Category: Technologies

This year isn’t quite over, but rumors about new phones are already buzzing. While it’s hard to know what’s exactly in store for the smartphone industry in 2023, it’s possible to make some educated guesses since companies like Apple, Google and Samsung mostly stick to the same launch routine each year.

The iPhone 15 lineup, for example, is expected to arrive in September — possibly with USB-C charging for the first time. If Samsung maintains its typical release cycle, the Galaxy S23 will be one of the first new phones we see in 2023.

Such launches would come after the smartphone space took subtle but important steps forward in 2022. The iPhone, for example, gained satellite connectivity for emergencies and car crash detection, while Google found more ways to make use of its custom Tensor chip in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Samsung, meanwhile, gave its flagship Galaxy S lineup a fresh look and an upgraded camera.

Here are the new phones we’re likely to see in 2023 based on previous launch cycles, rumors and reports.

Apple iPhone 15 lineup

What we’re expecting: Apple’s new iPhone family usually launches in September, and we have no reason to believe 2023 will be any different. The adoption of USB-C charging is one of the biggest changes we’re expecting to see on Apple’s next-generation iPhones. The European Union recently mandated that all new phones sold in the region must support USB-C charging by 2024. Apple said it would comply with these rules, but did not specify whether that means we’ll see a shift to USB-C starting in 2023. It’s also not confirmed if a USB-C iPhone would get a global release, or if it would remain solely as a European model.

Otherwise, we’re likely to see routine changes such as some camera upgrades and a new processor. TF International Securities Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is known for making predictions about upcoming Apple products, also says Apple may do more to distinguish the iPhone 15 Pro from the regular iPhone 15.

It already made a step in that direction with the iPhone 14 generation by keeping features like the Dynamic Island and new A16 Bionic processor exclusive to the Pro line. What’s more interesting, however, is the idea that Apple could further differentiate the larger iPhone 15 Pro Max from the smaller iPhone 15 Pro, according to Kuo. The main difference between the regular Pro and Pro Max comes down to screen size. Giving the Pro Max some extra perks could further convince shoppers to splurge on Apple’s biggest (and most expensive) iPhone. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also believes Apple could change the name of the iPhone Pro Max to the iPhone Ultra in the future to better align with other products like the Apple Watch Ultra.

Why I’m excited about it: The iPhone’s long-anticipated transition to USB-C is arguably the biggest reason to get excited about Apple’s next smartphone. The switch means iPhone users will finally be able to charge their iPhone, iPad and Mac with the same type of charging cable, reducing friction and making the iPhone that much more convenient. I’m also looking forward to seeing whether Apple further distinguishes the iPhone 15 Pro Max from the iPhone 15 Pro. I’ve argued that Apple needs to give its supersized iPhones more functionality that takes advantage of their larger screens, similar to the iPad.

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Samsung Galaxy S23 Lineup

What we’re expecting: Based on the rumors, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 could bring some noteworthy upgrades to the camera and design — two areas that have traditionally been a big focus for the South Korean tech giant.

The rumored Galaxy S23 Ultra could include a 200-megapixel main camera, according to a prolific leaker who goes by the name Ice Universe on Twitter. That sounds like a huge jump from the Galaxy S22 Ultra’s 108-megapixel main sensor on paper. But it’s important to remember that factors like sensor size and speed also play a very important role in image quality. The new 200-megapixel sensor is only said to be slightly larger than the iPhone 14 Pro’s and is reportedly a bit smaller than other Android flagships, according to Ice Universe.

Samsung may also give the regular Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus a tweaked design that more closely matches that of the Ultra model. Images from reliable leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer suggest Samsung will eliminate the camera bump from the S23 and S23 Plus, replacing it with the protruding lenses found on the Galaxy S22 Ultra. The images were published on the tech blogs Digit and Smartprix in partnership with Hemmerstoffer.

Although we don’t know precisely what to expect in terms of performance, Samsung usually puts Qualcomm’s latest mobile chip in the new version of its phones that launch in the United States and certain other markets. That means we will likely see the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in Samsung’s next Galaxy phone. The new chip offers better power efficiency, ray tracing for improved aesthetics in mobile games and upgraded AI that can better separate you from your Zoom background, among other enhancements. The analyst Kuo even believes Samsung could ditch its own Exynos processors and rely solely on Qualcomm for the Galaxy S23.

Why I’m excited about it: Smartphone cameras have already gotten so sophisticated that I’m curious to see whether Samsung’s 200-megapixel sensor actually makes a meaningful difference. Either way, it’ll be interesting to see how Samsung pushes the camera experience forward in the S23 lineup given the increased competition from Google’s Pixel series in recent years. I’m also in favor of the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus’ rumored design change to more closely resemble the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Based on the renders, it looks cleaner and sleeker compared to the Galaxy S22’s camera bump.

Google Pixel 7A

What we’re expecting: If Google maintains its tradition, we could see a cheaper version of the Pixel 7 known as the Pixel 7A launch in the spring or summer time frame. Rumors about the Pixel 7A are scarce right now. But developer Kuba Wojciechowski claims to have found details possibly pertaining to the Pixel 7A in the Android codebase, suggesting that some fairly significant upgrades are in store.

Wojciechowski’s findings indicate the Pixel 7A could have a screen with a higher refresh rate of 90Hz and wireless charging — two characteristics that are noticeably absent from the Pixel 6A. Leaked renders from Hemmerstoffer that were once again published on Smartprix also suggest the Pixel 7A will have a very similar design as its predecessor.

The Pixel 7A could also include the same Tensor G2 processor that powers the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro as well as a camera setup that includes wide and ultrawide sensors. That’s if the Pixel 7A follows in the same footsteps as the Pixel 6A, of course.

Why I’m excited about it: Google’s A-series Pixel phones are seriously impressive from a value standpoint. That’s why the Pixel 6A has received a CNET Editors’ Choice award and is our favorite Android phone under $500. If Google manages to address the Pixel 6A’s very few shortcomings while maintaining the same price of $449, it’ll be an even more formidable challenger to Samsung in the affordable phone space.

Google Pixel 8 Lineup

What we’re expecting: Google’s Pixel 7 and 7 Pro are only a couple months old, but rumors have already started to surface about the Pixel 8 family. German tech blog WinFuture claims to have found references to two unreleased Pixel smartphones in publicly available code. The findings indicate that these two devices are codenamed “Shiba” and “Husky” and that they’re powered by a new processor codenamed “Zuma.” The code also suggests these devices will run on Android 14 and include 12GB of RAM, according to WinFuture.

Why I’m excited about it: There haven’t been many rumors about the expected Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which means there isn’t too much to get excited about yet. But what I’m most interested in is what new features Google’s next-generation chip will bring to its future phones. Google’s current Tensor chips have enabled features that seem practical and useful in everyday life, such as Magic Eraser and Face Unblur for improving photo quality and the ability to add speaker labels to transcripts in the Recorder app. That makes me excited about where Google could take things next.

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

What we’re expecting: Samsung may be best-known for its Galaxy S devices, but its series of Galaxy A phones are worth your attention if you’re shopping on a tighter budget. The next phone in this series is expected to be called the Galaxy A54 5G, following the Galaxy A53 5G’s launch last spring.

Based on the few leaks that have surfaced so far, the Galaxy A54 5G will be a modest improvement over the A53 5G. It’s expected to have a 6.4-inch screen, which is slightly smaller than the A53’s 6.5-inch display, and a triple rear camera. That’s according to the leaker Hemmerstoffer, who shared renders claiming to show the Galaxy A54 5G’s design with the tech blog 91Mobiles. A report from the Dutch tech site Galaxy Club also suggests the A54 5G could have a slightly larger battery than its predecessor.

Why I’m excited about it: When I tested the Galaxy A53 5G around the time of its launch, I thought it felt much more expensive than it actually was. It’s not perfect, but Samsung provides a well-rounded package for the price with the Galaxy A53 5G. I’m hoping the success of Google’s Pixel A series motivates Samsung to up its budget phone game even further.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

What we’re expecting: Even though foldable phones are still new to most people, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold will be on its fifth generation in 2023. The next version of Samsung’s phone-tablet hybrid could have a slot for storing Samsung’s S Pen stylus, a lighter design and a less noticeable crease, according to Korean news outlet The Elec. The report didn’t definitively say the Z Fold 5 will have these improvements, but did say Samsung has cited them as barriers that must be overcome to make foldable phones more popular.

Otherwise, we can probably expect to see routine improvements to the camera and processor in the Galaxy Z Fold 5. Samsung also added some new multitasking features to the Z Fold 4 this year, such as the ability to use the bottom portion of the screen as a mini trackpad when the display is folded halfway. So there’s a chance we’ll see other software enhancements in the future, too.

Samsung typically releases its new foldable phones in August, meaning we’re likely to see the next Z Fold around that time next year.

Why I’m excited about it: The Galaxy Z Fold 5 needs a lot more than an included S Pen to bring foldables into the mainstream. But making the S Pen a bigger part of the experience could go a long way in further defining who the Z Fold is for and why it exists in the first place. Samsung is promoting the Z Fold 5 as a productivity-oriented device, so having an embedded S Pen seems like a natural move. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Fold 3 are both compatible with the S Pen, but they must be purchased separately.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

What we’re expecting: Samsung’s next flip phone may have a larger cover screen and a less noticeable crease, according to Ross Young, co-founder and CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants. Ross recently tweeted that the Z Flip 5 will have a cover display measuring around three inches and a new hinge design that could make the crease more subtle. That would represent a sizable increase from the current Z Flip 4’s 1.9-inch cover screen. Like the Z Fold 5, there’s a chance we’ll see general improvements to camera quality and software as well as a new processor, too.

Why I’m excited about it: Making the cover screen slightly larger would address one of the Z Flip’s biggest shortcomings. As my colleague Patrick Holland wrote in his review of the Z Flip 4, the cover screen is the biggest area where Samsung could be doing more. I’m also hoping to see longer battery life from the Z Flip 5 considering that’s another area where Samsung’s current flip phone could use some improvement.

OnePlus 11

What we’re expecting: One of the biggest changes coming to the OnePlus 11 could be its redesigned circular camera module, according to renders from Hemmerstoffer published on the blog GadgetGang. It’s a standout look that could help distinguish the OnePlus 11’s design from other Android devices, much as the camera bar has done for the Pixel 6 and 7 series.

Hemmerstoffer also reports that the phone will feature a 6.7-inch screen, Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, up to 16GB of RAM and a 5,000 mAh battery with 100-watt charging. The camera would include 50-megapixel, 48-megapixel and 32-megapixel sensors. The charging speed is particularly notable since it represents an increase from OnePlus’ already speedy 80-watt charging, although unfortunately that’s capped at just 65 watts in the US.

Why I’m excited about it: For a company that made its name as the “flagship killer,” OnePlus’ prices have inched closer to those of the rivals it aims to undercut in recent years. That said, OnePlus still has a reputation for selling reasonably priced devices that pack a lot of high-end features such as superfast charging. The OnePlus 10 Pro came really close to being a superb iPhone competitor, as my colleague Andrew Lanxon wrote when he reviewed the device. But a slightly disappointing camera and restrictions such as a lack of 80-watt charging in the US held it back from being as great as it could be. Hopefully OnePlus addresses these criticisms in its next-generation device.

It seems like some of the biggest improvements we’re expecting to see across the board on new smartphones in 2023 have to do with improving the battery and charging experience as well as making camera and design upgrades. We’ll know more throughout the year as Samsung, Apple, OnePlus and Google release new devices.

If you’ve got a small business or organization with multiple employees, it can be tough to make sure everyone has easy access to all the files and data they need to keep working smoothly. You don’t want to risk your data falling into the wrong hands, but it’s just not practical to send each file individually over email. Cloud storage services are one option, but they tend to be limited and pricey when you’re looking at high-capacity plans. So if you’re looking for a simple and cost-effective long-term solution, you should consider a network attached storage, or NAS, drive.

A NAS drive essentially functions as a self-contained cloud, with one or more high-capacity storage drives that anyone on the network can access. While they can be costly up front, they’re one of the more efficient ways to keep your organization’s data assembled, secure and accessible. Plus, you can often find models on sale for hundreds less than their list prices. We’ve rounded up some of the best NAS drive deals out there at the moment, and we’ll continue to update this page as offers come and go, so be sure to check back often.

Buffalo

8TB Buffalo TeraStation WS5420DN: $1,785

Save $565

If your organization primarily uses Windows, this 8TB Buffalo network attached storage drive is a great pick. It’s powered by Windows Server IoT 2019, which means it’s designed to seamlessly integrate into a Windows environment. Plus, it has Hyper-V and DHA, which offer increased data protection capabilities.

$1,785 at Newegg

Buffalo

32TB Buffalo TeraStation 5410Dn: $1,283

Save $767

With 32TB of included storage and at over $700 off its usual price, this is one of the best-value NAS drives you’ll find out there at the moment. It’s equipped with 4GB of ECC memory as well as a 10GB Ethernet port for lightning-fast data transfer, and the 256-bit AES encryption ensures that your data can’t be accessed from anyone outside your network. It also supports integration with popular third-party cloud services such as Dropbox and Microsoft Azure for an extra offsite backup of your data in case something happens to the physical drive.

$1,283 at Newegg

WD

8TB WD My Cloud Home Duo: $300

Save $130

With an 8TB capacity, this WD drive is primarily designed for home use and personal storage. It plugs directly into your home Wi-Fi router, and allows you to access your data from anywhere with an internet connection using the companion My Cloud Home apps. The drive’s Mirror Mode keeps your data secure by automatically duplicating any files stored on one drive and backing it up on the other. Just note that you’ll have to activate the instant coupon on the product page to get the full discount.

$300 at B&H Photo

WD

8TB WD My Cloud EX2 Ultra: $360

Save $90

With 8TB of storage, this WD My Cloud EX2 Ultra is great for both individuals with serious storage needs, and for smaller businesses looking for a budget-friendly pick. With 1GB of DDR3 memory, it boasts impressive data transfer speeds, and the built-in USB 3.0 ports allow you to transfer photos or videos from a camera or flash drive with the touch of a button. It’s also compatible with Apple Time Machine so you can back up your files, and with 256 AES volume encryption, you can be confident that your data is safe from prying eyes.

Read our WD My Cloud EX2 Ultra preview.

$360 at Best Buy

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Synology

Synology DiskStation DS220j (diskless): $190

Save $30

At less than $200, this Synology drive is the most affordable on this list. However, that price comes with a catch. This is a two-bay drive with 512MB DDR4 of memory, but it doesn’t come with any storage drives included. That allows you to pick and choose how much capacity you’d like to have, but it does mean you’ll have to purchase the drives separately. Fortunately, you can also find plenty of drives on sale like this Seagate IronWolf Pro 12TB drive, which is $140 off right now. There’s a few more steps involved, but being able to piece this drive together with discounted hardware makes it a good value if you’re willing to do a little legwork.

$190 at Amazon

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Having a gamer on your list makes gift shopping pretty easy. And if you’re on the hunt for some last-minute stocking stuffers, we’ve got a deal you won’t want to miss. Right now, Target is offering up to 60% off video games for Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, as well as up to 35% off accessories like headsets and controllers. There are even some deals on next-gen consoles like the compact Xbox Series S. There’s no set expiration for this sale, but deals are coming and going pretty fast as we get closer to Christmas. We’d recommend getting your order in sooner rather than later if you don’t want to miss out on these savings.

Target also recommends getting your order in by Tuesday, Dec. 20, if you want it to arrive before Christmas Eve.

You can pick up tons of this year’s most popular titles for less at this sale. That includes 50% or more off next-gen games like Madden 23, Halo Infinite, Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla and much more. There are even some deals on next-gen consoles if you’re looking to upgrade. You can snag the Xbox Series S, the lite version of the full-size Series S, on sale for just $250, $50 off the usual price. Or you can check out the exciting world of VR with this $350 Meta Quest 2 bundle, which saves you $50 and comes with Resident Evil 4 and Beat Saber included. You can even find some rare discounts on next-gen accessories like the new PlayStation 5 DualSense wireless controller. All colors are on sale for $50 right now, which saves you up to $25. Or save $50 on the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max headset, an upgraded version of one of our favorite gaming headsets for both PlayStation and Xbox, which drops the price down to $150.

And for more gaming gift ideas, you can check out our roundups of all the best PlayStation deals and the best Xbox deals you can shop right now.

Just about everyone has heard of or used Microsoft Office at some point in their life, but not everyone may own a copy of it on their own computer. There are some alternatives that work online and while that can help in a pinch, it’s not a great long-term solution. If you find yourself spending more time creating documents, sending emails and fixing up PowerPoints, you’re going to want to check this out.

You can ditch the subscription (with recurring charges) and snag a lifetime license of access to Microsoft’s Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher and Access for just $30 instead. That’s back at the lowest-ever price we’ve seen, and a whopping 91% off the usual price of $349. However, this deal expires in just a few days, so be sure to get your order in soon.

The offer, from StackSocial, applies to both the Windows and Mac version of the software.

Microsoft

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 lifetime license: $30

Save 91%

This wildly popular offer for a Microsoft Office lifetime license is still available for $30. It’s available for both Mac and Windows, so be sure to grab the right one for the computer that you use regularly.

• Microsoft Office for Windows: $30
• Microsoft Office for Mac: $30

$30 at StackSocial (Windows)

$30 at StackSocial (Mac)

Now, you can always opt to use the free online version of Microsoft Office (which has far fewer features). But compared to the online Microsoft 365 subscription suite that costs $10 per month or $100 per year, this downloadable version is a phenomenal bargain.

While the price almost seems too good to be true, we tried it ourselves, and it worked like a charm. (The two big caveats: You get a single key — which only works on a single computer — and there’s no Microsoft OneDrive Cloud Storage included.) In fact, Stack has been offering a version of this deal since the beginning of 2022. But this lowest-ever price won’t last, so take the plunge while you can.

Bigger is better, and the phone industry has made its feelings very clear with flagship phones featuring 6.5-inch-plus screens. While we once considered Samsung’s first-generation Galaxy Note a goliath at 5.3 inches, today’s top phones almost all measure in at 6 inches or more. Apple’s new iPhone 14 Pro measures in at 6.03 inches, the Pixel 7 Pro is 6.7 inches and Samsung’s Galaxy S22 Ultra takes that even further to 6.8 inches.

Those bigger displays certainly have their advantages. Top specs and stellar cameras are often packed into those massive bodies, while the sheer size of the screens make them great for watching videos on the move. But there’s no escaping the fact that the increase in size has made them more cumbersome to hold and use for anyone with hands smaller than continents. And that’s to say nothing of the embarrassing bulge caused when you try to shove one into the pocket of your skinny jeans.

While bigger phones can be better for those of you really into your videos or playing lots of mobile games on the move, there are many of us that would still prefer a smaller phone that’s easier to type with one-handed.

Your options are, I’m sorry to say, limited and getting more so all the time — especially as Apple opted not to refresh its iPhone Mini line this year. But there are still some smaller phones to consider. Everyone’s definition of “small” is different, and a comfortable size for you may feel uncomfortably large to someone else. If you’re worried about the size, it’s worth trying to get hands-on with a phone at your nearest store.

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Apple iPhone 13 Mini

Best overall small phone

While Apple didn’t release an iPhone 14 Mini this year, essentially putting a nail in the coffin of the Mini line, the iPhone 13 Mini is still officially on sale directly from Apple. Its 5.4-inch display makes it a fair bit smaller than any in the iPhone 14 range, and actually qualifies it as the physically smallest phone Apple makes. Sure, the iPhone SE 2022 has a smaller display, but it has large bezels around the edges, which makes the whole phone slightly larger.

With pricing that starts at $599, you’ll be paying extra money over the iPhone SE for that more modern design, along with a dual rear camera system that adds an excellent ultra-wide angle to the standard view. It’s a shame Apple hasn’t updated the Mini range this year, but while it’s still being officially sold by Apple, the iPhone 13 Mini is the best smaller phone to consider right now.

$599 at Apple

$729 at Amazon

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Apple iPhone SE (2022)

The best cheap smaller phone

Launched earlier in 2022, Apple’s iPhone SE packs a solid single camera, a potent A15 Bionic chip and 5G support into a body with a display that measures only 4.7 inches. That’s a huge size difference compared with the gargantuan 6.69 inches of the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Using an older design, its large bezels actually mean it’s physically slightly larger than the iPhone 13 Mini, despite having a smaller display.

At $429 it’s the cheapest iPhone Apple makes, but you will have to sacrifice some features including the more impressive multi-camera arrays found on the higher-end models as well as things like Face ID. Still, if you’re after a solid everyday small phone that won’t break the bank, it’s the phone to go for.

Read our iPhone SE (2022) review.

$429 at Apple

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Pixel 6A

Best smaller Android phone

At 6.1 inches, the Google Pixel 6A isn’t exactly small, but it’s still one of the smallest Android phones you can buy, undercutting the 6.3 inches of the more recent Pixel 7 and lopping a huge amount off the similarly priced 6.5-inch Samsung Galaxy A53 5G.

CNET’s Lisa Eadicicco called it the “best Android phone under $500” in her Pixel 6A review, calling out how it keeps the same Tensor chip seen in the $599 Pixel 6 and many of its features. It includes 5G connectivity, solid all-round performance and a dual camera system that can take great photos in daylight and at night.

$299 at Amazon

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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4

A big phone that folds up nice and small

With a 6.7-inch screen size, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4’s screen is way too big to be on this list. But before you slam your fists into your keyboard at my incompetence, hear me out. As one of Samsung’s foldable phones, the Z Flip 4 folds in half, turning that massive screen into a small, square puck that quite comfortably fits into a jacket pocket.

An outer display will alert you to incoming notifications, meaning you only need to unfold it to its full size when you actually want to reply. Sure, it might not be the perfect solution, and with a starting price of $1,000 it’s hardly cheap, but its innovative hinge design might offer you the best of both worlds: a compact form when it’s sitting in your pocket, but a big screen for when you want to use it.

Read our Galaxy Z Flip 4 review.

$1,060 at Samsung

$952 at Amazon

$960 at Best Buy

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More budget phone advice

• Best phones under $500
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• SIM card swap fraud: What it is and how to prevent it
• Phones under $200: Top picks and new budget phones
• Best gaming phone: Razer Phone 2, Asus ROG, Xiaomi Black Shark and Nubia Red Magic Mars compared

There’s a lot of variety out there when it comes to controllers for your next-gen Xbox console, whether you’ve got the full-size Series X or the more affordable Series S console. When choosing the best Xbox controller it’s best to start by considering size, features, design and the kind of games you most frequently play. You’ll want to make sure you’re choosing a controller that fits your budget as well. We’ve taken all those things into consideration when compiling this list of the best Xbox controllers on the market right now.

For most people, Microsoft’s standard controller for the Xbox Series X and S is the best option available right now. This wireless controller has all the basic controls you need and a good weight and feel so you can game for hours without issue. It runs on AA-size batteries, but there are several third-party rechargeable battery pack options as well as other accessories to change the look and feel of the controller.

But if you want to move beyond the basic Microsoft controller for Xbox, we’ve tested many third-party controllers, most of which do double duty as PC gaming controllers as well. Some are wired and some are wireless. Wired non-Microsoft controllers can be a lot less expensive, and some gamers prefer wired connections for cutting down lag in competitive matches. (And you never have to worry about a dead battery.) The official controller, available in a wide variety of colors, might be our gold standard, but if you’re looking for your next favorite Xbox gaming controller, these are the best we’ve tested.

Read more: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Review: The Best Content Deal in Gaming Right Now

Josh Goldman/CNET

1. Microsoft Controller for Xbox Series X and S

Best Xbox wireless controller for basics

If you just want a good standard wireless controller for the Xbox Series X or the Xbox Series S, start with the one that comes in the box. Available in multiple colors, Microsoft’s Xbox controller might not be the best controller in terms of having a lot of features, but it is comfortable, with nice button action, and can last for up to 40 hours of active gaming use on a couple of AA batteries. And if you’d rather have rechargeables, there are several options available — I’ve been using HyperX’s ChargePlay Duo, which locks the controller into place for charging. There’s a 3.5mm jack on the front edge next to the expansion port for connecting accessories like a chat keyboard that fits between the grips or audio controls for your headset. You can also remap this Xbox wireless controller’s buttons, flip the sticks and use other customizations with the Xbox Accessories app.

$60 at Best Buy

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2. PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox

Best Xbox wired controller for basics

We like the PowerA wired controller as a good, inexpensive option when you need an extra Xbox controller for guests or one to use while your wireless controller charges. There are two extra buttons on the bottom of the controller that can be mapped on the fly as well as a 3.5mm jack on the front for a headset. Just above the jack on top is a toggle for volume and a chat mute as well as a diamond texture to the bottom for better grip. Also, like many of PowerA’s controllers, it’s available in multiple colors, though prices jump around a bit between different variants.

$26 at Walmart

$26 at Best Buy

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3. Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma

Best Xbox wired pro controller

Feature-packed is an understatement when it comes to the Wolverine V2 Chroma. The ABXY buttons and the D-pad all use Razer Mecha-Tactile switches. They feel amazing, with a crisp response and satisfying click similar to the clicks from a mouse. There are also six additional buttons: two top bumpers and four bottom triggers. The bottom triggers are especially nice because the design makes them feel like paddles you’d find on other pro controllers but with a sturdier design like the rear triggers. There are also lockouts for the rear RT/LT triggers. Slide the switches over and they cut the travel distance in half for quick shots.

The Razer Wolverine also includes a couple of additional thumbstick caps: one taller concave cap for accuracy, one domed cap for quicker movements. There are RGB lights, too, and you can use Razer’s Synapse app for Xbox or PC to change them and remap the controller’s buttons.

$130 at Best Buy

$130 at Target

$89 at Amazon

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4. RIG Nacon Pro Compact

Best Xbox compact wired controller

A good choice for smaller hands or anyone who just prefers a more compact controller. The grips are sculpted in a way that makes the controller comfortable to use even with larger hands and they’re textured, which kept the grips from slipping or sticking to my palms.

While it might not have the removable USB cable, extra buttons or swappable thumb sticks found on the company’s pricier Revolution X Pro controller, it does have some features I didn’t expect at this price. For instance, there’s an app for the controller that lets you remap its buttons and adjust its sticks, trigger sensitivity and vibration. A switch underneath lets you drop between your custom profile and a classic mode.

There’s a 3.5mm headset jack on the front edge, which isn’t out of the ordinary. But RIG includes a license for Dolby Atmos for Headphones support to give you a more immersive experience in games, including Cyberpunk 2077, Gears 5, Borderlands 3 and Forza Horizon 4. Pair it with RIG’s own 500 Pro HX Gen 2 headset and you can really improve your gaming experience for around $100.

$43 at Best Buy

$40 at Target

$40 at Amazon

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5. Scuf Instinct Pro

Best Xbox wireless controller for customization

This Xbox wireless controller has it all. It can be used wired or wireless. The thumbsticks can be swapped for greater precision or faster speed. Holding the controller, your fingers fall naturally between two pairs of remappable paddles. The controller stores three profile configurations for the paddles and it’s preset for FPS, sport and racing games; a button on the bottom lets you quickly switch between them. Remapping can be done on the fly, so there’s no need for an additional app. There are also switches for the triggers so you can change them from a long pull to a quick click.

And then there’s the look. You can choose everything from the color of the buttons to the style of the thumbsticks to whether you want rumble installed. Scuf also has a variety of faceplates in different colors and designs. The price is the only real drawback here, starting at $210 and going up from there depending on your customizations.

$215 at Amazon

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After 63 matches, it all comes down to this. France and Argentina lock horns today in a battle for soccer’s greatest prize. The big question coming into this World Cup final is which superstar will impose himself more decisively in this clash of the GOATs. Teammates at PSG, but rivals going head-to-head on Sunday, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe are both in contention for the coveted Golden Boot award as the tournament’s top scorer, with the two players tied at five goals each.

The final marks the fourth FIFA World Cup match between these two powerful sides. Their most recent clash came in the round of 16 at Russia 2018 when France snatched a 4-3 victory. The two nations are both aiming to win a third World Cup, with France defending the crown it claimed in Moscow four years ago with a 4-2 victory over Croatia. That match saw Mbappe score the all-important final goal. Will the 23-year old phenom play another key role at the Lusail Stadium today? Or will the veteran Messi finally win the prize that has escaped him throughout his storied career? The world will find out today.

The Argentina-France showpiece final starts today, Sunday, Dec. 18, at 10 a.m. ET (7 a.m. PT).

This match will be shown nationwide in the US on Peacock and Fox, which is available on numerous live TV streaming services. Outside the US, the World Cup Final is being carried by other streaming services, including both the BBC and ITV in the UK, SBS in Australia and TSN in Canada. But what if you’re traveling outside your home country and want to enjoy the match, or just want an added layer of privacy for streaming? There is an option that doesn’t require searching the internet for a sketchy website: You can use a VPN, or virtual private network.

Here’s how you can watch the Argentina vs. France 2022 World Cup Final from anywhere in the world with a VPN.

World Cup 2022: How to Stream Every Game in the US

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When is the Argentina vs. France final match?

Argentina plays France at 10 a.m. ET (7 a.m. PT) on Sunday, Dec. 19.

Elsewhere in the world, the match starts at 6 p.m. in Qatar, 3 p.m. in London, and on Monday, Dec. 19 at 12 a.m. in Tokyo and 2 a.m. in Sydney.

How to watch the Argentina vs. France match online from anywhere using a VPN

If you find yourself unable to view the match locally, that’s where using a VPN can come in handy. A VPN is also the best way to stop your ISP from throttling your speeds on match day by encrypting your traffic, plus it’s a great idea for when you’re traveling and find yourself connected to a Wi-Fi network, and you want to add an extra layer of privacy for your devices and logins.

With a VPN, you’re able to virtually change your location on your phone, tablet or laptop to get access to the game. So if your internet provider or mobile carrier has stuck you with an IP address that incorrectly shows your location in a blackout zone, a VPN can correct that problem by giving you an IP address in your correct, nonblackout area. Most VPNs, like our Editors’ Choice, ExpressVPN, make it really easy to do this.

Using a VPN to watch or stream sports is legal in any country where VPNs are legal, including the US and Canada, as long as you’ve got a legitimate subscription to the service you’re streaming. You should be sure your VPN is set up correctly to prevent leaks: Even where VPNs are legal, the streaming service may terminate the account of anyone it deems to be circumventing correctly applied blackout restrictions.

Looking for other options? Be sure to check out some of the other great VPN deals taking place right now.

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ExpressVPN

Best VPN for streaming

ExpressVPN is our current best VPN pick for people who want a reliable and safe VPN, and it works on a variety of devices. It’s normally $13 per month, and you can sign up for ExpressVPN and save 49% plus get three months of access for free — the equivalent of $6.67 per month — if you get an annual subscription.

Note that ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Livestream the Argentina vs France match in the US

The Argentina-France match is on Fox in the US, so you’ll need a live TV streaming service that carries Fox. The least expensive such service is Sling TV Blue.

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Sling TV Blue

Carries Fox with every World Cup game in the US

Among the live TV streaming services that carry local Fox stations, the cheapest is Sling TV Blue at $40 per month.

One important caveat: Fox local affiliates will only be available if your billing address is in one of the 18 metropolitan areas covered in Sling’s agreement. If you’re outside of one of these areas, you’re probably better off going with one of the alternate services listed below.

See at Sling TV

Numerous other live TV streaming services carry local Fox stations as well, namely YouTube TV, Hulu Plus Live TV, DirecTV Stream and FuboTV. They all cost more than Sling TV, but they also carry more channels. Check out our live TV streaming channel guide for details.

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Peacock

Carries every World Cup game in the US (Spanish only)

For Spanish-speaking US residents Peacock is airing all of the World Cup games live in Spanish. The remaining games will stream on its $5-a-month Peacock Premium subscription package, not the service’s free tier.

Read our Peacock review.

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Watch the Argentina vs France match for free in the UK

BBC

Carries World Cup matches in the UK

Fans in the UK can watch the 2022 World Cup Final for free. Both the BBC and ITV will be broadcasting Argentina-France showdown. If you’re away from home in the UK, you can use a VPN like ExpressVPN to watch BBC iPlayer or ITVX (formerly ITV Hub) from anywhere.

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Stream the Argentina vs France World Cup 2022 match in Australia

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SBS On-Demand

Carries World Cup matches in Australia

Fans in Australia can stream the 2022 World Cup Final live for free using SBS On Demand, the streaming home of the country’s free-to-air TV network. The service also offers full replays, mini-matches and highlights.

See at SBS

In addition to the services and countries listed above, numerous other local fixtures are carrying the 2022 World Cup Final. They include:

• Argentina: TVP
• Belgium: RTBF (French) and VRT (Dutch)
• Brazil: TV Globo
• Canada: TSN
• France: TF1 and beIN Sports
• Germany: ARD and ZDF
• Hong Kong: PCCW
• Japan: Dentsu
• New Zealand: Sky
• Spain: RTVE

Quick tips for streaming the 2022 World Cup Final using a VPN

• With four variables at play — your ISP, browser, video streaming provider and VPN — experience and success may vary.
• If you don’t see your desired location as a default option for ExpressVPN, try using the “search for city or country” option.
• If you’re having trouble getting the game after you’ve turned on your VPN and set it to the correct viewing area, there are two things you can try for a quick fix. First, log into your streaming service subscription account and make sure the address registered for the account is an address in the correct viewing area. If not, you may need to change the physical address on file with your account. Second, some smart TVs — like Roku — don’t have VPN apps you can install directly on the device itself. Instead, you’ll have to install the VPN on your router or the mobile hotspot you’re using (like your phone) so that any device on its Wi-Fi network now appears in the correct viewing location.
• All of the VPN providers we recommend have helpful instructions on their main site for quickly installing the VPN on your router. In some cases with smart TV services, after you install a cable network’s sports app, you’ll be asked to verify a numeric code or click a link sent to your email address on file for your smart TV. This is where having a VPN on your router will also help, since both devices will appear to be in the correct location.
• And remember, browsers can often give away a location despite using a VPN, so be sure you’re using a privacy-first browser to log into your services. We normally recommend Brave.

If you haven’t downloaded Apple’s iOS 16.2, there are several reasons you’ll want to do so. The latest iPhone update arrived Tuesday and brings a new Apple productivity tool, a karaoke mode for Apple Music and other new features to your iPhone. The update was released alongside iPadOS 16.2, Watch iOS 9.2 and MacOS Ventura 13.1, according to an Apple support page.

The highlight of the update is the new app Freeform, a shared whiteboarding tool designed for “working creatively with friends or colleagues on Mac, iPad and iPhone.”

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Other new features of the iOS 16.2 update include Apple Music Sing, a singalong-focused upgrade to the Apple Music app, and new lock screen functions. After downloading the update, you’ll be able to hide wallpaper or notifications when Always-On display is enabled on iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. There’s also the Sleep widget, which keeps you informed of your sleep data, and the Medications widget to send you reminders of when to take your medicine.

Speaking of widgets, the Activity widget now lets you see what games your friends are playing from your Home Screen. Additionally, the update includes SharePlay support for multiplayer games in Game Center, enabling you to play with people you’re on a FaceTime call with.

The update also enhances iCloud security by increasing the number of data categories that are protected using end-to-end encryption. And, like with any good software update, there are a few random bug fixes and other minor improvements.

For more things to do on your iPhone, check out the 22 setting changes that can optimize your phone and every hidden feature you’ve probably haven’t tried out yet.

Apple didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

USB-C greatly simplified how we connect everything to a computer. A monitor, keyboard, mouse, Ethernet, external storage, microSD and SD cards, and more can all be connected through a USB-C port. Of course, connecting all of those things at the same time through one USB-C port requires a little help from a USB-C hub or dock. There are a lot to choose from, and this list has the best USB-C hubs that we’ve tested.

For those who want a full-featured travel dock, the best USB-C hub is the EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8-port Hub. There are less expensive options, but the EZQuest combines an excellent assortment of ports, durability for travel and reliability over several months of testing. It even has labels on the top to get you connected even faster. EZQuest makes several other USB-C hubs including a 13-in-one model also on this list. However, if a more robust dock with Thunderbolt support is necessary, the best we’ve tested right now is the Accell Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station thanks to an attractive low-profile design and well-rounded port assortment, and it does not get hot when put to full use.

Narrowing down your options and finding the best USB-C hub comes down to knowing how portable you need it to be, your desired data transfer speed and exactly which connections you need. Here are some of our favorite USB-C docking stations that we’ve tested. We’ll continue to update this list as we find new USB hubs and docks to recommend. And if you’re looking to charge your USB-C devices, here are the best options per our testing.

Read more: Best USB-C PD Chargers of 2022

Best USB-C hubs

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EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8-Port Hub

A little of everything

This USB-C hub has all the essentials most would need for office or home use at a reasonable price, especially if your laptop is limited to only USB-C ports. There are three USB-A ports, including one with power delivery, microSD and SD card slots and an HDMI out that supports resolutions up to 4K at 30Hz. At the end is a Gigabit Ethernet connection with an activity LED (something other hubs this size typically leave off). But what sets it apart from others at this size are the handy labels printed on top of the anodized aluminum case.

There is a 100-watt USB-C pass-through for power delivery, with 15 watts used to power the hub. The hub is lightweight, which makes it great for travel, but also means any cords you plug into it could cause it to slide around your desk — a common issue with hubs this size. But if you’re looking for a single hub to cover everything from an external display and wired web access to charging your phone, this has you covered.

$60 at Amazon

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Monoprice 6-in-1 USB-C Multiport 4K HDMI Adapter

Best budget USB-C dock

We’ve used many Monoprice devices over the years and they’ve regularly delivered more for the money. This slim six-in-one travel dock is no different, giving you just enough to hook up your laptop to peripherals and a monitor up to 4K at 60Hz. Also, should you need an Ethernet port, there is a seven-in-one model for $10 more.

$30 at Monoprice

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Accell Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station

Best for Thunderbolt 4

Accell’s slim, low-profile Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station is one of the most compact we’ve tested without sacrificing performance or ports. There are two Intel-certified Thunderbolt 4 ports on the rear as well as a DisplayPort 1.4 connector that, combined, can drive dual UHD 4K monitors at 60Hz or a single 8K display at 30Hz. Another Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port on the front connects to your PC or Mac. The port is shifted all the way to the right so that the cable doesn’t block other ports and makes it easier to keep the cable out of the way.

Three USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A ports, a USB 2.0 Type-A port, an SD 4.0 UHS-II card reader, a 3.5mm audio combo jack and Gigabit Ethernet port round out the connection options. And even with the dock fully loaded, it remained relatively cool compared to others we’ve tested.

$349 at Walmart

$250 at Amazon

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CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 Element Hub

For more Thunderbolt 4

Most people, including me, use hub and dock interchangeably but they are different devices. A hub adds more ports to a computer to attach more devices. The Element Hub, for instance, turns one Thunderbolt 4 port on your laptop into three Thunderbolt 4 ports so you can attach extra displays, high-speed storage and peripherals. It also gives you four USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports with data speeds up to 10Gbps to add USB-A devices. And the hub can be daisy-chained to another Thunderbolt 4 dock or hub for even more connections.

The included power adapter (it’s actually larger than the hub itself) can deliver up to 60 watts of charging power to attached devices. That’s not enough for more power-hungry laptops but fine for a Chromebook and smaller laptops like a Dell XPS 13 or Apple MacBook Air. You can also disconnect it from your computer and just use it to power up your phone, tablet and other devices.

One other nice touch: CalDigit made the design reversible so you can flip it on your desk to have whichever ports you’d like facing forward.

$250 at Amazon

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Ugreen USB-C Triple Display Docking Station

Best for three displays at 4K

Ugreen’s tiny tower of ports uses a DisplayLink chipset to drive three displays at up to 4K at 60Hz via its DisplayPort and dual HDMI outputs with Windows or MacOS systems. Windows users can opt to run one display at up to 8K at 30Hz plus two at 4K at 60Hz.

DisplayLink software is required to drive the displays properly. There’s also no power supply included, just a USB-C cable. If you’re using it with a laptop with a USB-C power adapter, you can use it to power the dock. It supports up to 100-watt power delivery letting you charge your laptop as well as power the dock.

It handles more than displays, too, with one 10Gbps and two 5Gbps USB-A ports, a 10Gbps USB-C port, a combo headset jack, Gigabit Ethernet and SD and microSD card slots. The minimal footprint helps keep your desk tidy, and it’s light enough to travel with if you needed to (but there are better options for that on this list).

$310 at Ugreen

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Anker PowerExpand Elite Docking Station

Thunderbolt 3 with power for charging

The PowerExpand Elite is part USB-C dock and part charging station. In back are 85- and 15-watt Thunderbolt 3 ports and in front is an 18-watt USB-C power delivery port. A Thunderbolt 3 port supports up to a 5K-resolution display at 60Hz while its HDMI 2.0 port can support a display up to 4K resolution at 60Hz. Or you can run a USB-C-to-HDMI dual splitter and connect two 4K displays at 30Hz so you can run up to three monitors between the HDMI port and Thunderbolt 3 ports.

You’ll also have four USB-A ports, a Gigabit Ethernet jack and MicroSD and SD card reader. A 3.5mm combo jack handles audio output and input.

To provide enough juice to run everything, though, the PowerExpand Elite has a large 180-watt power adapter. Also, the fanless design means the body is one big heat sink so it can get hot when it’s fully loaded. You can stand it vertically to help keep it cooler.

$330 at Amazon

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Lention CB-C37 USB-C Hub

Best for a laptop on a stand

Most small USB-C hubs have short attached cables. That’s fine if your laptop is on a desk and not on a laptop stand and that desk has plenty of space directly next to your laptop’s USB-C port. For those who could use some extra cable reach, though, the Lention C37 is ideal.

The USB device is still compact and lightweight but has a 1-meter cable (3.3 feet). It has dual USB-C ports with 60-watt power delivery, two USB-A ports, microSD and SD card slots and a 3.5mm headphone jack. On the end is an HDMI output that supports 4K at 30Hz or lower resolutions at 60Hz. This is also a great option for desktops that are kept on the floor.

$30 at Amazon

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EZQuest Ultimate Plus 12-Port USB Type-C Multimedia Hub

For those who still need a VGA output

The Ultimate Plus shows off just what’s possible with a single USB-C port. Along with four USB 3.0 type-A ports, there are microSD and SD card slots, a 3.5mm combo headset jack and a Gigabit Ethernet jack. But the biggest reason to choose this model is its support for three displays.

There are two full-size HDMI outputs joined by an old-school VGA output. The VGA can only handle outputting at 1080p, but one HDMI can output at resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz while the other can output up to 4K at 30Hz. That’s a lot for one compact desktop dock and a single connection to your laptop or desktop.

In our tests, it lived up to its promise of handling all of its connections at once. The ports might not offer the fastest speeds of other docks (the USB-A ports top out at 5Gbps for example), but if three monitors and a lot of extra connections on your desk are what matters, this is the dock for you.

$170 at B&H

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Satechi USB-C Slim Dock for 24-inch iMac

Discreet iMac port addition

This add-on dock slides right over the foot of a 24-inch iMac. It includes USB-A and USB-C ports, plus slots for both microSD and SD cards and even an internal slot for an M.2 storage drive.The 11-inch wide dock also has the exact footprint as the iMac’s color-matched keyboard, so that can sit on top of the dock/foot combo when not being used. At $150, it’s a little on the pricey side, and there are no HDMI or DisplayPort outputs. But if you’re looking for a tidy solution to add some extra ports to an iMac, this is a sweet solution.

$150 at Best Buy

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Kicking off a full weekend for football fans, the NFL scheduled a Saturday triple-header on the NFL Network. In game one the Vikings staged the largest comeback in NFL history, overcoming a 33-point halftime deficit to beat the Colts. The second game is an AFC North affair between the Ravens and Browns. Closing out the day will be a chilly AFC East clash between the Dolphins and Bills at 8:15 p.m. ET (5:15 p.m. PT), with lake effect snow falling again today in Buffalo. All these Saturday, Dec. 17 games will be shown nationally on the NFL Network.

Looking ahead to Week 16, most of the games will be played on Saturday, Dec. 24 because the following Sunday is Dec. 25, Christmas Day. Those Saturday games will largely air on CBS and Fox, however, with just one game on the NFL Network.

For fans used to watching the NFL on CBS or Fox, these NFL Network games can be tough to find. That’s where we come in. Here’s what you need to know to stream the games live this Saturday, and our recommendations for watching the rest of the 2022 NFL season, including RedZone, week in and week out.

Where can I stream the NFL Network?

A number of the major streaming services offer the NFL Network, including YouTube TV, Sling Blue, Hulu Plus Live TV and FuboTV. The least expensive is Sling TV Blue, which costs $40 per month. All of those options include the NFL Network with their respective base tiers.

Those with the NFL app and an NFL Plus subscription will also be able to watch this game on a phone.

What are my streaming options for NFL games in 2022?

Paying for cable is the easiest solution, but not the cheapest. For cord-cutters looking to save some money, NFL football streaming options can get complicated, with games played across three different days and nights each week on different channels and streaming services.

Most NFL games are played on Sunday, with a game each week on Thursday night and another each week on Monday night. On Sundays, games start at 1 p.m. ET (10 a.m. PT) and 4 p.m. ET (1 p.m. ET), with most AFC teams on CBS and most NFC teams on Fox.

Although the first Thursday night game was on NBC, the rest of the games for Thursday Night Football (with the exception of Week 12’s Thanksgiving Thursday games) will be shown on Amazon Prime Video. Unlike last season, Prime Video is now the exclusive home of Thursday Night Football and the games are no longer available on Fox or the NFL Network, though the games will be available on TV in teams’ local markets.

As in previous seasons, Monday Night Football games will be on ESPN.

All five of the live TV streaming services carry ESPN and Fox, and all but Sling TV carry CBS. All but DirecTV Stream carry the NFL Network. For the games on CBS and Fox, keep in mind that not every service carries every local network, so check each one using the links below to make sure it carries CBS and Fox in your area.

In addition to Prime Video, there are three other streaming services that cord-cutting NFL fans should consider. The paid Premium plan of Paramount Plus will show CBS games on Sundays, and the paid Premium plan of Peacock will show NBC’s broadcasts of Sunday Night Football.

Wait, there’s one more streaming service to consider for the remainder of the year. Prior to the season, the NFL launched a new streaming service for watching games on your phone or tablet — no casting to your TV. In past years, you could do this for free with the Yahoo Sports app, but now you’ll need to pay $5 a month or $40 for the season for the NFL Plus subscription. With it, you’ll be able to watch every local game on Sunday and the national games on Sunday, Monday and Thursday nights as well as the playoffs and Super Bowl — again, only on your phone or tablet.

Lastly, there’s NFL RedZone, a channel that springs to life each fall and shows live NFL action during the Sunday afternoon games. It pops in and out of the live games and attempts to show each touchdown scored in each game. RedZone is available as an add-on on four of the five major live TV streaming services — all but DirecTV Stream.

Best for everything: YouTube TV ($65)

Our pick from the last two years remains our go-to choice in 2022.

At $65 per month each, YouTube TV checks all the NFL boxes. Local channels CBS, NBC and Fox are included in many markets, and ESPN and the NFL Network are also included so you can watch Sundays and Monday nights. The next best options are FuboTV and Hulu Plus Live TV; both offer the same channels as YouTube TV for NFL fans, but for $70 a month.

Want to follow your fantasy team with RedZone? That’s available on all three services as part of an add-on. If you’re a YouTube TV subscriber, you can add the $11 per month Sports Plus add-on by clicking on your profile and going to Settings, then the Membership tab. FuboTV subscribers can go into My Profile and choose Manage Add-ons to get its $11-per-month Sports Plus with NFL RedZone offering. And Hulu users can now add RedZone for $10 per month with its Sports add-on.

Both YouTube TV and FuboTV allow three people to watch at once (Hulu allows two live streams) and all three have apps on nearly every mobile device and major streaming platform, including Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, Roku and Apple TV.

While all three are largely similar, we like YouTube TV for its superior DVR — unlimited storage compared with 30 hours on FuboTV and 50 hours on Hulu. We also like YouTube TV because it gives you an option to stream in 4K for an extra $20 a month. FuboTV does, too, with its $80-a-month Elite plan. Keep in mind that only Fox and NBC offer 4K NFL broadcasts; CBS and ESPN do not.

DirecTV Stream offers the main broadcast channels for NFL games, but it starts at $70 per month and lacks the NFL Network and RedZone.

Sling TV’s Orange and Blue plan for $55 a month gets you ESPN and the NFL Network, and, in select major markets, Fox and/or NBC, but you’ll still lack CBS. You can also add RedZone for $11 per month with the Sports Extra add-on.

The cheapest way to stream NFL RedZone

A frequent fan-favorite method of following all the NFL action on Sundays, RedZone is a way to catch every big play around the league. The cheapest road to RedZone is to get Sling TV Blue for $40 per month and add the $11 per month Sports Extra add-on.

This option can also be streamed on a host of devices including iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV and web browsers.

Note: If you only subscribe to Sling’s Orange package you won’t be able to get RedZone in Sports Extra. Your base package needs to be either Sling Blue or its larger Sling Blue Plus Orange bundle for you to be able to get RedZone as an add-on. If you choose the latter, the Sports Extra add-on is more, $15 per month, as you will also get additional channels like the SEC Network, ACC Network and PAC 12 Network.

If you mainly plan to watch on a phone, you can also check out RedZone Mobile, which is in the NFL app. This is a separate subscription from NFL Plus and runs $35 for the season (which breaks down to around $7.78 per month for the roughly four-and-a-half months of regular season football). While this is one of the cheapest ways to get RedZone, be aware that — similar to NFL Plus — you will not be able to AirPlay or Chromecast it onto a larger screen and will need to watch on your phone.

Budget alternative for NFC fans in big cities: Sling Blue ($40) or antenna ($20 one-time)

Those looking to save some cash might want to check out Sling Blue for $40 a month. While it lacks ESPN, meaning you’ll miss out on Monday Night Football, in select markets you’ll be able to get Fox and NBC. The catch is that those markets are mainly in big cities, so if you live outside one of those areas, Sling Blue might not be for you.

You can also add RedZone through the company’s $11 per month Sports Extra add-on.

Fox broadcasts most NFC games on Sundays, while NBC has Sunday Night Football. CBS, which broadcasts the bulk of AFC games, isn’t included on Sling at all. But an antenna can fill those local channel gaps without a monthly charge.

Budget alternatives for AFC fans: Paramount Plus (or an antenna)

There are some apps that offer CBS’ slate of Sunday AFC games live, including Paramount Plus’ Premium tier for $10 per month. Depending on where you live, however, your local CBS station (and those NFL games) might not be available. CBS offers livestreaming services in many markets; you can check for yourself if your area has live CBS streaming here.

An antenna is another option for getting CBS. And as we mentioned above, an over-the-air antenna connected to your TV provides another option, no streaming or monthly fee required, as long as you have good reception.

Thursday Night Football: Amazon Prime Video

In past years, Thursday Night Football games were shown on Prime Video but were also available on Fox or the NFL Network. This year, starting Week 2, the games on Thursday nights are available only on Prime Video, giving NFL fans more incentive than free two-day shipping to sign up for an Amazon Prime account for $15 a month or $139 a year. You can also subscribe only to Prime Video for $9 a month.

What about Sunday Ticket?

For one more season, NFL Sunday Ticket is still largely limited to DirecTV satellite subscribers. While that is expected to change in 2023, those who live in buildings that can’t add a satellite dish can already get a streaming version to watch football starting at $294 for its To Go package for the season, or $396 for a Max package that includes the RedZone channel (a student version is also available at a discount). You can check your address on the Sunday Ticket site. Both packages have a one-week free trial.

With the season well past the halfway point, those prices have dropped to $220.47 for the To Go option and $281.97 for Max.

The problem here, however, is that even if you’re eligible, it doesn’t include local games. You can only watch Sunday games that aren’t being broadcast on CBS, Fox or NBC in your area. They also won’t be helpful come playoff time — as you’ll need your local stations and ESPN to catch all those games.