Labor Day sales are in full swing, but nobody wants to spend their long weekend browsing through endless product pages. We’ve scoured hundreds of deals to separate the good stuff from inflated prices and made-up discounts. Below, you’ll find the best Labor Day deals around. We’ll keep this post refreshed throughout the weekend, so check back to see what’s new.
If you’re not satisfied, our Best Labor Day Mattress Deals and Best Labor Day Outdoor Deals roundups have even more sales for your perusal.
Updated September 3: We’ve added a few new deals, including the Macbook Air, a MagSafe wallet, Thinx period underwear, and Popsockets.
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Smartphone, Laptop, and Tech Deals
MacBook Air
Photograph: Apple
This is the first major discount we’ve seen on Apple’s brand-new MacBook Air (7/10, WIRED Recommends). This machine has a new design, a slightly bigger screen, a 1080p webcam, good battery life, and plenty of power for most ordinary tasks. The MagSafe connector is back, so if you trip over the power cord, you won’t send the laptop flying. Read our Best MacBooks guide for more.
Most people don’t need a laptop this powerful (or expensive). However, if your average workload requires shiny specs and tons of processing power, then go for this MacBook Pro (8/10, WIRED Recommends). It has quite a few ports, supports a 120-Hz screen refresh rate, and has a 1080p webcam. Oh, and you get a terabyte of storage too.
This is the best deal we’ve tracked on our favorite Chromebook. The 2-in-1 design makes it easy to switch between work and play, and it’s powerful enough to handle most average tasks. It’s especially good for students, provided they’re comfortable working completely in the Chrome browser.
Apple iPad
Photograph: Apple
Apple is expected to announce a new iPad at its September 7 event, though it could get pushed to a separate October event. The new 10th-gen iPad is expected to feature USB-C charging, a design similar to the new iPad Air, and a more powerful processor. It’s worth waiting to see what’s new, but that doesn’t stop the 9th-gen iPad (8/10, WIRED Recommends) from being an incredible slate. If you need a new iPad right now and your budget is tight, this is a good deal. You can also snag accessories that make the user experience even better.
This deal only applies to the Golden Brown color, but it’s the best price we’ve seen for Apple’s MagSafe wallet. It sticks to the back of a compatible iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 (and the upcoming iPhone 14), and the wallet has FindMy support so you can track it down if you misplace it. Find additional recommendations in our guide to the Best MagSafe Accessories.
The Pixel 6A (8/10, WIRED Recommends) hasn’t been out for long, but it’s already down $50. This is a fantastic price for our favorite smartphone. This Pixel offers the best performance you can get for the money, meaning you can run all your favorite apps and games without issues. Its AMOLED screen gets bright enough for sunny days, the battery reliably lasts a full day, and the cameras are excellent. However, the screen is stuck at 60 Hz and there’s no wireless charging.
Google Pixel 6
Photograph: Google
This deal has popped up a few times since Prime Day, but it’s still a great price for a flagship Pixel (9/10, WIRED Recommends). You’ll get the same performance as the Pixel 6A but superior cameras, wireless charging, a 90-Hz screen, and better build materials. If you want a 120-Hz screen, a great 4x telephoto camera, and a bigger display, then go for the Pixel 6 Pro, which is on sale for $649 ($250 off). Google will be releasing a successor sometime in October, so if you want the very best, it’s worth waiting. Read our Best Google Pixel guide for more.
If you want to save as much as possible, this is another great Android phone (8/10, WIRED Recommends). You get perks like a 6.5-inch AMOLED screen with a 120-Hz refresh rate, decent performance, and more than a day of battery life. It’ll get four OS upgrades and five years of security updates, so it’ll last you a good long while. Unfortunately, like the Pixel 6A, it doesn’t have wireless charging and a headphone jack, but you do get a microSD card slot.
Most of us are familiar with PopSockets phone grips and mounts, but the brand’s Labor Day sale extends discounts to its less popular (but no less cool) gear in addition to the popular little grippy circles. Save on flexible tripods, MagSafe fidget keychains, cases, MagSafe mounts, and more. We’ve linked to the best-selling products, but keep in mind that nearly everything across the website is discounted.
This laptop was $100 cheaper during Cyber Monday last year, and even though we’ve seen lower prices, this is still one of the better deals on it. The ThinkPad X1 Nano feels like a MacBook but it runs Windows. It’s thin and lightweight, with a great keyboard and reliable processing power thanks to the 11th-gen Intel processor. The display is nice as well. For additional picks, check our guide to the Best Laptops.
Home, Mattress, and Kitchen Deals
Solo Stove Pi.
Photograph: Solo Stove
The Solo Stove Pi (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is our favorite pizza oven. We love the design, both aesthetically and functionally. It doesn’t take up too much space, and the top of the oven doubles as a flat cook surface. Its biggest drawback is its list price, but this deal takes care of that, and it beats previous discounts by $50. Read more about it, and additional recommendations, in our Best Pizza Ovens guide.
It’s tough to calculate exactly how much you’ll save since it varies based on the bundle, but if you’ve been eyeing an Ooni pizza oven, it’s worth checking these deals out. Ooni makes several of our favorite pizza ovens, though they can be quite expensive—and that’s before you factor in additional accessories. Check out our Best Pizza Ovens guide to see which model is best for you.
This brand’s savory, spicy Sichuan Chili Crisp is a standby in our guide to the Best Gifts from BIPOC-Owned Businesses. It’s usually pretty affordable, but right now it’s a little cheaper thanks to the site-wide sale. Put it on everything from eggs to ice cream and thank me later.
Shower Power
Photograph: Ampere
Enter code LABORDAY15 to see the discount at checkout. WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu has been using this hydro-powered speaker in his shower for months and says it’s gotten him listening to music more regularly. There’s nothing to plug in since it’s powered by the water coming out of your shower, and it works with most showerheads. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth, and while the sound quality isn’t amazing, it’s more than good enough for shower singalongs.
We like everything we’ve tried from Aura’s lineup of digital photo frames. They go on sale for around $200 quite frequently. You can wait until Black Friday if you’re not in a hurry, but the price likely won’t drop much lower than this. A few different versions are on sale. Digital frames make great gifts for long-distance loved ones.
Luna Weighted Blanket
Photograph: Luna
The deal is applied automatically at checkout, and while it matches others we’ve seen in the past, it’s still on par with the lowest price we’ve seen for one of our favorite weighted blankets. Other blankets and accessories from the brand are also on sale, including kid-friendly sizes and machine-washable covers.
Weighted blankets are nice, but sometimes they can be a bit too much. The Mini is one of our top picks because it’s a little lighter and a little smaller. If you want the squished-in-a-good-way comfort of a weighted blanket without all of the bulk (or heat), the Mini might be a great option. Find more picks in our Best Weighted Blankets guide.
Moon Pod beanbags are, in a word, dreamy. They were inspired by zero gravity floatation chambers and make wonderful gifts for remote workers. (We are all nothing if not tired.) You can choose to sit, recline, or fully stretch out, and the bag just molds to your body and supports your weight. I’ve fully taken naps on mine. Just be aware that your pets—cats in particular—are going to want to rest on them too, which can result in a whole lot of fur sticking to the outer shell.
iRobot Roomba J7+
Photograph: iRobot
This is a great price on our favorite robot vacuum. The J7+ earned the top spot in our roundup because it has better navigation skills than its competitors. Aside from its self-emptying bin, we also like the included storage for extra brushes and other easily misplaced accessories. Read our tips on getting the most out of your robot vacuum.
Click the coupon button to see the discount at checkout. Philips bulbs are a staple in the world of smart bulbs. The ecosystem is expansive and it’s relatively easy to dip your toes in. Using the app or a voice assistant, you can adjust the lights’ color and brightness, set schedules, and more. LED bulbs can help you save money in the long run since they’re cheaper than running incandescents, too. Check our Best Smart Bulbs guide for more.
Enter code LDSALE200 to see the discount at checkout. This deal is pretty standard and comes around several times throughout the year. The Helix Midnight Luxe is the best mattress we’ve tested. It’s got that Goldilocks effect—not too hard, not too soft—so it should work well no matter how you like to sleep. You also get two pillows. Our separate list of the Best Labor Day Mattress Deals has additional picks.
Fitness, Health, and Outdoors Deals
Withings ScanWatch Smartwatch.
Photograph: Withings
The Withings ScanWatch (8/10, WIRED Recommends) doesn’t look like the average smartwatch, and that’s exactly why we like it. In our detailed review, we highlight many of its appealing features, from the aesthetic to the battery life. It also has an FDA-cleared electrocardiogram. The main drawback is its hefty price tag. This deal drops the cost down to lower than we’ve seen since around Prime Day a few months back. Read more about it in our Best Smartwatches guide.
The FirePit+ is one of our favorite portable grills. It folds down flat for easier transportation, and the hybrid design offers warmth as well as a pretty user-friendly cooking surface. There are even USB ports that’ll let you charge your gadgets by the campfire. Talk about the best of both worlds. We reviewed the previous model here; the newer version is warmer and has a bigger rechargeable battery.
The City Grill is featured in our guides to the Best Grills as well as the Best Portable Grills. That’s because (you guessed it) the grill is both great and portable. It’s sort of like an upgraded version of the classic countertop George Foreman models. The compact design and the fact that it’s electric make it a good choice for apartment dwellers.
Snow Peak Takibi Grill
Photograph: Snow Peak
You’ll see the discount in your shopping cart. Another standout in our guide to the Best Portable Grills, the Takibi is particularly well-suited for parties. The solid, durable construction beats out many similar models from other brands. Once you’re done cooking, you can turn the Takibi into a fire pit, and it folds down completely flat once the gathering is over. Other products from the Takibi lineup are also on sale.
You must be logged in to your MyBestBuy Rewards account (free to join) to see the discounted price. Dyson hair tools are notoriously expensive, but they’re also fantastic. Snagging one at a discount is your best bet, but the opportunity doesn’t come around very often. The Supersonic (8/10, WIRED Review) is featured in our Best Hair Dryers guide.
The discount will show up in your shopping cart. This deal is part of a larger promotion that takes 25 percent off across the site. Nothing says “win-win” like leggings that are both comfortable as heck and made from recycled plastics. These are featured in our Best Upcycled and Recycled Gear guide.
A few different styles are on sale, with prices starting at $15. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano is a big fan of period underwear. Thinx isn’t featured in our Best Menstrual Products guide, but the brand still makes reliable undies that wick away moisture. Thinx Cycle Shorts and Leggings are also discounted this weekend, as well as styles intended for teens.
Headphone, Speaker, and Camera Deals
Wandrd Prvke Camera Bag V2
Photograph: Prvke
WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu called this the perfect camera bag. The Prvke is comfortable, durable, and has all of the pockets a gadget-laden photographer or videographer could hope for. It’s featured in our guide to the Best Camera Bags, as well as many other Wandrd products. Most of them are on sale, so refer to our buying guide for help deciding.
Neutral Density filters let you block out the amount of light that comes into your camera when you’re filming or taking a photograph, allowing you to preserve the camera settings you want instead of adjusting them to suit the light. WIRED reviews editor uses his Moment variable filter for most of his shoots; just slide the ring to increase or decrease the amount of light it blocks. There are various sizes, from 49 mm to 82 mm—check your lens cap to see what size it is and buy the respective filter size.
Enter code LD15 to see the discount at checkout. These will be featured in an upcoming buying guide. Many EDM music festivalgoers will be familiar with this brand, considering some fests include a pair with your ticket. Eargasm earplugs are unique because they don’t muffle sound. Rather, the tiny attenuator filters out the most damaging high and low frequencies, so your hearing is protected but you can still hear the music (and the conversations going on around you). The silicone sleeve is extra comfortable, and I especially like the included metal carrying case. Check out our Best Earplugs guide for more picks.
Google Pixel Buds A-Series
Photograph: Google
When it comes to striking a balance between cost and features, the Google Pixel Buds A-Series (8/10, WIRED Recommends) do a great job. They hold the top spot in our Best Wirefree Earbuds guide. We don’t love the battery life, and they lack some of the bells and whistles you get on more expensive earbuds, but these still offer a lot of value. They can automatically connect to many Android phones, and they’re sweat-resistant. This price is icing on the cake.
We’ve seen the AirPods Max (8/10, WIRED Recommends) drop this low in price a few times, but this deal doesn’t come around often. Befitting the mind-boggling MSRP, these are the absolute best noise-canceling headphones you can buy. They have excellent sound quality and noise cancellation, though they’re best suited for iPhone users.
We really like the Sony LinkBuds (8/10, WIRED Recommends). They’ve been on the market for a few months, and they’re among the best wireless earbuds we’ve tested, especially for people who use buds when they’re out and about. That’s because they let in ambient noise much better than most earbuds, which means you can hear traffic as you run or bike outdoors. Check out our Best Wireless Headphones guide for more.
When it comes to affordable earbuds, the JLab Go Air (8/10, WIRED Recommends) are difficult to beat. They boast a few better specs than Apple’s AirPods, and they do it without a triple-digit price tag. The headphones are comfortable and sound great if a bit heavy on the bass end. This $15 price beats the previous best deal we’ve tracked by a dollar. You can find more recommendations in our Best Cheap Headphones guide.
Labor Day Sales Pages
Want to peruse the sales for yourself? Here’s a list of stores offering early Labor Day deals.
When it comes to tech, it can feel like Apple is the Empire and the varied Android gadgets are the scrappy Rebellion. I don’t know how long I can keep this Star Wars metaphor up, but I do know that the force is strong with the Rebellion today. Amazon is holding an “Android Days” sales event that ends at 11:59 pm PT on August 30, and some of our favorite phones are on sale right now (along with some other goodies, like earbuds). This includes Google Pixel, Samsung, Motorola, and OnePlus devices. If you’re in the market for a new handset, today is a great day to snag one.
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If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more.
Google Pixel Deals
You can learn more about these devices in our Best Google Pixel Phones and Best Wireless Earbuds guides.
Google Pixel 6A
Photograph: Google
The Pixel 6A is our favorite Android phone (8/10, WIRED Recommends), and this is the lowest price we’ve seen (it only launched last month). The Google Tensor chip is a standout, but our favorite software features are the highly accurate Assistant Voice Typing, so you can speak your messages instead of typing them; Hold For Me, to avoid lengthy and tedious holds; and Now Playing, to know what song is playing without having to ask. There’s no wireless charging or charging brick included with the Pixel 6A, but this phone is water resistant, has an excellent camera system, and features a bright OLED screen.
The Pixel 7 is right around the corner, but this is still a great price (the lowest we’ve ever seen) for last year’s Pixel 6 (9/10, WIRED Recommends). Its larger camera sensors mean it can snap some of the best photos of any smartphone right now. The upgrades over the Pixel 6A include a 90-Hz screen for buttery-smooth animations, a larger OLED screen, wireless charging support, and better build materials. It’ll get two more OS upgrades and four more years of security updates. If you want an even bigger phone and an excellent 4X optical zoom camera, the Google Pixel 6 Pro is on sale for $649 ($250 off) at Target.
The Pixel Buds A-Series (8/10, WIRED Recommends) are our favorite wireless earbuds for most people. They have great sweat resistance and a comfy fit, plus they pair with Android phones and iPhones pretty quickly. The only downside of pairing with an iPhone is that you won’t get Google Assistant integration. The audio sounds better than Apple’s base AirPods though, so it might still be worth it.
Samsung Phone Deals
Read our Best Android Phones guide for more recommendations.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Photograph: Samsung
The Galaxy S22 series (9/10, WIRED Recommends) are some of the best Android phones you can buy. They pack nearly everything you’d want in a smartphone, from powerful processors to beefy batteries that last a little more than a full day. Most people will be happy with the standard Galaxy S22 and its manageable size. This is the lowest price we’ve ever tracked. If you want a bigger phone, the S22+ is on sale for $750 ($250 off).
The S22 Ultra is the ultimate Android phone, and not just because it has a built-in stylus. Its 6.8-inch screen is massive, but our favorite feature is its 10X optical zoom camera, which lets you zoom out super far and still get crisp shots of your subject. You can read more about the differences in the S22 series right here.
This is an excellent smartphone at its MSRP, and this discount makes the deal even sweeter (though the phone does dip to this price frequently). The Galaxy A53 (8/10, WIRED Recommends) has a large 6.5-inch AMOLED screen with a 120-Hz screen refresh rate, decent cameras, and day-long battery life. It’ll be updated longer than any other Android phone at this price: Samsung promises four OS upgrades and five years of security updates. Just know that there’s no headphone jack and wireless charging, but you do get a MicroSD card slot.
OnePlus Phone Deals
OnePlus10
Photograph: OnePlus
The OnePlus 10 Pro (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is a good phone, but it costs a little much for what you get. That’s why OnePlus officially brought down the MSRP from $900 to $800 this month, and this deal drops that even further. You get some of the fastest charging around, so if you often find yourself by an outlet charging your phone, this is the device you want. It has smooth performance, a 120-Hz screen, and capable cameras. Just know that if you’re on AT&T, you will only get 4G LTE, as this device doesn’t support the network’s 5G.
The Nord N20 5G (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is a much more affordable option than most of the devices on this list, but that doesn’t mean a ton of compromises. You still get an AMOLED screen, a day-long battery, and excellent performance. It even has NFC support so you can make contactless payments. It will get three years of security updates but only one OS upgrade. There’s no 5G support on AT&T, and 5G doesn’t work on Verizon either, so it’s really best for anyone on T-Mobile.
The OnePlus 9 (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is last year’s OnePlus flagship, and it’s a pretty good phone. It’ll get two more OS upgrades and three more years of security updates, so it will last a while, but the big takeaway here is that you’re getting flagship-grade performance for a great price. It’ll have no trouble with the most demanding games. It even supports wireless charging and has a 120-Hz AMOLED screen. The cameras are just OK.
Motorola Phone Deals
Our Best Cheap Phones guide has more Motorola advice.
Moto G Stylus 2022
Photograph: Motorola
The Moto G Stylus 2022 is a perfectly fine phone, but it’s a much better value at this price. You get two-day battery life, a 90-Hz LCD screen, and three years of security updates. Performance has actually declined from its predecessor, which is unusual, but it still runs well enough. There’s still no NFC to let you pay with your phone, and I didn’t find the built-in stylus all that useful. Still, for $200, it’ll do the job.
The Moto G 5G is another Motorola phone that was too expensive for what you get at its MSRP but a better deal at this price. There’s 5G support, a day and a half of battery life, and decent performance. It’ll get three years of security updates but only one OS upgrade. NFC is still unavailable, so you can’t make contactless payments, and the cameras are lackluster.
back-to-school season is officially here. Whether you’re heading back to a physical or virtual classroom, starting a new school year calls for stocking up on new notebooks, folders, pens, and more. It’s also a great time to upgrade your tech to help make those study sessions easier on the brain. Naturally, investing in fresh supplies and gadgets isn’t cheap, but we’re here to help. Below, we’ve rounded up all the best deals on various gear, from laptops and noise-canceling headphones to laptop stands, planners, and portable monitors.
Updated August 17, 2022: We’ve added new deals and removed expired ones.
Special offer for Gear readers: Get a1-year subscription toWIREDfor $5 ($25 off). This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com and our print magazine (if you’d like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.
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Table of Contents
Laptop, Webcam, and Tablet Deals
For more recommendations, check out our other buying guides like the Best Laptops, Best Chromebooks, Best Laptops and Tablets for College Students, Best Webcams, Best Tablets, and Best Ebook Readers.
Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020)
Photograph: Apple
Apple released a new version of its MacBook Air last month, complete with a new processor and design. But we still really love the 2020 model with the M1 chip (9/10, WIRED Recommends), especially if you’re on a tight budget. It’s more than capable for student tasks. It’s also lightweight, so it’s not annoying to tote around campus, and the all-day battery life means you won’t be searching for an outlet halfway through class. Apple’s Education Store pricing brings this MacBook down to $899, so this is the better deal.
This holds the title of Best Overall in our Best Chromebooks guide for its power, price, and features, and it’s ideal for anyone that can work completely off of the Chrome browser. The 14-inch, 1080p display is bright and sharp, the battery will last you all day (we got 11 hours in testing), and its build is versatile. As a 2-in-1, you can use it in laptop mode to get homework done during the day and switch to tablet mode to stream Netflix before bed. The Core m3 chip isn’t the most powerful, so it’s best suited for anyone who doesn’t need to have more than 20 Chrome tabs open at any given time.
We haven’t tested this model yet, but based on specs alone (and our previous history with Lenovo’s Duet line), it’s an affordable laptop running Chrome OS (just make sure the software you need will work fine on the Chrome browser). As a 2-in-1, it comes with a detachable folio keyboard case, a 13.3-inch touchscreen OLED display, and up to 15 hours of battery life (according to Lenovo, so knock down a few hours for a more realistic number). It’s powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 ARM chip, which isn’t as powerful as Intel processors, but it’s certainly capable.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2
Photograph: Microsoft
The Surface Laptop Go 2 is an excellent student pick, especially if you’re looking for an affordable alternative to the pricier MacBook (and you like Windows). WIRED UK reviewer Adam Speight says it has one of the best keyboards for typing essays, and a capable 11th-generation Intel Core i5 chip with 8 GB of RAM. It doesn’t have the best battery life, but this Surface “is an absolute joy to use.”
Microsoft’s Surface Pro 8 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is our favorite 2-in-1 laptop. Each configuration has an 11th-generation Intel chip, a refresh rate that can be set to 120 Hz, and a 1080p webcam. We also highly recommend adding the Microsoft Type Cover as you configure the laptop, which pairs well with the built-in kickstand, for the full tablet-laptop experience. If you’re wondering what the difference is between the Evo Core i5 and the standard Core i5, well, Evo just certifies that the laptop passed a few key benchmarks. You’re still getting the same performance. If you can, we recommend upgrading to 16 GB of RAM.
The iPad Mini (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is super compact, making it a great on-the-go slate on days you’re going back and forth between classes and the library. It packs a large 8.3-inch display (with slimmer bezels than its predecessors), the latest A15 Bionic processor, upgraded cameras on the front and back, and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. When iPadOS 16 rolls around later this year, it’ll make this slate even more useful for light work.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Photograph: Samsung
Looking for a cheaper iPad alternative? The Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is a solid choice for both work and play. It has a nice LCD screen, impressive speakers, and battery life that should last you through a typical school day, though performance can be a bit sluggish if you try to do too many things at once. The S6 Lite comes with an S-Pen that attaches magnetically to the tablet. This model is two years old, but it’ll still get Android 13, enabling all the new improvements coming to Android tablets. However, it will be the last OS update this tablet will receive. The 128 GB model is also on sale for $330 ($100 off).
We haven’t tested this Wacom tablet, but reviews around the web are pretty positive. Wacoms are great for anyone studying graphic design, photo editing, animation, and other creative professions. The One by Wacom is super portable, compatible with MacOS and Windows, and is Chromebook certified. It dipped to this price back in May, but it generally rarely goes on sale.
If you like to wind down with a good book, Amazon’s latest Kindle Paperwhite (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is our favorite suggestion for most people. It comes with a 6.8-inch display (complete with adjustable warm lighting) and it’s waterproof. It dipped to $95 during Prime Day, but this is still a good deal. This model comes with lock-screen ads, but you can purchase the version without them for $130 ($30 off). You might even be able to find your textbooks on your Kindle, so you won’t need to lug heavy books around from class to class.
Razer Kiyo X
Photograph: Razer
A high-quality webcam is essential. Razer’s Kiyo X is the best for most people. It shoots 1080p-resolution video at 30 frames per second, which will ensure you look sharp in virtual classes. The Kiyo X doesn’t have an integrated ring light like the original Kiyo, but its automatic white balance, improved image processing, and better color saturation work so well that you don’t even need it.
Headphone Deals
Read our Best Wireless Headphones, Best Noise-Canceling Headphones, and Best Cheap Headphones guides for more recommendations.
Bose Noise Canceling 700
Photograph: Bose
We recommend the Bose Noise Cancelling 700 for the office, but they’d also make for a great accessory to use at the library for those late-night study sessions—especially to block out any whispering or clackety laptop keyboards nearby. Thanks to advanced signal processing and four microphones built in, which limits any sound around you, they’re also great for Zoom calls.
These are currently our favorite earbuds (9/10, WIRED Recommends), especially if you regularly hit the gym before or after classes. They work with both iOS and Android, have great sound, decent mics, good noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. Apple’s proprietary H1 chip means you’ll get a few additional perks if you connect them to an iPhone.
The Jabra Elite 7 Active earbuds are also excellent for workouts. They’re super comfortable, fit a wide range of ear sizes, and feel stable in your ears—there’s a grip on the outside to keep them in place. These buds also pack great sound and mic quality, along with noise-canceling tech. This is the lowest price we’ve ever tracked too.
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
Photograph: HyperX
Clip the coupon button on the page to see the discount at checkout. If you enjoy gaming after a stressful school day, the HyperX Cloud Alpha headphones will make a great addition to your setup. These received a very rare 10/10 in our review for their crazy battery life. WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraft hit 325 hours of listening time before having to recharge them (they’re rated for 300 hours). In addition to insane battery life, they also have great sound, a sufficient mic, and good built quality.
The Sony WF-1000XM4 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) has some of the best noise-canceling tech you’ll find in a pair of earbuds. They’re a bit chunky, but you get great music quality, the power to tune out the outside world, and the earbuds will even detect when you are speaking and will auto-pause.
Accessory and School Supply Deals
For more options, check out our buying guides like Best Mechanical Keyboards, Best Laptop Backpacks, Best Laptop Totes, Best iPad Accessories, Best Paper Planners, and our Home Office Setup Guide.
Photograph: Javier Zayas Photography/Getty Images
If you need to replenish your collection of sharpies, pens, glue, and more, you can save $10 off select school supplies when you spend $30 at Amazon. The offer will automatically be applied at checkout.
It’s no secret that the cost of school supplies adds up, fast. Walmart is offering a variety of back-to-school essentials for under $1 or less. You’ll find everything from folders and notebooks to paperclips, glue sticks, crayons, and more.
The second-gen Apple Pencil works with nearly the entire iPad lineup (not the base iPad). It’s a great tool for drawing and taking notes, as well as marking up or signing documents. With handwriting support in a variety of search fields on iPadOS, you can now manually write in your query instead of switching to the keyboard. Additional features include the ability to switch between tools with a double-tap, wireless pairing and charging, tilt and pressure sensitivity, and more.
Satechi USB-C Hybrid Multiport Adapter
Photograph: Satechi
Clip the coupon button on the page to see the discount at checkout. This USB hub not only offers extra USB ports and 4K HDMI output, but it also comes with an external M.2 solid-state drive enclosure. That way, you can insert an internal SSD card (like this one) you can easily access whenever you plug it into your computer.
Samsung’s T7 Shield is a great option if you need extra storage on the go. With a rubberized exterior, it’s also super durable, so you can just throw it in your backpack without having to worry about accidentally breaking it.
If you frequently run hot sitting in a chair, then this all-mesh office chair will help cool you down. It’s very adjustable and while the seat isn’t as comfy as pricier mesh chairs, it does the job well.
Nnewvante Laptop Stand
Photograph: Amazon
Clip the coupon button on the page to see the discount at checkout. This is our favorite laptop stand if you prefer working from your bed or couch. The stand’s height isn’t adjustable, but you can raise the base to position it at the best angle for typing, sketching, or watching a movie on a tablet. It also comes with extra space for your coffee mug and a small drawer.
Skip the TV in your dorm and just get a portable monitor. That way, you can take it with you to class or to the library and be more productive than if you just had your tiny laptop screen. This one comes with a kickstand case and the necessary cables, plus it’s an OLED panel, so you’re getting rich blacks. It’s worked well with our Windows laptops, and MacBooks, and can even hook up to a Nintendo Switch for large-screen Smash Bros. games.
If your laptop bag or tote is on its last legs, it might be time for a new one. The Incase ARC Tech Tote is compact but has room for all your daily essentials. Inside, you can fit a 13-inch laptop, small headphones or wallet, and a water bottle. There’s also a front zipper pocket where you can store a tablet or Kindle. The handles are small, but you can use the adjustable and removable strap to carry it more comfortably. It dipped lower to $68 in April, but this is still a great deal.
Photograph: Monoprice
Regardless of whether you’re in a dorm or at home, you can never have enough outlets for all your devices. We particularly love Monoprice’s surge strip because its outlets sit on a rotating wheel, which can fit all types of chunky plugs on one strip—you no longer have to pick and choose.
Moleskin’s Pro Planner is a cult favorite in our roundup of the best planners. The Moleskine Pro Weekly Vertical allows you to subdivide the page layouts into daily tasks and category to-dos, making it a great option for those with busy schedules.
The Happy Planner is a good first planner for those who don’t typically use them but want to start. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe says it comes with a few bells and whistles, but doesn’t feel overwhelming. You’ll also find cute divider tabs—some of which include quotes and phrases that don’t feel corny.
Electric Bike and Electric Scooter Deals
Read our Best Electric Bikes and Best Electric Kick Scooters guide for more recommendations and advice.
Niu KQi3 Pro
Photograph: Niu
An electric scooter is a great way to travel around campus, especially if you’re not a fan of bike riding. If you’re looking for a reliable option, Niu KQi3 Pro is currently our top pick in our Best Electric Scooters guide. WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu says it offers some of the best range for its price—he managed to get 15 miles out of it—but you can probably get about 18 to 20 miles depending on your height. It also goes up to 20 mph and its 9.5-inch tubeless tires make for a comfortable ride. However, it’s worth noting that at 45 pounds, it’s not super easy to carry. A similar deal is also available on Amazon (if you clip the coupon).
The Propella 7-speed (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is the best affordable bike we’ve tested. It’s easy to ride, lightweight, and goes as fast as 18 mph. It’s also made of reliable parts, complete with a Samsung battery and Shimano disc brakes. However, because it ships direct-to-consumer, it might be hard to find repair shops in your area if you damage it.
The Lectric XP 2.0 is our favorite affordable folding bike. It has a 500-watt rear-hub motor, fat tires, a front-wheel suspension, mounting points for racks, wide handlebars, integrated front and rear lights, and IP65 water resistance–all of which make for a smooth and comfortable ride. But at 64 pounds, it’s heavy, so we don’t recommend it for schools or dorm buildings with multiple flights of stairs.
Smart Display and Smartwatch Deals
Don’t see anything you like? We have plenty of more options in our Best Smart Displays and Best Smartwatches buying guides.
Google Nest Hub Max
Photograph: Best Buy
The school year is a busy time, and a good smart display can keep you up-to-date on class assignments, calendar events, reminders, and more. The Nest Hub Max holds the top spot in our buying guide. It offers a large 10-inch touchscreen display, good speakers, a camera that can be used for video calls (you can purchase a webcam cover for privacy), along with a simple design that can blend into all types of interior decor. It fluctuates in price, and it dipped even lower, to $169, last month, but this is still a good deal.
The Google Nest Hub (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is a great alternative to the Nest Hub Max, especially if you don’t need a camera. The smart display also packs technology that tracks your sleep cycle throughout the night (including REM, light, and deep sleep) and offers tips on how to improve your sleep quality.
Apple Watch Series 7
Photograph: Apple
Whether you’re a student-athlete or hitting the gym after class, a smartwatch is an easy way to keep track of your metrics. For iPhone users, we love the Apple Watch Series 7 (8/10, WIRED Recommends). Compared to its predecessor, it has a larger display with stronger glass, and it’s more water- and dust-resistant. It’s worth noting that Apple will likely launch its next-generation smartwatch in September, but this is still a great choice if you want to save money.
Clip the coupon button on the page to see the discount at checkout. Mobvoi’s TicWatch E3 received an honorable mention on our roundup of best smartwatches. It doesn’t have the best battery life—you’ll likely have to charge it in the morning after tracking sleep—and its build feels a bit bland and cheap. But it does offer accurate fitness-tracking results and will receive Wear OS 3. So, it’s a solid option if you’re looking for an affordable smartwatch to keep an eye on notifications and health metrics throughout the day.
When did owning four wheels become so expensive? Forget the sky-high gas pump prices, the dealership markups, and the new-car shortages and go all-in on two wheels. Biking is a great way to stay active and healthy, run errands around town, and—just as importantly—it’s fun. Right now, a bunch of our favorite ebikes, helmets, cycling apparel, and even escooters are on sale.
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Ebike Deals
Read our Best Electric Bikes and Best Escooters guides for more recommendations. If you’re fuzzy on ebike classifications, we explain the difference between Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 right here.
Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus
Photograph: Rad Power Bikes
The fat-tire RadRover 6 Plus has been in the WIRED test fleet for a few months now, and it’s performed admirably on rough terrain and steep hills. At 73 pounds, this off-road bike is heavy and difficult to pedal unassisted once you run out of charge in its 45-mile range, but the powerful 750-watt motor and hand throttle will carry you at 20 miles per hour, and its hydraulic braking system provides the power to stop once you need to catch your breath. This is the lowest price we’ve ever tracked.
Photograph: Wing
Enter the code 1WING at checkout to see the discount. The Freedom 2 has strong acceleration, weighs only 39 pounds, and comes with a long list of features, including a built-in headlight and taillight and an integrated anti-theft alarm. I reviewed the nearly identical Freedom X (7/10, WIRED Recommends) if you’d like to learn more. This deal also throws in fenders, a throttle, a and location tracking kit (that only works on iPhone) for free with the code.
With a 40-mile range, 20-mile-per-hour top speed, and 48-pound weight, the CTY e1.1’s specs are acceptable but not spectacular. We have not tested it yet, but its hydraulic brakes (for stronger braking) and integrated headlight and taillight are welcome additions at this price. Your local REI will assemble any bike bought at REI, free of charge.
Photograph: Apollo
This scooter can go fast (up to 27 miles per hour) thanks to its 500-watt motor, and WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu managed to get 16 miles out of it on a single charge. He’s 6’4 though, so you can probably get closer to 20 miles of range if not more. It’s 57 pounds, so it’s not too easy to tote it around. Apollo says it will be shipping the Pro model in August and the standard City in October (the Pro model can go even faster, is even heavier, and has a slightly better range).
I’ve been testing the Scrambler for a while now and have been pleased with its quality. It’s heavy at 71 pounds, but the powerful 750-watt motor allows it to reach 28 miles per hour, and the bike comes with a hand throttle, 45 miles of range, and mini-offroad-motorcycle looks.
Biking Accessory Deals
Check out our Best Bike Accessories and Best Bike Locks guides for more goodies.
Nutcase Bicycle Bell
Photograph: Nutcase
Let ‘em hear you coming. Whether it’s pedestrians, cars, or other cyclists, people have a tendency to put themselves right in a bike’s path. Give them a friendly little ding ding to bring their heads up. It’s much more polite and non-confrontational than shouting or, you know, plowing into them.
Photograph: Nutcase
Nutcase makes some of our favorite bike helmets. They’re stylish and have a proven record for protection. This model comes with a Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), which reduces the risk of brain injuries from rotational forces on the head during an impact. There are more designs on sale, as well, if this Darth Vader-esque design is not your thing.
Even if you’re riding in the city or on suburban roads lit by street lamps, it’s important to have illumination at night so cars can see you. The NiteRider 500-lumen headlight and 110-lumen tail light are brighter than most lights at this price, and the front light especially should be enough to illuminate completely unlit roads at night.
Nutcaase Vio
Photograph: Nutcase
Only select colors are on sale. The Vio (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is more than a helmet. It’s a viable alternative to slapping headlights and tail lights on your bike. The 200-lumen forward-facing light isn’t quite enough to light up a pitch-black road, but the 360-degree LED coverage will help other riders and drivers see you. In my review, I note it’s an excellent solution for people who ride multiple bikes, use bike-share programs (which likely won’t have lights installed), or are tired of removing lights every time they leave their bike to avoid getting them stolen.
Pannier bags are the best way to carry common cargo on your bike. They attach to pannier racks over the bike’s rear wheel and keep the center of gravity low. The problem is that once you hop off your bike, you have to lug them around by the strap. The Bug converts to a backpack so that you can avoid a sweaty back while riding but keep your hands free once you’re off the bike. With an optional padded laptop sleeve, it’ll keep your computer safe from bumps, too.
The men’s sizing is available for the same price. Good liner shorts do more than just pad your rear end, although that’s a big plus when you’re riding frequently or on long trips. They also wick away sweat and prevent chafing. These liner shorts slip on underneath your biking pants or casual pants as a base layer.
Photograph: Hiplok
This was the easiest bike lock to carry on rides when I was testing bike locks. It features a built-in clip that easily slips over a belt or backpack strap so you don’t have to mount it to your bike frame, and at only 2.4 pounds it won’t weigh you down. Its U lock is 14 millimeters thick, which means it has a fair bit of protection from a thief’s tools.
At only 6 ounces (for a medium size), the Helium is a lightweight jacket that’ll keep you dry without smothering you with a bunch of extra, unnecessary insulation. Perfect for warm summer rainstorms. WIRED editor Adrienne So likes the Helium, calling it an affordable classic in her Best Rain Jackets guide. The women’s sizing is available for $127 at another retailer (Backcountry doesn’t have many sizes or much stock).
At-home Covid tests have become a first-aid kit essential. But stocking up on them isn’t cheap. If your supply is dwindling, there’s good news: iHealth’s FDA-approved Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test is currently on sale at Amazon for $12 ($6 off). This is the lowest price we’ve ever tracked for this kit, which comes with two tests. The caveats? The deal is exclusively on Amazon and will expire at 2:59 am ET on July 7 (11:59 pm Pacific time on July 6).
Speaking of which, Amazon’s Prime Day is around the corner. We’ve rounded up other great early deals right here if you’re looking to save on all kinds of gadgets and gizmos.
If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism.Learn more.
iHealth Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test
Photograph: CVS
Get Reimbursed if You Have Insurance
Even though $6 off each test is a great deal, insurance companies (private and group health plans) are required to cover eight FDA-approved over-the-counter Covid-19 tests per month. If your insurance provider considers an iHealth test ordered through Amazon to be out of network, you can still be reimbursed for up to $12 per test—which will cover nearly the full cost of each test pre-tax.
Why We Like the iHealth Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test
The iHealth Covid-19 test works like any standard at-home kit. It’s also one of the easier tests to use of the many we’ve tested in our Rapid At-Home Covid-19 Tests guide. Inside the box, you’ll get two nasal swabs, two vials of solution, and two test cassettes. Taking a test is straightforward. Swab both nostrils to collect your sample, soak it in the solution, add three drops of it to the cassette, and wait 15 minutes for your results to appear on the card.
If the test is positive, two lines will appear on the cassette—one next to the “C” (control) line and the second next to the “T” (test line). If the result is negative, one line will appear next to the “C.” Since each pack comes with two tests, if you test negative you should test again within 24 to 48 hours, especially if you have recently been exposed to someone who tested positive. Once the test is complete, you’ll be able to upload your results to iHealth’s companion app. With negative test results, the app will grant you access to an iHealth pass on your device to use as digital proof.
If you’re buying Covid test kits in bulk, be sure to store them properly—out of direct sunlight and in a dry location where the temperature sits between 35 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also keep an eye on the expiration dates. iHealth recently extended the shelf life of its test kits to nine months; you can check the new expiration of each test kit by lot number via iHealth’s site. It’s also important to make sure you use the included test cassette within one hour of opening the foil pouch.
Note: In May, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about counterfeit versions of the iHealth Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test kits that haven’t been authorized for sale in the US. The images on the Instructions for Use pamphlet included with some counterfeit versions differ slightly from the authentic version. Both iHealth and the FDA are currently in the process of finding additional identifiable signs to look for. The link we have shared here to Amazon was provided to us by iHealth and is the FDA-approved version.
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