Andrew Cunningham
If you’re planning an upcoming trip, today’s dealer can save you a nice chunk of change on some trusted travel companions. Bose’s ultra-comfortable QuietComfort 45 headphones are now on sale for $280 ($330), while Apple’s two most recommended iPads, the iPad Air (10.9-inch, 64GB) and iPad Mini (8.3-inch, 64GB), are sold for $500 ($560) and $300 ($400), respectively. Both iPad deals match the lowest prices we’ve tracked for these models. Make sure you get the discount at checkout on Amazon’s iPad Air deal.
Apple iPad Air, 10.9-inch 64GB for $500 ($560)
Apple’s iPads are the best tablets you can buy, and the latest iPad Air is the best for most people. In our review, we noted that, in addition to the beautiful screen for media consumption, the M1 processor also gives it more power than it has any business if you need some work. It’s also a well-equipped device for video calling, using a 12 MP front-facing camera with Apple’s Center Stage technology to digitally help keep you the main focus on video. Pair this with Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard compatibility, and it becomes harder to justify shelling out hundreds more for an iPad Pro.
Samuel Axon
Apple iPad Mini, 8.3-inch 64GB for $300 ($400)
The iPad Mini fulfills a similar role at its price point, and at $100 off the typical price, that value only deepens. It uses USB-C for charging, supports the latest Apple Pencil and has Touch ID built into the switch. It doesn’t have a compatible Magic Keyboard, but you can always pair it with a Bluetooth keyboard. As we note in our review, it does a good job of mimicking a mini version of the latest iPads and their latest features. Just note that an 8.3-inch screen can be a bit cramped for multitasking or hours of work. Otherwise it’s a great device for consuming media, sketching or jotting down notes.
Bose QuietComfort 45 noise-canceling headphones for $280 ($330)
Bose’s QuietComfort 45 are the most comfortable pair of noise-canceling headphones we’ve tested. They also do a commendable job of preserving sound. Apple’s more expensive AirPods Max may have the best noise cancellation in its class, but if comfort is paramount, then the QC 45s are worth a look. They fit larger ears better and have a more neutral sound signature, but they lack an EQ tool to make adjustments. The QC 45 is also equipped with more reliable physical playback buttons compared to touch controls often found on other headphones in this class. A full charge gives you about 20 hours of listening time, which should be enough for most trips.
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