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Special and useful Features 2024, It has been over a decade now that Xiaomi’s MIUI first came into existence. So, the brand replacing it with what they are calling HyperOS is definitely a breath of fresh air. Thanks to Xiaomi, I was able to get my hands on the newly launched Xiaomi 14 Pro, running -based HyperOS.

I was introduced to a bunch of new features during my time with the device. So, I have handpicked what I feel are the best ones from the lot. So, if you are an MIUI user who is eagerly looking forward to getting the new OS experience, here are the best HyperOS features you should get ready to use on your Xiaomi phone.

In Short

 Xiaomi is replacing MIUI with a new skin that they are calling HyperOS.
 The new OS brings features like a variety of different lock screen customizations, an improved gallery, bloatware uninstallation, and more.
 Newly launched Xiaomi 14 lineup of devices are the first ones to arrive with HyperOS right out of the box.

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1. Uninstall Bloatware

It is almost 2024 now and having bloatware on phones, especially flagships, is just something that brands need to do away with. Looks like Xiaomi is taking a big step towards that as now, you can easily uninstall bloatware, thanks to HyperOS.

From Mi to the app, Gallery, and even Games, most of the bothersome pre-installed applications can be uninstalled with HyperOS. Sometimes, you like the functionality of a native app while you don’t want to keep others on your device.

So, with this functionality, you get a lot more control over the apps on your device, which is always a good thing. Most importantly, you don’t have to go through the hassle of running ADB commands anymore.

Uninstalling the MI Security app bloatware on Xiaomi HyperOS

For example, the native Mi Music never made sense to me. Hence, I simply removed it and chose to install YouTube Music, which is my go-to music streaming service right now. This allowed me to not have a similar app take up space on my device that I’d never even use.

So, kudos to Xiaomi’s HyperOS for allowing bloatware uninstallation. However, note that you can’t uninstall apps like the Mi Browser and GetApps, which is a bummer. We hope Xiaomi will allow the uninstallation of these apps as well in the future.

Special and useful HyperOS Features 2024

Read Also : 12 Best ChatGPT Alternatives in 2024

2. Lock Screen Customization

Think about it. If you come across a device with a not-so-appealing lock screen, would you even be driven to pick it up and use it? Now, that’s a hack if you want to reduce your screen on time. But, if that’s not the case, I’m sure you’d like to go all out and create a super attractive lock screen.

If you ask me, Xiaomi has done a commendable job with its lock screen customization on HyperOS. I know, it’s similar to what Apple brought in with the iOS 16 update, but Xiaomi has implemented it quite well.

For starters, if you are feeling narcissistic enough, you can simply put your own picture as your lock screen and toggle on the Depth effect. This gave my lock screen a really stylish look, with the clock and date smoothly shying away behind my face.

Lock Screen Customizations on HyperOS

Then comes the numerous lock screen designs that I found myself aggressively scrolling through as the scroll animation here is just that good. Also, you can choose between Classic, Rhombus, and Magazine style of lock screens.

In addition, you can also change the lock screen font and clock style to make it as personalized as possible. I played around with all of these settings a tad too much, and I can say this is one of the best HyperOS features you’ve got to use. It gets even better with the customized AOD that go along with it. See them in in our YouTube video here:

3. Cleaner Control Center

Personally, I find myself visiting the Control Center the most on my phone in a day, whether it is to turn on the WiFi, location, Bluetooth, or just to quickly access my notifications and ghost people. So, a cleaner control panel definitely makes a lot of sense, and HyperOS brings you exactly that.

I took out the Xiaomi 13 Pro that we luckily had at our Beebom office to do a quick comparison with the HyperOS-running Xiaomi 14 Pro.

For starters, HyperOS gets rid of all the icon names in the Control Center, making it look more like iOS than ever before. Still, it looks and feels better to use. However, since the icons don’t have their respective names attached to them, it took me a while to wrap my head around it. But, once I did, I started preferring it over the conventional Control Center.

HyperOS vs. MIUI 14 vs. iOS 17.2 Control Center Comparison

(From Left to Right) HyperOS vs MIUI 14 vs iOS 17.2 Control Center Comparison

Moreover, once you swipe down to open the Control Center, you no longer have to swipe sideways to access all the quick settings. Every icon you add here can be accessed on the same page as you scroll down, just like on iOS.

Nevertheless, the revamped Control Center is one of the stand out HyperOS features, indeed.

4. Enhanced Gallery App

Although there was nothing wrong with the traditional Xiaomi Gallery app, it was not exactly in its best possible form. HyperOS has changed that as well, for we now see a redesigned Gallery app for users to get a clear understanding of what it has to offer.

Previously, the Gallery app had only two panels at the top, namely Photos and Albums. Now, with the release of HyperOS, we get to see them being shifted to the bottom alongside a third new panel, namely Recommendations.

The Recommendations panel lists all the features that you previously got to see upon tapping on the three-dot vertical menu in the Gallery app on MIUI. What’s new is that there is a bonus ID feature, which I found to be very useful. I can’t begin to talk about the number of times I have had to look for good apps to instantly create ID cutouts and photos for me. That issue is completely solved with this new feature.

Showing the new Recommendations tab and ID feature in Gallery on HyperOS

Now, what if I told you that you could share your cutouts from a particular photo anywhere? That is what HyperOS brings to the table. Alongside the existing ability to change your photo’s background, using the Cutouts feature in your gallery, you can now Copy, Save, or Send them with one tap to anyone, on any platform you wish.

Gave me all sorts of ideas to turn my friends into memes, and I loved it. In addition, I also noticed that the cutouts feature is now much easier to access with a single tap instead of the slightly more complex way of finding it on MIUI 14.

Sending a Cutout on WhatsApp on HyperOS

5. Improved Privacy & Security

Xiaomi’s HyperOS brings a brand new Privacy & Security page to the Settings app. Here, you will get to see everything that you need to step up your security game. Something that I really liked was how all the app permissions are now wonderfully listed on this page. This made it very easy for me to do a quick check when needed.

When I started exploring this page further, I found a section called Shutdown Confirmation. In my opinion, this is one of the best HyperOS security features that you get to make use of. What it does is it basically prevents your phone from being switched off without using a PIN or pattern.

Privacy and Security page HyperOS

So, whether someone stole your phone or one of your friends is trying to fool around with your phone, they won’t be able to switch it off without entering a PIN code. Moreover, everything is listed clearly and all the features are self-explanatory, such that even first-time Xiaomi users won’t have a hard time figuring things out.

6. Lightweight & Hyper Fast

One of the best things about HyperOS is how lightweight it is. I was honestly surprised to see the OS take up just a mere 8.76GB of internal storage on the Xiaomi 14 Pro. This gives you a little more room to work with on your device.

If you take a look at Xiaomi’s history, you can see how they have been focusing on making the OS as lightweight as possible. Even the last-gen MIUI 14 takes up somewhere around 13GB. But HyperOS pushes that even further, bringing the OS install size under 10GB.

It’s not just MIUI that HyperOS mops the floor with in terms of install size. Other popular operating systems like OneUI and OxygenOS take up significantly more storage space as well. Even iOS 17.2 takes up 11GB of storage space. I could feel the lightweightness of HyperOS as I was using it if that makes sense. Take a look at OS install sizes for HyperOS vs MIUI 14 vs iOS 17.2 vs 14 for better understanding:

Showing how much storage space different mobile Operating Systems take up

(From Left to Right) HyperOS vs Pixel UI vs OneUI 6 vs iOS 17.2

One of the reasons I disliked MIUI was because of how cluttered and sometimes stuttery everything felt. All of that goes away with this release, and the way Xiaomi has optimized HyperOS is beyond amazing. The animations too are stellar now.

When you install anything from GetApps, you see a super cool animation on your homescreen as well. Although this was also part of the Chinese MIUI ROM for quite some time now, it is good to see it make it to HyperOS as well.

RAM Management is like nothing we have seen on any MIUI device. In one instance, I had Call of Duty running in the background for almost an hour and when I re-entered the game, I was still in the lobby. Alongside that, other apps that I had open like YouTube and did not reload either.

The bottomline is that everything has this sense of satisfaction attached to it, and HyperOS makes you want to use your device a lot more often.

7. -like Feature

Ever since Dynamic Island came into the picture with the Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max models, we have seen countless Android phone makers try to recreate the feature. We saw the Mini Capsule feature on the Realme C55, and OnePlus recently debuted something similar on their phones with the release of OxygenOS 14, among others.

Showing the Dynamic Island-like feature on HyperOS

Now, Xiaomi too had to scratch their itch of doing something similar to iPhone’s Dynamic Island with HyperOS. The brand isn’t calling this feature anything right now, which works when you turn on the hotspot, put your phone on charging, turn on Battery Saver, or turn on Silent mode, among other things.

It’s just a nifty little aesthetic addition to the HyperOS, and honestly, I do dig it quite a bit. In terms of utility though, there’s not much that it brings to the table. /10 in coolness quotient though.

The more I used HyperOS, the more Xiaomi’s objectives became clearer. Minimalism is the first step and fluidity comes next. Everything felt a lot more fluid, responsive, and “smart” in general without anything feeling over the top.

Moreover, I certainly do hope to test out Xiaomi’s new interconnectivity with HyperOS as and when we get to use it in India. Also, looking forward to seeing which of these HyperOS features make it to the Global ROM. Also, Xiaomi is understandably focusing on the bigger picture and plans to load up its ecosystem products, like its electric cars, with HyperOS. There’s no doubt that moving past MIUI to unveil HyperOS is one heck of a move by Xiaomi.

However, I’d actually like to see Xiaomi finally come up with something completely new on the OS front instead of releasing features inspired by iOS. Let me know in the comments section what you feel about Xiaomi’s latest and greatest, HyperOS.

 

Is HyperOS better than MIUI?

Be it in terms of sheer functionality, fluidity, or seamlessness, HyperOS sure does mop the floor with MIUI in each of these aspects. It is also the most lightweight skin out there, taking up just 8.7GB of storage space.

Which phone will get HyperOS?

The first phones to get HyperOS are the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro models. In addition, Xiaomi has also released a list of HyperOS compatible devices, which includes quite a few POCO phones as well.

Is HyperOS based on Android?

The latest HyperOS skin, although based on Android, uses Linux and Xiaomi’s proprietary Vela system at its core. As for the recently launched Xiaomi 14 phones, they are running Android 14-based HyperOS right out of the box.

Does HyperOS have new features?

Yes, HyperOS brings a bunch of new features to the table, such as lock screen customization, bloatware uninstallation, and more. It also retains a lot of the features that have been available on the Chinese MIUI ROM but not the Global ROM. Some of these features include redesigned apps for better usability, individual icon resizing, AI Calling, etc.

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12 Best ChatGPT Alternatives in 2024, You must have seen how explodingly popular ChatGPT has become on the internet. The chatbot is based on OpenAI’s GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 language models, allowing users to converse with the AI. And the fact that ChatGPT can now see images and even speak makes it all the better. But that also brought a big downside with ChatGPT’s servers being overloaded with users. This has locked users out of using the handy bot when needed. So, if you are one of the folks who find ChatGPT frequently down, you can follow our list of the best ChatGPT alternatives in 2024.

1. Gemini (Formerly Bard)

Ever since ChatGPT went viral, many users had their eye on Google. And now Google finally has a family of worthy AI models called Gemini that can compete with ChatGPT’s best models. Gemini, which was earlier known as Bard, is powered by the Gemini 1.0 Pro model.

And if you want to experience the most capable Gemini 1.0 Ultra model, you can subscribe to Gemini Advanced (similar to ChatGPT Plus). Currently, Google is offering two months of free trial along with Google One benefits.

gemini advanced homepage

We compared Gemini Ultra with OpenAI’s GPT-4 model and concluded that Gemini Ultra is very good at creative writing and a great tool for researching due to Google Search integration. It’s overall a great model, however, in commonsense reasoning, it falls behind GPT-4.

That said, the free version of Gemini is plenty powerful and in some cases, it does a better job than the free version of ChatGPT (powered by the GPT-3.5 model). It also supports image analysis which the ChatGPT doesn’t offer under the free tier.

You also get extension support in Gemini that allows you to integrate your Gmail, Drive, Google Docs, etc. with Gemini and get personalized responses. Best of all, with the YouTube integration, you can ask questions on any YouTube .

And similar to the GPT-4 model, both Gemini Pro and Gemini Ultra are multimodal models. However, the multimodal capability has not been turned on yet. Google will be adding the multimodal feature to both the free version of Gemini and Gemini Advanced in the coming days.

Not to mention, you can now generate images in Gemini, and run Python code in the Gemini interface, but it’s only available to Gemini Advanced users. And the upcoming Gemini 1.5 Pro model is even more powerful and is built on a sparse MoE architecture, just like GPT-4. It has a context length of 1 million tokens which is remarkable. So you can definitely use Gemini as a solid alternative to ChatGPT and it’s only getting better.

Key Features: Upload images, Chat history, Powered by the latest Gemini Pro and Gemini Ultra models, Export to Docs, Colab, Powerful coding and reasoning capability, Multilingual model, Python interpreter.

Check Out Gemini (Gemini Advanced starts at $20 per month, Offers a free trial of 2 months with Google One benefits)

12 Best ChatGPT Alternatives in 2024

Read Also : How to Use ChatGPT 4 For Free

2.

Microsoft Copilot is one of the heaviest competitors to ChatGPT. It is also the one model that has gone through numerous changes, and rebrands. The AI bot is powered by an upgraded model of ChatGPT, which the company initially called the new “Prometheus model” but was later confirmed to be GPT-4.

So Copilot is the only service out there that offers free access to the GPT-4 model. And now the company has announced Copilot Pro which costs $20 per month but brings priority access to GPT-4 Turbo, GPT-4, and upcoming models from OpenAI. It also lets you use Copilot features in Office apps. Bear in mind, free Copilot users will only get responses from the GPT-4 model during non-peak hours.

Bing-ChatGPT interface

Other than that, Copilot is full to the brim with all the handy AI features that make it an excellent ChatGPT alternative. For starters, the Chat mode is the heart that pulls in queries and lets users have full-scale conversations based on them. Users can tune the bot according to their needs to have it respond appropriately.

The AI bot cum search engine has also added support for a ton of functionalities, including widgets, chat history, and even multimodal capability to help it read images.

Furthermore, you also get increased accuracy and the . Copilot even allows users to plan trips, get recipes, seek out advice, and a lot more, just like ChatGPT. Finally, you also get a handful of plugins on Copilot.

Key Features: Powered by GPT-4, Supports visual input and output, Connects to the internet, Multimodal, Gets the latest information on any subject, Chat history, Different chat modes, and Cites sources.

Try Microsoft Copilot (Copilot Pro starts at $20 per month)

3. Mistral Chat

In case you are not following , Microsoft recently invested close to $16 million investment in a young French AI startup called , overshadowing its close partner, OpenAI. Mistral AI has been gaining recognition in the open-source community for developing powerful AI models, closely competing against OpenAI’s GPT-4 model.

mistral chat interface

Its newly-announced Mistral Large model is one of the flagship AI models out there, scoring 81.2% in the MMLU test (GPT-4 scored 86.4%). According to the company, Mistral Large is very good at advanced reasoning, supports a context length of up to 32K tokens, has function calling support just like GPT-4, and natively fluent in various popular international languages.

In addition, the company released Mistral Chat (also known as Le Chat), powered by the Mistral Large model. So if you are looking for a solid alternative to ChatGPT without having to pay for GPT-4 access, Mistral Chat is an impressive option, powered by a GPT-4 class Mistral Large model. Users who want AI models fluent in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian, will enjoy Mistral Chat.

Key Features: Multilingual, Advanced reasoning capability, 32K tokens context length, Great at coding, Free to use, Powered by Mistral Large, Supports native function calling via API

Check Out Mistral Chat (Free)

4. Perplexity AI

Perplexity AI is a ChatGPT alternative users have always loved because it combines a search engine experience with AI like Copilot. The bot has also been trained on OpenAI’s API and, as such, performs well with good responses. While the tool can converse with you, it even cites sources for its answer.

Perplexity interface

Besides searching the Internet, Perplexity can comb through various sources like Reddit, writing, YouTube, and more. Perplexity AI even has a handy co-pilot mode that uses the power of GPT-4 to dive deep into your questions and come up with the best answers. However, you only get five queries for GPT-4 which refreshes every four hours.

I had various conversations with the bot, both with and without the co-pilot, and it helped me out easily every time. It also doesn’t hurt that the responses are lightning-fast and error-free.

Perplexity even comes with a multimodal mode along with Claude 2. However, you will need to upgrade to Perplexity Pro to unlock that.

Key Features: Cites sources, Actionable results, Good for product recommendations, Features GPT-4 modeUpload files

Try Perplexity AI (Android/iOS)

5. Claude 2.1

ChatGPT has no shortage of rivals in the AI space. Enter Claude 2.1 which has a context length of 200K, an upgraded by the company Anthropic. The company has been backed by Google, making it an OpenAI competitor. Claude doesn’t use an LLM model in the traditional sense.

It instead uses a collection of what it calls “proprietary AI techniques” that include a neural network, training data, and more. This is focused more on natural conversation. This makes Claude a helpful, harmless, and honest bot for use.

a screenshot showing Claude 2 interface

While initially accessible only through Slack, Claude is now available in over 95 countries for free use. The AI chatbot by itself is capable of a lot. This ranges from simple conversations to writing complex codes, solving riddles, telling jokes, and more. Users can even upload compatible files and ask Claude to summarize them for ease of use. Furthermore, the best part is that the bot replies are lightning-fast and effortless.

However, do note that Claude 2 cannot access the Internet and is limited by its data. Claude also sometimes struggles with mathematical problems, so double-check your answer. Nonetheless, try it out and let us know what you think.

Key Features: 200k context window, Can load libraries of books, comparable to the GPT-4 model, Upload PDF files, Cheaper than GPT-4, Safe to use LLM

Try Claude 2 (Claude Pro starts at $20 per month)

6. GroqChat

Groq is an AI-first hardware company that has developed a specialized chip for AI inference called an LPU (Language Processing Unit). The company has taken the AI industry by storm by offering 10x better performance than Nvidia GPUs. To showcase its LPU’s prowess, the company has launched GroqChat where you can run open-source models and get results in a jiffy.

groq chat interface

Currently, it hosts Mistral AI’s impressive open-source model, Mixtral 8x7B model and Meta AI’s Llama 2 70B model. Both models are great, but I prefer to use Mistral AI’s model as it’s much better at reasoning and complex tasks. If you don’t want to pay for ChatGPT Plus subscription and looking for a free alternative, GroqChat is a solid option. Not to mention, the lightning speed performance of GroqChat will blow your mind.

Key Features: Lightning fast output generation, Hosts open-source models including Mixtral 8x7B, Free to use

Check Out GroqChat (Free)

7. Chatsonic

For many users, Chatsonic has proven to be one of the best ChatGPT alternatives, and for good reason. The bot has been built on top of ChatGPT and, hence, inherits its vast potential. While the chatbot only had a few features upon its launch, it is now supercharged with a lot of that make it worth your while.

For starters, Chatsonic’s integrated Google search means it can quickly look up the Internet for you and provide you with the most detailed answer. This ensured I didn’t get incorrect details. The chatbot even cites sources for verification. There is also a built-in image generator when you quickly need a photo. While the images aren’t as good as Midjourney, they’re pretty decent with super fast output.

Chatsonic interface

Chatsonic also comes with multiple personas, ranging from an accountant to a poet, in case you feel like conversing with different people. It even has a voice recording feature if you feel too lazy to type. While the Chatsonic is not free, you get 10,000 free words when you sign up. You can get more when you buy a paid plan.

Key Features: Offers GPT-4 model, Image creation, Voice command, Translation, Character-based chat, Internet access

Try ChatSonic

8. HuggingChat

One of the best open-source ChatGPT alternatives, HuggingChat is an AI chatbot created by HuggingFace, one of the premier websites hosting many AI services. This chatbot was previously based on the Meta AI (LLaMA) LLM but has since evolved where it lets you choose from a variety of language models.

This includes not just Llama 2 but also other LLMs like Mixtral-8x7B, OpenChat, Google’s recent open-source Gemma models, and more. To help sort this, HuggingChat has the option for multiple chats.

A screenshot showing HuggingChat's interface

HuggingChat can do everything ChatGPT would. It can write interesting blog posts and jokes, curate HTML code for websites, give you recipes, and much more. There is also a handy toggle to enable web access.

This will allow the bot to gather information online to supplement its answer. However, the bot has network errors from time to time, which might hinder you. Nonetheless, try this ChatGPT alternative the next time the former goes down.

Key Features: Multiple model selection, Supports web access, Good for coding,

Try HuggingChat

9. Pi, your personal AI

Among all the other ChatGPT alternatives, Pi is possibly the only one that will provide you with a different experience altogether. Based on being a supportive and smart AI, Pi is a chatbot that follows a unique design. Instead of full-blown chats, conversations on Pi happen dialogue by dialogue. What makes it more interesting is that Pi is also one of the only assistants who talks back. The website has six different voices; each is eerily realistic and oddly comforting.

Pi personal AI interface

Pi starts the conversation itself and tries to glean in every message you send. Speaking something like how a therapist would, the ChatGPT alternative is quite inquisitive and tries to understand and respond in kind. One could almost start to forget this is an AI if not for the occasional errors.

So, while it can get tedious if you keep talking, Pi is one of the best ChatGPT alternatives if you want some mental relief. However, you need an account and a working phone number to sign up, which can be a downside for some. Nonetheless, check it out.

Key Features: Personal AI chatbot, Speaks like a therapist, Engaging and conversational

Try Pi, your personal AI

10. GitHub Copilot

Students are not the only ones who can benefit from tools like ChatGPT. Github Copilot is the company’s solution for programmers at their wit’s end. GitHub Copilot is based on the concept of auto-completion but goes much further than that. The tool helps programmers by suggesting and completing code and entire functions in real time. Consider GitHub Copilot as a tool to help with programmers’ block.

Github Copilot is on OpenAI’s latest GPT-4 model and has been trained on millions of lines of code. Copilot is compatible with all popular coding editor platforms, including VS Code, Visual Studio, Neovim, and JetBrains. This intuitive ChatGPT alternative can also generate syntax in various languages, including Javascript, PHP, and BASH.

GitHub Copilot X interface

GitHub has also introduced chat and voice for Copilot, which will give users a ChatGPT-like experience, and even GitHub Copilot Voice, where developers can verbally give natural language prompts. You can simply ask Copilot Chat for code improvements, and it will suggest them in real-time.

Besides writing code, GitHub Copilot can give users an in-depth analysis and explanations of code blocks through the power of GPT-4. It supports pull requests, answers questions on docs, and provides a personalized developer experience. While the service was available for limited users, it has now started to roll out more widely. GitHub Copilot is priced at $10 per month for individuals and $19 per user per month for businesses.

Key Features: Powered by GPT-4, Great coding model for developers, Supports numerous IDEs, Autocomplete code, Write test functions, Supports GitHub functionalities, Debug code

Try Github Copilot

11. OpenAI Playground

From the start, it is worth noting that OpenAI Playground is a tool not meant for daily users. However, if you find yourself locked out of ChatGPT and still want a taste of its capabilities, OpenAI Playground is the way to go. This web-based tool works like ChatGPT but provides much more advanced options, including selecting a specific language model to experiment with.

Once you have selected the model, you can tinker with other factors such as the model’s randomness, number of tokens, frequency penalty, stop sequences, and more. ChatGPT Plus users can even choose the latest GPT-4 LLM.

Open AI playground interface

Since OpenAI Playground is simply a demo version of the ChatGPT service, its outputs are on par with ChatGPT and give a good feel of the actual service. You can try out some cool ChatGPT prompts mentioned in this article. This chatbot demo also supports speech-to- inputs, and you can even upload an audio recording.

Unlike some AI bots, Playground doesn’t slow down and responds on the fly. It’s also free to use, provided you sign up for an account. However, be aware that you might lose access, just like ChatGPT, if the server is in high demand.

Key Features: Lots of model customizations, Access to various models, Upload audio recording, Free to use

Try OpenAI Playground

12. Poe

Introduced in early 2023, Poe by Quora is not an AI itself but more of a platform where you can talk to AI bots. Poe stands for ‘Platform for Open Exploration.’ True to its name, Quora Poe is a place where users can talk to and experiment with various AI chatbots.

Quora mentions that Poe lets people ask questions, get instant answers, and have back-and-forth conversations with several AI-powered bots.

Quora Poe interface

Poe’s website is neatly packaged and currently allows users to talk with AIs like Sage, ChatGPT, Dragonfly, and even GPT-4, Claude 2, Gemini Pro, Mistral-Medium, and more. All told, the platform allows access to over 20 different LLMs. However, access is limited for the last two, so you must get a subscription for the same. For those thinking that Poe is an AI chatbot that is going to use the question-answer data on Quora, you can rest easy as that’s not the case.

Quora Poe works extremely well and has little to no downtime while you talk away with the various AI bots. However, you do need to create an account to access it. Thankfully, you don’t need to create separate accounts for all services, so that’s the bright side. If you’re the sort who loves all these ChatGPT-like tools but can’t be bothered to open them all, Poe can be your one-stop platform for them.

Key Features: One-stop platform for various models, Supports GPT-4, Claude, and more, Easy to use, No downtime

Try Quora Poe (iOS / Android)

What are AI Chatbots?

For those unaware, AI chatbots are virtual programs and apps designed to simulate human conversation. To break it down even further, AI chatbots make users feel like they’re talking to another human instead of bots. Ever since the rise of ChatGPT, AI chatbots have vastly increased in quantity. Besides talking, AI chatbots can do a lot of other things, including writing essays, solving calculations, and more. As mentioned in the piece, a lot of ChatGPT alternatives here function as full-fledged AI chatbots. So you can go ahead and have conversations with these bots and have them respond in kind.

Is There Any Ultimate Alternative to ChatGPT?

While we have listed many ChatGPT alternatives above, we wouldn’t classify any of them as the ultimate solution. Depending on how you are as a user, one alternative might be more suitable for you than the other. So, whether it’s a ChatGPT alternative for coders, writers, or even people with simple search engine queries, there’s something for everyone.

Is There a Free Version of ChatGPT?

ChatGPT itself is free to use and experiment with by anyone. However, users who want to try out the new GPT-4 model must pay $20 monthly to access it. This will not only give them a better language model but no downtime. Check out how to get access to GPT-4 right now and get started.

What is ChatGPT’s Advanced Data Analysis?

Previously known as the Code Interpreter, the Advanced Data Analysis is a separate mode for the bot that enables users to upload any kind of code or data and have ChatGPT analyze it. So, if you’re a programmer with code to debug, you can use this mode provided you have the ChatGPT Plus subscription.

What Is Google’s Equivalent of ChatGPT?

Google has worked on several different language models in the past. The list includes models like BERT, MUM, and LaMDA. However, Google’s latest and most fitting ChatGPT equivalent is Bard. As mentioned above, Google Bard is an experimental conversational AI service. However, it’s equally powerful with multiple features like access to the Internet, extension support, citing sources, multimodal help, and much more.

Is Google Bard better than ChatGPT?

While both ChatGPT and Google Bard are capable AI bots, calling one better over the other wouldn’t necessarily be correct. Both the AI chatbots come with their own set of nuances that users love. So, while Google Bard comes with multiple drafts and sources for variety, some absolutely love GPT-4s speed and data. So, as is with everything in life, your mileage may vary.

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How to Use ChatGPT 4 For Free, OpenAI recently released its latest GPT-4 model, which is much more powerful than anything OpenAI has released so far. It is the largest language model system OpenAI has developed, and it also comes with vision capability. GPT-4 is multimodal, meaning it can interpret not only text but image inputs as well. Apart from that, it performs well in reasoning tests and supports about 26 different languages.

That said, ChatGPT 4 is not available to free users. You have to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus to try out GPT-4. Nevertheless, in this guide, we bring you simple ways to use ChatGPT 4 for free. You can access the advanced GPT-4 language model without paying any price. So on that note, let’s jump to the guide.

1. Use ChatGPT 4 for Free on Bing Chat

You can use GPT-4 for free on Microsoft Bing without any limitations. Just after the release of the GPT-4 model, Microsoft came forward and announced that its Bing AI is already running on the GPT-4 model (codename: Prometheus). In fact, Bing AI has some additional features that ChatGPT 4 does not have by default.

You can get answers live from the internet, generate images on Bing AI with a simple prompt, and get citations for information. Now let’s go ahead and how to use Bing to access ChatGPT 4 freely.

1. Head over to bing.com/new (visit) and click on “Chat now”.

chat with bing

2. Now, switch to the “Creative” mode and ask your questions. This mode uses the GPT-4 model.

Creative mode bing

3. You can also install the Bing app (Android / iOS — Free) on your and enable the “GPT-4” toggle. Now, you can start talking to GPT-4 without any limitations. You can also upload images to Bing to use GPT-4’s multimodal capability.

use gpt-4 for free on bing chat on android or ios

2. How to use ChatGPT 4 on Perplexity AI

For those unaware, Perplexity is an AI-powered search engine that combines its database with the Internet to provide a seamless experience. However, what makes it different is that it has a new Co-Pilot feature that uses GPT-4 to give enhanced search results and better information. Learn how to access ChatGPT 4 for your searches using the steps below.

1. Head to the official Perplexity AI website to begin the process.

2. Click on the “Sign up” button to quickly make an account. Go through the motions of making an account by entering your credentials.

Sign up perplexity AI

3. You’ll now land on the main page, but our focus is in the search bar. Toggle on the “Copilot” option to enable the “GPT-4” model. Free users can ask 5 questions every four hours.

Perplexity ai access chatgpt 4 for free toggle on

4. Now, type out your query or click on any of the pre-filled options and press return. In my case, I asked it to plan a trip to Italy. As you can see, Copilot understood my question and even asked me about my preferences.

plan trip to tokyo Use ChatGPT 4 For Free

5. And just like that, we have our trip. Just like the best ChatGPT plugins, Perplexity AI used GPT-4 to search the Internet and use AI to create a plan for me. You get five queries every 4 hours, so use them wisely.

trip to tokyo perplexity ai

How to Use ChatGPT 4 For Free

Read Also : Best Free AI Content Generator 2024

3. How to use ChatGPT 4 on Merlin

Merlin has already appeared on our list of ChatGPT extensions. However, we are mentioning it again as it’s also an amazing way to access GPT-4 for free. If you are new, you should know Merlin is an AI-powered extension that can intelligently act as a guide. You can summon Merlin through keyboard shortcuts or click its icon for help on various topics, including searches, articles, and more. Follow the steps below to set it up:

1. First, visit the official Merlin Chrome extension page and click “Add to Chrome.” You’ll now go through a small tutorial. That’s just there to teach you the basic steps.

add to chrome merlin

2. Now, we need to pin the extension for easy access. Click on the extension menu and then the pin icon next to Merlin.

pin browser extension chrome

3. Now, simply head over to any website or even and tap the Merlin extension. A chat will open up.

Ask Merlin anything

4. Finally, click on the dropdown menu and select GPT-4 to get Merlin to use that. Do note that while you get 51 free queriesGPT-4 uses queries at once. You can even turn on web access beside it if you wish.

GPT-4 select

5. Just like that, you’re using GPT-4 using Merlin. The extension will now use the LLM and perform any task you wish. Definitely, an easy way to access ChatGPT 4 for free.

Access chatgpt 4 for free merlin extension

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chat GPT-4 available now?

Yes, ChatGPT-4 is available for use to those who have subscribed to ChatGPT Plus.

Can I use Chat GPT-4 for free?

Although there is no way to directly access Chat GPT-4 for free without subscribing to ChatGPT Plus, you can make use of it via GPT-4-integrated chatbots like Microsoft Bing, Perplexity AI, and others.

What can Chat GPT-4 do?

Chat GPT-4 is an AI language processing model that can analyze texts and images to provide answers to prompts that come from users of the advanced chatbot. The possibilities are endless when it comes to all that Chat GPT-4 can do.

How much does a ChatGPT Plus subscription cost?

ChatGPT Plus costs $20 per month for every region across the globe.

15 Best ChatGPT Plugins You Should Use Right Now

As if it wasn’t already possible, ChatGPT keeps scaling new heights. Thhe chatbot comes with some amazing features and data. However, did you know that there are plugins that you can pair with the AI chatbot? Even though Google remains somewhat of a competition with its PaLM 2 model, the OpenAI product remains massively popular. To make your job easier, we have scoured the ChatGPT plugin store and picked the best plugins already. So, without further ado, let’s begin.

1. Prompt Perfect

First up, we have Prompt Perfect, one of the best ChatGPT extensions that lets users write the perfect prompts for the AI chatbot. If you are part of the few not able to do so, Perfect will immensely help you. To begin, enter a prompt for whatever you want to ask the AI bot. In our case, I ask ChatGPT to write a 200-word story about cars.

prompt perfect chatgpt

However, make sure to write the word “perfect” before your prompt. Once done, the plugin will rewrite the entire prompt under the hood to make it highly detailed to ChatGPT. This helps the AI chatbot come up with informative and specific answers for your prompt. Besides that, the plugin requires no other intervention and has a plug-and-play nature. Check it out.

2. OpenTable

One of the best ChatGPT plugins we used was OpenTable for quick and seamless restaurant bookings on the go. This ChatGPT plugin is based on ensuring users book their times with the least possible effort. As such, you only need to provide ChatGPT with all the basic requirements, like the date, time, location, and number of people.

openai best chatgpt plugins

The plugin then takes in the information and automatically finds specific restaurants. The links provided by the plugin even lead to the reservation details already pre-filled, making it one of the best ChatGPT plugins for convenient restaurant bookings.

3. Wolfram

While it can get a bit technical for some users, the Wolfram ChatGPT plugin is one of the best due to its advanced abilities. Powered by advanced data, Wolfram allows ChatGPT users to access advanced computation, math, and real-time data to solve all types of queries.

wolfram best chatgpt plugins

So, instead of sticking to just basic math problems, you can ask Wolfram for advanced help like creating a genealogical tree, creating an audio spectrogram, illustrating anatomy, and much more. It can even tell the date and time in real-time, which isn’t something ChatGPT can do. So, go ahead and experiment with Wolfram to see which feature works best for you in this ChatGPT plugin.

4. Zapier

Made explicitly to eliminate and ease unnecessary workflows, Zapier is one of the top ChatGPT plugins for working professionals as well as marketers. In a nutshell, Zapier lets users interact with over 5,000 different work apps without ever needing to perform extra steps. This includes all mainstream apps like Gmail, MS Outlook, Slack, and many more. All users need to do is complete a one-time connection and approve some actions.

zapier chatgpt plugins

Once done, you can practically draft entire emails or send in-depth Slack messages right from ChatGPT. Zapier then works in tandem with ChatGPT to make it possible and also lets users make edits to their actions. So when I asked to draft a test Gmail, it created the action almost instantly and let me send it. Check it out if you’re too lazy to open your mail client.

5. Canva

Canva has finally introduced its ChatGPT plugin, and it’s now available on the plugin store. It can do several tasks, from generating social media posts to videos for Instagram Reels and . You can also use it to generate templates for websites with descriptive prompts and create presentations right inside the chat interface.

canva plugin in chatgpt

The best part is that Canva allows you to edit the generated content for further customization. You just have to click the link, and it will take you to its website, where you can make changes. Not to mention, you don’t even have to log in to Canva to make key changes. All in all, the Canva plugin is truly a great addition to ChatGPT and brings so many new utilities to a chat interface. It’s also very easy to use the ChatGPT Canva plugin so you don’t need to fuss a lot with it.

6. Argil AI

While it’s quite easy to use DALLE 3 with ChatGPT, the Argil AI is an amazing plugin for images. Using Argil AI, users can generate images right within ChatGPT itself.

A screenshot showing Argil AI generating images

All one needs to do is select the plugin and describe the image they want it to create. The description can be very vivid for variety. You can even take inspiration from the best prompts. Once done, simply hit return and wait while the image is generated. Within a few moments, Argil AI will output a beautiful image to the user. Opportunistic users can even compile a collection and make money with ChatGPT using this way. Check out Argil if you can’t be bothered to use DALLE 3.

7. VoxScript

VoxScript is one of the best ChatGPT plugins with some added features. This includes the ability to quickly fetch video details and even its transcript in a detailed manner. So, if you were relying on the best ChatGPT Chrome extensions for that, you could use Vox now instead.

Voxscript ChatGPT Plugins

To begin, just ask to provide Vox with a URL of the target video and ask it to generate a transcript. The plugin will then run with ChatGPT and quickly dish out a detailed transcript along with its basic details and a view count. However, for users who want more, VoxScript can even comb through financial sources and even get you Google search results for even more data.

8. Kayak

One of the best plugins for  planning with ChatGPT, Kayak lets users easily book flights and hotels and get travel recommendations for all their trip-planning needs. As before, it requires your basic details such as origin, destination, arrival, and departure time. Once done, Kayak will guide you through plenty of flight options available from your location.

Kayak best chatgpt plugins

The detail includes the total price, expected layovers and delays, popular airlines, and more. Once you’re happy with your selection, ask ChatGPT to generate links, and Kayak will do that, too.

9. Link Reader

While some of the best ChatGPT Chrome extensions can read webpages for you, not everyone is into extensions and wants stuff simpler. For those, Link Reader can be one of the best ChatGPT plugins. Put simply, this plugin can read the content of all kinds of links, including webpages, PDFs, images, and more.

link reader best chatgpt plugins

All one needs to do is provide it a link and ask it for information. ChatGPT then interfaces with Link Reader and provides a well-detailed answer to the query. So, if you’re looking for a quick summary, this plugin is one to turn to.

10. Speak

For the linguists out there, Speak can turn out to be one of the best plugins if used correctly. True to its name, Speak is a plugin that lets you learn how to say anything in other languages.

Speak ChatGPT Plugin working as a language tutor

This essentially makes Speak like a language tutor. Besides translation, users can use Speak for verbs, conjugations, nuanced grammar, and much more. To begin, type out your language query, and the ChatGPT plugin will respond back almost immediately.

. There’s an AI For That

While most of these plugins are one-off function ones, this ChatGPT tool comes under our best list because it is practically a collection of them all. There’s an AI that has a wide-ranging database of a variety of tools one might need in their professional and personal life. This includes simple tools like image editors, PDF converters, and much more.

Convert PDF

To look for specific tools, simply ask the AI about your exact requirements, and it will provide you with a handy list. I tried the same for PDF converters, and the plugin gave a concise list easily. Check it out yourself.

12. Instacart

While ChatGPT already gives you recipes, it cannot seek out ingredients for you. Instacart, on the other hand, makes its way into our best ChatGPT plugins list for this reason. Based solely on food, this ChatGPT plugin can intelligently come up with food and drink recipes and provide a detailed breakdown of the steps.

Instacart buy ingredients

However, what sets it apart is that Instacart then leads to its main service page, where users can buy these ingredients in real-time. So, if you seem to be running out of parmesan for your pasta, here’s where you can get it. The recipe and ingredient generation itself is fast and without errors and did satisfy a foodie like me. So give Instacart a whirl and see if you find the experience tasty.

13. Diagrams: Show Me

Besides leisure, ChatGPT can also help out users in the form of its various productivity tools. One such tool in the form of the best ChatGPT plugins is Show Me, a handy service that lets ChatGPT create real-time diagrams of almost all types. Show Me requires a basic concept for users to display as a flow chart.

Show me best chatgpt plugins

In my experience, I asked the plugin to display the concept of Ikigai using a mind map. Both ChatGPT and Show Me worked together to give a visual and text-based representation of it easily. So the next time you feel the need to generate a quick diagram, use this ChatGPT plugin.

14. Image Editor

There are times you might have images needing editing but wouldn’t really want to open up Photoshop for that. For all your basic editing needs, the Image Editor plugin can prove to be one of the best in ChatGPT. The Image Editor can perform various functions for you, including resizing, cropping, blurring, or even rotating the image.

Resize image bestchatgpt plugins

However, do note that you need to provide the image URL to the tool for it to upload it. Once done, simply ask the Image Editor for your request. We asked it to resize it to our dimensions, and it worked extremely well. While its functions are a bit limited, you can quickly do basic editing using this ChatGPT plugin.

15. CoderPad

 15 Best ChatGPT Plugins You Should Use Right Now
 15 Best ChatGPT Plugins You Should Use Right Now
 15 Best ChatGPT Plugins You Should Use Right Now
 15 Best ChatGPT Plugins You Should Use Right Now

We know that ChatGPT can now run code with Code Interpreter, but it only supports Python. However, with the CoderPad plugin, you can run code in over 30 programming languages right inside ChatGPT. That’s amazing, right? There is no need to set up the environment manually or worry about limited package support. Just install the CoderPad plugin, and you can run and test any piece of code.

And these are the best ChatGPT plugins you can use right now. However, do note that the plugin store contains hundreds of plugins, so feel to explore yourself, too. Ever since being boosted with GPT-4 Turbo, the chatbot has been made all the more powerful. However, on the off chance you’re bored, there are also a lot of ChatGPT alternatives you can check out to experiment even more. Got any more plugins recommendations for us? Drop them in the comments below.

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The cases in 2024, The iPhone 14 Pro Max has become a favorite among Apple fans since its launch. While it’s never easy to spend more money, especially after buying a new phone, it’s a good idea to invest in a protective case for the phone to avoid scratches, chips, or other damage. You can find plenty of cases on the market, from those that provide complete protection to those that add style to your phone. Here are our top picks for the best cases available for the iPhone 14 Pro Max in 2024.

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Catalyst Crux iPhone 14 Pro Max Case

The best lanyard iPhone 14 Pro Max case

The Catalyst Crux iPhone 14 Pro Max Case offers plenty of protection with its shock-absorbent corners. However, it’s likely that buyers won’t even need them, thanks to the sturdy lanyard that comes with every case.

Accessories like lanyards can make it easy to carry around your phone without fear of dropping it on the ground as long as it’s fastened around your wrist. Unfortunately, the Catalyst Crux case only comes in one color. That said, you’ll feel so secure with the case and lanyard that its color may not actually matter to you.

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The best customizable iPhone 14 Pro Max case

Casetify is a highly reputable brand that’s well-known for making solid cases with what feels like an endless amount of color options. No matter who you are or what sort of style you’re going for, you’ll be able to find a case that fits you.

While Casetify’s Bounce Cases (seen later in this list) are the company’s best for all-around protection, they can be pretty bulky. For those looking to ride the between style and protection, the Impact Case will be able to do just that. Take note, however, that you’ll need to spend a decent amount of cash to get one.

The best in 2024

Read Also : Best Desktop Computers of 2024 tested and reviewed

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MOUS iPhone 14 Pro Max Case

The best MagSafe iPhone 14 Pro Max case

Often, phone cases that are fully MagSafe compatible have the magnetic ring displayed front and center on the rear of the case, which, depending on your tastes, might be something of an eye-sore. Luckily, the Mous iPhone 14 Pro Max case doesn’t feature the ring but is still fully MagSafe compatible.

It comes in a handful of solid color options, and buyers will be able to rest easy knowing that if it breaks at any time, their purchase is covered under a lifetime warranty.

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Incipio Duo MagSafe Case

The best dual-layer iPhone 14 Pro Max case

Although Incipio’s Duo for MagSafe may look a little plain, its two-piece design is the latest in shock-absorption technology. The case is able to withstand 12-foot drops and other major collisions by distributing the force between the two pieces of its design.

This makes it a surprisingly durable option for those who often find their devices in precarious situations. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer much in terms of style, so you’ll be trading the iPhone’s style for solid protection — which can certainly be a major roadblock for some but a necessity for others.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

with MagFit

The best kickstand iPhone 14 Pro Max case

If you’re looking for a phone case that can withstand a good deal of harsh treatment, then Spigen’s Slim Armor case is for you. Like the Incipio Duo above, its two-piece design is made to withstand high drops and large impacts.

Although its raised edges make it a little bit bulkier than other skin-tight cases, they provide an additional layer of protection for the display and . The only real downside to it is that its design leaves something to be desired. There’s only one color option available, and the ribbed upper third of it certainly isn’t for everyone.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

Official with MagSafe

The best clear iPhone 14 Pro Max case

If you’re looking for a solid case that supports wireless charging and MagSafe accessories, then the clear case offered by Apple is the way to go. While it has very little personality of its own on account of being completely see-through, it’s perfect for anyone looking to show off the sleek design of the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

Protection is going to be limited due to its thin profile, but that’s a small price to pay for MagSafe compatibility and the clear style.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

PopSockets

The best PopSocket iPhone 14 Pro Max case

The PopSockets MagSafe case is pretty similar to the official Apple MagSafe case but also includes a detachable PopSocket, making it a solid choice for anyone worried about dropping their phone.

The interesting bit is that the socket has the ability to slide anywhere on the case, offering a great variety for MagSafe accessories. Although the color options are a little lacking, if you get the clear color option, the design of the iPhone 14 Pro Max is able to take center stage.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

Ghostek Covert Case

The best sleek iPhone 14 Pro Max case

The Ghostek Covert case sports a fantastic design, with colorful edges and a clear back that highlight the design of your new iPhone. The case should do a good job at keeping your phone safe thanks to its shock-absorbing corners, but its drop resistance is only good for 8 feet.

While that certainly covers drops from table heights and other regular circumstances, it does mean that your phone is more likely to take damage than when protected by some other rugged cases on this list. Still, that’s more than enough for everyday damage, and if you don’t want to add a lot of extra thickness, this is a great choice.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

Nomad Modern Leather Case

The best leather iPhone 14 Pro Max case

The Nomad Modern Leather case is a solid pick for anyone wanting a traditional leather look for their iPhone 14 Pro Max. While its design may seem a little simple at first, it will eventually develop a patina that will give it a nice aged look.

Along with the classic style, it also offers feet of drop protection to keep your new phone safe from accidental slips. It’s one of the pricier options though, but the leather is lush and sustainably sourced, making it a great choice for leather fans.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

WTCASE PU Leather Case

The best fancy iPhone 14 Pro Max case

If you like the leather look but don’t want to spend a fortune on a real leather case, consider this faux leather pick available at a more budget-friendly price. The logo cutout is a huge plus for people who enjoy flaunting their iPhones.

On top of looking good, its raised edges also protect both the screen and the rear cameras from taking damage if dropped. You can also choose between four colors to match your style.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

Snakehive Vintage Wallet Case

The best wallet iPhone 14 Pro Max case

As phones have become essential things to grab before leaving the house alongside items like keys and wallets, some cases have looked to merge some of those items together. One such case is the Snakehive Vintage Wallet, which mixes a phone case and a wallet together. It holds three cards and can use its flap as both a screen protector when the phone isn’t in use and a stand for watching streaming content.

It’ll protect fairly well due to the wrap-around design, but this isn’t a rugged case by any means, so just expect everyday protection.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

CaseBorne V Rugged Case

The best rugged iPhone 14 Pro Max case

If you’re an outdoorsy type looking to take your phone with you on camping trips or during other outdoor activities, the CaseBorne V is built to withstand just about anything you throw at it.

The CaseBorne V is made to be a rugged accessory for your device that will keep it safe in even the harshest of conditions. The only downsides are the massive and bulky size that goes hand-in-hand with a more durable case and its lack of solid color options.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

Dbrand Grip Case

The best grip iPhone 14 Pro Max case

Although Dbrand is known for its sarcastic sense of humor when it comes to selling device accessories, the accessories it offers are of high quality.

The Grip Case for the iPhone 14 Pro Max is no exception, as its striking design gives a truly unique look to the iPhone 14 Pro Max. On top of that, the company has been marketing its grip cases as the “world’s grippiest phone case,” so it’ll rest securely in your hands. Users also enjoy the tactile button response and solid protection against drops.

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Otterbox Lumen Series with MagSafe

The best stylish iPhone 14 Pro Max case

Otterbox is known for making solid cases that protect phones, and the Lumen Series is no different. With striking color designs, support for all MagSafe accessories, and solid side grips that make the phone comfortable to hold, it’s a great pick for iPhone 14 Pro Max owners.

The only thing that could turn potential buyers away is that its price point is high relative to other cases on this list, but the strong Otterbox protection means it’s worth the money for many.

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Image used with permission by copyright holder

Casetify Bounce Case

The best drop-proof iPhone 14 Pro Max case

The Casetify Bounce Case is expensive, but for what it brings to the table, there’s certainly an argument to be made that justifies its price tag.

It’s the most durable case that the company offers, with bumpers on each corner that diffuse the force of being dropped from the phone’s most vulnerable points. Additionally, it supports all MagSafe accessories and can be customized to put your name on the outside for a personalized look.

Unicorn Beetle PRO MAG Rugged Case for iPhone 14 Pro Max.

SUPCASE

Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro Mag Case

The best multifunctional iPhone 14 Pro Max case

This option from Supcase is a phone case designed for iPhone 14 Pro Max users who want every feature imaginable in a case. It features shock-absorbing TPU and unbending polycarbonate materials that provide protection from impacts, scratches, smudges, and cracks. The case also comes with a tempered-glass screen protector that adds an extra layer of protection for your phone’s display.

It also includes a rotating belt clip holster, and the built-in kickstand doubles as a ring holder, making it convenient to carry your phone around, watch videos, or make calls hands-free. It also works with all of your MagSafe accessories. If you can get over the bulky design, there’s a lot to like with this one.

I-BLASON cosmo case for iPhone 14 Pro Max.

i-Blason

i-Blason Cosmo Case

The best stylish iPhone 14 Pro Max case

The i-Blason Cosmo Case is an iPhone 14 Pro Max case that looks great and provides excellent protection. It’s made of a soft and flexible TPU material that can absorb shocks and prevent scratches, dents, and drops from damaging your phone. This case also comes with a built-in screen protector to keep your phone’s screen free from scratches. You can find this case in various colors and styles to match your preferences. It also has a built-in screen protector to help keep your screen scratch-free. You’ll find this case in multiple styles and colors.

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In this blog, we will discuss some of the best IPTV players for Windows 10, 11 which can bring any television channel of the world to your doorsteps. 

Till now, the primary source of watching television shows was broadcast channels supported by antennas, satellite dishes, and fiber optic cables. 

However, with the rapid growth of the Internet and the smart devices market, watching TV channels directly from a desktop PC has become a new trend. 

All thanks to the Internet Protocol television services, a.k.a IPTV. You can use an IPTV player to watch entertaining TV shows, on demand, live TV channels, and lots more. Through the IPTV Players, you can boost up the ways of your entertainment. No matter where you are and from where you belong to, with the help of IPTV Player you can stream any sort of TV shows and movies quite effortlessly. What you need to do is just sign-up and login at once. Thereafter, watch your preferred movie or TV shows without any sort of hindrance. 

Before we move on to the list, let’s first understand what an IPTV player is, how it works, and why it’s important to get the best one for your desktop. Later on, you’ll get to know about the best Windows IPTV Player!

What is IPTV Player?

Internet Protocol television (IPTV) is a service that provides support for multimedia streaming through Internet Protocol (IP) networks. Users can buy an IPTV subscription and watch all TV channels, live media and video on demand (VOD) services anytime over their desktop PCs, laptops as well as Android and iOS devices using an IPTV player.

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How Does IPTV Work?

IPTV provides access to television channels and other digital content via IP based networks. It relies on a packet-switched network that covers both unicast (video on demand) and multicast (live TV) streams.

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Why Do You Need An IPTV Player For Windows?

In today’s world of digital binge-watching, the traditional television formats, including broadcast/cable networks are on the verge of extinction. 

Nowadays, watching movies online and streaming live TV and sports directly from PCs, laptops and tablets has become a new normal. In light of this, a dedicated IPTV player comes extremely handy in playing various streaming protocols on Windows devices. 

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22 Best IPTV Players For Windows 10, 8, 7 In 2024

Turn your Windows PC into a live TV with best IPTV players. Choose the best-suited one from the complete list discussed below!

1. VLC Media Player

VLC-Media-Player

This widely acclaimed IPTV player does not need an introduction. It is an open-source multimedia player that can effortlessly manage all your local media and stream IPTV content, without compromising your security and privacy. It uses m3u files to stream IPTV and other multimedia content.

How to Use ?

All you need is the latest version of VLC and follow a few simple steps to stream IPTV into your VLC player.

 Launch VLC Player.
 Open Network Streams from the Media section.
 Enter the URL of the IPTV network and press Enter. 
 All your IPTV channels should now be visible in the left panel of VLC.

Key Features of VLC Media Player:

 It offers support for a number of streaming protocols, multimedia files and DVDs and CDs.
 Built-in codecs – MKV, MP3, MPEG-2, WebM, etc.
 Completely free from computer , spyware and harmful ads
 Highly compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux and mobile platforms.

VLC Media Player comes with a simple interface and is undoubtedly one of the most user-friendly IPTV players.

Read Also : Best Free Phone Spying Apps 2024

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2. My lPTV Player

My-lPTV-Player

My IPTV is another powerful media player that comes with an electronic program guide (EPG) to help you watch the best IPTV channels on your Windows PC or laptop.

If you have an active IPTV subscription, you can use My IPTV app for listening to online radio channels and watching digital TV and video on demand (VOD).

How to Use My lPTV Player?

Follow the simple steps below to setup My IPTV app on your Windows:

 Lunch My IPTV on your Windows computer or laptop.
 Navigate to the ‘Settings’ menu.
 Load your m3u playlist, select your preferred IPTV channel, and then click ‘OK’.

Key Features of MY IPTV:

 The supports multiple channels easily
 By default, all channels are grouped based on their genre
 You can easily protect your data with a PIN
 The player has a simple process to follow for adding new channels

It comes with an easy to use interface and can seamlessly stream your m3u playlist from either local storage or any other remote location. If you want to give it a try, you can download the My IPTV app from Microsoft Store for free.

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3. Kodi

Kodi

is another stunning that not only lets you watch your local media content but also serves as a great alternative to IPTV player for Windows PC. You can use its media player to play your favorite digital channels directly from your desktop PC.

You can also install various third-party add-ons to stream live TV and watch videos on demand (VOD).

How to Use Kodi?

If you wish to use Kodi as an IPTV player for Windows 10, 11 follow the simple steps below:

 Launch the Kodi application and select the ‘Settings’ option.
 Install the PVR IPTV Simple Client add-on on your Kodi application.
 Add the M3U playlist to the add-on for streaming IPTV.
 Wait for the PVR IPTV Simple Client add-on to finish the process of importing channels.
 Once done, select the channel you wish to watch and click the ‘Play’ or ‘OK’ button.

Key Features of Kodi:

 The player has a simple and user-friendly interface
 To watch any programs you can simply paste the URL in the software and it will show you all the results
 It offers the best cross-compatibility features
 The player is fully customized, you can change any part of the player easily

For a free software, Kodi media player definitely offers more than it should, taking into account its simple interface and excellent streaming capabilities.

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4. Free TV Player

Free-TV-Player

Free TV player offers easy access to all of your favorite TV shows, movies, channels, and Internet Radio, making it one of the best IPTV players for Windows. 

To enjoy live TV shows on your desktop or laptop, simply upload your M3U playlist and you are good to go.

How to Use Free TV Player?

Below are a few simple steps to set up Free TV Player and stream IPTV on desktop PC:

 Launch the Free TV player app on your device
 Enter the URL of M3U playlist provided by the IPTV service provider
 Select your favorite channel and click on the play button

Key Features of Free TV Player:

 It offers both free as well as paid plan
 You get more than 40 channels on the free plan
 Other than the default channels you can easily paste links and stream in no time
 The player has a built-in list of shows to stream

This lightweight free IPTV player definitely deserves a try, if you want to watch a lot of exiting digital content and live TV programs in a hassle-free manner.

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5. Simple TV

Simple-TV

Simple TV is one of the best and most used IPTV players for PC. It offers a convenient and free mechanism for viewing TV shows and other multimedia content right from your laptop or computer.

You can use this portable application to watch IPTV and listen to radio channels. It comes with an organized interface that supports easy browsing of IPTV channels. 

How to Use Simple TV?

You can use Simple TV as a free IPTV player for PC by following some easy instructions provided below.

 Launch SimpleTV player on your Windows device.
 Right-click ‘Playlist’ on the navigation bar and select the ‘load playlist’ option.
 Next, choose the ‘load from m3u file’ option.
 Once the M3U playlist is ready, you can play the IPTV channels of your choice by simply clicking on them.

Key Features of Simple TV:

 Snapshot capabilities and crop features
 Contrast, brightness, and volume adjustment functionality
 It can download playlists created by other users
 It can support LUA script and many more

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6. ProgTV/ ProgDVB

ProgTV-ProgDVB

ProgTV is another well-known IPTV app for Windows used for streaming live TV channels and listening to radio on PCs.

It works on two independent interfaces and is known for its easy access to digital content and comfortable user experience. 

It can remotely control your Home Theatre PC and can also function well with a mouse. ProgTV supports IPTV channels, Internet TV and radio, Rodina TV, Sovok TV, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-T2, and many other data sources.

How to Use ProgTV/ProgDVB?

Follow the steps given below to set up ProgDVB and ProgTV app as a IPTV player for Windows:

 Choose the ‘TV Sources’ option from the main menu of the ProgTV application.
 Select the ‘IPTV Client’ option and then input your M3U URL in the playlist box.
 Next, choose the channel you wish to watch from the ‘Channel list’ in the main menu.

Key Features of ProgTV/ProgDVB:

 Radio and TV channel recording
 Network Broadcasting and Teletext
 HD TV support
 10 Bands equalizer and a fast preview of Mosaic channels

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7. IPTV

IPTV

This is currently ranks among the best IPTV players for Windows PCs and laptops as it allows you to watch your favorite TV shows and digital channels via numerous live media sources for free.

However, the IPTV app doesn’t broadcast any of these media sources for streaming digital multimedia, it just offers you a platform where you can watch IPTV content.

How to Use IPTV?

Follow the simple steps below to stream IPTV on PC:

 Launch the IPTV app on your Windows computer or laptop
 Go to the Settings option 
 Enter the URL (Provided by the IPTV service provider) to load your M3U playlist
 Click on OK to stream your preferred channel

Key Features of IPTV:

 It offers an easy user interface which is ideal for every user
 To stream, you can easily add a playlist or EPG source
 It has a feature to simply paste URL for searching
 Huge list of channels to satisfy any user

Moreover, it comes with an elegant interface that aims to provide modern TV experience. Users can download this IPTV player for free from Microsoft Store.

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8. GSE SMART IPTV

GSE-SMART-IPTV

This is one of the most popular IPTV solutions to watch digital channels and TV shows on your device. GSE SMART IPTV is primarily designed for mobile platforms such as iOS and Android devices, but if you wish to use it on your Windows 7/8/8.1/10 PC, you can do it by using an emulator.

For this IPTV application to work on your Windows device, you should install BlueStacks first. BlueStacks is a popular emulator that helps Android OS based applications to run on Windows and macOS devices.

How to Use GSE SMART IPTV?

Below are step-by-step instructions on how to use Smart IPTV player on Windows PC:

 Launch BlueStacks and then sign in with your Google credentials.
 Download GSE SMART IPTV app from either Google Play Store or using the below link.
 Install the application and open it.
 Enter the URL and upload your M3U playlist.
 Click on ‘OK’ and then watch any live IPTV channel as per your liking. 

Key Features of GSE SMART IPTV:

 GSE SMART IPTV player for Windows comes in multiple beautiful themes.
 It provides effective parental control options for managing kids’ activity and screen time.
 It lets you add external subtitles for streaming IPTV content.

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9. OttPlayer

OttPlayer 

Don’t have enough money to pay the monthly subscription of your television channels? We got you secured, here we present which is one of the best IPTV players for Windows 10, 11 PC. IPTV stands for Internet Protocol Television. By using OttPlayer you can watch your favorite TV channels and shows for free by using your pc and internet. OttPlayer allows its users to watch IPTV from your internet service provider or any other source on your phones, tablets, and set-top box or TV, and all this facility in a centralized control via the website. Enjoy IPTV Enjoy life.

How to Use OttPlayer?

Follow the steps below to setup OttPlayer and stream your favorite IPTV channels:

1.First of all, you have to arrange a list of channels, which you can take from any of your convenient sources.
2.You need to get an account from https://ottplayer.es
3.Put registration info i.e. login and password
4.Download the playlist to the website i.e. you downloaded previously, https://ottplayer.es
5.Put the playlist on any compatible device
6.Enjoy IPTV watching.

Key Features of OttPlayer:

 OttPlayer supports various protocols like HLS, RTSP, TS by UDP RTMP
 It also provides playlist support M3U8.
 Provides easy management of channels through icons of respective channels.
 Service to the users is absolutely free and with no ads.

Among all the best IPTV apps, this application is quite interesting and worthwhile. OttPlayer’s easy-to-use interface makes it is an ideal choice for millions of users across the world. 

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10. Plex

Plex

Plex is the most stunning IPTV Players that you should definitely try to enjoy smart video streaming. Plex is highly capable of transcoding almost any sort of media file. Moreover, the user interface is quite easy and simple to use. Plex lets you stream your personal content as well including videos, music, movies, and so on.

How to Use Plex?

Here is how to access Plex as an IPTV player for PC.

 Firstly, signup for a Plex account and then, install the Plex media server by running the setup file.
 After this, launch Cigaras IPTV channel and then select Channels under the online content head category.
 Thereafter, navigate to the IPTV addon and click on it, then click on Settings.
 Now, paste the URL of your IPTV .m3u file, then click on the Save button.
 Next, search for the channels available and add them to your Playlist and enjoy. 

Key Feature of Plex:

 The player is compatible with multiple platforms
 It offers great quality video output for every screen
 You get more than 200 free movies and shows
 Free version also has 100+ channels

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11. MYIPTV

MYIPTV

Looking for the best IPTV players for Windows? Then, MyIPTV is the one that fits perfectly. You can use all of its supreme-quality features for absolutely free. With this, you can play live TV programs, and videos through m3u playlists quite effortlessly. Its user interface is extremely easy to understand.

How to Use MYIPTV?

Here are the steps that you need to follow to access it!

 Head to the Settings.
 Now, you need to add an all-new playlist and EPG source.
 Now, add any URL or local list of channels.
 Switch back to Settings.
 After this, choose the channel playlist and click on the refresh option.

Key Features of MYIPTV:

 The player lets you easily stream live TV programs and videos
 It offers a very easy to operate interface which can be adopted by anyone
 You can easily add a new playlist and EPG source from the settings tab
 The player lets you easily record program for later access

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12. Perfect Player Windows

Perfect Player Windows

is a free IPTV player that you can try. This player offers amazing digital content right to your PC without charging any money, which is why it is one of the best IPTV players for Windows 10, 11 and previous versions. This is an advanced program that comes with a semi-transparent OSD and a full-screen display option.

How to Use Perfect Player Windows?

Here are the instructions you need to perform to use Perfect Player as IPTV/Media player.

 Launch the Perfect Player application on your Windows system.
 Click on the ‘Add Playlist’ button, paste M3U URL, and then choose ‘OK’.
 As soon as your playlist gets loaded, you can click on the channel name followed by ‘Play’ to begin streaming IPTV content.

Key Features of Perfect Player Windows:

 You can easily set up the player and use it as per needs, it is a flexible player.
 You can even enjoy a full-screen display for your favorite content without paying any charges.
 The player supports multiple languages, which means every human from all around the globe can use this amazing player and stream their favorite content. The supported languages include English, Spanish, Russian, Greek, Portuguese, and many others.
 The formats which are supported in the player are m3u, and XSPF for playlist and EPG along with the other two.

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13. IPTV Smarters for PC

IPTV Smarters for PC

Earlier this player was not available for Windows users but now even Windows users can enjoy their favorite content with IPTV Smarter for PC players. This is one of the best IPTV apps for Windows 10, 11 and older versions.  You can easily stream and enjoy live TV, movies, series, and videos on demand.

How to Use IPTV Smarters for PC?

Below are detailed instructions on how to set up IPTV Smarters for PC.

 Launch the IPTV Smarters Player application.
 Select the ‘Load Your Playlist or File/URL’ option, fill out the details (e.g., playlist name, playlist type, and file/URL), and then click on the ‘Add User’ button.
 Once the M3U content loading is complete, you can click on the ‘Live TV’ button to see the IPTV channel categories.

Key Features of IPTV Smarters for PC:

 This program works on Xtream codes but still, it can be used in Windows versions including 32 and 64 bit.
 Other than that you can easily use this program on mobile devices, and Smart TVs.
 You can record the live programs and enjoy them whenever you want.
 The best part about this IPTV player is that it supports all major video formats, so you won’t miss any of your favorite content.

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14. TiviMate IPTV Player

TiviMate IPTV Player

Next up in the list of Windows IPTV players is TiviMate. The software is basically designed for Android devices. If you wish to use this software then you have to get an Android Emulator. You can use this software on Windows 7, 8, and 10 easily. This was just a short brief about the software.

How to Use TiviMate IPTV Player?

Check below to know more about the process to use the software.

 Open the Playstore and download the software.
 Click on the icon when the installation completes.
 Now click on the icon and search for the name which you wish to watch

Key Features of TiviMate

 The software offers a clean and simple interface that can be easily adapted
 The user can add multiple playlists in the software to view
 It can also schedule a TV guide
 The user can add favorite channels to the home screen and access them

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15. IP-TV Player

IP-TV Player

IP-TV Player is another great pick as it offers high-quality video output at very little data consumption. It is very rare to witness this among the other IPTV players in Windows. It truly is a versatile player which can easily support all types of media files.

How to Use IP-TV Player?

IP-TV Player is a very smooth and easy-to-use software, to demonstrate that we have listed the steps below.

 Install the software from the official website
 Open the software and tune to the list of M3U format list
 You can view the channels list in the side panel
 Tap on the channel to view

Key Features of IP-TV Player

 The software has a simple and easy interface
 All major file formats are compatible with this software
 The user can easily record and take screenshots while viewing
 The software even offers a feature using which user can control from a smartphone

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16. PowerDVD

PowerDVD

Next, 2024’s best IPTV players for Windows with PowerDVD. It is a great IPTV if you wish to access a huge content library. You can use PowerDVD to access local media files, play music, and perform many other tasks. Moreover, its compatibility with Dolby professional audio and rapid play technology sets it apart from similar software.

How to Use PowerDVD?

You can follow the three-step process shared below to use this software.

 Firstly, install the PowerDVD Windows application.
 After installing the app, select Media Library from the top left corner.
 Now you can select the IPTV channels, movies, and shows to watch.

Key Features of PowerDVD

 4K and 8K resolution support
 Supports HDR 10
 Lets you watch 360-degree videos
 Supports conversion of video files to MP4
 In-built support for video casting on media streaming devices
 Digitalization of media files
 In-built video editing tools
 Availability of 100GB of storage

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17. Flix IPTV

Flix IPTV

Next, 2024’s best IPTV players for Windows with Flix IPTV. You can use Flix IPTV on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Android TV, and FireStick. Parental controls, M3U link support, a user-friendly interface, and the ability to change themes make this IPTV player a perfect choice for streaming IPTV content. It offers a 1-week free trial, thereafter you can buy the pro version at a one-time fee of about $7.99.

How to Use Flix IPTV?

Listed below are the following methods to download and use Flix IPTV on Windows PC:

 Download the Flix IPTV APK on your PC.
 Install the software and open it.
 Enter the URL and upload your playlist.
 Now, you can stream IPTV content.

Key Features of Flix IPTV:

 Easy to use and versatile IPTV player.
 Supports all screen resolutions of smartphones, sticks, PCs, and tablets.
 Allows you to add channels and series/movies to Favorites.
 Get to access features like a sleep timer, subtitles, video details, backward/forward video, and a lot more.

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18. MaxPlayer

MaxPlayer

Next on this list of best IPTV players for Windows PC is MaxPlayer. It gives each member of the household the ability to customize their own preferences for their favorite programs, channels, movies, language settings, and viewing time for video on demand (VOD), with support for up to 5 sub-users and 5 devices.

In addition, if your TV service provider records show for you, you will have the ability to instantly rewind those shows. If your Internet service provider provides video-on-demand (VOD) material, MaxPlayer can customize it to work with your device. They provide versions that are compatible with LG and Samsung TV, in addition to MacOS and Windows. You get a whole week to test out MaxPlayer without spending a dime.

How to Use MaxPlayer?

 Visit the official website of MaxPlayer.
 Create your account on MaxPlayer.
 Once registered, you get a 7-day free trial.
 After that, you can continue using the service with one of the provided plans.

Key Features of MaxPlayers:

 All your information and data are secured and protected.
 Supports multiple languages.
 One account can be accessed on multiple devices and platforms.
 Several customization options are available.

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19. PotPlayer

potplayer

Lacking the funds necessary to pay the monthly fee for your membership to the various television channels? We’ve got you covered, and now we’re going to show you PotPlayer, which is one of the top IPTV players for Windows 10, 11, and other PC operating systems.

PotPlayer gives its customers the ability to watch Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) on their mobile devices, tablets, set-top boxes, and televisions, with all of this functionality being controlled centrally via the website. IPTV may come through your internet service provider or any other source. Enjoy some IPTV. Have fun with life.

The abbreviation “IPTV” refers to “Internet Protocol Television.” If you have PotPlayer installed on your computer, you can use it to watch all of your favorite TV stations and programs for free by simply connecting it to the internet.

How to Use PotPlayer?

 Visit the official website of PotPlayer.
 Download the PotPlayer.
 Use the tool as you want with ease.

Key Features of PotPlayers:

 The playback of the video is fluid and unbroken
 When you have two sound cards available, choose which one to use.
 You are able to mark your favorite scene or chapter for later viewing.
 Take a look at the scene in advance with these photographs.

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20. MyIPTV Player

MyIPTV Player

The next name on this list of the best IPTV players for Windows 11/10 devices is MyIPTV Player. MyIPTV Player is a free to use tool that has been downloaded and used by over thousands of users. The tool offers a variety of genres and content to watch. From movies, TV shows to so much beyond, you will find everything at MyIPTV Player.

How to Use MyIPTV Player?

 Visit the product page of MyIPTV Player on Microsoft Store.
 Download the MyIPTV Player.
 Use the tool as you want with ease.

Key Features of PotPlayers:

 There are a variety of channels to select from.
 You can PIN protect the tool for additional security.
 The tool comes with an integrated support for EPG.
 You can even download and save content for later.

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21. IPTV Extreme

IPTV Extreme

You are welcome to test out IPTV Extreme, one of the best free IPTV player tools for Windows. This player’s earlier versions since it delivers incredible digital material directly to your own computer without costing you any money. This is a sophisticated software that comes with an option to show the whole screen as well as opaque operating system display.

How to Use IPTV Extreme?

When you want to utilize IPTV Extreme as an IPTV/Media player, the procedures that you need to follow are as follows.

 Make sure that the IPTV Extreme program is running on your Windows computer.
 First, choose the “Add Playlist” button, then paste the M3U URL, and last, select the “OK” button.
 After your playlist has finished loading, you can start streaming IPTV material by clicking on the channel name and then pressing the ‘Play’ button after that.

Key Features of IPTV Extreme Windows:

 Russian, Greek, English, Spanish, Portuguese, & a great number of languages are among those that come with support.
 The player is able to support the m3u & XSPF formats for playlists & EPGs respectively.
 Additionally, you are not required to pay any fees in order to take use of a full-screen display for your preferred material.
 Due to the fact that the player supports different languages, it is possible for every single human being from every single part of the world to utilize this incredible player and stream their preferred material.
 You may simply configure the player and utilize it in accordance with your requirements; it is a versatile player.

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22. MegaCubo IPTV Player

MegaCubo IPTV Player

Here’s another one of the best IPTV players for Windows 10 and other operating systems. This is a free alternative that you can try and watch on IPTV. Using this tool, you can easily use your smartphone on the TV.

How to Use MegaCubo?

 You should first download the tool from the official website.
 Install it and launch it on the system.
 Connect the app to your device and use it as required.

Key Features of MegaCubo:

 Supports a plethora of operating systems
 You can PIN protect the tool for additional security.
 Allows you to save any title and record.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about IPTV Players

Q1. Are IPTV Players Legal?

Yes, ITPV Players are 100% legal. They don’t offer any streaming services or host content of their own. ITPV Players just provides a platform to play multimedia files and streaming protocols.

Q2. Type of IPTV Services

 Video on demand (VoD)
 Live TV 
 Start Over TV
 Catch-Up TV 
 Live Media Streaming

Q3. How to Access IPTV from PC?

To access IPTV from a PC, you need to download and install one of the above-listed IPTV Players on your PC.  You can download the above-listed IPTV Players from their official support website. Once you installed your most liked IPTV Players, thereafter, allow all the permissions they asked, to proceed further. Then, follow the wizard instructions and don’t change anything except the installation destination. Now run the installer, then start up the program and add the list of channels in your playlist. That’s how you can easily access  IPTV from your PC and stream your most liked TV shows and movies.

Q4. What are the Main Services Offered by IPTV?

IPTV or Internet Protocol Television is the platform using which users can enjoy television broadcasting on various devices including mobile and computers. It delivers using the traditional terrestrial, satellite, and cable television format.

Q5. Is There Any Alternative to IPTV?

Yes, there are many IPTV alternatives present in the market, some of them are:

 1332 Kodi
 Splash
 Super Internet TV
 CoolStreaming
 FreeTuxTV

Q6. Is an IPTV player available for free?

Yes, there are multiple Internet Protocol Television services that are available for free. We have mentioned some of the best ones in the article. Undoubtedly the best option for an IPTV player is VLC Media Player.

Q7. How to use IPTV Player?

Although the working of each IPTV player varies the general steps to be applied are as follows

 Download and install any one of the above-mentioned IPTV player alternatives.
 Launch it on your device and select the network streams option available under media.
 Paste the URL of the network of your IPTV and press the enter key to run.
 Now all the channels of IPTV will be visible on the screen of your IPTV player.

Q8. Is IPTV better with VPN?

IPTV can work without a VPN. But if you want to protect your data online from snoopers or ISP, or get access to restricted content in your geographical location, VPN will help you. Moreover, if you use a VPN with your IPTV it offers a reliable experience. As VPN improves the speed of your internet connection, it is followed by a better experience of IPTV.

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Which is the Best IPTV Player for Windows PC & Laptops?

So, this concludes our rundown of some of the best IPTV players for Windows 10, 8, 7 in 2024. There are several other options available as well, but the ones mentioned above are the best in terms of features and usability. 

And if you are looking for our opinion, then we would like to recommend OttPlayer. It is one of the best IPTV players that you can access to stream your preferred TV shows and movies. You can use OttPlayer for live shows and on-demand shows as well. That’s what we think about the best IPTV player, however, the final decision is completely yours. 

So, what are you waiting for? Download any of these free IPTV players now and turn your PC into an amazing entertainment gadget. Lastly, if there is something you think that we might have missed out to mention, then don’t feel hesitate in sharing your suggestions with us. We’ll feel amazed by hearing your suggestions and improve our list of best IPTV Players for Windows PC & Laptops. 

That’s all for the present moment, we’ll back again with yet another crispy story, till then, stay connected with us! Primarily, don’t forget to subscribe to our Newsletter to rule the tech world.  

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Views: 7

If you are looking for some phone spying apps for Android, this article lists the best ones that can easily meet all of your requirements. 

You may want to check the activities of an Android smartphone. This could be because you are worried about the individual in some way and want to get the details of calls, messages, and/or other details. You can easily know about all of these activities on any Android device with a single source.

One of the best phone spying apps is all you need.

So, that’s what you will get with the help of this simple guide. Proceed to have a look at the phone spy app for Android and track the activities of a device with ease.

List of the Best Phone Spying Apps in 2024

Below are some of the top free phone spying apps for Android voted the best in 2024. We recommend that you go through the list of apps thoroughly and then download and use the one(s) you like the most amongst these. So, without any further ado, let’s proceed to the list of the best-hidden spy apps for Android right below.

1. uMobix

uMobix

uMobix is one of the best free phone spying apps of all time. The app is available for both Android and devices. With the help of this app, you can easily monitor and keep track of the keystrokes or taps performed on the app. And that’s not all. You can even track the location visited or traveled with the help of this app. Below are some other features of this best spy app for Android free that provide better information.

Features of uMobix:

 The app allows you to monitor the calls made to and from the smartphone.
 The app supports a cross-platform base and is compatible with a lot of operating system versions as well.
 If you want to get details of a particular app, then uMobix is the best solution that supports individual platform information.
 You can also access the list of apps on any device with uMobix.

Download uMobix

Read Also : The Best Sports Games for 2024

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2. mSpy

mSpy

The next product on this list of the best free phone spying apps is mSpy. This is one of the most trusted and popular spying apps of all time. With the help of the , you can easily track the usage and location of your smartphone. Additionally, the app provides a plethora of other features as well. Below you will find the most prominent features of mSpy as one of the best spy apps for free.

Features of mSpy:

 The app allows you to monitor the calls and messages on your device.
 If the user has installed any third-party messaging or social media apps, then you can also monitor the same with mSpy.
 The app provides both real-time updates of the location as well as location history.
 With a single solution, you can control all the apps and programs installed on the Android device.
 The app is available for both Android and iOS devices.

Download mSpy

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3. eyeZy

eyeZy

eyeZy is one of the best hidden spy apps for Android that allows you to gather information on any device with ease. The app is not limited to Android but is also supported by iOS and devices. The app even allows you to access the internal and external storage of the device with ease. Below are some of the top features of this proud member of the free spy apps for iPhone and Android. Have a glance at the same for further information.

Features of eyeZy:

 With the help of the app, you can know all the saved files on your device quite easily.
 eyeZy allows you to keep track of all the websites visited by the user and the viewed content.
 You can also modify the usage period of different apps and websites with eyeZy.
 One of the best features of the tool is that it allows you to set different boundaries, geographical and metaphorical. You will get updates whenever this boundary is crossed

Download eyeZy

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4. SpyBubble

SpyBubble

Another name that graces this list of the best free phone spying apps is SpyBubble. The app works to provide all the required information about top messaging social media platforms like Whatsapp, , Snapchat, and many more. Apart from this, the app also provides information about incoming and outgoing messages and calls. Check out the other features of this phone spy app for Android.

Features of SpyBubble:

 SpyBubble is supported on all Android and iOS (some may require Jailbreak) devices of all versions.
 You need to root the Android device to use the SpyBubble app for the best results.
 The app allows you to track real-time locations and even geofence an area as per your requirements.
 With the paid version of the tool, you also get 24/7 customer support.
 You can check the activity of any smartphone with the help of a computer browser.

Download SpyBubble

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5.

HoverWatch

HoverWatch is another one of the best hidden spy apps for Android. The working of the app is quite simple yet effective. This single solution allows you to get details related to the platforms like and social media platforms. Additionally, you can also monitor the call history of the device very easily. Below are some of the best and additional features of this best spy app for Android for free.

Features of HoverWatch:

 The app provides thorough and in detail information about the internet activity on your device.
 You can download and use the app on both Android and iOS devices as required.
 The platform also provides a free demo of the app to understand its working and proceed if required.
 You can easily monitor the location of the device with the help of the HoverWatch GPS.
 HoverWatch is one of the Best hidden spy apps for Android. The smartphone user does not even know if the HoverWatch app is installed on the device.

Download HoverWatch

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6.

Cocospy

Next, comes Cocospy as one of the best phone spying apps. Cocospy is a great solution for you if you are looking for an easy-to-use yet effective way to track the activities of a device. The app works quite well as a parental control app however, others can also use the app perfectly. Have a look at the features of this one of the free spy apps for iPhone and get all the information required.

Features of Cocospy:

 The app works perfectly when you are remote without even informing the device user in any way.
 With the help of Cocospy, you can get all the messages and call history on your device.
 The tool works perfectly on Android and iOS devices, offering the best results.
 If you want to know the browser history of a device, then you should try Cocospy.
 The procedure to set up Cocospy is very simple and effective.

Download Cocospy

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7.

XNSpy

XNSpy is an amazing tool that works perfectly as one of the best free phone spying apps for Android. The app works with a Stealth Mode that allows you to check the activity of any device without informing or intimating the user. The app can be set up very easily within a couple of minutes and used with ease afterward. Go through the top features of this one of the best free spy apps for iPhone for more information.

Features of XNSpy:

 With the help of XNSpy, you can monitor the incoming calls and call history of the device.
 The app shows real-time updates about the happenings of the device.
 Even if you are distant from the device, you can have a look at the activities of the device remotely.
 The app provides quite detailed reports about the usage of every platform on the device.
 You can get XNSpy for iPhones or Android devices as required.

Download XNSpy

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8. Clevguard

Clevguard

The next item on this list of the best phone spying apps for free on Android devices is Clevguard. With the help of this tool, you can easily get the activity history of iOS or Android devices. The app is even available for monitors or desktops. One of the best features of the tool is the monitoring features provided to all. Know more about the tool from the features of the best hidden spy apps for Android.

Features of Clevguard:

 The app allows you to export the activity data of any device as per your requirements.
 The app also provides you access to the browser history at all times.
 Call logs, messaging data, and other related information are some of the features that are quite easily available.
 With the help of Clevguard, you can geofence to a certain diameter and get updates when the same is breached or crossed.
 With the app, you get free updates for the platform for life.

Download Clevguard

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9. FlexiSPY

FlexiSPY

We are approaching the end of this list of the best phone spying apps however, the apps here are still going strong. FlexiSPY is the next anime on this list. The creators of the platform allow you to select from a variety of versions for the same as per your requirements. Have a look at the features of this viable member of the best hidden spy apps for Android right below for a better understanding.

Features of FlexiSPY:

 The app provides some of the outstanding and never-seen-anywhere features to the users like social media apps call recording, access to messages from different platforms, etc.
 The app can also work as a keylogger, which means that you can know precisely how and what was done to the device.
 Although the app requires root to work, it also hides that the device is rooted to protect the identity or presence of the app.
 You can run the app in hidden mode, away from the reach of the device user and protected.

Download FlexiSPY

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10. Mobile Tracker

Mobile Tracker

The last name on this list of free phone spying apps is the Mobile Tracker app. With the help of this amazing app, you can do as much as any other product on this list. Additionally, you also get some quality features with the tool like calls history management and more. You will find all the features of this popular article from the free spy apps for iPhone list.

Features of Mobile Tracker:

 The app provides the precise location of the device at all times along with location history logs.
 With the help of Mobile Tracker, you can also keep track of the call logs and history.
 Social Media Platform management and tracking are possible with the app quite easily.
 Mobile Tracker makes it possible for users to monitor the device even from a remote location.
 Additionally, there is open access to the gallery of the device with Mobile Tracker.

Download Mobile Tracker

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. Qustodio

Qustodio

The Qustodio app is another robust surveillance application that provides a free plan that is available indefinitely. Over six million parents across the globe have put their faith in it. In addition to the typical gadgets, such as mobile phones and computers, Qustodio is also compatible with Kindle, which is an online reading device and software developed by Amazon.

Although reading is a wonderful habit to instill in your children, it is essential to monitor the types of material they are reading.

An alert will be sent to you if your children continue to attempt to access a website or application that has previously been restricted. In this manner, you will be aware of the topics that they are interested in, and you will be able to discuss those topics with them at home.

Another key draw is the panic button, which users may press. If your children are in danger and you are unable to reach them by phone or text message, it enables them to transmit quick notifications to you with the push of a button.

Features Of Qustodio:

 The Safe Search option to protect your children from exposure to unsuitable stuff.
 The panic button gives your children the ability to communicate with you in times of crisis.
 Personalized monitoring of screen time.
 Create individualized notifications for your children when they browse restricted websites.

Download Qustodio

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Best Free Phone Spying Apps in 2024: Listed

So, this section concludes the list of the best hidden spy apps for Android and iPhone devices. We hope that these solutions were the precise apps that you were seeking. You may find others and a plethora of apps on the internet claiming to offer similar features to you. However, not all of these are up to the mark. Hence, we took the liberty to present the actual best ones to you; for your help.

However, if you have any doubts related to the best phone spying apps, then you may ask the same below. The comments section is here for you. We will help you in every way possible. You may also present your suggestions.

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The Best Beat Em Up Games for 2024, Sometimes the best way to make a difference is to wrap your knuckles, step out onto a mob-filled street, and punch the enemy squarely in the snot box. With beat ’em ups, the gameplay goal is simple: Destroy the enemy waves before they destroy you. Although that description applies to many game genres—including , and shmup—beat ’em ups have their own flavor. 

Thanks to pioneering titles like The Warriors-inspired Renegade and the post-apocalyptic Double Dragon, beat ’em ups typically feature street-level heroes who must rescue a girlfriend, save a president, exact cold revenge, or engage in some other B-movie trope. The games usually feature simple side-scrolling movement, which is why beat ’em ups are known as “belt scrollers” in Japan and some Western gaming circles. “Brawlers” is another term for the genre.

Though beat ’em ups aren’t as buzzworthy as, say, battle royale games, they have a dedicated, hard-core following that loves the urban chaos. Fortunately, the PC is a platform with a growing library of high-quality belt scrollers. These are the best we’ve reviewed.

Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle

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Developer Capcom was a key player in the beat ’em up genre’s popularity, thanks to several memorable arcade releases that gave players the opportunity to team up with a friend to pound enemy forces into pulp. 

Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle collects seven of those games, including Final Fight and Knights of the Round, in a package that also includes online play for each game. If you fancy thumb-numbing, button-mashing action in either solo or multiplayer sessions, Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle is a recommended package. That said, it understandably lacks Capcom’s licensed gems, such as Cadillacs and Dinosaurs or The Punisher.

Relive the glory days of cooperative arcade games with the Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle!

This comprehensive collection includes seven classic games, each with various multiplayer options, online capabilities and detailed galleries!

Say goodbye to game overs! Adjust your difficulty settings or give yourself more lives to battle through each game in its entirety. You can also play the English or Japanese versions of each title!


Games included: Final Fight, Captain Commando, The King of Dragons, Knights of the Round and Warriors of Fate, as well as two games that were previously unavailable on consoles: Armored Warriors and Battle Circuit!


Grab some friends, stare down the bad guys and BEAT ‘EM UP!

The Best Beat Em Up Games for 2024

Read Also : The best VPN service in 2024

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Fight’N Rage

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Despite it retro aesthetic, Fight’N Rage is a thoroughly modern spin on the classic beat ’em up. Not only does the game incorporate clever fighting game elements, such as parries and super moves, it includes branching missions and sub-paths that offer fresh scenery and action should you decide to run off the beaten path.

That said, Fight’N Rage’s difficulty is a doozy, and its lack of built-in, online multiplayer is disappointing. Still, the post-apocalyptic beat ’em up is one that belong in your Steam library.

Set in a far future where humans are enslaved by mutants, Fight’N Rage is a side-scroller beat’em up inspired by the classics from the 90’s arcade gems.

In a world where “the law of the jungle” prevails… two humans and a mutant rebel are willing to fight in order to stop this madness.

Get ready to face ruthless mutants… Get ready to Fight’N Rage!


Features:

* Several endings: Your in-game actions will decide the story!

* Explosive combo system: Blow up your enemies with special combos!

* Lots of unlockables: Costumes, Game Modes, Options and even Playable Enemies!

* Different weapons and Parry System.

* Easy to play, hard to master.

* Local co-op mode: Up to 3 players with optional friendly fire.

* VS Mode: 1vs1 battles against another player or the CPU. Or simply watch CPU vs CPU battles.

* Additional near impossible extra challenges for pro-gamers!

River City Girls

You can’t mention beat ’em ups without the Kunio-kun series, a Japanese franchise featuring hot-blooded school kids rumbling in the streets. With River City Girls, developer WayForward took the Kunio reins and created the best series entry in some time.

WayForward’s love for the series drips from every roundhouse punch and baseball bat swing, as two high school students—Kyoko and Misako—crack skulls as they try to rescue their kidnapped boyfriends. River City Girls has terrific beat ’em up action, swinging synthpop , and the ability to purchase new moves, accessories, and power ups, but a few glaring negatives keep the brawler from being a genre great.

There’s trouble once again on the mean streets of River City, but this time the boys are in over their heads! In this all-new entry in the legendary beat-’em-up series, hot-blooded heroes Kunio and Riki have been captured, leaving it to their hard-hitting girlfriends, Kyoko and Misako, to serve up some payback.

As you punch and kick your way across town – either solo or with a friend in local co-op – you’ll gain new skills, chow down on power-ups, wield an assortment of weapons, and unleash an arsenal of combos, throws, and special attacks that will leave the bad guys crying for mama – all in outrageous 16-bit style! The awesome action is punctuated by manga story panels, anime cutscenes, and an epic synth-pop soundtrack. It’s an old-school rumble for a new generation!


Key Features:

• Wild beat-’em-up action for one or two players!

• Glorious pixel-art graphics plus anime and manga cutscenes!

• Fantastic soundtrack featuring Megan McDuffee, Chipzel, Cristina Vee, Dale North, and NateWantsToBattle!

• Six large city regions to fight through, complete with shops and side quests!
• Loads of weapons, items, and abilities to power-up your heroines!

• Guest appearances by classic River City characters!

River City Girls 2

Kyoko and Misako once again put down their books and lift their fists for more teenage brawls through River City’s wild streets. In this sequel, developer WayForward and publisher Arc System Works enhance the high school-themed beat ’em up formula in nearly every aspect by introducing new moves, a larger map, and more playable characters. The absolutely amazing soundtrack, once again fronted by the incredible Megan McDuffee, gives the music an infectious quality that will keep you humming for days.

River City Melee Mach!!

The second Kunio-kun game in this roundup isn’t the traditional beat ’em up on which the River City franchise built its fame. Instead, River City Melee Mach!! takes the series’ combat fundamentals—punches, kicks, throws, and weapons—and adds power ups, special moves, stage gimmicks, and team-based, last-man-standing contests. 

Featuring charming, retro-style graphics, fast-paced action, and nearly 200 characters, Arc System Works’ River City Melee Mach!! gives the series high school rivalries a fresh shot of life. Like River City Girls, it suffers a few issues that keep it from being a beat ’em up A-lister.

: The Game – Complete Edition

Way back in 2010, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game debuted on PlayStation 3 and 360 to much acclaim. Conceived as a tie-in game for the then-recently released live-action film, the Ubisoft Chengdu-developed title served as a fun take on the Brian Lee O’Malley comic book and a homage to genre classics.

For reasons that are still unclear, Ubisoft pulled the game from the PlayStation and Xbox digital storefronts in 2014. Seven years later, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game returns from its digital graveyard none the worse for wear with the same outstanding animation, rockin’ Anamanaguchi score, and big action. The Complete Edition includes modes that were previously available as DLC, such as Dodgeball and Zombie Hordes.

The Sloclap-developed Sifu wears its inspirations on its sleeves, taking elements from Old BoyJohn Wick, and Jackie Chan flicks to create a cinematic beat ’em up that’s just as fun to watch as it is to play. The deep combat system lets you parry, unleash super moves, and utilize weapons and environments as you seek revenge on villains who did your family wrong. The unique death system causes your character to grow older, exchanging youth and vitality for age and raw strength.


Streets of Rage 4

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It’s been nearly three decades since SEGA released Streets of Rage 3, the previous entry in the beloved beat ’em up series, so the reveal of Streets of Rage 4 was shocking. The fact that it turned out to be quite good was even more surprising.

This brawler by developers LizardCube, Guard Crush Games, and Dotemu is Streets of Rage through and through. Featuring a diverse cast of new and returning martial artists looking to clean up a fictional city’s mean streets from a criminal syndicate, Streets of Rage 4 offers the hard-hitting combat, dreary urban environments, and sheer fun that’s defined the series since 1991. Streets of Rage 4’s wall splats, supers, and combo system give it fighting game elements that create extra gameplay depth.

 

Streets of Rage is a beat ‘em up series known for its timeless gameplay and electronic dance influenced music. Streets of Rage 4 builds upon the classic trilogy’s gameplay with new mechanics, beautiful hand-drawn visuals and a God tier soundtrack.


Team up with iconic and brand-new characters


Axel, Blaze, and Adam teaming up with new brother and sister in arms Floyd Iraia and Cherry Hunter to clean up the streets.


Outstanding Hand-Drawn Visuals and Soundtracks


With lush hand-drawn animations, new combat abilities, and fresh tracks from an amazing team of composers, Streets of Rage 4 will be a masterful tribute to and revitalization of the classic action fans adore.


Features


● Clean up the city by yourself or with another friend
online!
● Team up to 4 people offline to take the city back!

● Classic gameplay enhanced with brand-new mechanics.

● 12 former Streets of Rage characters unlockable and playable in pixel versions.

● Play with the music of the previous Streets of Rage games!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brands is one tailor-made for beat-’em-up action, with its colorful cast of characters that feature humanoid reptiles, villainous martial artists, aliens, robots, and a rat that dispenses wisdom as often as he dispenses karate chops. With Shredder’s Revenge, TMNT receives one of its best adaptations to date.

Developed by Tribute Games, a team that features crew members who worked on the excellent Scott Pilgrim vs. the World: The GameShredder’s Revenge heavily draws from the 1980s show, and has the colorful, toon-like visuals to match. In addition, it pulls elements from past Turtles games and toys to create 16 stages of wild street fighting. Six-player co-op play in online and offline modes ensures that you’ll fight like a family, just like playable characters April, Casey, Donatello, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Splinter.

On the surface, Treachery In Beatdown City appears to be a strict homage to classic beat ‘em up games from the 1980s and 1990s. However, the brawler’s menu-driven, tactical combo system, and biting urban satire reveals a game that’s radically different than what’s come before it. 

Developed by Nuchallenger, Treachery In Beatdown City is a fun game that requires you to use your brain to battle the way through the gentrification elements that plagues a fictional city’s streets, but its pace may prove too slow for traditional beat ’em up fans. Tactics fans, on the other hand, may really dig it. 

Yakuza 0

Sega’s Yakuza is the rare polygonal series that adheres to the beat ’em up ethos. In Yakuza 0—the prequel story that shows how series protagonist Kazuma Kiryu rose through the ranks to become the big boss of a Japanese crime syndicate— you brawl through small, semi-open world regions with knuckles, guns, swords, and other weapons.

At the heart of the gangsterism is empathy and honor, be it between bro and bro, an orphan and his surrogate father, or well-dressed hoodlums and the desperate strangers they meet. It’s also a tale involving a pelvis-thrusting man, referred to as both Walking Erection and Mr. Libido, wearing nothing but shoes and tighty-whities. Yakuza 0’s ability to dance between the dramatic and the absurd, all of it punctuated with thrilling combat, makes this brawler one of the best on the PC.

Yakuza 6: The Song of Life serves as a delightful, action-packed conclusion to Kazuma Kiryu’s gangster-filled story. The beat ’em up game features streamlined controls, fun boss bottles, and the oddball happenings you’d expect to find in the ridiculous, fictional Tokyo district of Kamurocho. It’s a bit on the easy side, though.

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Views: 2

The best VPN service in 2024, The best VPN of 2024 is an essential tool for staying safer online, no matter where you live. With the help of my team of experts, I’ve tested dozens of VPNs hands-on to out exactly which ones truly prioritize your online privacy, and which ones promise the world but fail live up to their claims.

Virtual Private Networks are a kind of software that help keep your online activity hidden from your ISP, the government, and even hackers. In simple terms, they do this by encrypting all your traffic and routing it through their own servers located around the world, hiding your real location and your activity in the process. They’re also great for unblocking streaming content, and evading government censorship.

If you just want quick access to the three best VPN services of 2024, simply pick from ExpressVPN, , and below – in my expert reviews I rate them as the very best in their respective price ranges. However, If you want more in-depth info, simply keep scrolling for my rundown of the 10 top VPNs available today, and details of how I test VPNs at the bottom of the page.

The best VPNs in 2024

1. ExpressVPN

The best VPN on the market overall

ExpressVPN takes the top spot with its easy-to-use apps that take the complexity out of setting up a VPN and leave the difficult stuff to the experts. My ExpressVPN review showed that it unblocked anything and everything I threw at it with a peerless quality.

On paper, ExpressVPN already impresses: over 3,000 servers in 160 locations spread across 105 countries around the world, a kill switch, split tunneling and obfuscated servers. While some providers have more servers in total, very few have such a wide spread – meaning that wherever you’re based, you’ll get swift, reliable connections. It has an especially impressive range in Asia, which is often neglected by other providers.

All apps use super-secure, industry-standard AES-256 encryption, paired with OpenVPN and Lightway protocols. Lightway is the standout here, and the in-house, open-source protocol delivers excellent speeds – although this is an area where Express is just beaten by close rivals Surfshark and NordVPN. However, unless you’re using a 1Gbps+ connection you won’t notice a difference.

 

The best VPN service in 2024

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2. NordVPN

The best VPN with a full security suite

Sitting at #2 is NordVPN, and in my full NordVPN review I found that the biggest name in VPN is still one of the very best.

With over 5,500 servers in a generous 60+ countries, NordVPN practically guarantees a speedy server wherever you are – and while it’s not present in as many locations as ExpressVPN, you’ll still be very well served. You’ll likely be connecting to those servers with Nord’s own NordLynx protocol, which is a reworked version of WireGuard. In short, it’s stable, and delivered searing connection speeds of over 950 Mbps in my testing – the fastest VPN in my testing. 

You’ll get split tunneling, an effective kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and you’ll even get some unusual options like Onion over VPN and Double VPN which are designed to keep you even safer when browsing the web. Another interesting feature is Threat Protection – but while it’s a nice addition, dedicated tracker blockers do work more effectively.

Nord’s apps are powerful and fairly pleasant to use, but while the map-based interface works well on larger screen such as PCs and tablets, on smartphones it can be more of a hindrance than a benefit – simpler interfaces like ExpressVPN’s tend to work better here. 

A recent update also means the PC client can’t be resized, and there are inconsistencies between platforms. Despite that, though, the apps are very capable, and you’ll be able to install it on a huge range of devices – for just $3.39 a month, it’s excellent value.

Nord’s most interesting new feature, however, is Meshnet. This allows users to link devices anywhere around the world via encrypted NordVPN connections, creating its own secure network. This has real power, and while Nord hasn’t quite worked out how to make the feature clear to users yet, I’m very excited to see where it goes.

When it comes to streaming, however, NordVPN really impresses. You’ll be able to unblock tons of Netflix locations, iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and more – and in recent months Nord and the related Surfshark have proved to be a little more reliable with Netflix than my top choice overall ExpressVPN.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee and some attractive deals running throughout the year, NordVPN is a quality service that only misses out on the top spot thanks to some small UI quirks – and, frankly, the sheer quality of the competition.

3. Surfshark

The best cheap VPN available today

If you’re looking for a cheap VPN that outperforms products twice its price, look no further than Surfshark. The services in this guide are ranked by quality, not price, so to see a VPN that’s so affordable sitting at #3 is seriously impressive.

In my Surfshark review, I found its apps great to use, and offer all the privacy and security essentials such as AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, split tunneling, and the superfast WireGuard protocol. 

Surfshark’s been hard at work on extra features like MultiHop, and Nexus – the latter of which is not currently fully formed, but looks promising. According to the company, “connecting to Nexus means that your traffic gets routed through a whole network of servers rather than a single VPN tunnel.” Decentralizing your connection is a very interesting innovation, and it’s great that Surfshark is exploring new ways to improve VPNs as a whole.

Currently, Nexus offers an IP Rotator – your IP address will be changed every 15 minutes or so – and an IP Randomizer feature is coming soon. This will change your IP address every time you visit a new website

If you’re a hardware hoarder, Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy may put it above my #1 and #2 picks. You can install one plan on any number of devices – great for complete protection, or even sharing with those in your home. And, as a Linux VPN, Surfshark is one of the few providers to offer a full GUI – most others are only command line. Very impressive for a VPN that costs well under $2.50 a month.

In the most recent testing, connection speeds rose considerably, and on my 1 Gbps connection, it maxed out at a staggering 950 Mbps. That makes Surfshark one of the fastest providers I’ve ever tested – beating out the likes of ExpressVPN, PIA, and . Plus, it’s currently proving to be very reliable for streaming. I’ve had some issues before, but almost every provider has at some point.

However, when I put Surfshark’s kill switch through my rigorous testing procedure, we did manage to catch it out and get it to reveal us very briefly. However, the situation in which this happened is unlikely to happen in the real world. And, unfortunately, Surfshark’s support isn’t quite as good as ExpressVPN’s or NordVPN’s.

Overall, Surfshark is an excellent budget option, and when you consider its price, what small sacrifices you may need to make seem really quite insignificant.

4. Private Internet Access

Excellent value, and very useful for torrenting

Private Internet Access has been around for a long, long time, but unlike other dinosaurs of the VPN game, it’s stayed on an upward trajectory rather than falling to the new guard. 

In fact, it’s risen another place to #4 since my last Private Internet Access review.

While PIA doesn’t disclose its server network size, I believe it to sit at around 20,000 servers, which makes it by far the most server-rich provider on the market. Combine that with 84 available countries and you’ve got yourself quite the spread

PIA really stands out when you get under the surface a little. Its desktop apps offer port forwarding – a relative rarity – and its kill switch is super reliable. 

Also, its proxy browser extensions are also very good, with updated that allows for faster browsing. For newbies and those looking for a simpler experience, though, this could very well be a little annoying or intimidating.

It’s great for streaming, with access to Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer. I have expanded my streaming testing even further this time round, and as an improvement on last time, PIA was able to unblock every single service.

What’s more, Private Internet Access also offers all subscribers unlimited simultaneous connections, just like Surfshark.

This means that you can keep as many devices as you like protected – and potentially share your details with your family and friends if you’re feeling generous. For some, this might not be a huge selling point, but for gadget obsessives, it’s a must-have feature.

We’re also still waiting for PIA to complete a full independent security audit, but the good is that it’s started the process. The zero-logging policy has been audited and confirmed as true, so now I’m just waiting on the full shebang.

For those looking for a highly featured, reliable service that’s keenly priced, I’d recommend giving PIA a go – it has a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test it out risk-free.

5. Proton VPN

Privacy favorite keeps getting better

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The Swiss-based Proton brand has had quite the makeover recently, and its star product Proton VPN has been given a well-earned bit of zing. Now that the fresh new look matches its stellar performance, it’s even easier to recommend. 

Connections speeds with WireGuard are good, topping out at 460 Mbps, although even with the proprietary VPN Accelerator tech, it can’t match up to the likes of Surfshark and NordVPN. 

However, when using the old faithful OpenVPN (essential for Stealth Mode), you’ll see speeds of up to 350 Mbps. That’s faster than almost every other VPN out there when configured the same way, outpaced only by Mullvad and CyberGhost in my testing. Very impressive.

You’ll also get a comprehensive zero-logging policy and string encryption, and Proton VPN will certainly appeal to those looking to use their VPN for absolute online privacy.

What’s more, Proton VPN also offers its Secure Core servers, which are located in physically secure locations in privacy-friendly countries. You can choose to use these, and then route to a destination of your choice for added anonymity. Proton Unlimited also adds the entire privacy suite of Proton Mail, Proton Drive, and Proton Calendar for a fairly reasonable price.

However, it’s not all work and no play for Proton – in my testing for the full Proton VPN review it proved to be a real standout when it comes to unblocking Netflix, reliably accessing a number of useful locations, as well as BBC iPlayer, Disney+ and Amazon Prime.

However, Proton VPN really stands out thanks to its commitment to helping users around the world access a free and uncensored internet. One such example of this is its partnership with news company Deutsche Welle. Even free users can connect to a dedicated server and access unbiased news anywhere in the world. 

For example, this is a godsend for those in countries like China and Russia who prefer not to consume state-controlled news.

It’s getting trickier by the day to pick faults with Proton, but there are still a couple of sticking points. Firstly, while some servers do support P2P traffic, there are relatively few compared to the competition – although if Proton detects P2P activity, it’ll seamlessly redirect you to a compatible server

Prices have recently dropped across the board, but it’s still not cheap. However, sign up for 2 years and you’ll get a decent deal, with a generous 10 simultaneous connections to boot.

Overall, Proton VPN is very much on the up, and it’s evident the developers are putting in some hard work rather than resting on their laurels. Thanks to that, Proton VPN is a service we can wholeheartedly recommend.

6. CyberGhost

Excellent for torrenting and streaming

CyberGhost is another long-standing name in the world of the best VPNs, and in that time it’s developed a reputation for privacy, streaming performance, and torrent-friendly servers.

With over 9,700 servers, CyberGhost has one of the largest server networks in the industry, and with a spread of 91 countries, there’s plenty of variety when it comes to picking which to connect to.

In my expert CyberGhost VPN review, the Romanian provider delivered great connection speeds of up to 630 Mbps (although this is down since my last test), and while few users will have base connections capable of such heady heights, it’s still quite an accolade. 

CyberGhost’s apps had an overhaul in 2021, and with the introduction of Version 8, the experience is much more modern and sleek. 

However, you’ll only be able to install CyberGhost on 7 devices – and after that, you’ll need to unregister a device to use another, rather than simply logging out on one device like almost all other providers allow.

This can be a real pain if you’re right on the edge of how many devices you’re active on. We’d implore CyberGhost to change this silly feature – why not go unlimited like fellow Kape Technologies stablemate PIA?

Back to positives, CyberGhost’s apps offer some very useful dedicated streaming features like Netflix and iPlayer-optimized servers. It’s fairly capable when it comes to unblocking, and in my last testing I saw it unblock some Netflix libraries, iPlayer, and Amazon Prime

Disney+, however, was unavailable, and the likes of ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark are better providers for streaming.

One of my biggest issues with CyberGhost in my last review was that it hadn’t undertaken a security audit of any kind. This time round it’s still not perfect, but it has had its no-log policy audited by Deloitte. Let’s hope a full server and app audit is in the works.

Overall, CyberGhost is a cheap, effective VPN provider that impresses when it comes to torrenting and general privacy. However, it’s honestly quite outclassed by the providers above.

7. Windscribe

Tons of features and an excellent extension

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Our expert Windscribe review found the provider’s free VPN that gives users 10GB of data a month very useful, but it also offers a fairly-priced paid service that delivers unlimited data and lets you connect as many devices at once as you like. Most other VPN services permit only five to 10 at a time.

Windscribe is compatible with many platforms – including routers and Amazon Fire and Kodi TV set-top boxes. The service offers a great variety of connection options, has a wide geographic reach with hundreds of servers, and presents an appealing, if minimal, user interface. 

It’s also good for watching overseas Netflix, and has dedicated ‘Windflix servers’ to enable this. One failure I did notice, however, was unblocking amazon Prime Video.

The service’s Chrome VPN extension is a standout feature. As one of the best on the market, it offers tons of features and can be used without installing the desktop client – great for work computers of other devices you can’t install software on. 

For those that do install the desktop client, you’ll notice the brand-spanking Windscribe 2.0 software has tidied up the interface and offers a ton of nifty features – although newbies may be overwhelmed. One such feature is Decoy Mode on Android which, although very niche, could be invaluable to dissidents in truly extreme situations.

Once of my previous complaints was that Windscribe simply wasn’t very fast compared to others, but since then it’s upped the ante, topping out at an excellent 950 Mbps.

This matches up to the very fastest providers on the market, and it’s great to see Windscribe pushing more established [players like this.

You can pay for a Windscribe subscription with Bitcoin, you don’t even have to provide an email address, and the service is based in Canada, which may appeal to users wary of US authorities.

8. IPVanish

Feature-packed, but not a perfect streamer

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IPVanish is a US VPN that’s been in the game for a long time, and it’s widely regarded as a safe, reliable, and trustworthy provider. It’s designed for the more techy user, it boasts a bunch of useful additions and powerful apps that display all the data you could wish for.

In my testing for the IPVanish review, I saw the provider deliver incredible speeds of around 950 Mbps when using WireGuard, which is comparable to close rivals NordVPN and Surfshark. 

Its OpenVPN speeds are average at best, at just 225 Mbps in my testing, but most users will be using WireGuard anyway. 

‘Scramble’ is an interesting feature that allows VPN use in countries like China, and while it’s not quite as robust as other specialized China VPN services, it’s still very useful.

When it comes to streaming, it’s also a mixed bag. I got access to US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+ and Prime (which is an improvement from last time we checked), but unlike providers further up this list, we couldn’t tap into any other Netflix locations like Australia or Canada.

One of my biggest criticisms in my last review was that IPVanish rarely updated its apps – and it looks like the devs were listening. 

The brand new interface looks great, retains many of the in-depth features I loved, while integrating a Favorites function as well as in-app support. 

However, on the flip side, it’s a shame that some niche features have been removed, rather than tucked away more neatly.

Overall, though, while it’s lost a little ground on the top services, IPVanish is still well worth considering, especially if you’re a fan of in-depth, techy software.

9. Mullvad

Privacy extraordinaire lives up to expectations

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In my expert Mullvad review, I found that the Swedish provider eschews ‘gimmicks’ for true privacy performance. However, while this certainly endears Mullvad with techies and old-school VPN veterans, the crowd-pleasing likes of ExpressVPN and NordVPN arguably offer a better proposition for the casual user.

With no tricks and a very transparent website, Mullvad’s one of the few providers that avoids making disputable claims of “unblocking anything” or
“guaranteed anonymity”. 

Rather, it leads by example by never taking any personal details, accepting cash payments sent through snail mail, and offering simple, effective and open-source apps. New additions include the ability to purchase account numbers through Amazon – an anonymity plus point – and a fresh DNS server audit.

It also avoids the incredible complexity of other ‘expert’ VPNs, and while a very small selection of users will want to tweak countless DNS settings, many will simply appreciate the no-nonsense approach to online privacy.

As I said, though, Mullvad does lack in some important areas that many users won’t want to compromise on. While connection speeds are very impressive, in line with IPVanish, CyberGhost, and the like, it’s not able to unblock any streaming services – and likely never will. 

On that connection speed note, though, in my last testing it topped out at a very respectable 900 Mbps – almost as fast as the highest flyers. 

What’s more, though, is that when using OpenVPN, Mullvad outpaced every other provider I tested, topping out at a heady 530 Mbps. If you’ll be using OpenVPN and don’t about streaming, it could be a great choice.

The apps also lack some fairly commonplace usability features like automatic selection of the nearest/fastest location, and no favorites list. Plus, if you run into any issues you’ll have to rely on email support or the bare-bones support site rather than live chat.

Overall, though, if you’re looking for a transparent, privacy-focused VPN, you could do a lot worse than Mullvad.

10. Hide.me

Superb customization and well-suited for experts

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Hide.me has been around since 2011, and in that time it’s developed quite a following and has made quite an impression on the VPN industry.

With around 2,000 servers in 75 locations, it’s in the mid-pack when it comes to network size – outstripped by PIA, CyberGhost, NordVPN, and others – but in practice this is more than enough for just about any user. Connections are lightning-fast too, topping out at a mega 950 Mbps in my last round of testing.

Hide.me’s Windows VPN apps are powerful and configurable, with plenty of protocol choices, DNS protection, torrenting support, and more. It’s evidently aimed at the advanced user, and those with the knowledge and inclination to trawl through the settings will be greatly rewarded. 

However, for many, it’s quite possible that it’ll all be too much and won’t deliver such a seamless experience as more welcoming providers like ExpressVPN – and its offerings are much weaker than the competition.

It’s also worth noting that I experienced some minor technical issues with the apps, including an issue with the kill switch which could potentially compromise users when changing server.

In my streaming testing, Hide.me impressed. It’s able to access a number of Netflix locations alongside BBC iPlayer, Showtime, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more. 

Finally, Hide.me also has some excellent privacy credentials – although it hasn’t undertaken any kind of audit since 2015, and even then there’s very little detail. But, overall, it’s a great choice, especially if you like to tinker with your software – and the new free 2TB  storage plan courtesy of Internxt isn’t to be sniffed at.

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Best vacuum cleaners 2024, There’s no getting away from cleaning your floors regularly to ensure your home stays spotless. However, we all have unique cleaning needs, which means we have different preferences when choosing the best vacuum. So, to help you decide which vacuum is best for you, we’ve gathered the best vacuum cleaners to cover every eventuality.

The best vacuum cleaner will suck up dirt and debris in no time and be powerful enough to make light of tough tasks. You should also expect the best vacuum cleaner to have excellent cleaning performance, be easy to manoeuvre and carry around your home without a struggle. 

With so many different types of the market, it can be tricky to know which one will suit your needs. Your first choice is deciding whether you want a corded or cordless vacuum. A cordless vacuum is easier for cleaning small spaces or stairs, while a corded vacuum will have more power. What’s more, you can opt for a 2-in-1 upright that can convert to a handheld vacuum for small spaces.

Your choice will also depend on whether you have hard floors or carpets or a combination of the two, pets that shed fur, or multiple levels of stairs to negotiate. And you may prefer something more advanced, such as a smart, self-emptying robot that takes cleaning to a whole new level.

Best upright vacuum cleaner

Navigator Lift-Away NV352

The best vacuum is great at picking up everything

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The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 isn’t the newest vacuum cleaner on the market, but its market longevity shows that it is one of the best. The NV352 offers the performance of two vacuums in one: It can be used as a traditional upright or converted into a canister vacuum. Numerous reviews of this budget-friendly vacuum note its excellent suction on both pile carpets and bare floors. In lab tests, it picked up pet hair and cereal with equal aplomb, providing a deep clean with ease. One of the neater features on the Navigator Lift-Away NV352 is the suction-release valve control — conveniently located on the handle — which can be adjusted to lessen the vacuum’s grip on small rugs and shag carpets.

Though it looks and functions like an upright, the NV352’s clever design allows it to be converted into a canister vac. It comes with several hose attachments, too, making it ideal for reaching small spaces or drapes. Because its main body lacks wheels, you’ll have to carry this vacuum around, but there’s a well-placed handle for just this reason. The bagless NV352 also has a HEPA filter and an anti-allergy seal for keeping excess dust at bay.

Best vacuum cleaners 2024

Read Also : The best cameras in 2024

2. with Zero-M Powered Lift-Away

Best vacuum cleaner for pet hair

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If your home is a mix of hardwood floors and area rugs, the Shark Apex DuoClean (AZ1002) might be the answer to your multi-surface conundrum. It comes with two separate rollers — one with brushes for rugs and a soft, brushless one for hardwood floors. In addition to pulling double duty on floors, this vacuum Optimus Prime works as an upright but also converts into a canister-like vacuum cleaner, with several attachments for cleaning hard-to-reach places. Its low-clearance in canister mode means the nozzle will slide easily under furniture and other low-slung obstacles. The Apex DuoClean features three separate suction settings plus LED lights on the handle and floor nozzle that illuminate the dirt in front of it.

In addition to receiving high marks for cleaning a variety of surfaces, the Apex DuoClean got excellent reviews for picking up pet hair without getting it wrapped around the brush roll. Reviewers also praised the included motorized pet attachment for cleaning up cat hair on furniture. 

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Best canister vacuum cleaner

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The Miele C3 Complete Calima is a big step up from canister vacuums of yore. Its attachments all fit onboard and the nozzle hooks into place on the canister itself, virtually eliminating the potential for cartoon-like vacuum hose antics. The nozzle tube is also telescopic, which makes cleaning dusty ceiling fans a breeze.

Out of the box, the C3 Complete Calima is equipped with two floorheads—one for pile carpets and one for hardwood—plus a dusting brush and upholstery and crevice nozzles. Miele sells additional attachments for vacuuming almost anything you can imagine, including mattresses.

With HEPA filtration, tight rubber seals and a bagged design, the C3 Complete Calima is a great choice for allergy sufferers. Pet owners will also appreciate how well it picks up pet hair, dust, and dander on both bare floors and carpet.

4. Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet Friendly

A heavy but effective vacuum cleaner

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Closely resembling what The Jetsons robot maid Rosie would use to clean, the Kenmore Elite 31150 looks like an old-school upright, but it’s got a few tricks up its nozzle. This bagged vacuum features a HEPA filtration system, a telescopic wand and an extra long, 35-foot cord, making it a great choice for homes where available outlets are scarce.

Reviews praise this vacuum cleaner’s carpet-cleaning prowess, while noting that it picked up nearly all of the debris on bare floors, too. The Elite 31150 features five levels of manual height adjustment for switching between bare floors and high pile carpet, but you’ll have to bend down to access it.

The crevice, brush and roller attachments also earn high marks for their suction, providing a deep clean. Too much power? The Elite 31150 features adjustable suction control to stop the vac from pulling the drapes off the rod. The vacuum is a bit heavy, and it’s not as maneuverable as other uprights, but it excels at cleaning along edges.

5. Dyson V11 Torque Drive

Splurge-worthy cordless stick vacuum cleaner

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The V11 Torque Drive cordless stick vacuum is Dyson’s flagship cleaner that trumpets a 60-minute runtime and 14 cyclones generating 185 air watts of suction in Max mode. Dyson’s unique, cyclone technology means vacuums are engineered with six layers of advanced whole machine filtration. Essentially, this captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, expelling cleaner air around the home. 

In addition to obliterating pet hair, the V11 has Dynamic Load Sensing technology that adjusts the vac to the surface and the battery’s corresponding runtime. This information is displayed on the LCD screen near the handle where you can choose between Eco, Auto and Max cleaning modes as well as get guidance if the vac needs a blockage cleared.

Like Dyson’s other stick vacuums, the V11 Torque Drive’s brightly colored aesthetic isn’t for everyone. Its $600 price tag isn’t for everyone either. But reviews praise the V11’s automatically adjusting brush roll and strong cleaning power, especially for a cordless machine. 

Is it overkill? Probably. But if you can afford it, why not get the most powerful cordless vacuum Dyson makes? 

6. Lightweight Cordless Vacuum

Best budget stick vacuum cleaner

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If you’re looking for a stick vacuum, but don’t want to break the bank, then look no further. The Eureka RapidClean Pro Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner features 2 power levels as well as LED headlights for when you vacuum dark spaces, such as under furniture. It can lie flat as you vacuum too, meaning it can squeeze under tight spaces. While it comes at a great price point, you still get some useful accessories including a crevice tool and a 2-in1 dusting brush. 

With 40 minutes of battery life, you’ve got more than enough time to cover the whole house if need be. We like that you can also use it as a handheld to give the car or the stairs a quick once-over as well. Our only qualm would be that it can’t stand on its own, so you will need to prop it against a wall between uses.

7. Black+Decker Dustbuster cordless vacuum

A handy hand vacuum for small messes

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Sometimes, the littlest messes are the biggest hassles, such as a box of spilled rice or kitty litter tracked through the house. While a full-size vacuum will get the job done, it can be a pain to lug around. Weighing in at just 2.6 pounds, the inexpensive Dustbuster CHV1410L features a rotating nozzle with an onboard brush and an extendable crevice tool for reaching into the far back corners of cabinets and under car seats.

While reviewers note that it’s not the best option for cleaning Garfield’s spot on the couch, this Dustbuster is ideal for eradicating the dust bunnies hiding out under the living room sofa. Like the Hoover Linx, the Dustbuster handheld vac is meant for short bursts of cleaning as reviewers note it lasts between 10 and 15 minutes on a charge.

8. iRobot Roomba s9+

Our favorite robot vacuum if price is no object

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If you really hate vacuuming, you’ll really like the +. It is one of our favorite robot vacuums and the most intelligent, but it is also the most expensive robot vacuum on the market today. This -controlled vac didn’t just go to college, it graduated at the top of its class. 

We were impressed by its smooth, navigation around the home, which is due to its smarter, mapping abilities. Unlike other robot vacuums, it didn’t bump into any baseboards or get stuck in awkward places. In addition, we liked its ability to clean inside corners very well.  

Unfortunately, all that intelligence comes with a price tag of $1,099. But put the s9+ to work and prepare to be impressed. For starters, it maps the entire floor of a house in just a few runs. Once the map is complete, draw room boundaries, set no-go zones and set-up a cleaning schedule. 

You’ll love the Roomba s9+ for more than just its brain, too. It’s a superb cleaner, too. In our tests, it picked up 100% of kitty litter on both carpet and hardwood floors. While it performs beautifully with minimal human intervention, it is loud, particularly when emptying its dustbin. However, its superior debris pickup and ease of setup and mapping were impressive. If this model is too pricey, check out more affordable picks on our best robot vacuums page.

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9. iLife V3s Pro

The best robot vacuum for those on a budget

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The iLife V3s Pro is, without a doubt, our favorite budget robot vacuum and a Tom’s Guide Editor’s Choice. While it lacks the bells and whistles of fancier robot vacuums, the V3s Pro cleans house and does it exceptionally well– especially for a budget vacuum. We were impressed by its performance in picking up pet hair and dirt/crumbs on hard floors. It also has no problems navigating over high-pile, throw rugs.

Unlike other robot vacuums equipped with a spinning roller brush, the V3s Pro has a suction opening that funnels debris directly into the dustbin. Though it’s loud, this design helps it dodge a common vacuum pitfall– hair wrapped around the cleaning brush.

The V3s Pro’s cleaning prowess on hardwood floors blew us away. Though it struggled a bit on high pile carpet, it’s ideal for homes with bare floors or thin rugs and multiple pets. In our lab tests, it picked up nearly all the pet hair we left for it, outperforming other vacs that cost three times as much.

10. 5HP shop vac DXV09P

This wet/dry shop vac is made for big spills

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Hopefully, you’ll never need to use it to clean out a wet basement, but if you do, the 9-gallon DeWalt wet/dry shop vac (DXV09P) is the best vacuum cleaner for the job. It’s nimble enough for smaller homes but large enough for cleaning up watery messes. Reviewers complimented the shop vac’s superior build quality and excellent suction on everything from broken glass to wet carpeting.

This vacuum comes packaged with two extension wands; crevice, floor and utility nozzles; and a bag for all of them that attaches to the rear of the vacuum. Rubberized wheels give the DeWalt DXV09P easy movement and extra durability. It also comes with a washable cartridge filter that’ll trap small particles while you vacuum. But this vac’s most thoughtful feature is the hose strap on top. Anyone who’s wrestled with wrapping a 7-foot hose around a wet/dry vac– only to have it magically come unwound– will appreciate this subtle, but important, feature.

There’s actually quite a few types of vacuum cleaner to choose from, including upright, cylinder, cordless, handheld and robot. If you’re new to the market you might be a little unsure of which type is best for you. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons for each. 

Upright — This is one of the most popular types. It sits ‘upright’ and you push it in front of you as you vacuum. It’s a corded design which offers lots of power. However, they can be quite heavy and uncomfortable to use for long periods of time. They’re also not the most maneuverable and struggle to reach under furniture. These are the best if you’ve got lots of high pile carpet though. 

Cylinder — These feature a small body which rolls on the floor as you pull it behind you. It’s the most traditional of the designs and is particularly effective on hard floors. You can easily reach under furniture and up the stairs with this type of vacuum cleaner, plus it’s less work to use than an upright. However, they’re not great on pile carpets as many don’t come with a turbo brush. Ultimately, these are best for hard floor homes. 

Cordless — Cordless vacuum cleaners have surged in popularity in recent years. They were originally designed for quick spills, but now they’re expected to replace corded models, covering the floors throughout a household before the battery runs flat. They’re not quite as powerful as corded types, but they’re getting close, and the lightweight, maneuverable design makes them the most pleasant and convenient type to use. They’re great if you live in a small space and don’t deal with stubborn debris. You will need to charge it between uses though, and the canister can fill quickly. 

Handheld — Handheld vacuums are ideal for small spills and difficult to reach places. You couldn’t use it to vacuum a whole house — it’s usually compact and small enough to hold in one hand, and you typically use it for short periods of time. The canister can fill quickly though, and it’s not not great for embedded hair. These aren’t as popular to buy separately nowadays as most cordless models can also function as handheld vacuums. 

Robot — Robot vacuum cleaners have been around for a while now, but they are still growing in popularity and becoming more developed. These will navigate themselves around your home independently and clean as they go. You will still need to empty the on-board canister, so it’s not completely hands-free, but it’s a much more convenient method of cleaning. They’re not as powerful as the corded models, but they’re getting there. More innovations are being introduced to robot vacuums, such as self-emptying designs and machine learning to recognize obstacles.  

It’s also important that you consider whether you want a bagged or bagless vacuum. Check out our guide on bagged vs. bagless vacuum for more info. 

Even if you find the right vacuum cleaner, make sure you’re using it properly. Here are 9 vacuum cleaner mistakes you’re probably making. Also, ever wondered are cordless vacuum cleaners worth it? Here are the pros and cons

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Depending on the brand and model, a vacuum cleaner comes with a one to five year warranty. But, on average, your vacuum should stay in good working order for eight years. Most manufacturers offer extended warranties but we don’t recommend them since the repair cost is likely to be less than the cost of the warranty itself.  

The main sign that a vacuum needs replacing is a lack of suction. But before buying a new one, make sure to replace the bag, remove hair and other debris from the brush head, clean or replace the filter, or clear any clogs in the hose. Your vacuum might also need a new drive belt, which is an easy and inexpensive fix. However, if you’re quoted more than 50 percent of the price of a new vacuum, our advice is to consider buying a replacement.

By purchasing a new vacuum, you can take advantage of some of the new developments. Many models now come with HEPA filters that trap microscopic particles like dust, dander and pollen, which is particularly useful if someone in your house has allergies. You can increase the level of protection from allergens by choosing a sealed model so air doesn’t escape from cracks and crevices and actually gets channeled into the HEPA filter. 

The most dramatic change in the world of vacuums is the wide selection of robot vacuums that can effortlessly keep your floors spotless. They can even go behind the furniture and under beds, places you might not be able to get to if you were doing the job yourself. Most of these robots can be controlled with a smartphone app, or through Alexa or

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Depending on the model you’ve chosen, this appliance can come with several attachments all of which do different jobs. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common attachments and what each are for: 

 Crevice tool — This is a long thin tube which is designed to reach into awkward areas, such as down the sides of vehicle seats. These are also useful for vacuuming along skirting boards. 
 Dirt brush — This tool comes with stiff bristles on it to help dislodge dirt as you vacuum.  
 Mini motorized brush/Pet tool — Mini-motorized brushes are becoming more popular with stick vacuums. These alternative motorized heads are designed to be used on handheld vacuums. As they feature a rotating brush, they have much better pickup than other accessories and can be great for pet hair. 
 Mattress tool/Upholstery tool — A small, flat head, which is designed to vacuum the mattress or upholstery, removing dirt and allergens. 
 Combination or 2-in1 tool — A common attachment which features soft bristles that can slide over a small nozzle or be locked back in place. This makes it good for delicate work and everyday cleaning.  
 Dusting brush — This tool features soft bristles over a small nozzle which makes it ideal for dislodging dust from delicate surfaces, such as lampshades.  

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With the exception of robot vacuums, our selection for the best vacuum cleaners were based on extensive consumer report research, and online reviews. We rated power and how well each vacuum cleaner performed on various surfaces. These included use on high and low pile carpets alongside hardwood and tile flooring. 

In addition, we looked at ease of use, and how weight impacted on lifting and carrying around the home. Other factors included practicality, design, number of accessories, and how easy it is to clean and store. 

How often should you vacuum?

You should vacuum as often as necessary. If you notice fluff and crumbs appearing on your floors, then it needs a vacuum. Once a week is generally good guidance, however if you have shedding pets or allergies, then you may need to do it more often. This is also the case for high-traffic areas.

Should you dust or vacuum first?

You should always dust before you vacuum. That way, any airborne dust which you didn’t collect will settle on the floor to be picked up by the vacuum. Doing this the other way around would be counterproductive. 

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How to record phone calls on your , messages and email are two of the most common ways we use our smartphones to communicate, but one shouldn’t forget that these fancy can still ring a friend or family member. An audible one-on-one conversation may be falling out of style, but it’s still one of the fastest ways to exchange a lot of information.

Fortunately, you can also record phone calls for future reference, although you’re a bit up-the-creek if you’re rocking an iPhone. For years now, devices haven’t featured any type of built-in recording tool for phone calls — not even the iPhone 15iPhone 15 Pro, or . That being said, there are a few workarounds.

You can record your iPhone calls using a second device, an app or two, or with ‘s services, and we’re going to walk you through each method. We should also mention that if you’d like to try and record calls, the website https://gethuman.com could be of service too.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro in hand.

How to record iPhone calls with another device

The easiest way to record a call is using another device to record your call in speakerphone mode. This is, by far, the simplest option. However, it does involve you having the additional device, so it’s not for everyone.

If you’re using a Mac or PC, you can use the built-in recording software or something free like https://www.audacityteam.org. For Mac users, GarageBand is the tried and true recording tool. The software is simple to use and even allows you to export and share audio files.

Windows users are best served by the Sound Recorder app. Like GarageBand, you’ll be able to record, edit, and share files with other devices.

The other key piece of equipment you’ll need is a microphone. We have a list of the best microphones for streaming, but don’t recommend you buy an expensive microphone just for recording a single call.

We advise setting up your recording equipment ahead of time, so the steps below reflect this. Keep in mind you can’t get around the additional device requirement by recording on the iPhone taking the call, as the microphone is locked out during calls.

How to record phone calls on your iPhone

Read More : Best Midjourney Prompts in 2024

Step 1: Create your recording workspace. You’re not going to be able to move away from your recording device, so keep that in mind and make sure you’re comfortable and have privacy (if required).

Step 2: Download and install whatever recording software you’re using. If you’re using a , we have a list of the best voice-recording apps for Android and iPhone, but in brief, Voice Memos is great for iPhone users, while users should look at Easy Voice Recorder.

If you’re using a Mac or PC, you can use the built-in recording software or something free like Audacity. You’ll also need a microphone of some sort though, so make sure you have one. We have a list of the best microphones for streaming, but don’t recommend you buy an expensive microphone just for recording a single call.

Voice Memos on iOS.

Step 3: Open your recording software and place the phone you’re making the call from near enough to the recording device to be heard. You can test with some music or videos to make sure it can be heard.

Step 4: Start your call, and make sure to place your phone on Speakerphone mode by tapping the Audio button on your call.

Step 5: Tap Record on the recording software of your choice.

Step 6: If required, make sure to inform the person on the other end that you are recording the call.

Call Recorder Pro records any call.

Share your recordings on a number of services.

A recordings log in the Call Recorder Pro app.

How to record iPhone calls using an app

There aren’t many high-quality, free call-recording apps out there, but there are a few options if you’re willing to pay a modest amount. We’ve tested a number of apps, and there are definitely a select handful that are better than the rest. These apps tend to have subscription costs, so they’re best if you’re a regular recorder of calls.

TapeACall Pro: Call Recorder ($11) — The best iPhone call recording app out there, by far. $11 gets you unlimited recording for a year, and it’s $20 a year after that. It merges calls into a three-way call and records everything, including your own voice. TapeACall can record incoming calls, outgoing calls, and calls you’re already taking. You’ll also have access to call transcriptions and unlimited storage.

Do keep in mind this app only works if your carrier supports three-way conference calls. You can listen to the recording in the app, or share it with a number of cloud storage services. A great app if you’re going to be recording a lot of calls.

Call Recorder Pro for iPhone ($10) — Another solid option, Call Record Pro uses three-way calling, so you need to make sure your carrier supports it. You can start the recording mid-call, and can share the recordings via email, cloud storage, or other apps. It’s let down by its pricing structure, though, as the $10 fee upfront only gets you 300 minutes of calling. After that, you’ll need to buy credits for more call time.

A la carte bundling starts at $1 for 30 credits and goes up to $20 for 700 credits. You can also purchase a Mega Credit Pack for $50.

Call Recorder – IntCall — Our first option that’s free to download, IntCall specializes in international calling, and functions on a credit system. You’ll need a GSM network for it to work (as most of the world uses GSM networks), and it uses VoIP to make the call. Prices vary depending on the country being called, but most cost between 10-20 cents per minute. If you’re not calling internationally, there’s also a weekly subscription you can buy, but that uses three-way conference calls, so again, make sure your carrier supports it.

How to record iPhone calls using Google Voice

If you’re looking for a good, free option with the ability to record incoming calls, and unwanted call filters, Google Voice might be the ideal choice. You must port your phone number over to Google to get access to the recording feature, and it can’t record outgoing calls. This makes it rather inconvenient if you’re hoping to record any conversations that you need to initiate, or if you like your current carrier, but it’s a small sacrifice if you want free recording. Read our guide on on how to set up Google Voice if you’re not familiar with the app.

To record incoming calls with your Google Voice account on an iPhone, you first need to set up an account. Just go to Google Voice and follow the instructions. Once your account is up and running, the next step is to enable call recording so you can record and automatically save your conversation as an MP3 file. Keep in mind, you’ll have to answer the call within the app itself by using your provided Google Voice number, so be aware you won’t be able to successfully record phone conversations using just your iPhone’s phone number.

Be aware only personal Google Voice accounts can record, and Voice for Google Workspace accounts won’t have access to this feature. Only the U.S. can use Google Voice, but you can dial outside of the U.S. from within it on Google Voice.

Step 1: Navigate to the Google Voice homepage.

Step 2: Click on Settings (gear icon) on the upper left-hand corner of the window.

Step 3: Scroll down to the Calls section and make sure that Incoming call options is enabled.

Setting call recording in Google Voice.

Step 4: To record calls, you’ll need to download the Google Voice app.

Step 5: When you’re ready to record, start the call and tap the number 4 on your keypad. When you do this, you and the person on the other line will hear an automated voice message announcing the call will be recorded.

Starting a call in Google Voice.

Step 6: You can stop recording by hitting the number 4 on your keypad again or simply by hanging up. Once the recording has stopped, Google will automatically save the conversation so you can refer to it later. 

Step 7: If all the settings are correct and you’ve already answered and recorded a call using the app, you will notice the conversation will pop up under your Calls and voicemail tab. If you’d like to listen to the recorded audio, just select the arrow and make sure your volume is turned up. The app will also email you a link to your conversation so you can view it in a browser.

Google Voice recordings in-app.

Is it legal to record iPhone phone calls?

“Your calls may be recorded for training or monitoring purposes” is a common sentence to hear when calling a customer service line, and that’s for a good reason. Many states have two-party consent laws in place. In 16 U.S. states (California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington), it is not expressly legal to record a phone call without the consent of the other participants in the call.

Make sure you know whether you need to warn the other person on the line that they are being recorded, as you may get into trouble if you don’t. Do your research, and if in doubt, err on the side of caution. Remember, if it’s a multi-person call, you need the consent of everyone on the call, not just one other person.

Be aware some of these laws will apply internationally, too. Always make sure you know whether the local law means you need to warn people of the call being recorded.

Are call-recording apps free?

That all depends on the app, but usually not. For example, of the three call-recording apps we mention in this post (TapeACall Pro: Call Recorder, Call Recorder Pro for iPhone, and Call Recorder — IntCall), two of the three services require you to purchase in-app credits for recording calls.

The one outlier that doesn’t require credits (TapeACall Pro) requires a yearly subscription though. This is why it’s a good idea to get familiar with the terms and conditions of whatever recording software you decide to go with.

Is Google Voice free?

When dialing from the US, most Google Voice calls to the US and Canada end up being free. In some cases, a call to the US or Canada may end up costing 1 cent per minute.

Calls made outside the US are subject to Google Voice’s listed rates.

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