated video port, such as HDMI or DisplayPort. Check the hub specs to see which displays they support: some are limited to HD displays, others support 4K (also known as UHD) displays. The refresh rate is also important. 4K at 30Hz is fine for most productivity and browsing tasks, but watching video or playing games demands higher refresh rates of at least 60Hz.

You may need some legacy non-reversible USB-A ports, and most adapters and hubs have at least one for your non-USB-C memory sticks and drives. Look for at least USB 3.0, which has a speedy bandwidth of 5Gbps compared to the lamentably sluggish USB 2.0’s 480Mbps.

To fast-charge an iPhone, you need a minimum of 18W and it has to be USB-C, so look for extra USB-C slots with charging power, which are more capable than USB-A.

Other ports to look for in a hub include Ethernet for faster wired Internet access (without the flakiness of Wi-Fi). You can choose from standard Gigabit Ethernet (1000Mbps) or 2.5Gb and even 5Gb and 10Gb Ethernet (2500-10000Mbps), although the faster Ethernet requires the whole network to support that speed.

An SD or microSD card reader is perfect for adding inexpensive portable storage to your system. Card readers come at different speeds: UHS-I at 104MBps, and UHS-II at 312MBps; although some are slower at 60MBps.

Look for hubs that offer passthrough charging, so you can charge your laptop even though you are using up one of the laptop’s USB-C ports for the hub itself. Most don’t ship with a charger, so you’ll need to add your own, and remember that it needs to be a 100W charger to give 85W and above charging if offered by the hub. Lower wattage chargers are fine but will limit the hub’s charging potential. Couple your hub with one of the best Mac USB-C chargers. See how much power your MacBook needs in our advice below the list of recommended hubs and adapters.

You can also buy USB-C adapters for the many older display standards out there, such as VGA and DVI. We’ve picked the best for you below.

Many hubs and docks aren’t compatible with Apple’s SuperDrive CD/DVD drive. We’ve found few dock makers that offers compatibility with the SuperDrive, the Caldigit Thunderbolt Element Hub and OWC Thunderbolt Dock being two that do.

Which ports does each Mac have?

Here are the onboard ports on all of Apple’s current and recent Macs:

MacBook Neo: 2x USB-C (one for 10Gbps data and one for charging), 3.5mm headphone jack
MacBook Air: 2x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 3 charging port, 3.5mm headphone jack
MacBook Pro (plain M4/M5): 3x Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 3 charging port, HDMI, SDXC Card Reader (250MBps), 3.5mm headphone jack
MacBook Pro (M4/M5 Pro/Max): 3x Thunderbolt 5, MagSafe 3 charging port, HDMI, SDXC Card Reader (250MBps), 3.5mm headphone jack
iMac (24-inch): 2x Thunderbolt 4/USB4 or 4x Thunderbolt 4, 3.5mm headphone jack, optional Gigabit Ethernet
Mac mini M4: 3x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB-C (10Gbps), HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm headphone jack
Mac mini M4 Pro: 3x Thunderbolt 5, 2x USB-C (10Gbps), HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm headphone jack
Mac Studio M4 Pro: 4x Thunderbolt 5, 2x USB-C (10Gbps), 2x USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, 10Gb Ethernet, SDXC Card Reader (312MBps), 3.5mm headphone jack
Mac Studio M3 Ultra: 6x Thunderbolt 5, 2x USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, 10Gb Ethernet, SDXC Card Reader (312MBps), 3.5mm headphone jack

Mirrored or Extended Modes for Mac displays

When you attach more than one external display to a Mac you can choose between various setups. Most hubs with more than one video port—usually HDMI—can mirror your MacBook’s screen, but most can at best handle showing a different screen to the Mac but not different to each other when attempting Extended Mode.

For full extended Mode, where each of the screens shows a different image and you treat each as an extension to your workspace—moving your cursor and windows easily between the displays—you will likely need a hub or dock that supports free third-party DisplayLink software, which is easy to download and install. Included above are reviews of the Plugable Dual and Quad HDMI adapters, both of which work with DisplayLink. DisplayLink enables multiple screens even with plain M1 and M2 MacBooks that are technically limited to just one external display.

If you need even more ports than you’ll find on a hub, check our reviews of the best DisplayLink docks.

Baseus

How much power does each MacBook require for smooth running

Check the Power Delivery (PD) charging power each hub or adapter offers connected laptops or iPads.

The MacBook Neo charges at 20W.
The 13in MacBook Air charges at 30W.
The 13in and 14in MacBook Pro and 15in MacBook Air charge at 67W.
The higher-end 14in and 16in MacBook Pro require at least 96W. The 16-inch MacBook Pro prefers 140W.

You can certainly use a charger at lower power, but remember that it will power up slower than when using a higher-wattage charger, and if too low your laptop might run out of juice altogether when maxed out on power-hungry apps and devices.

Most of the products tested here work with non-Apple USB-C laptops too, but you can read Tech Advisor’s more general roundup of the best USB-C hubs.

Also, read our roundups of recommended USB accessories:

• Best USB-C to Lightning cables

• Best USB-C and Thunderbolt cables

• Best USB-C power chargers

Mophie’s 3-in-1 travel chargers compared: Which one should you buy

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:36:08 +0000

Macworld

At a glance

Expert's Rating

Pros

Charge iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods
15-25W fast wireless charging for iPhone
Portable folding designs
Travel case
Tilting phone pad and flip-up watch dock (Roam & Orange)
International power adapters (Roam & Orange)

Cons

So many options
Either very cheap or premium price

Our Verdict

The Mophie Roam is the best choice, thanks to its faster 25W Qi2.2 charging and compact design. Older models remain worthwhile for 15W charging, colourful limited editions or, in the case of the original Gen 1, outstanding value.

Price When Reviewed

This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined

Best Pricing Today

Price When Reviewed

$149.95

Best Prices Today: Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger (Limited Edition)

$149.95

View Deal

Zagg

$149.95

View Deal

$149.95

View Deal

What are they? Foldable 3-in-1 travel chargers for Apple iPhone, Watch and AirPods.

Which one is best? The Gen 4 Roam is the newest and fastest, offering 25W Qi2.2 charging for iPhone 16 models. The Gen 1 delivers the best value at around $39, while the colourful Gen 3 Orange/Teal and Gen 2 Cherry Blossom editions are the best picks for style.

Who shouldn’t buy it? If you aren’t travelling with all your Apple gear, check out instead the more fixed best wireless iPhone chargers and best Apple Watch chargers we’ve tested.

We recently reviewed the clever and rather lovely Mophie Roam 3-in-1, but while researching it we came across a bunch of other Mophie travel chargers that are still on sale and certainly caught our eye.

Mophie continues to sell all four generations of its 3-in-1 travel chargers, making it easy to get confused by the different designs, colours, charging speeds and prices.

In this guide we’ll compare every model to explain the differences and help you decide which best suits your needs, whether you prioritise the latest technology, fastest charging, best value or a distinctive limited-edition colour.

How do the Mophie travel chargers compare?

Mophie has a neat don’t-look-at-me black 3-in-1 travel charger for iPhone, Watch and AirPods case that folds up into small wallet form that fits into a cute case. At the time of writing, you can find it reasonably priced at under $40 or a little more on Amazon.

But it’s hard not to fall in love with a couple of limited-edition versions with colors (and much higher prices) that will make you sit up and notice. There’s a fun, postmodern orange and teal limited edition Mophie 3-in-1 travel charger that we’ve reviewed here and is guaranteed to brighten up your day when powering up your Apple devices. And there’s a slightly older Cherry Blossom pretty pink model that’s super cute.

The latest model is the Roam that is built on Mophie’s clever StealthCharge technology that maximizes 25W iPhone charging speeds for iPhones 16 and later. Read our Mophie StealthCharge Roam 3-in-1 Travel Charger review. The Roam is a great travel charger, but you should also consider previous-generation models for some fun colors and cheaper prices.

All these 3-in-1 chargers work with any iPhone (12 or later), any Apple Watch model, and AirPods with a wireless-compatible case.

Simon Jary

Best Overall: Gen 4 Design Roam (2026) – Qi2.2 certified with StealthCharge

The newest model is the Gen 4 Mophie Roam (2026), introducing Qi2.2 with StealthCharge technology, a redesigned bi-fold design, improved thermal architecture with passive cooling to help sustain the fastest 25W wireless charging for iPhone 16 and newer models, and a redesigned, more water-resistant travel case. If charging speed is your priority, the Roam is the clear winner, thanks to its enhanced thermal design that maintains faster charging than the older 15W models.

Design: Bi-fold
iPhone: 25W
Apple Watch: 7.5W
AirPods: 5W
Folded size: 3 x 2.8 x 1.3 inches (76 x 72 x 34mm)
Weight: 8.2oz (233g)
Includes 40W wall adapter with U.S., U.K., E.U., and AU/NZ plug adapters

Most Compact: Gen 3 Design (2024) – Apple Exclusive Global Edition (Qi2 certified)

The colorful Gen 3 Orange/Teal is an eye-catching, limited-edition travel charger that offers the same 15W charging as the Roam for older iPhones. It also introduced a redesigned nylon travel case with a zip enclosure, making it both practical and distinctive.

Design: Bi-fold
iPhone: 15W
Apple Watch: 7.5W
AirPods: 5W
Folded size: 2.9 x 2.6 x 0.98 inches (73 x 67 x 25mm)
Weight: 6.1oz (173g)
Includes 40W wall adapter with U.S., U.K., E.U., and AU/NZ plug adapters

Best Design: Gen 2 Design (2023) – Limited Edition (Qi2 certified)

The Gen 2 Cherry Blossom is one of the most eye-catching limited-edition versions, offering the same 15W charging as the Roam for older iPhones. It also introduced a redesigned zip-up travel case with an AirTag pocket, made from eco-friendly materials containing up to 50% recycled plastic bottles.

Design: Tri-fold
iPhone: 15W
Apple Watch: 7.5W
AirPods: 5W
Folded size: 3.5 x 3.15 x 1.05 inches (89 x 80 x 27mm)
Weight: 5.9oz (168g)
Includes 30W wall adapter.

Best Value: Gen 1 Design (2021)

For the best value, the Gen 1 (2021) stands out, often selling for around $39, making it a bargain if you don’t need the latest charging speeds or premium features. Finished in black, it comes with a simple fabric travel case with a loop enclosure and remains the obvious choice for shoppers focused on the lowest price.

Design: Tri-fold
iPhone: 15W
Apple Watch: 5W
AirPods: 3W
Folded size: 3.5 x 3.15 x 1.05 inches (89 x 80 x 27mm)
Weight: 5.8oz (163g)
Includes 30W wall adapter.

What’s different about the designs?

All the portable models are designed for travel, folding up neatly to fit into matching compact travel cases. You can arrive at your destination without the usual tangled mess of cables.

The smallest folded Mophie travel charger is the Gen 3, available in the great multi-colored version we’ve tested here and also black if all the fun has drained out of your life. It also features the bi-fold design that takes up less desk space when unfolded. The tri-fold unfolds to a length of nearly a foot across, while the bi-fold measures half that when laid out. That’s because the AirPods charging pad on the bi-fold is hidden behind the more able iPhone adjustable charging stand.

Simon Jary

The Roam and Orange/Teal 3-in-1 Travel Charger differ from the Black and Pink versions by hosting the AirPods charging pad behind the orange adjustable iPhone wireless charging stand. This bi-fold design gives it a smaller footprint when opened up, compared to the older models’ longer strip.

The Pink and Black models charge the iPhone only in a flat position, but all three allow the Watch to sit up in Nightstand Mode. The Roam and Orange/Teal models features the stand but can also charge the iPhone flat if you prefer.

The stand for the Roam and Orange chargers is fine for setting the iPhone in a landscape/horizontal StandBy Mode, but less successful with the iPhone is in portrait/vertical when the magnetic placement makes the Watch part lift slightly.

Simon Jary

How fast can they charge your devices?

The main benefit of the latest Roam travel charger is its more powerful Qi2.2 wireless charging output that means iPhones 16 or later can charge at up to 25W. It beats most other 25W 3-in-1 travel chargers through its StealthCharge technology that protects the phone from the heat generated by such powerful wireless charging by moving the potentially hot components away from the phone charging pad.

Older iPhones don’t support 25W wireless charging, so remain at Qi2/MagSafe’s 15W maximum. Even then, StealthCharge might make 15W charging a little more efficient, too.

Simon Jary

The other Mophie travel chargers are all rated at 15W for all iPhones (12 and later).

While the black Gen 1 charger can reach 5W for fast-charging the Apple Watch, the others support 7.5W charging, which should mean you can put your Watch back on your wrist sooner. The gen 1 charger is also marginally slower powering up compatible AirPods.

How much does each travel charger cost?

Look around as while all the chargers have official retail prices at $149.95, pricing can be cheaper as the products get older—but not always. It would be great to have a mid-ranged product between the premium and super-affordable. It’s likely that the company is selling off the last of the 2021-vintage Gen 1 so stocks will run dry at some stage.

You’ll find the gen 4 Mophie Roam at Apple for $149.95 or £119.95, or buy it direct from Mophie or Zagg UK.

If you are as taken by the Mophie Orange/Teal Special Edition Gen 3 travel charger as I am, it’s still officially priced at $149.95 or £149.95, or check Amazon.

Note that Roam and Orange comes with a 40W wall charger and international plug adapters, while the pink and black travel chargers ship with just a 30W charger, All come with a matching travel case.

Fancy the pretty pink Cherry Blossom Mophie Gen 2 travel charger? Zagg is still selling it as $149.95 or you can find it at Amazon.

If you are after the lowest cost and don’t care for joyful colorways, you can find the Mophie Gen 1 for $39 at Zagg, or $49.95 at Amazon. The cheapest we could find it in the U.K. was £61 at Amazon.

We’ve tested more of the best 3-in-1 iPhone/Watch/AirPods chargers for further comparisons.

Which Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger should you buy?

At 25W the Gen 4 Roam is the fastest of all the Mophie travel chargers, although only for iPhones 16 and later. If you aren’t planning on upgrading your iPhone for a while and are happy with 15W charging, consider one of the other models in their fun colors. You may have guessed that the 15W Orange/Teal Gen 3 is a particular favorite—it shares a similar design to the Roam but radically different color scheme, and it’s certainly hard to miss. If you’re more a lover of pink, the Gen 2 Cherry Blossom charger will definitely be for you, but for the cheapest price the original Gen 1 Mophie Travel Charger is hard to beat for budgets.

Best AirTag key rings, luggage tags, wallets & accessories of 2026

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Macworld

Here at Macworld we’re extremely fond of Apple’s AirTag, which is a great Bluetooth tracker for an iPhone or Mac user. However, one complaint raised in our AirTag review was that it doesn’t have an attachment (or keyring) hole, which means you’re forced in most situations to buy an accessory to put it in.

Even Apple’s 2026 AirTag hardware update doesn’t change the tracker’s dimensions or lack of attachment hole, so you’ll likely still need one of the great accessories reviewed here.

Want to attach it to your keys? You need to buy a special key ring. Want to attach it to your luggage? Special luggage label. An ecosystem has quickly sprung up offering straps, loops, pet tags, cases and holders for AirTag owners.

UPDATE: The standard AirTag isn’t the only tracker in town that works with Apple’s Find My app. There are now many and varied trackers that work just like an AirTag and sync as items in your Find My app: flat cards, wallets, keychains, glasses cases, passport holders and many more. Check out the best Apple Find My trackers that offer more than even the AIrTag.

But if you own an Apple AirTag, which accessories are worth buying? We’ve been testing out all the AirTags accessories we can get our hands on, so we can help you find the best AirTag holder for your needs from key rings, luggage tags, wallets and more.

Best AirTag Key Rings

Apple AirTag FineWoven Key Ring

Pros

Made by Apple

Cons

Fabric can scuff

Price When Reviewed: $35

Best Prices Today:

$24.95

View Deal

$24.98

View Deal

$26.39

View Deal

$35

View Deal

$35

View Deal

$35

View Deal

There are cheaper alternatives, but this is the classic AirTag key ring—replacing the previous Apple Leather Key Ring, now that Apple has gone fully vegan in honor of its legendary co-founder Steve Jobs. It’s light, attractive and reassuringly well-made. It’s easy to put the AirTag inside, but the metal popper won’t let it escape. And we love the large, chunky (but quite flat) ring, although we’d recommend testing it out in a shop if you’re planning on attaching car keys with a small aperture. This reviewer’s Nissan and Skoda keys were both a tight fit.

The fabric covering protects the AirTag’s edge from drop damage but leaves most of its chassis, both front and back, open to the elements and liable to scuff a little—a complaint publicly made about Apple’s FineWoven iPhone cases. We think this is worth it for the pleasing look, and scuffing is both inevitable and minor, but if you want total protection you’ll need to look elsewhere.

It’s available from Apple in five colors, shown above: Moss, Fox Orange, Midnight Purple, Navy and Black. Amazon still has some of the older colors if you prefer, including Black, Pacific Blue, Navy, Coral, Mulberry and Chartreuse.–David Price

OtterBox Rugged Case for AirTag

Pros

Super protective

Cons

Larger than most

Price When Reviewed: $19.95

Best Prices Today:

$8.99

View Deal

$19.95

View Deal

OtterBox

$19.95

View Deal

OtterBox is a company known for its ultra-protective phone cases, and its Rugged Case for AirTag continues this tradition, as its name suggests. The protective perimeter is increased to allow for larger bumps and mishaps than most AirTag key rings.

Apple sells a four-pack for $39.95.

OtterBox also has a Rugged Passport Series of the Rugged Case that is styled with the coordinates of iconic cities, such as New York, London, Paris and Tokyo.–Simon Jary

Nomad AirTag Keyrings

Pros

Range of AirTag keychain options

Price When Reviewed: From $15

Best Prices Today:

Nomad

$15

View Deal

Available in black and white, the Nomad Rugged Keychain is built with a polycarbonate frame and TPU overmold, and ships with two enclosure options: a closed back option and an open speaker option. It is rated IP66 for water and dust resistance.

With a Rustic Brown option, the Nomad Leather Keychain carries your AirTag in a good-looking, thermoformed, American Horween Leather holder. Over time, the raw, vegetable-tanned leather will patina to create a unique lived-in look.

Adding a third available Natural (tan) color, the Nomad Leather Loop for AirTag is a Horween leather loop that attaches to your AirTag with a powerful 3M adhesive. The AirTag battery, however, remains easily accessible for replacement.–Simon Jary

Arc Pulse for AirTag

Pros

Super stylish
Minimalist design

Price When Reviewed: $34.99

Best Prices Today:

$34.99

View Deal

Arc

$34.99

View Deal

This minimalist AirTag keychain accessory doesn’t conceal your Apple tracker in a case. Machined from a single block of 6063-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum this open metal cradle wraps your AirTag in an organic form without hiding it. This allows for a stronger signal with no obstruction of its sound alert.

Installation is easy, while the secure hold remains reliable even with daily use.–Simon Jary

ElevationLab TagVault: Keychain

Pros

Waterproof

Cons

Reduces volume of AirTag sounds

Price When Reviewed: $12.95 (single); $39.95 (4 pack)

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

Elevation Lab’s TagVault: Keychain claims that it is fully waterproof. This rugged case has a gasket that prevents water intrusion while passing through ultra-wideband and Bluetooth signals and allowing about two-thirds of the AirTag’s sound volume. It has an integral loop for a keychain ring and comes with a simple but robust one.–Glenn Fleishman

Read our full Elevation Lab TagVault AirTag Keychain Case review

Caseology Vault

Pros

Rugged
Karabiner attachment

Cons

Larger than most

Price When Reviewed: $14.99

Best Prices Today:

$12.99

View Deal

How about a properly rugged key ring accessory for your AirTag? The Caseology Vault is made from military-grade thermoplastic polyurethane, with a nicely grippy sandstone finish that makes it less prone to drops.

Like the Olixar Silicone it features a karabiner attachment. This is removable, which makes the Vault a versatile accessory. It’s just as happy tracking rucksacks as keys.–David Price

Best AirTag luggage tags and locks

Apple AirTag Loop

Pros

Made by Apple

Price When Reviewed: $29

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

Although it now looks to be discontinued you can still find Apple’s fine AirTag Loop on sale. It is made of polyurethane and feels and looks smart, with two of the color options (Electric Orange and Sunflower) particularly bright and cheerful. This will also help you to spot your suitcase on the conveyor belt.

The AirTag clips in using a metal clasp that’s easy to use and secure; you then put the strap around your luggage’s handle and loop the head part back through the slit in the tail. It looks slightly delicate at first glance–the strap gets quite thin at a certain point–but proved resistant to moderate tugging and should be fine under non-military usage conditions. Like Apple’s key ring, it protects the edges of the AirTag but not the center of its two faces, so expect some scuffing.–David Price

Belkin Secure Holder with Strap or Wire Cable for AirTag

Pros

Feels more secure than Apple ring

Cons

Plastic feel

Price When Reviewed: $12.95

Best Prices Today:

$11.99

View Deal

$12.95

View Deal

Belkin

$12.99

View Deal

$25.99

View Deal

Belkin’s Secure Holder is available with a simple skinny rope or with a more robust tough wire cable. As with Apple’s key ring, both faces of the AirTag are left exposed, but the plastic surround sticks out more and thus provides more drop protection. Attach either to your favorite gear, from a water bottle to your laptop bag or backpack.

One model, with Strap, has a robust string for attaching it to the handle of a suitcase or bag. Like the strap-style loops provided by other manufacturers this threads back through itself to easily attach to your luggage. The other Wire Cable version is reassuringly robust, and looks tough with its wire cable that includes a hex key to lock the AirTag in place.

While the cable version is in black or white, the strap model is available in a range of additional colors, including blue and pink, white.–Simon Jary

Casetify Customisable AirTag Holder

Pros

Colorful design options

Price When Reviewed: $32

Best Prices Today:

Casetify

$32

View Deal

The principal appeal of Casetify’s AirTag holder is the sheer range of designs and colors you can choose from. The ones pictured are, from left, Colorful Floral in Turquoise and Pink (with Peach background); Flowers for you by Matthew Langille (with Licorice); and Egg Tart with Mice (with Avocado). That last one is our favorite, but there are hundreds of options.–David Price

Best AirTag wallet and card holders

It’s not just keys and luggage that’e easy to lose. Misplacing your wallet or card holder is a common occurance, and as long as you also haven’t lost your iPhone, finding one with an AirTag pocket is an easy solution.

Artpaxy Wallet with AirTag Holder

Pros

Full bifold wallet with AirTag pocket

Price When Reviewed: $30.99

Best Prices Today:

$28.04

View Deal

This traditional-looking bifold wallet includes a front-mounted pocket for an Apple AirTag, and then does the usual wallet business with 13 card slots, two cash pockets and two ID windows. It also claims to include Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) blocking to stop device scanning.

Bosca Old Leather AirTag Seven Pocket ID Card Case

Pros

Slim and stylish AirTag wallet
ID window

Cons

High International shipping fees

Price When Reviewed: $99

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

This slim, stylish and minimalist hand-stained, vegetable-tanned leather card case comprises of a surprising seven small pockets to store your cards and cash, with a snap-close AirTag pocket on the front so you be able to loate it when it’s left in another jacket or trouser pocket—or left behind on the bar.

Two or three of the pockets can be sued for bank notes or business cards, three are definitely for creadit or other types of card, and there’s a clear ID card window on the side opposite the AirTag.

It’s available in three colours: Saddle (tan), Dark Brown and Black.

Customers outside the U.S. will encounter quite stiff customs and shipping charges.

Bazza AirTag Card Wallet

Pros

Colorful, fun AirTag card wallet

Cons

Feels a little plasticky

Price When Reviewed: $19.99

Best Prices Today:

Bazza

$19.99

View Deal

This super-lightweight card wallet from Italy nicely nestles an AirTag in a selection of attractive and fun colors. It feels a little plasticky but is in fact made from sustainable, recyclable plant-based materials—there’s not even any glue introduced into the manufacturing process.

You can buy with the AirTag preinstalled, or fit in your own. The Bazza AirTag Card Wallet is available in pink, yellow, red, dark blue, light blue, white, black and green.

Best AirTag pet collars

ElevationLab TagVault: Pet

Pros

Find your pet via AirTag

Price When Reviewed: $19.95

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

The TagVault: Pet uses screws with the small Torx T6 star-shaped drive for the portion that contains the AirTag and maintains the waterproof seal. These screws are piercing, self-tapping screws with a T10 slot. They’re used to hold a hard plastic anchor to provide further stability when attached to a pet collar that you provide–though the case may be too big for smaller collars. The kit includes a steel Torx T6 L-shaped wrench with screw tips on both ends.–Glenn Fleishman

Read our full Elevation Lab TagVault: Pet review

Best AirTag wallet holders

ElevationLab TagVault: Wallet – card holds AirTag

Pros

Securely holds AirTag

Price When Reviewed: $9.99

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

Designed to hold an AirTag firmly in place in a wallet, it comes in two form factors: standard, 3.25 by 1.5 inches (83 by 38 mm), and compact, 2 by 1.5 inches (51 by 38 mm). Both are 0.05 inches (1.3 mm) thick. The more rectangular style works well in billfold slots; the squarer design in other parts of a wallet. With the AirTag exposed front and back, there’s no additional blocking beyond your wallet to block wireless signals for tracking and Precision Finding.–Glenn Fleishman

Read our full TagVault: Wallet review

Best AirTag mounts

KeyBudz Covert Mount for AirTag

Pros

Tamperproof lid
Extreme environment protection

Price When Reviewed: $14.95

Best Prices Today:

$8.95

View Deal

The KeyBudz Covert Mount for AirTag is made of rugged fiberglass reinforced copolymer and built to withstand submersion in water and extreme temperatures with IP68 waterproof and dustproof protection. Clamp it onto just about anything—from your bike, vehicles, camera gear, suitcases, construction equipment and trailers. Tamper-proof, it can form continuous bond with surfaces while submerged underwater for over 60 days and is nearly impossible to remove once placed.

Pelican Protector Sticker Mount Case for AirTag Devices

Pros

Strong adhesive connection

Cons

No built-in water resistance

Price When Reviewed: $19.99

Best Prices Today:

$9.99

View Deal

$9.99

View Deal

$9.99

View Deal

Pelican Outdoor

$19.99

View Deal

If you’re looking for an AirTag mount that can stick to almost any surface and allows for easy AirTag removal, the Pelican Protector fits the bill. It’s not discreet, it’s not rugged, and it doesn’t offer additional water protection, but as a mount, it works well. Pelican relies on 3M VHB adhesive for attachment, which creates a near-permanent mount that becomes stronger over time.—Glenn Fleishman

Read our full Pelican Protector Sticker Mount Case for AirTag Devices review

Other types of AirTag cases and holders

ElevationLab TagVault: Bike – AirTag bike tracker

Pros

Built for bikes

Price When Reviewed: $19.95

Best Prices Today:

Check on Amazon

The TagVault: Bike is a lozenged-shaped plastic shell that houses the AirTag AirTag nestles inside its waterproof seal. It attaches to a bike via the bike’s water bottle mount, using longer screws to attach the bottle cage, or shorter screws if you don’t attach the cage. The case is a matte black, rendering it unobtrusive. Screwed in between a cage and the frame, a thief would first have to recognize it and then work hard to remove it quickly.–Glenn Fleishman

Read our full Elevation Lab TagVault: Bike review

Nomad Hydro Flask AirTag Tracker

Pros

Easily track your Hydro Flask

Cons

For specific models only
Requires Medium Flex Boot

Price When Reviewed: $15

Best Prices Today:

Nomad

$15

View Deal

If you already own n insulated bottle and its a HydroFlask, there’s another solution. Hydro Flask water bottles are popular but also surprisingly easy to leave behind after a run, bike ride, or visit to the park. The Nomad Hydro Flask Tracker is a hidden inner AirTag compartment in a slim TPU body that fits between your Hydro Flask and the Medium Flex Boot (accessory sold separately) and features It works with 32oz or 40oz Wide Mouth Hydro Flasks.

If the Apple AirTag is just not right for you, check out these Bluetooth tracker recommended AirTag alternatives.

What you can expect in an AirTag case

Because the AirTag comes in a single variety, you don’t need to choose which kind to acquire. Apple sells them singly ($29) and in a four-pack ($99). Engraving is free.

An AirTag regularly broadcasts 2.4GHz Bluetooth signals with an encrypted device ID for other Apple devices to pick up and relay along with those devices’ locations. The 2.4GHz band penetrates solid objects well, but case designers need to be mindful of materials that have the potential to block the signal. In our survey of AirTag cases, we didn’t find a case so far that had that design problem.

AirTags also use ultrawideband (USB) technology for Precision Finding, exclusive to Apple’s own Find My items. Precision Finding lets an iPhone with UWB identify the direction and distance within inches when it’s within about 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 m).

Consider to what use you may put an AirTag to determine the features you want:

Purpose: Cases exist in enough variety that you can find one designed as a luggage tag, another as a stylish keyring, and another to resist enormous amounts of damage. Figure out where you want to put the AirTag and match the case to it.
Water resistance: Many cases feature some degree of water resistance, some using the IP rating that defines precisely how much. If you’re using an AirTag outside or on a pet’s collar, you may want one with a high degree of resistance. When attaching to a bag or keyring, it may seem less important or not important at all.
Ring, clip, loop, or carabiner: Case makers offer many variants on attachments. Some include a simple hole to attach a keychain, while others incorporate a keychain as part of the product and may include a keyring. You can purchase multiple cases built into a carabiner, including one with a three-digit combination lock. You can also get a string or similar loop design, in which the case passes through a loop and pulls tight on a handle without a knot.
Removable or adhesive: You might want an AirTag case that’s easy to move about or attach and reattach. Other cases include adhesive for semi-permanent fixed attachment.
Hidden for theft recovery: Some cases are designed to hide an AirTag, making its presence less apparent and thus less likely to be discovered if stolen; others are obvious, such as in a keychain or luggage tag. Temper hideability with the knowledge that Apple’s anti-stalking features built into AirTag tech makes them discoverable to criminals with a smartphone.Shows the front: Conversely, some cases show off an AirTag, revealing its front where you might have had added custom engraving from Apple with an emoji or text. You might want to see that engraving to differentiate among AirTags you own.
Cost: Cases generally cost from about $20 to $35—around the price of a single AirTag. However, there are outliers below $10 and above $40. It’s all about the function, ruggedness, and complexity of purpose. Some charge extra for style.

How we test AirTag case features

For each kind of case, we rated them based on specific features around which they were designed. These include:

Easy to insert the AirTag for secure retention: Every case has a slightly different approach to getting an AirTag inside. Some cases have an elaborate locking procedure or require removing and restoring four tiny screws to preserve a waterproof seal. Others are simple as sliding the tag into a holding or popping it into a rubber ring.
Attaches securely for attachable cases: We tested cases that market themselves as attachable at how well they succeed at that task. Cases may come with or be part of a keyring, carabiner, wrist strip, or pet collar, or may have an adhesive to stick on to objects, like the inside of luggage.
Access for battery replacement: Apple expects an AirTag battery to last for about a year in everyday usage, which it defines as one case of Precision Finding and four tones played per day. A case should allow access that isn’t maddening for replacing the battery every several months to a year.
Robust against bumps and bangs: Only a few kinds of cases can avoid the wear and tear of bumping against other objects. Most need to be constructed with that in mind. For cases exposed to other surfaces, we look at whether the materials and build quality give confidence in them provide lasting value.
Blocks access to remove: A handful of cases provide a security element intended to prevent access to an AirTag without excessive force—the AirTag would have to be destroyed to remove it. We rate these cases on whether they seem able to prevent or deter everything but destruction.

Apple AirTag: Single or 4-Pack

Price When Reviewed: Single AirTag: $29; Pack of 4 AirTags: $99

Best Prices Today:

$27

View Deal

$27

View Deal

$27.99

View Deal

$29

View Deal

$29

View Deal

$29

View Deal

$29.99

View Deal

Also available as a 4-Pack at Apple or Amazon.

Read our full Apple AirTag (2026) review

10 iPhone Accessibility features that are useful for everyone

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Macworld

Apple has always been renowned for adapting its systems to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Anyone who selects Accessibility in the Settings app on an iPhone will be overwhelmed by the sheer range of options available. There are settings for short-sighted people like me, and there are settings for people with age-related vision impairment. There are settings for hearing aids, and a voice can read out the screen content.

As is always the case with Apple’s Accessibility features, there are sliders and buttons tucked away in unexpected places that make life a little easier for all users. Here is a collection of our favorite Accessibility features you could be using.

Face ID attention check

Foundry

There’s a rather clever option for Face ID: the biometric module only unlocks the iPhone when you’re looking directly at it. This prevents accidental unlocks. The setting is tucked away in Accessibility under Face ID and Attention.

The system warns you about certain types of sunglasses, but in practice, the unlocking works quite reliably. I’ve never had any problems with my polarized sunglasses. Another useful option is haptic feedback upon successful authentication. You’ll receive a brief vibration when Apple Pay is successful or when the iPhone is unlocked using Face ID.

Notifications with a flash

Foundry

You can choose to have notifications on your iPhone signaled visually rather than with an audio alert. This uses the LED flash on the rear camera or a flashing display. The setting can be found under Audio and Visual and is called Flash for Alerts.

Receiving a large number of notifications can drain the battery more quickly, as the flash or screen is actively switched on.

Always show volume controls

Foundry

As part of the Liquid Glass design for iOS 26, Apple removed the volume slider from the widgets. The volume itself could still be controlled via dedicated buttons, gestures on the AirPods, or the Digital Crown on the Apple Watch. The only thing missing was an overview of just how loud AC/DC were rocking or how softly Lana Del Rey was whispering.

However, the slider has never actually disappeared; it can be reactivated in Accessibility under the Audio and Visual section.

No Liquid Glass

Foundry

The Liquid Glass interface is here to stay. From the next version of iOS onwards, Apple will no longer accept apps that haven’t yet adapted their appearance to Liquid Glass. However, you can at least make the content stand out better against the background using two settings.

These settings can be found in Accessibility under the Display & Text Size section. The first two sliders after the text settings are called Reduce Transparency and Increase Contrast. Together, these create a clear distinction between the foreground and background, making text easier to read.

On/Off Labels

Foundry

If you want to bring a bit of that retro look from previous iOS versions to your iPhone, you can also enable additional On/Off labels in the Display & Text Size section. Instead of relying solely on color cues such as grey and green, the system also provides graphical cues such as a vertical line for On and a circle for Off. These are perhaps the last traces of skeuomorphism in iOS, as the line and circle represent the 0 and 1 in binary code.

Make Siri always aware

Foundry

By default, Siri is disabled when the iPhone face down or when the screen is covered. You can change this behavior in Accessibility: go to the Siri section at the end of Accessibility, then turn on Always Listen for Siri. This allows you to activate the smart voice assistant regardless of the iPhone’s position.

Tap on the back

Foundry

The Back Tap feature has an interesting history. The Accessibility team at Apple faced a problem with the iPhone X: The Home button disappeared entirely, and with it an intuitive and easy way to take screenshots. Pressing the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously requires a fair bit of guitar-playing-like skill, but the team wanted a simple yet effective alternative for people with disabilities.

This is how the double-tap gesture on the back of the iPhone came about as a replacement for the Home button. Initially, it could only be used to take screenshots, but now it offers several tasks that can be assigned to these taps.

The feature can be found in the Accessibility section, under Touch > Back Tap. You can set up a double-tap and a triple-tap. If you turn on Show Banner, a banner will appear when the iPhone senses a double or triple tap.

Background sounds

Foundry

ASMR videos on YouTube attract millions of views: the simple sounds of running water, wind or a crackling fire help people to relax or even fall asleep. Your iPhone can play such sounds too (without ad breaks).

The list of all background sounds can be found in Accessibility under the Audio & Visual section. Under the Background Sound > Sound setting, you’ll find a list of several available options, including Ocean, Rain, Babble, Fire, Airplane, and three different types of white noise. The sounds work even without an internet connection, as the iPhone downloads the relevant soundtrack the first time you play it.

The Background Sound page has several different settings you’ll want to adjust, including Volume, Stop Sounds with a Timer, and more. You can use these background sounds to help you fall asleep and set them to stop at a specific time.

Reduce frame rate to 60 fps

Foundry

On compatible iPhones, you can reduce the refresh rate to 60 frames per second. This is particularly beneficial when using graphically intensive apps. This setting can help reduce heat build-up slightly.. The setting can be found in Accessibility under the Motion section. The setting is at the bottom, called Limit Frame Rate.

One-handed mode

Foundry

Having one-handed mode enabled is a must, especially on the larger iPhones. With a downward swipe at the bottom of the screen, all content moves down a little further. Those items become easier to reach. This setting is called Reachability, and the toggle can be found in Accessibility under Touch.