Your iPhone could get dropped, accidentally submerged in water, or become completely unresponsive. Our iPhones hold vast amounts of personal and professional data, making iPhone data loss a potentially devastating issue.

Thankfully, preventing data loss is simple; all you need to do is perform regular iPhone backups. In this guide, we’ll show you the best ways to back up iPhone data, ensuring your information is always safe and retrievable.

Note: If your primary concern is backing up iPhone photos and videos, check out our post on how to back up iPhone photos to your Mac.

Why Backup Your iPhone?

Key reasons to back up your iPhone regularly include:

• Recover data if your device is lost or damaged.
• Ensure a smooth transition to a new device.
• Restore data after resolving major issues.
• Protect against data corruption or malware attacks.

Methods to Backup iPhone Data

Backup with iCloud

1. Ensure your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
2. Go to the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on your name at the top of the settings menu.



3. Select iCloud from the list of services.



4. Scroll down and select iCloud Backup.



5. Turn on the iCloud Backup toggle, or tap “Back Up Now” to start the backup immediately.

Backup with iTunes/Finder

1. Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to your computer.
2. Open iTunes if you’re using a PC or Finder on macOS Catalina and later.
3. In iTunes, click on the iPhone icon or select your iPhone from the sidebar in Finder.



iPhone icon in iTunes



iPhone in Finder, under Location
4. Under the “Backups” section, select “This Computer” to store the backup locally.
5. For added security, check “Encrypt iPhone Backup” and set a password (optional).
6. Start the backup process by clicking “Back Up Now.“



Back up iPhone via iTunes



Back up iPhone via Finder

Backup with Third-Party Software

First, select a reliable third-party backup software, such as Dr.Fone or iMazing. These apps are well-regarded for their efficiency and ease of use. Check out our previous review on Dr.Fone.

Next, download, install, and launch the chosen software on your computer. Ensure you follow the installation prompts to complete the setup process correctly.

After installing the software, use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to your computer. The software should automatically detect your device and prompt you with the next steps.

Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the software to back up your data. The process may vary slightly depending on the software you choose, but generally, it will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your iPhone data is safely backed up.

Final Thoughts

Whichever method you choose – whether using Finder on macOS, iTunes on Windows, or backing up directly to iCloud from your phone – the key is to make sure you back up your iPhone regularly.

The post How to Properly Backup Your iPhone Data appeared first on Hongkiat.

With AI-powered tools like photo enhancers and image upscalers, you can easily fix common issues such as blurriness, noise, poor lighting, shaky camera effects, and low resolution – all without losing quality. Best of all, you don’t need to be an expert to use them.

Explore the 10 best AI photo enhancers below.

Overview:

1. HitPaw Photo Enhancer

HitPaw Photo Enhancer is a powerful AI-based software available for both Windows and Mac. It leverages advanced AI techniques to improve the quality and resolution of digital images, effectively reducing blurriness and noise without compromising the image quality.

Key Features:

• Auto enhancement option for quick photo improvements without manual adjustments.
• AI upscaling that converts low-resolution images into high-quality, poster-sized prints.
• Restore clarity to old photos, even those from the early 90s.
• Colorize black-and-white photos in under 30 seconds – tested and proven to work like magic.

Android App Features:

The Android app version offers additional capabilities:

• AI face enhancer to retouch photos, removing blemishes, wrinkles, and other imperfections with one click.
• Transform photos into anime or cartoon styles.
• Colorize vintage photos.
• Upscale and de-noise images effectively.

Pricing:

HitPaw Photo Enhancer offers a free trial so you can test its capabilities. If you’re satisfied with the results, the software is available for purchase at a promotional price of $17.99. Additionally, the app version is available on Google Play, making it easy to enhance your photos on the go.

2. Styldod

Styldod’s AI Image Enhancement tool is a web-based solution, eliminating the need for any additional software. While many image enhancement tools focus on portrait images, Styldod specializes in enhancing photos of interior spaces, making it particularly useful for real estate professionals.

This tool is designed for quick and efficient image enhancement. It sharpens details, reduces noise, fine-tunes colors, and performs a range of adjustments to upscale your images with ease.

Using the tool is simple: select an image from your local storage, upload it to the Styldod platform, and let the AI-driven enhancer work its magic.

Styldod’s capabilities are comprehensive. It can upgrade image resolution, remove visual noise, sharpen blurry elements, and handle color correction and calibration. This ensures that your images not only look aesthetically pleasing but are also of the highest quality.

Enhance Images with Styldod

3. SnapEdit

SnapEdit is a user-friendly online photo editor that leverages AI to make enhancing and refining your images simple and effective. With features like object removal, background editing, and photo quality improvement, SnapEdit enables users to achieve professional results with ease. Whether you’re restoring old photos, adjusting lighting, or adding realistic shadows, this app provides a comprehensive set of tools that cater to both beginners and advanced users.

Beyond image enhancement, SnapEdit also offers file format conversion, image compression without quality loss, and customizable watermarking to protect your photos.

Key Features:

• Removal of objects, text, and wirelines
• Background removal, editing, and blurring
• Enhancement of photos and artwork, including anime, manga, and drawings
• Shadow effects and sky replacement
• Photo restoration and automatic light adjustment
• Image conversion and compression
• Customizable watermarking

Pricing:

SnapEdit offers two pricing plans:

Free Plan – $0

• Basic editing features with resolution limits (1280×1280 or 1600×1600)
• Access to the web photo editor with AutoAI and one-touch object removal

Pro Plan – $6/month

Includes a 3-day free trial with:

• Unlimited access to all features
• No ads or watermarks
• Pro app access on iOS & Android
• Batch processing for up to 1000 images per month

Enhance Images with SnapEdit

4. Fotor’s Photo Enhancer

Fotor’s Photo Enhancer is a web-based tool that uses AI algorithms to enhance the quality of your photos. It automatically detects and corrects lighting and color, sharpens images, upscales photos, and repairs blurriness, all with minimal effort.

Key Features:

Here are some of the primary features and applications of Fotor’s Photo Enhancer:

• AI-driven tools to instantly clear up blurry images.
• Enhancement options tailored for e-commerce, improving product photo quality for online platforms, social media, and websites.
• Specialized AI tools for photography and portrait enhancement, ensuring your photos stand out.
• Real estate photo enhancement to make property listings more appealing to potential buyers.
• A professional-level toolkit with advanced features for enhancing photos like a pro.

Fotor’s toolkit is versatile and suitable for various purposes, including e-commerce, photography, and real estate. Its pro-level tools are easy to use, making it an excellent choice for both professionals and amateurs.

Pricing:

Fotor’s Photo Enhancer offers a free 3-day trial, after which the service costs $8.99 per month.

Enhance Images with Fotor’s Photo Enhancer

5. PicWish Image Enhancer

PicWish Image Enhancer is an advanced online tool powered by AI technology to improve your photos. It transforms regular images into visually appealing ones by addressing common issues such as blurriness and image noise. PicWish offers a range of features designed to enhance image quality without losing detail.

Key Features:

• Effective at enhancing blurry, pixelated, and low-resolution photos.
• Automated photo improvements requiring no expert editing skills.
• Quickly upgrades images to HD quality.
• Ideal for e-commerce businesses looking to improve product image quality.
• Skilled at enhancing portrait images and restoring vintage photos.
• Compatible with bulk enhancement on Windows, Android, and iOS devices.

Pricing:

One of PicWish Image Enhancer’s most attractive aspects is its accessible pricing model. It offers five free uses per day upon login, with the Pro version starting at $0.008 per credit.

Enhance Images with PicWish

6. Zyro’s Image Upscaler

Zyro’s AI Image Upscaler allows you to effortlessly enhance the resolution and quality of your images. This web-based tool uses AI-powered technology to upscale and enlarge your images with minimal effort, ensuring there is no loss of quality.

Key Features:

The main features of this tool include:

• AI-based image upscaling to increase resolution and improve image quality.
• Support for JPG and PNG image formats.
• Free to use, with integration capabilities via the Zyro API.
• Also serves as a platform for entrepreneurs to build websites and online stores.

Pricing:

Zyro’s Image Upscaler is completely free to use.

Enhance Images with Zyro’s Image Upscaler

7. Smart Upscaler by Icons8

Icons8 offers an AI-powered image enhancer that can upscale your low-resolution images up to 8 times. Without needing to log in, you can simply drag-and-drop or upload the image on the website to upscale it. The enhanced images are stored on the site, and there’s an API available for batch image enhancement or integrating the tool into your products.

Key Features:

Some standout features of the Smart Upscaler tool include:

• Enhance the quality of images up to 8 times.
• All enhanced images are saved on the site, allowing you to review your history or redownload them.
• No login or signup is required to use the tool.
• API available for integrating the tool into your products.
• The site prioritizes user privacy and does not use the uploaded images for machine learning.

Pricing:

• Trial: 3 free upscales.
• Prepaid: $0.2 per image.
• Limited subscription (monthly): $9 (up to 100 images per month).
• Limited subscription (yearly): $90 (up to 100 images per month).

Enhance Images with Smart Upscaler

8. DeepImage AI

DeepImage AI is a powerful photo enhancer designed to improve the quality of your images. With capabilities like image upscaling, artifact removal, and overall quality enhancement, DeepImage AI provides a comprehensive set of tools to help make your photos look their best.

Key Features:

Some of the notable features of DeepImage AI include:

• Upscale images: Increase the resolution of images, making them sharper and clearer.
• Remove artifacts: Eliminate unwanted noise and artifacts from images, enhancing overall quality.
• Light and color correction: Automatically detect and correct lighting and color issues.
• Background removal: Easily remove backgrounds to isolate the subject of the photo.
• API integration: Integrate DeepImage AI into popular eCommerce platforms and software via DeepAPI or DeepImage’s API.

Pricing:

• Trial: 5 credits – Free.
• Bronze: 100 credits – $7.50/month.
• Silver: 300 credits – $20.75/month.
• Gold: 500 credits – $32.50/month.

Enhance Images with DeepImage AI

9. VanceAI

VanceAI is a robust AI-based photo enhancement tool offering a wide range of features to improve the quality of your images. With capabilities like AI upscaling, sharpening, and enhancing, VanceAI boosts productivity in photo processing across various industries, including graphic design, photography, printing, and e-commerce.

Key Features:

Some of the standout features of VanceAI include:

• AI-driven tools for enhancing images, including anime portraits, background removal, old photo repair and colorization, image sharpening, denoising, portrait retouching, and JPEG artifact removal.
• Available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
• Operates on a credit system with flexible pricing plans.
• Offers a 7-day money-back guarantee.

Pricing:

VanceAI is accessible via web, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms, making it easy to use from any device. It operates on a credit system where processing one image equals one credit.

The most affordable plan offers 100 credits for $4.95, while higher plans go up to 1000 credits for $17.95. Although there is no free trial, a 7-day money-back guarantee is available.

With VanceAI’s comprehensive suite of photo processing tools, you can create high-quality images for websites, blogs, banners, or products with ease.

Enhance Images with VanceAI

10. AVC AI

AVC AI is an image enhancement tool that uses deep learning algorithms to automatically and effortlessly improve and restore photo quality. It offers features like image resolution upscaling, denoising, sharpening, facial retouching, colorization, and more.

Key Features:

Notable features of AVC AI include:

• Utilizes deep learning algorithms to enhance and restore photo quality automatically.
• Super Resolution technology for image resolution upscaling and quality improvement with a single click.
• Facial recognition technology for enhancing facial details in images.
• Available as a web-based tool, on Google Play, Windows, and macOS.
• Additional features include background removal, colorizing old photos, and image calibration.
• Upscales all types of images for larger screens, prints, web, and other uses.
• Automatically deletes uploaded images after 24 hours to ensure privacy.

Pricing:

AVC AI operates on a credit-based system, with plans ranging from 100 credits for $9.95 per month to 500 credits for $39.95 per month.

You can earn free credits by following them on social media and leaving reviews on Trustpilot and Alternativeto.

Enhance Images with AVC AI

11. LetsEnhance

LetsEnhance is an online image enhancement service that uses AI technology to improve image quality. It can increase the resolution, remove noise and artifacts, and enhance details in your images.

Available as a web-based tool, LetsEnhance also offers an API for developers to integrate into their applications. It can upscale images by 2x, 4x, or even 8x, and supports batch processing for multiple images at once, making it ideal for e-commerce, photography, and graphic design.

With LetsEnhance.io, you can effortlessly enhance your images, giving them a professional look.

Key Features:

Some of the features include:

• AI image upscaling.
• Fixes pixelation and blur.
• Color and lighting correction.
• JPEG artifacts removal.
• Batch editing capabilities.
• One-click presets for quick enhancements.
• Convert small photos to HD, 4k, 8k, or higher resolutions.
• Upscale images up to 500 megapixels with 300+ DPI.

Pricing:

You receive up to 10 free credits to try the product. If you choose to subscribe, 100 credits will cost $9 per month when paid annually.

Enhance Images with LetsEnhance

12. Cutout.pro

Cutout Pro’s AI Image Enlarger & Enhancer is a powerful online tool designed to improve image quality. It utilizes advanced AI technology to super-enlarge images by up to 200%, sharpen blurred images, denoise grainy photos, enhance portraits with AI face recognition, improve underexposed night scenes, and repair and colorize old photos.

This tool is ideal for photographers, illustrators, real estate professionals, e-commerce entrepreneurs, and those needing high-quality image prints.

Key Features:

Some of the main features of Cutout Pro’s AI Image Enlarger & Enhancer include:

• Super enlargement, upscaling images by up to 200%.
• Sharpening of blurred images.
• Denoising of grainy images.
• AI face recognition for portrait enhancement.
• Enhancement of underexposed night scenes.
• Repair and colorization of old photos.
• Available as a web-based tool.
• Applicable across various industries, including e-commerce, photography, and graphic design.

Pricing:

Cutout Pro offers a free account with 5 credits, plus the option to invite friends to earn 5 additional credits. Subscription plans start at 40 credits for $5 per month, with options up to 1200 credits for $69 per month. Users can also choose pay-as-you-go options, starting with 3 credits for $2.99.

Enhance Images with Cutout.pro

13. Adobe Express

Adobe Express is a free online photo editing app from Adobe that offers a variety of features to enhance and edit your photos. One of its standout features is the photo enhancer, which uses advanced AI technology to automatically improve image quality. With just a few taps, you can adjust the lighting, color, and sharpness of your photos to make them look their best.

Key Features:

Adobe Express is essentially a streamlined version of Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. While it doesn’t upscale or enhance image resolution, it offers a range of useful features for quick editing on the go:

• Add shapes, text, and other design elements similar to Photoshop.
• Access to various templates to kickstart your design.
• Adjust backgrounds using thousands of free and premium collections.
• Access to Adobe’s stock photo library.
• And many more…

Pricing:

Adobe Express is free to use.

Enhance Images with Adobe Express

14. ACVLabs Photo Enhancer AI

ACVLabs Photo Enhancer AI is a robust tool that leverages advanced AI technology to enhance your photos. It offers features such as upscaling resolution, noise and grain removal, face refinement, background removal, and color calibration to help elevate your images.

Key Features:

Some of the standout features of ACVLabs Photo Enhancer AI include:

• AI-powered photo upscaling to improve resolution.
• Noise and grain removal to fix blurry images.
• AI face refinement for portraits and selfies.
• AI Photo Colorizer to colorize black-and-white photos.
• AI Color Calibration for fixing color issues.
• AI Background Removal to create transparent backgrounds.
• Available on Windows and macOS.

Pricing:

ACVLabs offers a free trial. After that, you can subscribe for $19.95 per month, $79.95 per year, or opt for a lifetime plan at $159.90.

Enhance Images with ACVLabs

Conclusion

There’s a wide array of AI image-enhancing tools available today, perfect for everyone from professional photographers to e-commerce entrepreneurs to casual users looking to improve their photos.

The 14 tools we’ve covered in this post are some of the best options out there, offering features like resolution upscaling, noise reduction, portrait retouching, and colorization of black-and-white photos. Each tool has something unique to offer, catering to various needs and budgets.

Whether you’re looking to enhance product photos for your online store or create stunning prints of your personal memories, these AI tools can help you achieve impressive results.

The post 14 Best AI Image Enhancing Tools (2024) appeared first on Hongkiat.

Consider offering your services on a pro bono basis to build a robust professional portfolio. Curious about how this can help? Here’s a concise guide on leveraging pro bono projects to attract more paying gigs.

Understanding Pro Bono Work

Pro bono—essentially professional work done free of charge—serves a public good and, in the freelance world, enhances a freelancer’s image. However, opinions on pro bono work are sharply divided. While some professionals criticize it for undervaluing the industry, others advocate its benefits, especially for newcomers.

Those against pro bono argue that it leads to artists underselling themselves and becoming easy targets for clients looking for cheap labor. But rather than simply rejecting these offers, why not turn them into opportunities? Use these experiences to build your portfolio and credibility.

The Challenges of Starting in Freelancing

Typically, high-paying projects are reserved for the experienced. No matter your skill level, without a significant online presence, breaking into the field can be tough.

Establishing an online presence is crucial.

When I began my freelance writing career shortly after university, the lack of published work was a major barrier. My break came only after I completed a project for free, which led to referrals and more work.

If you’re new to the field, consider initially lowering your rates—a strategy I never thought I’d endorse. For example, if a project typically budgets around $2000, you might offer a 25-50% discount. For a single-day project, you could even propose to do it for free.

However, being the lowest bidder might suggest lower quality. Counter this by clearly communicating your situation: you’re offering a lower rate because you’re building your presence, but you will deliver top-notch results.

Selecting Projects with Potential

Not every project is worth your time. Be selective and choose projects that could lead to additional opportunities. This is crucial for building a sustainable freelance career.

When scouring job boards like Elance or Freelancer, focus on clients with a solid track record of engaging freelancers. This allows you to position yourself for future projects if they are impressed with your work.

Another effective strategy is to reach out to local businesses or organizations and offer your services. Target entities such as schools, churches, and community groups which often have minimal demands and allow you the freedom to showcase your skills. Furthermore, if you volunteer your services for free, don’t hesitate to ask for a strong testimonial or a referral.

• Schools
• Churches
• Orphanages
• Interest groups
• Your favourite local band
• Your favourite restaurant
• Politicians (if you’re feeling adventurous)

When choosing an organization, consider three key factors:

Network Influence: Does the organization have connections with others? For example, a band might know other music groups, creating potential for your work to gain rapid exposure within that community.

Reputation: Avoid organizations with poor reputations. Your pro bono work should enhance your image, not tarnish it.

Growth Potential: Engage with organizations that show promise for growth. As they expand and gain popularity, your work will likely receive more exposure, benefiting your portfolio.

These are just guidelines. If you prefer, starting with individual clients can also be beneficial as it adds variety and depth to your portfolio, offering a different kind of boost.

Identifying Effective Pro Bono Opportunities

Many successful companies and freelancers incorporate pro bono work into their regular activities. For instance, web hosting companies often hold giveaways, providing a year of service for free, which in return, garners significant publicity. Similarly, graphic artists frequently share free resources like business card templates, logos, and fonts on platforms such as Behance, Dafont, DeviantArt, and Dribbble.

Why is this strategy effective? People love freebies. Such offerings attract attention and can generate positive buzz. For web designers and developers, distributing free website templates not only draws traffic to your site but also enhances your portfolio.

The underlying principle is simple: offering your services or products for free initially can pave the way to gaining customers who are willing to pay for your work if they like what they see.

Rejecting Speculative (Spec) Work

Spec work can often be confused with pro bono but the two are very different. Spec work, which involves creating something based on a client’s brief without guarantee of payment, is inherently risky. Clients often solicit multiple freelancers and only pay for the piece they select, if any.

The harsh reality is that after all your effort, you might not receive any compensation, recognition, or leads for more work. Avoid spec work; it not only exploits your talent but also perpetuates a cycle that preys on newcomers.

Pro bono work is beneficial not just for new freelancers but also for seasoned professionals experiencing a dry spell. It’s about continually advancing your career and building your portfolio, one step at a time. Remember, always keep moving forward, even if it’s with small, strategic steps.

The post Boost Your Freelance Career with Strategic Pro Bono Work appeared first on Hongkiat.

Here is a list of some of the most interesting websites that you may find useful in one way or the other. From website creating tools and content idea generators to classic entertainment sites, the list has a whole gamut of coolest resources you’ll find online. I hope you enjoy reading about them as much as I enjoyed compiling this list.

Axiom.ai

A productivity tool, Axiom enables you to create bots for your browser to automate repetitive tasks. You don’t have to do any coding for that, download the Chrome extension and automate processes on any website or web app.

Related: Automating Repetitive Tasks on Windows 10

Flash Museum: Reliving the Classics

Using Ruffle, a Flash Player emulator, Flash Museum revives beloved flash games and animations, making them playable on modern browsers. Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, iPadOS, Chrome OS, Linux, and more, you can dive back into the golden era of Flash content with ease.

NicePage

Nice Page is a quick and easy website builder that enables you to build a website with drag-and-drop functionality and absolutely no coding required. There are hundreds of pre-made templates you can choose from. Plus, the websites created are responsive and mobile-friendly.

Related: 8 Websites and Page Builders to Try

CodeMonkey

Unlock your child’s potential with engaging, game-based platform at CodeMonkey. Teaching real coding languages like CoffeeScript and Python, CodeMonkey makes learning fun and accessible for kids aged 5-14. Start their coding journey today and watch them develop valuable skills for the future!

CareerGuru99

Career Guru is a great search engine for finding the right interview questions for each category and sub-category of the professional field. You can find inquiries about any field and prepare yourself for your dream job accordingly.

Related: 10 Most Asked Interview Questions

Old Games Download

An archive of retro games, Old Games Download has a huge database of video games from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. This way you can relive your childhood memories and have a great time with your friends.

Related: 20 Retro Video Games for iPhone

Slidesgo

Make your PowerPoint slides more interesting with Slides Go. It has a huge collection of interesting PowerPoint slide design templates that you can download and customize to your needs.

Related: 20 Free PowerPoint Templates

Calendly

Calendly is a scheduling tool to help you organize and manage your work schedule. You can create simple rules and add your availability preferences in the tool. By sharing the link of your schedule, you can let people know when you’re available so they can book a meeting with you that doesn’t consider with your other engagements.

Hunter.io

Hunter is a search engine that lets you search for the names and email addresses of people from any website that you enter. It has more than 100 million email addresses indexed and offers effective search filters to help you find exactly the emails you need to find.

Related: 14 People Search Engines to Find Old Friends

Removebg

Removebg is a clever AI-powered online tool with which you can remove the background of just about any image. You can have a plain white background or a transparent one as PNG. Through plugins, you can integrate it with your existing tools or workflow.

Related: How to Remove Objects From the Background in Photoshop

Unscreen

If you want to remove the background of a video, you can use Unscreen. It is an intelligent online tool that lets you remove the background of any clip in different supported formats. You can keep a transparent background or replace it with something else – 100% automatically.

QuillBot

Quillbot is an AI-powered online paraphrasing tool. It helps you rewrite and enhance your sentences in different forms. You can also choose from Standard or Flow mode and get it integrated into Chrome or Microsoft Word for a smoother workflow.

Revolancer

Revolance is a platform for freelance designers that works two ways. As a freelancer, you can find design projects, and as an employer, you can find professional freelance designers for your work. Apart from designing, you can find clients or freelancers from web development, marketing, writing, and other fields as well.

Related: Best Job Sites for Freelancers and Independent Professionals

WolframAlpha

Ever wonder about a source that could answer just about any question? Well, WolframAlpha is the one. From complex calculations to answering questions from any field, the tool has the knowledge base and AI technology to do it all.

TinyWow

A truly versatile and totally free tool that can do so much for your files. You can remove the background of images, merge, convert, unlock, and edit PDFs, convert files from one format to another, edits videos and images, and a lot more.

Open Source Alternative to

Open Source Alternative To is a site that gives you suitable open-source alternatives to SaaS products. It features 300+ alternatives to proprietary tools, and you can use the efficient search function to find one for you.

Magic Eraser

As the name says, Magic Eraser is an online tool to remove any object from an image. Just upload your image, mark the object or area that you’d like to remove, and done! You can download the edited image. It is free for an unlimited number of images as well as other features.

Cleanup.pictures

Cleanup is an online photo retouching tool that can remove people or objects from your images, erase watermarks, and time stamps, etc as if they were never there. You can use the free version to edit unlimited pictures but up to 720p resolution. It’s available as iOS app as well.

Custom Cursor

To add a little funk to your system, Custom Cursor lets you change your pointer to any of the amazing objects. From your favorite characters to random funny objects, you can change your cursor to anything. It’s available on Chrome browser and Windows PC.

Kickresume

Kick Resume is an online resume maker tool. You can create a professional resume from scratch or use of the templates to customize one for yourself. You can opt for a creative or a more conservative resume template and even add cover letter to it.

Related: Free Tools to Create Professional Resumes

AnswerThePublic

If you ever run out of content ideas, Answer The Public can help you. Just add any word or two in the search field, and it will tell you what people are asking about it on search engines. This gives you a deeper understanding of people’s search habits and lots of content ideas to work on.

Streams Speak

Powered by AI, Big Speak lets you generate English speech from the text that you enter. You can generate speech in the US, UK, or Australian accent in both male or female voices. You can download the generated speech or share the link online.

Related: 10 Best Text-to-Speech Apps

Justdelete.me

A tool by Background Checks, JustDeleteMe enables you to find the information of deleting your account from a website. The directly has hundreds of URLs and with each you can see how easy, difficult, or impossible is the process of deleted your account.

Related: Delete Yourself From The Internet With These Tools

Alison.com

Alison is a search engine to find a free online certificate or diploma courses all over the web. The site curates more than 4000 free courses from an array of fields. You can also mention your goals to make the search even more accurate.

Related: 9 Best Websites For Online Courses & Open Courseware

VoiceChanger.io

This cool website can change your voice into some of the most interesting things or characters. Just upload your audio, or use the microphone to record your sound and click on the many voice options ranging from aliens and robotic snakes to Bane (from Batman) and even Chipmunks.

SuperDesigner

Super Designer is an online shape-generator tool with which you can create amazing backgrounds, patterns, shapes, and images. You can also create 3D shapes, blobs, and gradients etc. Its totally free and doesn’t require any login or sign-up.

Related: Free Pattern Generators to Create Repetitive Pattern Bg

Fronty

Claiming to be the world’s first image to HTML converter, Fronty is an AI-powered online tool that converts your images into CSS or HTML code. You just upload your image and get a clean code. Its other features include no-code website editor and website launcher.

Related: Best PSD To HTML Services

Phase

Phase is an online app to design your website and app prototypes in a quick and easy way. With a clean interface and an adaptive layout, it enables you to create amazing web and app designs in a completely code-free way. Plus, you can customize and edit any component and collaborate on the projects with your team.

Remover

An AI-powered photo editing tool, ZMO lets you remove any object from an image. From watermarks to people photobombing your holiday picture, you can remove just about anything. What’s best, it’s free and doesn’t require you to login.

Here are more:

Gnoosic

Gnoosic is your go to spot for new music recommendations. It asks for three of your favourite bands, and based on your interests, spits out an artist that you might like.

You then have the option to “like”, “dislike”, or mark it as something you aren’t familiar with – which further refines the results. This will be enjoyable for music enthusiasts who are looking for a musical adventure.

Tickld

Tickld is your go-to spot for anything humorous and funny, for anything that’s really cool and interesting, or stuff that’s just plain WTF.

Guaranteed to provide hours of mindless fun and laughter.

CoolThings

CoolThings is a collection of cool things. From entertainment, to gadgets, to even toys and inventions, there is bound to be something here that will interest you.

There is even a section for really cool gifts, split into categories for men, women. It updates every day, so make sure to drop by once in a while for your fix of really cool stuff!

Cool Hunting

CH is a really cool publication platform that uncovers the latest in design, technology, style, travel, art and culture. If you are into art, architecture, and culture, then this website is perfect for you.

You’ll find lots of interesting articles here, and the best part is that there are new articles almost every day.

Not Always Right

Had a bad day at work? Did that one annoying, pesky customer or client who just wouldn’t shut up tried to give you a hard time, and succeeded? Then this website is just perfect for you!

It’s a collection of stories about customers who just don’t know when to shut up. From incredibly funny to just downright horrifying, there’s a little bit of it all here.

The Art of Manliness

A blog dedicated to uncovering the lost art of being a man. The topics range from fashion to relationship advice – an attempt to fill the void that has been created by magazines that try to perpetrate the idea of a “machismo” man.

Although solely aimed at men, it can be an interesting read for women as well.

Drench

A very simple browser game, Drench gives you a board with different colored tiles, and you use the buttons to flip the colors around.

Do this until your board is full of tiles of a single color only. It’s a bit more difficult to explain, but once you get the hang of it, it can be really addicting and for some, relaxing.

Cooking for Engineers

Cooking for Engineers is a godsend for those who love to cook. This website has it all, from recipes, to kitchen gear, to cooking tests, down to a handy dictionary.

The best part about this webstie is its classic 90’s layout, which makes accessing the recipes and files intuitive and easier.

PostSecret

PostSecret is a very interesting website. Visitors are encouraged to send in anonymous postcards on which they write their secrets.

There are all sorts of secrets on all kinds of postcards, and the variations make this a really interesting project. However, be warned – these secrets are very real… and very heavy.

River Styx

An interactive website that takes you through the river Styx and the Underworld. You will meet many Greek Gods and Goddesses here, and you will also be learning a lot about their myths and legends.

The website works much like how a point-and-click game would, with your cursor turning into a different icon when you hover it over relevant objects. An interesting, visual crash course to Greek mythology and philosophy!

Zooniverse

A really neat website that brings people together to create one of the largest platforms for people-powered research. Volunteers come together to assist professional researchers.

There is no need for a specialised background or training; all you have to do is to answer simple questions.

MusicFX by AI Test Kitchen: Create Your Own Music

At MusicFX, you can enter a prompt to generate a song of your design. There’s even a DJ mode, enabling you to mix live songs with settings for various music styles, such as reggae, Afrobeat, cello, etc. Let your creativity flow and see where the music takes you!

NOIYS – Post, read, forget

NOIYS is a place to post an anonymous note to be viewed by many people, only to be deleted within 24 hours. It’s the perfect website for venting anonymously and not worry about the consequences, as it will be deleted within a day.

The best part (or maybe worst) is that strangers can reply to your note, too. That way, you can have a running conversation with a complete stranger.

Riffusion: AI-Powered Music Creation

Riffusion offers a unique way to create music. Just type in your lyrics or record them, and Riffusion will generate a song for you. Powered by cutting-edge AI, it’s a fascinating exploration into the future of music production.

Scott H Young

Scott’s blog is a collection of articles and musings that he has written himself. Perfect for anyone who is doing some soul searching, his site touches on light topics such as productivity to heavier ones like the meaning of life.

Definitely an interesting read and a good way to wind down during the evenings, if you like to crunch through articles like I do.

Addicted 2 Success

Need a little pick me up? Addicted 2 Success is the place to go. It features articles that are designed to inspire and empower people who are looking to turn their life around.

There’s entrepreneurship, self-development, and an all-round focus on success and on getting things done!

Truthdig

Truthdig is something for the people who have been keeping up with the news and politics. It aims to provide you with insightful and accurate repoting on current subjects and issues by having a situation seen from all possible angles, and including all the details relevant or seemingly otherwise.

Found anything that struck your fancy? Did you already lose some hours trying these websites out? Make sure to let us know in the comments!

The post 45 Interesting Websites You Should Know (And Bookmark) appeared first on Hongkiat.

One such app is the Movavi Screen Recorder, a app that can help you capture your computer screen, webcam, and audio with ease. In this post, we’ll explore the key features and benefits of using Movavi for all of your screen recording needs.

Read Also:  5 Best Free Screen Recorders for Windows

What is Movavi Screen Recorder?

As its name suggests, this app helps you record activities on your PC, both Windows, and Mac.

Movavi Screen Recorder is also capable of capturing screenshots, recording screencasts, grabbing audio and video from the recording, drawing (annotation) on videos, and many other useful features.

After installing, I’m immediately greeted by a widget. The widget is non-intrusive and sits nicely on the right-hand side of my screen by default.

But this can be dragged almost on any side of your screen, top, left, right, bottom (yes, even on top of the taskbar).

You can even have it as a notch at the center of your monitor. And when you click on it, the widget expands to show you its main features.

Movavi Screen Recorder’s Features

As evidenced by the introduction and the app’s name, the main purpose of Movavi Screen Recorder is to, well, record screens. But there’s more to it than just recording your screen.

Let’s explore the features.

1. Screencasting

Unlike other popular screen recorders like Loom, Movavi will not ask you which window, application, or monitor you want to record or take a screenshot of. You can control this by simply moving your cursor around.

If you move your cursor to the outer part of your screen or close to the edges, it will detect that you wish to record the entire screen. Otherwise, it will only capture the window you’re pointing at like on the screenshot above.

And if you want to record another screen, supposing you have multiple screens, simply move the cursor to the other monitor and start recording.

2. Draw on Videos

Yes, you can doodle while you’re recording which is a feature that I absolutely love. Movavi even has built-in shapes, lines, and colors to choose from. I can see how this can be really important for people who prefer to speak their thoughts out, especially for the more visual folks out there.

3. Simple Editing

When I say simple, I really mean simple. It only allows for trimming your videos. But unlike other editors that only allow you to trim a section you would like to save, Movavi allows users to trim off parts of the video directly.

4. Online Meeting Recording

One of the pet peeves of people who hop on Google or Zoom meetings is that when it’s time to record, sometimes the screen recording software they are using only records their own voice and not the other participants. This is because some recording apps do not support recording system sounds.

For example, if you are using your AirPods or any other earphones, you will only hear your colleagues through your earphones, but the recorder won’t. In this case, Movavi Screen Recorder wins since it supports this very thing.

5. Screenshot

What I like about its screenshot function is it zooms in down to the pixel so you can crop and take accurate screenshots of the sections you want to save. It’s difficult to explain so take a look at the image below.

From the crosshair, it will show you exactly where you are at down to the pixel, which is a very nifty function to have. And at the same time, it will measure the size of the window and element you are currently on. Let me show you what I mean:

In the screenshot above, it automatically measured the size of the canvas.

And in the screenshot below, it goes a little bit more granular. It measured just a single element/box.

I’m not entirely sure how this feature can be utilized, but I can imagine that a lot of creatives out there will find it useful.

Price of Movavi Screen Recorder

Movavi does not have a free tier, but its pricing is pretty much straightforward and actually affordable.

The Yearly plan (only yearly, no monthly) costs $42.95/year, while the Lifetime plan is only $57.95 one-time. The Video Suite plan is $94.95. Each license would only work on 1 workstation.

I tried comparing the pricing to my local currency, Japanese Yen, and found out that if I purchase using Yen, it would end up cheaper.

Here’s the breakdown of the difference in pricing:

• Yearly subscription: $42.95 versus 4,200¥ – this only converts to around $32, a $10 difference.
• Lifetime: $57.95 versus 6,000¥ – this converts to around $45, an almost $13 difference.
• Video Suite: $94.95 versus 11,900¥ – only a difference of about $5.

If you are planning on buying it, and if you have Wise, buy it in JPY/Yen and you’ll get it for cheaper.

If you’re going to ask why choose Yearly when you can have the Lifetime deal? It sounds cheaper, right?

The caveat is for the Lifetime plan, you will only get the current version. Future versions of the product will be treated as a separate product, I guess? They did mention that all plans will get free minor updates. That’s the huge distinction I can see here. If my understanding is incorrect, Movavi needs to clarify it on their website.

My Thoughts on Movavi

Movavi is a fully-featured screen recording app that I think professionals will find useful. It is loaded with basically all of the good stuff you’ll need to make your workflow easier. All of the features you’ll need are there.

Movavi is also flexible when comes to its sharing settings. You can either upload your recording on their servers, upload directly to your Google Drive, publish it on YouTube, or save it locally for further editing.

Unfortunately, Movavi technically doesn’t have a free version. You can only use it for 7 days on a trial basis, but even then, it is restricted to just testing the product, unlike the other myriad of apps out there without many restrictions.

As you can see in the screenshot below, it has a glaring watermark. Another limitation is you cannot add descriptions or tags to your videos.

TLDR, here are its pros and cons:

PROS

CONS

Overall, I can see myself using this application but I would like to experience its full capabilities first without any restrictions.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, Movavi is a powerful and user-friendly screen recorder app that can help you create professional-quality video tutorials and demos. Whether you’re a business owner looking to train your employees, a teacher seeking to create online lessons, or a content creator looking to share your knowledge and skills with the world, Movavi has the tools you need to succeed.

With its intuitive interface, high-quality recording capabilities, and wide range of editing features, Movavi is an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable screen recorder.

But would I use it? Probably not because of the pricing and its lack of a free plan for me to test properly. But I understand that it has features that other screen recording apps, like Loom, Berrycast, etc., don’t have.

Have a happy recording!

Download Movavi Screen Recorder

The post Movavi Screen Recorder Review, Features, and Price (2024) appeared first on Hongkiat.

This is where online courses, such as those on Udemy, can be a game-changer. We’ve sifted through the myriad of courses offered on this platform to handpick 20 essential courses, divided into four key categories. These courses are designed to transform your web development business from a mere dream into a thriving, profitable enterprise.

Site note: To get the best deals on these courses, consider installing Honey in your browser. It automatically finds and applies discount coupons for you.

Working with Aggressive People

Learn to navigate the challenges of workplace aggression with this comprehensive course. It delves into handling various types of aggressors, including verbal assailants, dirty diggers, hotheads, and more.

The curriculum focuses on enhancing communication, conflict resolution, and coping strategies. Participants will engage with video lectures, case studies, and quizzes, gaining insights into managing both overt and covert aggression.

Designed for a 2-hour completion, this course is a valuable tool for improving daily interactions.

Course fee: $64.99

Management Skills Certification Course

Targeted at new managers, entrepreneurs, and seasoned professionals, this course offers a deep dive into modern management skills. It integrates AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude, focusing on leadership, productivity, and effective communication.

Updated in November 2023, the course covers digital communication, negotiation, personal productivity, and macroeconomic management perspectives. With 5 hours of video, assignments, and articles, it’s a comprehensive resource for enhancing management capabilities, complete with a certificate of completion.

Course fee: $119.99

Time Management: How to Build a System of Success

Enhance your productivity and organization skills with this 90-minute guide to time management. The course introduces a personalized system focusing on Organization, Prioritization, Action, and Review. It includes practical tools and resources like worksheets and Excel templates, blending theory with actionable steps.

Ideal for anyone seeking to revamp their approach to time management, this course offers a unique blend of theory and practice for achieving long-term success.

Course fee: $19.99

Accounting and Finance for Bankers – A Comprehensive Study

Perfect for banking professionals and JAIIB Examination candidates, this course offers an in-depth look into banking-specific accounting and finance. Covering topics from Business Mathematics to Banking Operations, it’s structured for self-paced learning with video lectures and lifetime access.

This course is an essential tool for anyone in the banking sector aiming to advance their career or for students aspiring to enter the banking industry.

Course fee: $49.99

Basics of Business Finance

Designed for beginners, this course provides a solid foundation in business and financial analysis. It’s ideal for those without a finance background and covers basic accounting, financial statement analysis, and financial modeling using Excel.

Taught by experienced Wall Street investment bankers, the course spans 23 videos over 4 hours. It’s perfect for professionals, students, and anyone interested in investment banking, consulting, entrepreneurship, and more, offering key insights for job interviews and a practical grasp of corporate finance.

Course fee: $64.99

The Complete Introduction to Accounting and Finance

Targeted at entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners, this course demystifies accounting and finance. It offers an engaging approach to understanding basic accounting principles, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and beyond. The curriculum extends to capital raising, IPOs, and exit strategies.

Spanning over 12 hours, it’s an exhaustive exploration of business finance, perfect for those seeking a comprehensive grounding in these fields, regardless of previous knowledge.

Course fee: $109.99

Basics of Economics a Complete Study

Perfect for finance and accounting professionals, this course lays the groundwork in economics. It underscores the synergy between finance, accounting, and economics, exploring topics like economic problems, demand theory, and demand elasticity.

Designed for self-paced learners, it’s an excellent resource for professionals and students in these fields, aiming to impart a fundamental, yet thorough, grasp of economics and its practical applications.

Course fee: $89.99

Finance Boot Camp for Entrepreneurs

Led by Lili Balfour, an advisor for companies raising over $200 million, this course is a treasure trove for entrepreneurs. It offers a 30-day plan to secure funding, covering pitch decks, crowdfunding campaigns, financial modeling, and funding strategies.

Tailored for entrepreneurs eager to learn financial planning and capital raising, it focuses on practical, actionable strategies.

Course fee: $39.99

Facebook Marketing: A Step-by-Step to Your First 1000 Fans

Designed for individuals and small businesses, this course is a guide to growing a Facebook page organically. It teaches how to optimize a Facebook account for maximum engagement, attract genuine fans, understand the Newsfeed Algorithm, and employ advanced strategies to increase likes.

With 3.5 hours of video and extra resources, it’s ideal for those aiming to build a significant Facebook presence, targeting over 1000 real, niche-specific followers.

Course fee: $69.99

Internet Marketing Classroom

Rated 4.4 out of 5, this extensive course caters to both novices and experienced marketers in the realm of internet marketing.

Covering website setup with WordPress, SEO, traffic generation, and monetization, it spans over 60 hours of content, including 54.5 hours of video and 28 downloadable resources. It’s the go-to course for mastering every aspect of internet marketing, from website creation to revenue generation.

Course fee: $64.99

Create Your Agency, Step-by-Step

Sean Marshall’s course offers a detailed roadmap for entrepreneurs eager to launch their own internet marketing agency. It delves into acquiring your first client and establishing a profitable venture from the start.

Key highlights include strategies for finding and hiring staff, managing your business remotely, and leveraging tools for growth and scalability. Ideal for those familiar with basic business and internet marketing concepts, this course is geared towards building a sustainable, location-independent enterprise.

Course fee: $69.99

The Complete Public Speaking Certification Program

Designed for individuals at all skill levels, this course is a deep dive into public speaking and presentation excellence. It covers audience engagement, managing nervousness, mastering body language, content creation, and effective visual aids. The course is structured to empower learners to captivate audiences, organize content effectively, and present with confidence.

With 4.5 hours of video and numerous resources, it’s an invaluable asset for anyone seeking to leave a lasting impression through their presentations.

Course fee: $64.99

Public Speaking Masterclass

Dr. Roy Naraine’s course is a comprehensive journey into enhancing your public speaking and presentation skills. It focuses on creating professional speeches, understanding body language, and making a memorable impact.

The course goes beyond verbal communication, emphasizing dynamic and energetic non-verbal cues. Ideal for anyone, especially business professionals, looking to become a master presenter, it instills confidence, fearlessness, and charisma.

Course fee: $49.99

All you need to know about… Presentation

Grzegorz Wisniewski’s course is a step-by-step guide to conquering presentation skills. Perfect for those new to public speaking, it introduces a 10-step method for creating and delivering compelling presentations.

The course covers content organization, performance improvement, and audience engagement, catering to various audiences, from students to professionals. It transforms presentations into enjoyable and impactful experiences, enhancing career and business communication skills.

Course fee: $49.99

Entrepreneurship and Business Life Coach Certification

Joeel & Natalie Rivera’s course is a complete toolkit for aspiring business and entrepreneurship life coaches. It equips coaches to support clients in various entrepreneurial stages, from start-ups to business expansion.

The course encompasses business idea clarity, goal setting, overcoming challenges, and focusing on profitable outcomes. With 11 hours of video, 6 articles, and 70 resources, it’s ideal for those aiming to guide entrepreneurs or small business owners towards successful ventures.

Course fee: $119.99

How to Raise Venture Capital

Guided by J. Skyler Fernandes, a renowned Powerlist 100 VC, this course is an essential resource for startups aiming to craft persuasive investor pitch decks. It delves into the intricacies of securing venture capital, leveraging Fernandes’ vast experience in the field. Entrepreneurs will gain insights into effective pitching strategies and access resources like the acclaimed “Best” Startup Pitch Deck.

This course is a must for founders and entrepreneurs preparing to venture into the challenging world of venture capital funding.

Course fee: [Fee not provided in the content]

How to Start A Business From Business Idea

Alex Genadinik’s course is a thorough guide for budding entrepreneurs on transforming a business idea into a reality. It offers a complete roadmap, from inception to independence as your own boss. The course features an interactive class project, expert advice, and over 10 funding strategies.

It’s designed to ease the entrepreneurial journey, helping identify profitable niches and crafting effective business plans. Ideal for those ready to make confident business decisions and embark on their entrepreneurial path with solid support and guidance.

Course fee: $109.99

Mastering Your Industry: Competitors, Products, & Suppliers

This comprehensive course is tailored for entrepreneurs, managers, executives, students, and employees eager to deepen their industry knowledge. It provides a detailed approach to analyzing competitors, products, and suppliers, key elements for business growth. The course encompasses industry analysis, competitive landscape, supplier identification, and insights into distribution channels and target markets.

Featuring real-world expertise from professors and successful entrepreneurs, along with practical exercises, it’s ideal for anyone starting or growing a business, or refreshing their industry acumen.

Course fee: $89.99

Start & Operate Your Own Successful Office Cleaning Business

This course is a practical guide for those looking to launch and manage a profitable office cleaning business. Led by an industry expert with 25 years of experience, it provides insights into securing contracts, pricing strategies, and marketing. Covering crucial aspects like equipment selection, office setup, invoicing, and professional cleaning routines, it’s ideal for anyone seeking financial independence or a significant income boost.

The course includes a wealth of resources, sample documents, and ongoing support, catering to both newcomers and experienced professionals in the cleaning sector.

Course fee: $99.99

Discover, Validate & Launch New Business Ideas with ChatGPT

This entrepreneurship course is a comprehensive guide for those aspiring to innovate in the business world using ChatGPT. It walks learners through identifying, evaluating, and launching new business ideas, utilizing ChatGPT’s capabilities. The course covers prompt engineering for startups, idea brainstorming, customer testing, and marketing plan creation.

Packed with practical examples and over 100 ChatGPT business prompts, it’s perfect for anyone interested in startups, technology, and entrepreneurship, whether starting a new venture or innovating within an existing corporation.

Course fee: $69.99

The post Top 20 Udemy Courses for Entrepreneurs (2024) appeared first on Hongkiat.

Below are 30 accessories/devices that you can use to improve your overall gaming experience. In this list, you’ll find things purely for aesthetic value and nostalgia, while others will help you play games more safely and efficiently.

Ready? Set… Go!

Phillips Smart Light

$107.95

Philips Hue Play Smart Lights transform your gaming atmosphere with a spectrum of 16.8 million colors. This set includes 10 light bars in sizes of 1×1, 3×3, and 6×6 inches, all shining brightly at 450 lumens to match your game’s mood and enhance your experience.

Get from Amazon

ErgoFoam Footrest

$39.95

The Corsair MM300 Anti-Fray cloth mouse pad stands out in durability and performance. Unlike typical hard plastic or cloth pads, it resists wear and tear, proving to be a reliable choice for gamers even after extensive use.

Get from Amazon

Corsair MM300 Mouse Pad

$16.99

Having a good mouse pad is an integral piece of equipment for gamers, and some of the factors to consider when looking for one are the size; shape and material (cloth or hard plastic); double-sided or single-sided; if there should be any wrist support included with the purchase. For many who opt for hard plastic, the surface eventually gets scratched or too smooth to be used comfortably, while cloth mouse pads often get worn out due to repeated use.

Get from Amazon

ST100 RGB Headset Stand

$79.99

The ST100 RGB Premium Headset Stand isn’t just a stand but an enhancement to your gaming setup. Made with durable aluminum and featuring customizable RGB lighting and 7.1 virtual surround sound, this stand combines visual appeal with auditory excellence, making it a stylish and functional accessory for any gamer.

Get from Corsair

Gaming Headset Hook

$12.99

Never lose your headphones again with this versatile clamp, designed to fit desks of almost any thickness. It swivels under your desk for storage and swings out easily for convenience, ensuring your headphones are always within reach.

Get from Amazon

DELAM Game Controller

$15.99

Revolutionize mobile gaming with DELAM’s controller. Designed for RPG and FPS enthusiasts, it upgrades your smartphone gaming with superior control and comfort, compatible with both iOS and Android.

Get from Amazon

Redragon RGB Keyboard

$36.99

Redragon introduces a compact solution for your gaming needs with their one-handed RGB keyboard. It’s ideal for games requiring fewer keys, offering unmatched comfort and adaptability for your gaming setup.

Get from Amazon

Elgato Stream Deck

$70.62

Elgato’s Stream Deck is a game-changer for streamers. This device with customizable LCD keys simplifies launching apps and switching webcams, enhancing live stream management and multitasking efficiency.

Get from Amazon

Razer BlackWidow Keyboard

$189.99

Experience gaming like never before with the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. This hot-swappable, compact keyboard boasts a 75% layout in an aluminum case, designed for gamers who crave customization and immersion. Its Razer Chroma RGB lighting allows for personalized lighting effects and switch installations, enhancing your typing and gaming experience.

Read Also:  30 Cool Computer Keyboards to Buy

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G502 HERO Gaming Mouse

$39.99

Logitech’s G502 HERO High Performance Gaming Mouse redefines precision with its HERO 25K sensor, ensuring sub-micron tracking. Equipped with customizable LIGHTSYNC RGB, repositionable weights, and a vast DPI range, this mouse adapts to your gaming style. Its 11 programmable buttons and onboard profiles elevate your gameplay, offering portability and versatility for competitive gaming.

Get from Logitech G

Afterglow Deluxe Switch Controller

$49.99

Elevate your Nintendo Switch gameplay with the Afterglow Deluxe Wireless Controller. This visually stunning, officially licensed controller features customizable LED lights and a clear polycarbonate housing showcasing its inner workings. With over 20 hours of playtime, wireless connectivity, motion control, and programmable paddle-style back buttons, it offers both aesthetics and dynamic gaming functionality.

Get from GameStop

Xbox Daystrike Camo Controller

$64.99

Stand out with the Xbox Wireless Controller – Daystrike Camo Special Edition, featuring a striking red, gray, and black camouflage design. This controller combines aesthetic appeal with practical features like a hybrid D-pad, textured grip, and a Share button. Its versatile compatibility includes Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and various other devices, enhancing your gaming comfort and control.

Get from Xbox

PowerA Red Joy-Con Grip

$64.99

Transform your Nintendo Switch gaming with the PowerA Red Joy-Con Comfort Grip. This ergonomic grip merges the left and right Joy-Cons into one controller, featuring double-injected rubber grips and an easy slide-in design. With player indicator lights and a self-standing feature, it’s a convenient, comfortable addition to your gaming arsenal.

Get from GameStop

PowerA Mario Wireless Controller

$44.99

Discover wireless freedom with the PowerA Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch – Mario Joy. This officially licensed controller offers advanced gaming buttons, Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, and a larger Nintendo ABXY button layout. With up to 30 hours of playtime and LED indicators for essential functions, it’s a perfect blend of style and utility for your gaming sessions.

Get from GameStop

PS VR2 Sense Charging Station

$49.99

Keep your VR controllers charged and ready with the PlayStation VR2 Sense™ Controller Charging Station. This convenient station offers a click-in design for easy charging, freeing up USB ports on your PS5™. Capable of charging both controllers simultaneously, it includes all necessary accessories, ensuring your VR adventures are never interrupted.

Get from layStation Direct

iCUE LC100 Lighting Panels

$34.99

Enhance your PC’s aesthetic with CORSAIR’s iCUE LC100 Case Accent Lighting Panels – Mini Triangle Expansion Kit. This kit adds nine mini RGB lighting panels to your setup, allowing for intricate designs with up to 18 panels. Their magnetic attachment ensures easy installation on steel surfaces, perfect for PC enthusiasts aiming to personalize their system with unique lighting effects.

Get from Corsair

Nintendo Switch Hyrule Case

$19.99

Travel in style with the Nintendo Switch Travel Case in Hyrule Blue. This case, officially licensed by Nintendo, is designed for the Switch™, Switch Lite, and OLED Model. It offers a system lift strap for easy access, a removable tray for dual compatibility, and an integrated stand for comfortable gaming. Its slim, sturdy design with a nylon wrist strap ensures both protection and convenience for on-the-go gamers.

Get from Nintendo

Xbox Gaming Locker

$37.00

Just Geek’s Official Xbox Gaming Locker is a must-have for Xbox fans, offering an organized and efficient way to store your gaming gear. This sleek locker holds your Xbox console, headphones, cables, and more, with a modern design that effortlessly blends into any gaming space. It revolutionizes how you interact with your Xbox setup, enhancing both functionality and style.

Get from JustGeek

PS5 Gaming Locker

$52.00

Numskull Designs’ PS5-inspired Light Locker brings elegance and organization to your gaming area. It features customizable LED lighting, mounts for headphones and controllers, and ample storage for games and accessories. With its sleek design, magnetic door, and USB-C power supply, this locker not only stores your gear but also adds a touch of modern sophistication to your gaming environment.

Get from Infinity Collectables

PS5 HD Camera

$59.99

The PlayStation®5 HD Camera is perfect for gamers looking to elevate their broadcasting experience. With dual 1080p lenses, an adjustable stand, and compatibility with PS5 background removal tools, it’s ideal for adding a personal touch to gameplay videos. Its compact design and green screen compatibility make it a top choice for gamers who love to share their playthroughs.

Get from PlayStation Direct

Portable Gaming Station

$482.94

Take your gaming anywhere with the Portable Gaming Station. This all-in-one unit includes an 18.5 720p LED monitor and custom cutouts for your Xbox One S/X console, controllers, and games. Offering both AC and DC power inputs, quick response time, and built-in speakers, it’s the perfect companion for gaming on the move. Note: it’s not compatible with Xbox Series X or S.

Get from Case Club

PowerA Switch OLED Case

$19.99

Protect your Nintendo Switch OLED, Switch, or Switch Lite with PowerA’s Protection Case. Featuring a sturdy outer shell, rubberized handle, and a felt-lined interior, this case safely stores up to nine game cards and secures with dual zipper pulls. Officially licensed by Nintendo, it’s designed for safety, portability, and keeping your favorite games close at hand.

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REMATCH Sheikah Switch Controller

$27.99

Illuminate your gaming with the REMATCH GLOW Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch™, featuring a unique glow-in-the-dark design. This controller offers customizable gameplay with mappable back buttons, a 3.5mm stereo headset jack, and integrated volume and mic controls. Its ergonomic design includes non-slip grips and textured triggers for comfortable, reliable gaming. Officially licensed by Nintendo, it ensures seamless compatibility with your Switch.

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Joy-Con Pastel Pink/Yellow

$79.99

Add a splash of summer to your gaming with the Joy-Con™ (L)/(R) in Pastel Pink and Pastel Yellow. These Joy-Cons enhance your Nintendo Switch experience with motion controls and HD rumble features. Perfect for solo or multiplayer games, the set includes one Pastel Pink and one Pastel Yellow Joy-Con, along with two wrist straps, offering versatility and style for every gaming session.

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Logitech G920 Racing Wheel

$299.00

Experience realistic driving with the Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel and Floor Pedals, a top choice for Xbox and PC gamers. This set features precision steering, helical gearing, and a hand-stitched leather wheel, along with responsive brake pedals on a sturdy base. Its 900-degree rotation mimics real car handling, and it’s made with 52% certified post-consumer recycled plastic, blending high performance with sustainability.

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Transformers Switch Case

$18.74

Relive the iconic rivalry with the Official Transformers Nintendo Switch Case by Numskull. Inspired by the classic Transformers series, this case features Optimus Prime and Megatron, offering robust protection for your console. It has a hard outer shell, soft inner lining, and space for up to 10 game cartridges and accessories. Perfect for Transformers enthusiasts and Nintendo Switch gamers seeking a blend of nostalgia and practicality.

Get from JustGeek

ODISTAR Hexagon Lights

$35.86

Create the ultimate gaming atmosphere with ODISTAR’s hexagon wall lights. Remote-controlled, with 13 color modes and adjustable brightness, they’re perfect for setting a dynamic gaming ambiance.

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Mouse Skates

$9.25

Ensure your mouse’s peak performance with these essential mouse skates. They’re perfect for maintaining smooth mouse movements, countering the effects of dirt and wear.

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Mouse Grip Upgrade

$8.99

Upgrade your gaming precision with this innovative grip tape for your mouse. It combats sweat, enhances grip, and takes your gaming to the next level.

Get from Amazon

Mouse Bungee

$13.99

Simplify your wired mouse experience with this handy mouse bungee. It prevents cable tangles and mimics the freedom of a wireless mouse, perfect for avid gamers.

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Logitech G27 Racing Wheel

$343.99

Logitech’s G27 Racing Wheel is a dream for racing game enthusiasts. Featuring realistic dual-motor force feedback and a full rotation range, it brings your racing simulations to life.

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Thrustmaster T-Flight Stick

$67.19

Thrustmaster’s T-Flight Hotas X Flight Stick offers an unparalleled flying experience with its 12 programmable buttons and adjustable joystick, perfect for immersive flight simulations.

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Logitech G930 Headset

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But times have changed. The world now relies heavily on websites, apps, and tools to simplify our lives. We have devices that automate small tasks at home. Even our alarm clocks are smart now!

With this shift, it’s crucial to know how to talk to machines. And the main way we do this is through code.

Coding isn’t just for tech experts anymore. In a few years, it will be as common as speaking a language. So it’s essential for everyone, not just professionals.

If we want to be ready for a future filled with technology, we should start by teaching our kids how to code. In this post, I’ll share some tips to get you and your children ready for today and the future.

Read Also:  How to Teach Kids to Code with MIT Scratch Language

Why Learning to Code Matters

Let’s talk about why it’s crucial for the upcoming generation to understand coding.

It’s Good for Their Future

Teaching kids to code offers them a lifelong skill. It also prepares them for many new job opportunities due to our growing reliance on technology.

Jobs like IT experts, Data Analysts, Graphic Designers, Systems Engineers, and Computer Scientists will be in high demand in the coming years.

Coding is becoming a key skill for many jobs. Starting kids early gives them a competitive edge.

It Teaches Valuable Skills

Coding can instill several positive habits and values in kids.

Coding teaches persistence. When a piece of code doesn’t work, (which happens often) they’ll keep trying until they solve it.

Problem-solving is another skill they’ll learn. Coders often run tests, debug, and tackle challenges to find and fix issues. Kids will do the same as they learn.

Coding also teaches efficiency. Kids will discover how to use time and resources wisely, understanding that there’s always a smarter way to do things.

They’ll also learn to stay organized and tidy. This helps them find things easily and work more smoothly.

How to Teach Kids Coding

If you’re ready to teach your kid coding but don’t know where to start, continue reading.

Steps to Introduce Coding to Kids

Many parents might not know much about coding, and that’s perfectly fine.

The good news is, you can start learning programming at any age. Even if picking up new languages might be tougher as we age, it’s still a rewarding experience.

One effective method is to learn alongside your kids. When children see their parents involved and eager, it sparks their interest too. So, investing time to understand coding yourself can inspire your kids to join in.

Online Coding Courses for Kids

Today’s world offers the advantage of online learning. While there are countless coding tutorials online, choosing the right path for your kids is essential. So, where should you start?

Here are some top websites that offer coding lessons for children:

• Code.org
• Tynker
• PluralSight

At times, kids might prefer to learn with hands-on tools, like toys. Here are some educational toys to consider:

• Code-a-Pillar Toy
• Kibo
• Ozobot 2.0
• Spark

Read Also:  Teach Your Kids to Code with Tynker

Coding Languages for Kids

Knowing where to learn is one thing, but what languages should your kids start with? With many coding languages available, choosing can be challenging.

Selecting a coding language can shape a programmer’s path. It’s vital to pick one that’s beginner-friendly and beneficial long-term.

Python

Python tops this list due to its user-friendly syntax. It reads like regular speech, making it easier for kids. Python helps them grasp essential programming concepts, and there’s a wealth of resources available online.

Read Also:  10 Basic Python Tips Developers Should Know

Ruby

Ruby’s syntax is especially clear for beginners. It requires less time to explain, helping kids understand programming basics faster. They can create effective scripts early on. Fun fact: the initial version of Twitter was developed using Ruby!

Java

Java is more challenging, but it provides a solid foundation in programming. Once familiar with Java, understanding other languages becomes easier. Given its long-standing history, numerous online resources can assist in the learning process.

Read Also:  5 New Programming Languages to Learn

Final Thoughts

As technology rapidly evolves, the world leans more towards computer-based solutions. It’s crucial for both you and your kids to adapt. Introducing them to coding prepares them for a future where computer interaction is fundamental – from simple tasks like weather checks to ambitious space expeditions.

Begin early, and who knows? Your child might be the next tech prodigy, like Bill Gates or Mark Zuckerberg.

The post Why Kids Should Learn to How to Code appeared first on Hongkiat.

Here are 10 online meeting tools for you. Each has its own special features and is made for different types of users. This might help you choose the right one.

Read Also:  6 Tips Towards Not Having Pointless Meetings

1. Zoho Meeting

Zoho Meeting is a strong choice for online meetings. Many people think of Zoom first, but Zoho Meeting is also worth considering.

If you’re a freelancer, the free version has everything you might need. For larger companies, Zoho offers many useful features. Tools like Zoho CRM work well with Zoho Meeting. It also has file sharing, group chats, sharing apps, and can work with other third-party tools.

Use Zoho Meeting for Online Meetings

2. Airmeet

Airmeet is an online tool many use for virtual events. It’s simple to start, and they offer great help if needed. Airmeet is mainly for planned events, not just casual online chats.

Their free version can have 100 guests. Every plan has a social area where guests can chat before the event starts. They also offer polls, Q&A sessions, and even allow you to set up automatic tasks with Zapier.

Use Airmeet for Online Meetings

3. Google Meet

I really like Google Meet for online meetings. It’s simple: open it in a web browser, and you’re set. No need to download any apps. You can join meetings on your phone or even by calling in. It offers features to run online meetings or classes. Plus, you can record meetings and save them to your Google Drive.

You don’t need a Google account to join a meeting, but you need one to start your own. It’s free and has everything you might need on the move. Another neat feature is its Speech to Text. This means you can talk, and it will show subtitles. It’s not flawless, but it’s handy!

Use Google Meet for Online Meetings

4. Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams offers many tools by Microsoft for companies with remote workers. It provides tools for project management, chatting, and more.

You can do many things in one spot. Write documents, set tasks, follow activities, and hold meetings. The free version lets you have a call with 100 people.

Use Microsoft Team for Online Meetings

5. Skype

Many people know Skype. It’s a simple tool for chatting, used for both fun and work. Many help desks use it to support their customers. But its standout feature is online meetings with up to 100 people.

Use Skype for Online Meetings

6. Facebook Messenger Rooms

Facebook Messenger Rooms might not be your first thought for online meetings, but it’s a good option. It quietly became a part of Facebook. It can host 50 people. Plus, you can set when it happens, decide who can join, and more.

Use Facebook Messenger Rooms for Online Meetings

7. GoToMeeting

GoToMeeting has been here before tools like Zoom and Google Meet became famous. It’s related to GoToWebinar, which many people use to hold webinars.

The webinar version might be a bit costly, but GoToMeeting is affordable at $12/month and can have 150 guests.

Use GoToMeeting for Online Meetings

8. FaceTime

If you use iOS or Mac, FaceTime is a handy tool for video calls. It’s perfect for talking with co-workers, family, or friends. Since it’s built into these devices, there’s no setup needed. Just use a phone number or iCloud email to begin.

Use FaceTime for Online Meetings

9. Cisco Webex

Cisco Webex is a unique tool from a trusted company. It’s easy to use and offers many of the features seen in tools like Zoom. But its standout feature is its built-in A.I. assistant. During meetings, you can give voice commands, and this A.I. will take notes, set reminders, and more.

Use Cisco Webex for Online Meetings

10. Zoom

Zoom is a widely-used online meeting tool, especially since many started working from home due to the pandemic. Schools, companies, and even families use it for group calls.

Zoom is user-friendly and offers a free version with many features. Users can change backgrounds, share their screens, use filters, and more.

Use Zoom for Online Meetings

Conclusion

I hope this list helps you pick the right tool. I prefer Google Meet personally, but at work, we mostly use Zoom. For our basic needs, any of these tools work. But if Google Meet had the fun backgrounds like Zoom, it would be amazing!

The post Top 10 Online Meeting and Conference Tools appeared first on Hongkiat.

Whether you’re a small startup or a large corporation, having the right project management software can make all the difference in keeping your team organized, productive, and connected. So, let’s dive in and discover the best project management software options for remote teams.

Overview:

1. Monday’s Project Management

Enhances team productivity, visibility, and accountability across departments, making it suitable for remote teams in various industries

Monday is a highly recommended option for managing projects, particularly for teams working in content, creative, software, manufacturing, and related industries. Having utilized it for nearly a year across two brands in the nutrition and food niche, I found it to be a dependable tool for enhancing team productivity, visibility, and accountability across departments.

While it may initially appear similar to ClickUp, Monday boasts a distinct set of features that cater to intermediate to advanced users. However, even novice users can quickly configure automation with its built-in automation capabilities.

For instance, you can easily automate task creation or assignment transfers when the status is changed from X to Y; its possibilities are endless.

One standout feature of Monday is its ability to mirror items across different boards, a functionality not commonly found in most project management tools. Regardless, I recommend giving Monday a try!

Manage Projects with Monday.com

2. PipeDrive

Offers ease of use and integration capabilities, allowing remote teams to track and visualize their customers’ journey seamlessly.

PipeDrive is primarily recognized as a sales management tool, serving as a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solution that enables businesses to track and visualize their customers’ journey – from prospect to lead to customer and beyond. Nonetheless, many individuals also employ PipeDrive as a project management tool.

What makes Pipedrive an attractive option is its ease of use, along with its integration capabilities with other tools.

For instance, you can conveniently link your mailbox to PipeDrive, allowing you to engage in conversations within the CRM with individuals in your pipeline.

For context, I used PipeDrive for a US construction company and a UK design agency. Initially, I was under the impression that using it as a project management tool might not be the best of ideas, but the tool is so versatile that you can easily use it for managing your projects.

For example, it uses Pipelines and Stages as its main keywords. So you can use Pipeline for Project during Stage as the Status of your project. And yes, Lead is to Task. Easy, right?

Manage Projects with PipeDrive

3. ClickUp

Provides a versatile range of features, from task tracking to built-in ticketing systems, making it ideal for remote teams to stay organized.

I may be biased toward ClickUp when managing medium to large-scale (and ongoing) projects because I’ve been using it actively for three different startups and have referred it to several others. But I’ll do my best to be balanced in my views here.

ClickUp is a project management tool with a wide range of features; it comprises all of the features of typical project management tools in the market and features that are unique to them.

For example, if you are a small team – or just an individual with a lot of projects – using ClickUp will provide you with all of the things you need, from keeping track of tasks, deadlines, leads, and the like.

But here’s where ClickUp actually shines – it’s versatility. And here are some of the things you can do with it (at least what I’ve done with it) aside from adding lists and Kanban for tasks:

1. Workloads: Visually see everyone’s workload, assign work, and see if they are underutilized or overworked.
2. Customer support center: This is a built-in ticketing systems with features like Freshdesk or Zendesk etc.
3. Company Wiki: ClickUp’s built-in document feature, so you don’t have to use tools like Notion or Google Docs for note-taking purposes.
4. Goals and Milestones: a unique feature that allows you to set goals like they are folders, set the numbers, and see which goals are being hit, which ones need to be retargeted, and the like.

And of course, it also has a lot of automation recipes, and if you are an advanced user, you can boost its superpowers using Zapier or Integromat, too.

Manage Projects with ClickUp

4. Airtable

Combines the power of spreadsheets with project management, allowing remote teams to organize data and tasks in various views, including Kanban and Calendar.

If you are a huge fan of spreadsheets, then you need to give Airtable a shot. At first glance, it looks daunting, even for spreadsheet enthusiasts. It might even look like a database to some.

But in reality, it’s a powerful tool that can be used for project management, among other functions.

With Airtable, things can be built in the following views:

1. Kanban: Just drag and drop cards from one column to another.
2. Table: Like a regular spreadsheet, but with more features.
3. Calendar: perfect for teams who are always on tight schedules, like content creation teams.
4. Gallery: Focuseson the visuals, perfect for creative teams.

But where Airtable beats the rest of the tools is its power to calculate things. Like spreadsheets, if you are heavy on data, you can patch in your formula on the rows and columns, and you’ll get the numbers you need. You can even write your own scripts (if you’re familiar with JavaScript).

Integrating it with Zapier or Integromat will help make things easier, too, along with other apps like Slack, Gmail, and other tools that are crucial to remote teams.

Manage Projects with Airtable

5. Asana

Enables teams to set task dependencies and create new organizations quickly, ensuring smooth workflow and collaboration among remote members.

Asana is still one of my go-to project management tools for managing different clients. It is another powerful tool that any team can greatly benefit from, from content and web design and development to photography and eCommerce.

Using Asana is pretty straightforward – it has two main views: Board and List; and you can switch between the two. For the tasks that you create, you can set dependencies – if a task isn’t completed, the next dependent task can’t start – so it is easy to spot the bottleneck.

One of the reasons why I still use Asana is because you can literally create a new organization in just under 10 seconds, and you can create dozens upon dozens of organizations as you want for free and invite up to 15 free members too.

Manage Projects with Asana

6. Trello

Offers a clean and intuitive interface, allowing remote teams to manage tasks efficiently using cards and various views.

Trello is yet another straightforward project management tool that many people can’t leave behind, even if there are already newer tools with more robust features. And there’s a reason for that, of course!

Trello is perfect for people who want to increase team productivity. And the reason why this is the best feature of Trello is that it’s so…clean. There are no unnecessary features, no clunky features that will make you want to read the knowledge base and the like. It is very intuitive and simple, too.

Drag cards across different columns, or use the table view, update a task’s deadline by simply dragging it across the calendar — things like that are very well-thought-out; little things that can make your life easier.

There are other views that you can use within Trello, including Timeline, Table, Dashboard, and Calendar.

For most of its grandfathered users, back when it was just a Kanban, many of these users still use Trello for just the cards – including me!

Manage Projects with Trello

7. Toggl Plan

Combines aesthetic design with features like project planning and workload management, ensuring remote teams stay productive and on track.

Toggl Plan is a project management tool that captures the eyes. It has a very aesthetic feel to it, and to be honest, that is the one thing that many tools don’t have, which I think is a shame because having a good UI can help in being in the “flow”.

Toggl Plan focuses on these three main things.

1. Project Planning: This is where you can create tasks and drag them along the timeline, etc.
2. Workload Management: Since one of Toggl’s main products is time-tracking, it is natural to have a feature that tracks the workload of your team. In this case, I believe the combination of task management and time tracking plays well with the tool. You can easily see if someone is overworked or needs more tasks!
3. Task Management: Create, edit, assign tasks to your team members, and have each task time tracked.

Honestly, if you are a small remote team and looking for ways to fully utilize your team and make sure that you are paying them correctly, Toggle Plan is probably the best tool that you can use. Give it a shot with their free trial!

Manage Projects with Toggl Plan

8. Basecamp

Provides a simple interface with a tab for all activities, allowing remote teams to stay updated on who is working on what.

Basecamp is a classic project management tool, and I’ve added it to the list because of how widely it is being used even today. It’s a simple tool that teams working on software development, content creation, etc., can benefit from.

It also has a nifty tab for all activities within the organization, so you can know at a glance who is working on what.

One thing I like about Basecamp (and I am sure that many will agree with this) is that its pricing structure is straightforward. Unlike other tools that charge you per user, Basecamp allows you to pay a flat rate no matter how many users you have.

Manage Projects with Basecamp

9. activeCollab

Facilitates real-time updates and easy communication, allowing remote team leaders to keep contractors/clients informed.

ActiveCollab helps collaborators through its time-saving and easy-to-use features. Project leaders can set milestones for the team, add team members, assign tasks, and get notified via e-mail for updates on the project. Also, when replying or posting a comment, you don’t need actually to log in to the system. You can reply and post comments via e-mail.

With ActiveCollab, team leaders can provide real-time updates to their contractors/clients by giving them access to the system. I’ve personally used this, and I’ve seen that it is pretty flexible in giving users permission on what features to use.

Manage Projects with activeCollab

10. Assembla

Uses a ticketing system to assign tasks, ensuring clear communication and task distribution among remote team members.

Assembla has a ticketing system where teams in remote places are given tasks via tickets. I’ve used this, and personally, I find it a little confusing at first, but after spending some time with it, I get exactly how it works. It is like one of those online forums where people talk about things; only here, the project leader is the one who controls most of the game.

There are built-in wikis to help new users navigate their way through, and Assembla encourages its users actually to read and follow instructions.

Manage Projects with Assembla

Bonus: Confluence

If you’re a wiki user, then Confluence will be easy for you to use. Although it is not your usual wiki, it still incorporates many similar features like content creation for all users, intelligent search, discussion, and many more. File sharing is made via drag and drop.

Unlike other project management software, Confluence is more focused on documentation and information sharing. For big projects, proper documentation is definitely the key to a more organized execution of things.

Like WordPress, there are also several plugins that users can install for the system, each having its own purpose. And as people say, the best feature is its ability to integrate with Microsoft Office. That, in itself, says a lot.

Manage Projects with Confluence

Bonus: Kapost

Kapost is a publishing management software perfect for bloggers and writers in collaboration. It is a virtual newsroom where users can present a concept and have it approved by an editor. There are three types of users here, editors, contributors, and subscribers. Editors can approve, assign, and reject ideas to contributors.

Kapost also has a built-in feature for payments per post; although I haven’t tried it, I think it is a very cool feature, especially when working with a diverse team on an output-based payment.

The thing about Kapost is that it makes its users focus more on the concepts, increasing the quality of content. It’s like a real newsroom where people brainstorm together.

Manage Projects with Kapost

Bonus: Time Doctor

Time Doctor had me at dramatically reducing wasted time, as in the world we are living in now; time can make or break an entire company.

Its main features include optional screenshot monitoring for remote employees (which is a little invasive, in my opinion, but will do the job), automatic generation of daily reports, keeping track of what websites and applications are used, and many other features that track every possible action of a user on his computer. I must say, if you want to be strict with every penny you pay, Time Doctor is what you’re looking for.

Manage Projects with Time Doctor

To end…

I sincerely hope that my review of these tools I have personally used can help you in making a decision. One thing I am sure of is that if you pick any of these and just keep on using them, your productivity will shoot to the roof.

What I recommend is to take time, use all of these tools for a free trial, get a feel of how it works, discover the pros and cons for yourself, and then finally make a decision. Decide on one with the intention of using it for several years to come.

The post 10 Best Project Management Software for Remote Teams appeared first on Hongkiat.

This article is for decision makers who want to streamline and optimize their processes. If you’re here, most likely, you’ll benefit from either of these two.

To give you a basic example of what you can do with both platforms… Imagine receiving email inquiries from potential clients. And for all of the emails that you get, you or your assistant have to copy their information to an external platform like Google Sheets or project management tools like ClickUp, Asana, etc..

Now, imagine if you receive hundreds to thousands of these emails monthly. If copying their information and saving it elsewhere takes an average of 1 minute each time, then you are looking at hundreds to thousands of minutes lost per month.

But with Integromat or Zapier, you can fully remove the human in this process. It can simply go from email straight to your CRM or project management tool – without human intervention.

What are the key differences between the two?

Price Differences: Integromat vs. Zapier

Before we delve deeper into the key differences between the two automation platforms, we should first take a look at their pricing because it will shape a lot of your decision-making.

At a glance at the table below, Zapier seems like it’s the more expensive choice. Integromat’s Free plan has 1,000 operations/month, while Zapier’s free plan only has 100 free tasks/month. Remember, tasks and operations have practically the same meaning here, just different terminologies used. Then, when you look at the Starter plan of Zapier, it’s only at 750 tasks per month, while Integromat’s Free plan is still ahead by 250 tasks or operations.

To take things a bit further, Integromat’s most expensive plan is only $299/month at 800,000 operations/month, while Zapier’s is at $599 at only 100,000 tasks/month.

Should that dissuade you from choosing Zapier? Not quite.

Zapier

• $0 – Free with 100 tasks/month.
• $19.99 – Starter plan with 750 tasks/month.
• $49.00 – Professional plan with 2,000 tasks/month.
• $299.00 – Team plan with 50,000 tasks/month.
• $599 – Company plan with 100,000 tasks/month.

See Zapier’s Pricing Plans plus all features included.

Integromat

• $0 – Free with 1,000 operations/month.
• $9 – Basic with 10,000 operations/month.
• $29 – Standard with 40,000 operations/month.
• $99 – Business with 150,000 operations/month.
• $299 – Platinum plan with 800,000 operations/month.
• Custom plan is available if you need more than 800,000 operations/month and 220+ GB data transfer.

See Integromat’s Pricing Plans and features.

As you can see, there’s a huge difference between the two regarding pricing. But this shouldn’t be the only criterion. Depending on your needs and skill set, you’ll probably want one over the other.

Let’s dissect them below.

Custom Coding

Zapier wins over Integromat in terms of running scripts. If you would like to use Python or JavaScript to execute codes, then using Zapier is a clear choice since it has built-in support. Integromat doesn’t have this yet, although people have requested it for a couple of years now.

One workaround for Integromat is by using Google Cloud Functions to execute Python scripts.

Editing Steps

One thing I don’t like about Zapier is that if you have 10 steps in a Zap, and if you’d like to remove or change the 5th step, there is no way to just remove or change that step as it is. You have to remove everything before it.

Meanwhile, with Integromat, you can easily change any module/step wherever they are and just adjust the data accordingly.

Complexity

In terms of the complexity of the automation you can build, Integromat clearly is the winner. Although a huge limiting factor is running scripts, you can still build a really complex workflow if you don’t need that.

For example, with Zapier you can build conditional pathways called Paths. If X is equal to 1, then use Path A. If X is equal to 2, then use Path B. Right now, it’s only limited to 5 Paths.

This limitation does not exist on Integromat. You can literally create dozens upon dozens of different paths or conditions.

If that’s not clear enough, let me give you an example.

Suppose you want to automatically sort leads based on your questionnaire with the following fields:

• City – Osaka, New York, London, Rome, Manila, Brasilia.
• Gender – Male, Female.
• Education Level – High School, Bachelor, Master, PhD.
• Plan – Plan A, Plan B, Plan C.

With the fields and possible answers above, if you are using Zapier and if your main sorting key is City, you can only have 5 main sorting Paths. And inside those sorting paths is another set of 5 Paths you can use. So in this case, it will look like this:

So there’s no more Path left for Brasilia. In this case, a workaround is to use Path E this way:

But if you do it on Integromat, it will look like this:

As you can see, you can create more than five different paths with different filters each. And in the example above, it’s just 6, but you can add a lot…honestly, I stopped adding more after 30.

So, that said, can you imagine the possibilities you can do with this much freedom?

Third-party Integration

I am torn between Zapier and Integromat when it comes to the available integrations and what options there are for the available modules.

For example, using ClickUp, on Zapier you can create a Space via a Template, but if you use Integromat, that option is not available.

I can list a couple of applications available in both that aren’t in the other but that will take time. But the great thing is, you can actually use webhooks or connect directly to the application’s API. You’re probably not in luck if the application you want to connect to doesn’t have a public API to connect to, though.

So before choosing between Zapier and Integromat, make sure to check if they have an API, Webhooks, or at least if they are available on Zapier and/or Integromat.

Uptime

In the past 30 days as of writing this, Zapier had a perfect score of 100% uptime, meanwhile Integromat had an outage for about 60 minutes before it was resolved. So, in terms of reliability, I would have to give the points to Zapier.

• See Integormat’s Uptime
• See Zapier’s Uptime

Customer Service

Based on my experience for both, they usually have a response time of less than 24 hours. However, I must admit that I’m a fan of Zapier’s customer service especially when it comes to scenarios that I am having trouble with.

For example, if I simply can’t find the possible logic to do something, Zapier’s customer service will usually reply with the actual solution and even recommend some more. Meanwhile, my experience with Integromat is like that too, but not as detailed with Zapier.

Pros, Cons, and Final Thoughts

Zapier Pros

Zapier Cons

Integromat Pros

Integromat Cons

As you can probably imagine, both Zapier and Integromat have their own pros and cons that can either make or break the deal, so I cannot exactly recommend one over the other until I know what your needs are. They are great tools that I use almost daily for different clients in setting up and optimizing systems, so I can’t tell you which is my favorite — I use both of them equally.

But to give you an idea, if the workflow you are building is task-intensive and you are on a limited budget, then Integromat is the way to go. But if you have the budget for it and the apps you need to integrate aren’t on Integromat, then go with Zapier.

The post Integromat vs. Zapier: Features, Prices, Pros & Cons (2023) appeared first on Hongkiat.

VPNs are generally not expensive, but they can still add to your annual expenses. But thankfully, there are some VPNs out there that you can use for free. Whether you want to try it out before buying/subscribing or merely using it without paying, here’s a list of free VPN providers you might want to check out.

PrivadoVPN

PrivadoVPN, like other VPNs, helps users to keep their anonymity and bypass censorship for unregulated access to all the contents that they seek.

Regarding security, they are generous because they give the same level of security for both free and premium versions like IP masking, point-to-point encryption, and so on. But of course, the free version has its limits because it only has 12 global servers for the free version.

PrivadoVPN is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. You can also get their service on other devices by following their step-by-step instructions.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use PrivadoVPN for Free

ProtonVPN

Some VPNs offer free services but what most users don’t know is that they sell your information to advertising companies to profit off of your device. ProtonVPN doesn’t do that, while they do have a paid version of their service, there’s no catch for free users, your browsing experience will be safe and worry-free.

Moreover, ProtonVPN has no cap limit on your data usage compared to most VPNs out there that have a daily or monthly data usage limit. But it’s not all positive, here are the pros and cons of ProtonVPN.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use ProtonVPN for Free

Windscribe

Another popular VPN that helps protect your privacy, grants access to blocked content in your country, and can even block ads. It is available as an application and has a web browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.

Windscribe gives you a 10 GB data allowance per month, which isn’t much if you’d think about it, but you have the option to use it only when browsing while doing other stuff online like video calls without consuming your monthly data allowance. They also offer additional data allowance through referrals, tweets about Windscribe, and simply visiting their official Subreddit.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Windscribe VPN for Free

AtlasVPN

Atlas VPN lets you browse the internet without the risk of threats and privacy concerns. It routes your traffic through an encrypted tunnel and masks your IP address so you can easily bypass geo-restrictions.

To uphold user privacy, Atlas VPN follows a strict no-logs policy so none of your online activity is tracked by the VPN or anyone else. Moreover, it supports many popular streaming services and offers high-speed streaming through streaming-optimized servers.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use AtlasVPN for Free

Hotspot Shield

This VPN also has a strict “no logs” policy. This means that your personal information is not recorded or collected by their system. They also use military-grade protection, so rest assured that you will remain anonymous and protected from viruses, and cyber-attacks.

The free version of this VPN gives you an allowance of 500 MB of data per day, which is quite generous compared to other free VPNs. Here are the pros and cons.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Hotspot Shield VPN for Free

TunnelBear

Similar to other VPNs, TunnerBear encrypts your device’s incoming and outgoing data, protecting your online privacy and allowing you to access global content that isn’t available in your county. TunnelBear also took a different approach by providing easy-to-use features helping users to access and switch between servers with ease. Pros and cons of using TunnelBear are:

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use TunnelBear VPN for Free

Hide.me

This is one of the best free VPNs out there today; although there will be limits for free users, the overall service that it can provide without you paying a penny is really good. They stated that the free service that they offer is their way of reinstating that Internet Privacy is a basic human right and that they don’t compromise the logs and security features for free users. Instead, they give additional benefits to their premium users.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Hide.me VPN for Free

Psiphon

It is a circumvention tool that makes use of VPN, SSH, and HTTP Proxy technology, allowing you to bypass securities and restrictions to gain access to videos and other contents currently blocked or censored in your campus, corporation, or country. Browse freely using public wifi without any worries and give you the freedom that you deserve.

This VPN is not a privacy tool, though, and they are transparent about it, stating that it should not be considered an online security tool.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Psiphon VPN for Free

FinchVPN

This VPN also has a free version that you can make use of. It allows you to use unsecured public WiFi with no worries, encrypts all your information to protect your private information, and unblocks all contents that are unavailable in your region, area, or country. Like other VPNs, it can also improve your connection speed when surfing or browsing.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use FinchVPN for Free

Zenmate

Zenmate is a premium VPN that offers a free VPN browser extension that is available for Chrome, Firefox, and edge. You would have to buy the premium version to use it on mobile. It uses strong encryption that hides your real IP address and it grants you access to restricted websites and contents. It even works with Netflix and supports torrenting.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Zenmate VPN for Free

SecurityKISS

The word “KISS” on SecurityKISS means “Keep it smart and simple,” as they aimed to create a trusted VPN that is secure and can be used with ease. Another free VPN that offers security and access to banned sites and content. Your privacy is well protected using encryptions to hide your identity. It also works with all platforms such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers. It can also unblock Netflix and allows torrenting and downloads.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use SecurityKISS VPN for Free

Hideman VPN

A VPN that offers decent free features just like other VPNs. It works on all platforms such as desktop, Android, iOS, and is also available as a browser extension. It uses strong encryption as well to hide your identity and you can use any site online without being tracked and free from content limits. Though the free app itself does have limitations. Below are the pros and cons.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Hideman VPN for Free

Speedify

This VPN can provide a good connection service even for free users. Of course, it also has similar features mentioned above like good security and encrypted online identity that helps you stay anonymous no matter what site or platform you visit. It can switch from WiFi to mobile data without interrupting your videos or downloads. Speedify runs in the background and encrypts data transmitted through all your apps, making sure that you are safe and protected from whatever you’re doing. Overall a great VPN.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Speedify VBPN for Free

Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection

It is said that Kaspersky VPN was rated as the fastest VPN in the world in 2019 and 2020. Even recent calculations and tests show that Kaspersky VPN can deliver good internet speed, at the same time having concrete security, and grants access to censored content. They have several locations across 18 countries, and you can download Kaspersky VPN on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

For the free version, there are over 200 servers scattered in over 37 countries, so you have a lot to choose from.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Kaspersky VPN for Free

Bonus: Datho VPN-FineVPN

This VPN is unique and it caught my attention right away. They are a non-profit organization and they explained that they put no specific limit on the speed or traffic, and they don’t charge for their VPN client because they believe that the internet was built for the people and that people shouldn’t have to pay for security and privacy. They do, however, accept donations from their grateful clients. It works like any other available VPNs out there, might be even better!

They also have servers scattered across 20 countries like the US, Canada, England, The Netherlands, Japan, and Norway, just to name a few. Their VPN is available for Mac, Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, Linux, Android, and iOS.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Datho VPN for Free

Bonus: Avira Phantom VPN

Avira is an award-winning antivirus protection that offers free VPN. It has military-grade encryption that secures your personal information. It is P2P compatible, reliable, and has good upload and download speed. You can download it for free and make use of its free VPN service.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Use Avira Phantom VPN for Free

Summary

VPN or Virtual Private Network works like a mask that hides your IP address that holds Important information such as your location, zip code, and Internet Service Provider.

Once a hacker gets access to it, your activities online will then be traced and pieces of the puzzle will be put together to get your identity. Moreover, there will always be some restrictions involved when browsing through the Internet, especially if you’re in a country that has strict policies on the type of content you can view. Picking a VPN is not easy either. You must pick a proper VPN because some free VPN clients can leak or sell your information to third parties and advertisers to make a profit.

The post 15 Best Free VPN Providers for 2023 appeared first on Hongkiat.

There are a lot of alternatives out there aside from MetaMask, which is probably the most popular wallet right now, but like everything else, it does not cover every need.

That said below are the following alternatives that you can use. Learn what they are, their features, and functions, and so on. At the end of the article, you’ll most likely end up using a couple, because different wallets have different perks and features.

What is MetaMask?

In case you’re not familiar with MetaMask, it’s a cryptocurrency wallet for Ethereum-based tokens. It allows users to interact with decentralized applications and exchanges. In it, you can buy, swap, and deposit tokens in and out of supported exchanges.

For example, if you have your coins in Crypto.com, you can send them to your MetaMask and vice versa. Why? Because there are a lot of applications and games that require users to register MetaMask before doing any kind of transaction.

It’s like literally connecting your wallet to an application or website so that website can use your money (with your permission, of course!).

So, let’s get started!

1. BlockWallet

BlockWallet is a self-custodial wallet that offers privacy and security features to help you stay safe on Web3. It has a friendly, intuitive user interface that makes it easy to use. With built-in swaps and bridges, you can explore the depths of what crypto has to offer in just a few clicks.

BlockWallet supports all EVM-compatible chains, including Ethereum and Polygon, and allows you to connect to any DApp or NFT marketplace. If you’re looking for additional security, BlockWallet also offers hardware wallet support for your Ledger, Trezor, and Keystone devices.

In case you ever run into any issues, BlockWallet has 24/7 customer support in their Telegram community. If you’re interested in trying out BlockWallet, head over to your Chrome Web Store to get started.

2. Trust Wallet

It is the official crypto wallet of Binance. Just like the other wallets that were previously mentioned, you can store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies and digital assets within this app.

It is fast and secure and even has features that allow you to play blockchain games and access the latest and popular DApps and DeFi platforms.

Trust Wallet supports Bitcoin and blockchains from the Ethereum ecosystem. It is available for Android and iOS mobile devices, but you can also access your wallet from your desktop through the mobile app.

There are several videos on YouTube that provide tutorials on how to do it.

3. MathWallet

MathWallet is pretty similar to the ones mentioned above. It is also a multi-chain and multi-platform crypto wallet that you can use for your assets and crypto.

It provides a ‘one-stop shop’ experience for users since it offers tons of features like allowing users to store and trade cryptocurrencies, access and manage token exchanges on DApps, and create multiple in-app wallets.

You can secure your assets with private keys, two-factor authentication, Mnemonic phrases, and so on, which makes it really secure. And it is available on mobile, desktop, browser extension, and even hardware.

4. WalletConnect

WalletConnect is a software that connects Decentralized Applications or DApps (i.e. Uniswap, OpenSea, etc.) to your Cryptocurrency Wallet. It’s also built to work on multiple blockchains such as Etherereum, Solana, Polkadot, and many more.

WalletConnect is also multi-chain, meaning, it can connect to multiple wallets and send transactions to several chains at the same time without needing to switch chains. It can also handle multiple sessions and it has a one-time pairing feature that allows you to do an infinite number of sessions by connecting only once.

And the best part? It can work on several platforms such as desktop apps, browser apps, mobile apps, and even gaming apps!

5. Coinbase Wallet

Coinbase Wallet is a Cryptocurrency wallet that lets you store your cryptos and NFTs all in one place. It supports all ERC20 tokens, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, XRP, and many more.

Your private keys which represent ownership of your cryptos are stored within the device that you are using, compared to a centralized exchange like Coinbase.com. Do note that these two are not the same.

You can also use the Coinbase Wallet as a DApp browser and it is compatible with Google Chrome as a browser extension. You can get it on Google Play, Apple Store, and Chrome Web Store.

6. Fortmatic/Magic

Fortmatic is another cryptocurrency alternative wallet that is easy to use, like MetaMask, but without the need for a browser extension. Instead, it uses a phone number or email address to connect to Ethereum-based applications.

And since it does not need any specific app or browser extension, its accessibility is greater and more user-friendly especially for non-technical users compared to other crypto wallets out there. This allows users to use Formatic on multiple devices, including mobile.

Sean Li, the founder of Fortmatic, has rebranded it to Magic on May 29, 2020, to reinvent their identity, befitting their purpose, which is to make transactions much easier by reducing all the necessary steps that need to be done when authenticating or registering.

7. Portis

Portis is another simple and easy-to-use crypto wallet that can be connected to DApps with ease. Portis does not need any browser extension to work. Users can just use their email address and password to connect to DApps, which is quite similar to Magic. Thus, users can also utilize Portis on any desktop and mobile device.

It is also newbie-friendly, they can just set their account without familiarizing themselves with private keys, seed phrases, and other technical stuff.

This one is also multi-chain, so it supports other blockchain networks like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and EOS.

8. SafePal

SafePal on the other hand is a cryptocurrency wallet that provides both hardware and software wallet products that you can manage on the SafePal app. Unlike the other alternatives, having the option to utilize a hardware wallet gives it more security since it is stored on a separate USB stick style hardware and is, of course, cannot be breached by hackers. It is also the first hardware crypto wallet backed by Binance Labs.

SafePal also supports 20 blockchains, including Binance Chain and Binance Smart Chain, Ethereum, and even NFTs. This allows users to freely buy, store, and trade tokens. It is safe to say that it is one of the more advanced crypto wallet alternatives out there today.

9. Coin98

Coin98 was created as a single solution for utilizing cross-chain swaps, Decentralized Finance (DeFi), earning, staking, and yield farming. It is available on several platforms as a mobile app for both Android and iOS, web app, and browser extension.

It’s also a non-custodial wallet, meaning your private information is not collected by the app, only you have access to it. It also has additional safety features like faceID security, password protection, etc.

Coin98 supports over 25 blockchains including BTC, ETH, Binance Smart Chain, and many more. Thus, users have several options to explore and choose from. Moreover, Coin98 does all the work for users and gives them the benefit of getting the best price when swapping and with the lowest gas fees when doing transactions.

10. TokenPocket

TokenPocket is another multi-chain wallet that you can use to store, send and receive your cryptos without having to go somewhere else; very convenient to use. It supports all the leading cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Bitcoin, Cosmos, Binance, and many others.

It also has a web browser that allows you to interact with Dapps and trade your tokens in decentralized exchanges. You can even play blockchain games inside the wallet!

Your private keys and passwords are also safe and stored within your local device. And It’s available on desktops and mobile devices.

Bonus: Binance Chain Wallet

Basically, it is a crypto wallet for Binance Chain and Binance Smart Chain, they sound the same but they’re not. They are both individual blockchain that’s designed to work alongside each other. Binance Chain Wallet now also supports Ethereum.

You can use it to store your cryptos and get access to thousands of Dapps and projects across several blockchains.

You can get Binance Chain Wallet as a web browser on Chrome and Firefox.

Conclusion

The competition within the blockchain today is more immense than ever, and its growth is still ongoing. Its vast ecosystem and concepts are far too complex for an ordinary user.

Blockchains are incapable of communicating with each other, so several cryptocurrency wallets popped up and they all have the same mission. That is to make buying, selling, and trading assets much easier for everyone.

The post 10 Best MetaMask Alternatives appeared first on Hongkiat.

In this review, we will take a closer look at Gemoo, a productivity app that helps its users record, save, organize, and share ideas in just a few clicks.

We will explore its three main apps: video recording, image capture, and document creation. We will also discuss the overall user experience, use cases, and the pros and cons of this versatile tool.

Why Use Productivity Apps like Gemoo?

The need for productivity apps like Gemoo arises from the ever-evolving work landscape, particularly with the growing prevalence of remote work.

As more and more people work from home or other locations outside of a traditional office setting, the importance of clear communication, and efficient workflows becomes increasingly apparent. With teams spread across different locations and time zones, asynchronous communication becomes vital for ensuring projects move forward smoothly.

The main audience for productivity apps like Gemoo includes remote workers, distributed teams, and organizations that require robust communication and those that thrive in asynchronous tools. These tools help bridge the gap created by physical distance and facilitate a seamless work experience for all involved.

By offering features such as video recording, image capture, and document creation and sharing, Gemoo enables users to present and exchange ideas, feedback, and updates in a clear, concise, and visually engaging manner.

Let’s see how it responds to the world’s needs with its features.

Let’s dive in.

Gemoo: Record, Upload, and Embed Videos

Gemoo’s video recording feature allows users to record their screen, webcam, and microphone with up to 4K resolution, providing high-quality visuals and audio for effective communication.

Real-time annotations, filters, and backgrounds make it easy to add context and polish to your recordings. You can also edit your video quickly once it’s uploaded, as well as comment on timestamps for feedback.

No time and resolution limitations mean you can create long or short recordings to suit your needs.

Gemoo also supports uploading local videos and embedding online videos from other platforms, ensuring all your video content is organized in one place.

Gemoo: Capture and Host Images

With Gemoo’s image capture functionality, you can take screenshots and add annotations, making it easy to provide visual feedback and highlight important information.

The image-beauty functions enable you to enhance your visuals for a polished and professional look.

Gemoo also supports taking screenshots based on a URL provided, streamlining the process of capturing web content.

Image hosting on Gemoo’s platform allows you to keep all your images in one visually organized cloud storage, ensuring easy access and management.

Gemoo: Create and Share Documents

Gemoo’s document creation app lets you create comprehensive documents with text, tables, audio, videos, and images, making it simple to convey complex information in a clear and organized manner.

Share your documents securely using a single link, with password protection available for sensitive files.

Gemoo’s User Interface

Easy to say, Gemoo’s user interface is very simple. But one of the things that I particularly like is when creating or uploading images, videos, and documents, you can use tabs to switch between files, which makes it easy for creatives and project managers to access multiple files at once.

Honestly, there’s nothing much to explore because it gives you everything with just a glance, which is great.

Gemoo’s Use Cases and Applications

Gemoo can be used across various industries and professions, such as marketing, customer support, engineering, product management, design – if it can be done online, you’ll find a way to utilize Gemoo.

From planning and executing marketing campaigns to recording and reporting bugs in the software development process, Gemoo streamlines workflows and enhances communication.

Gemoo: Price, Pros and Cons

Gemoo’s Free plan offers 5GB of free storage, allowing users to upload up to 25 videos, with each up to 5 minutes. This provides a great opportunity for users to explore and benefit from Gemoo’s features without any financial commitment.

PROS

CONS

Gemoo’s LifeTime Deals

Gemoo is now preparing LifeTime Deals for everyone, so take advantage of your early bird offer to get Gemoo Pro, which allows you to create an unlimited number of videos, screenshots, and documents.

The Verdict

Gemoo is a powerful and comprehensive communication and workflow solution that meets the needs of modern professionals. Its three main apps – video recording, image capture, and document creation – provide a versatile platform for creating, organizing, and sharing various types of content. The multiple views for personalized organization, along with Gemoo Library, ensure that your content is easily accessible and well-structured.

With its wide range of applications across different industries, Gemoo has the potential to significantly improve communication and workflow efficiency for many professionals. The current 100% free pricing during the beta phase makes it an attractive choice for users looking to enhance their productivity without any financial commitment.

However, Gemoo does have some limitations, such as the limited content management options for content shared by others. Despite this drawback, the pros far outweigh the cons, and Gemoo is a valuable tool for anyone seeking to optimize their communication and workflow processes.

In conclusion, Gemoo is a versatile and powerful tool that can revolutionize the way we work and communicate. Its extensive features, user-friendly interface, and current free pricing make it an excellent choice for professionals across various fields. If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution to streamline your workflows and enhance your communication, it’s worth giving Gemoo a try.

Try out Gemoo

The post Gemoo: Comprehensive Communication Solution to Increase Hybrid-working Efficiency (Review) appeared first on Hongkiat.

For what, you ask? Just want to share!

But recording videos and editing are two different things, and a lot of times editing is…such a hassle to do especially when you don’t have the right tools for it. One platform that’s caught my attention lately is Video Candy, which is a free online video editor.

Honestly, I don’t want to pay for an Adobe Cloud subscription because that locks you in for one year, and you won’t be able to cancel unless you pay a penalty fee – no way!

So I started looking for a video editor that can do what I want, and mind you, my needs are quite simple, like trimming, converting formats, adding audio, adjusting its speed or even reversing the video. Literally, that’s all I need, but many video editors out there don’t even offer the last two without having to go to many lengths. Anyway, enough of my rant.

So, in this post, I will be reviewing the hype behind Video Candy if it’s just another run-of-the-mill video editor or something that you won’t be able to live without.

Let’s dive right in!

Online Video Editors: Benefits & Differences

But that being said, since video editing software like Adobe Premiere already exists, why reinvent the wheel?, why go online?, and what’s the catch?

Questions that are obvious to ask, but to clarify things further, here’s why I think online video editors take the cake.

Accessibility

Having an online editor means you can access it anywhere as long as you have an internet connection and a device that can run a web browser. That’s it.

No need to download and install software on your computer.

Ease-of-Use

Typically, and this can be positive and negative at the same time, online alternatives of software like Photoshop are very easy to use, intuitive, but with the risk of their higher-level functions not being present. But it works perfectly fine if you are going to use the basic to intermediate functions.

No Installation Required

As mentioned earlier, there’s no installation required, so you won’t have to worry about it slowing down your computer or if it’s compatible with your system.

Platform Independence

As a browser-based tool, online video editors like Video Candy is not restricted by operating systems. Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, or Linux systems, you won’t run into compatibility issues. You just need an internet connection and a browser, bam!

Cost-Effectiveness

As I mentioned above, subscribing to Adobe Cloud just to get Adobe Premiere or Adobe Rush will lock you in for 1 entire year.

You can choose to buy other software too, which can provide you with a lot of fancy features (that you may or may not use), but for lightweight solutions, I would recommend using free online video editors like Video Candy since many of them are 100% free or cost really cheap.

Video Candy’s Features

There’s a bunch of them – like 18 features in total – that can help you get the result you want. I’m going to focus on the most important ones, otherwise, we will be here all night.

Video Editor

Before delving in deep, Video Candy has presets that you can use to edit your videos depending on the platform you want to upload them on, but at the moment, it only supports TikTok and YouTube for video editing, but you can still adjust the size at your own preference.

Aside from that, you can edit MP4, MKV, and Webm. I haven’t explored other file types, but chances are they support the most popular ones, too.

Anyway, you can trim, crop, rotate, flip, add multiple videos and stitch them together, mute the original audio and add a new one, resize the video’s size, add transitions between scenes, adjust the speed, and the like.

The best part? No watermarks.

The next best part? It’s free.

By the way, you can also adjust your video’s speed.

I uploaded a 4K video that’s only about 12 seconds long, about 100mb in file size just to test it quickly. After exporting it, the quality loss is minimal, while it shrunk the file size to 10MB. Which is good for testing purposes or for uploading on TikTok or Instagram where you can expect your audience to have a small screen.

And once you’re done editing, you can continue your work using other tools.

Compress Video

As mentioned above, exporting your edited video will shrink its file size depending on your settings, but you also have the option to just compress your video without editing it.

I tried it on a 4K video that is 247MB in file size, and it shrunk to 3MB. Seems like there’s no way to adjust how compressed you want the video to be, because there’s an obvious loss of quality, but if your goal is for a quick demo, then this is perfect.

Crop Video

The crop tool in Video Candy is an essential feature that allows users to change the aspect ratio of their videos, either manually or by selecting from predefined video ratios.

This function can be used to remove unwanted elements from a video or to adjust the video dimensions for different platforms. The cropping tool is straightforward to use, and the final product can be exported in just a few clicks.

Resize Video

My favorite is the video resizing feature because of one special thing: Fit Size. It will ask you what you want to do with the space that will be affected by the resizing.

In my example above, I chose 9:16 for a TikTok/Instagram story, and I was given the option to choose Blurred Bars. You can also choose just black bars or no bars at all, in which case it will just cut off the rest of the video. I think it’s really neat.

Screen Recorder

Honestly, one of the most useful features Video Candy has, based on my opinion, is because I regularly use Loom, which costs me about $10 per month, but there’s no editing function as in-depth as Video Candy.

With Video Candy, I can record my screen, explain stuff on video, and edit it directly.

Add and Remove Music

Pretty straightforward – you can strip off the audio from your videos and replace them with new ones. Pretty neat!

Slideshow Maker

Video Candy also offers a slideshow maker that can transform your images into captivating video slideshows. You can add transitions and background music and customize the duration of each slide to create the perfect presentation or memory montage. You can also add videos in between, which I find neat!

Reverse Video

Believe it or not, a lot of video editors will ask you to do a lot of things before you can even reverse your video. No kidding. Maybe even 90% of smartphone apps out there don’t support this feature, which Video Candy does. As simple as that.

Rotate Video

If you’ve ever recorded a video with the wrong orientation, Video Candy’s rotate tool saves the day. You can easily rotate your videos to the correct orientation, ensuring your content looks polished and does not look weird.

Loop Video

You can loop your video twice, 3x, up to 10x. But if you loop it infinitely, it will output a GIF which is a very good feature to have.

Stop Motion Maker

Basically if you have a high FPS video, or any kind of video for that matter that has a single subject, I believe you would benefit from this feature where your video can be automatically converted into a stop-motion video. The way it works is it removes some frames, making the “stop motion” effect.

Video Converter

Per testing, you can convert your files to MKV, MP4, MP3 (yes), GIF, MOV, and Webm to MP4. Not a wide selection but these are the most common video formats.

Also, if you’re wondering why there’s MP3 there, some people really just want to take the audio from their video, so this is a great feature to have, like extracting just the audio.

Audio Converter

The audio converter also works pretty much the same, but for MP3, WAV, M4A, and OGG.

Video Candy’s Usability & Performance

Video Candy’s user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible to users with varying levels of experience in video editing.

The platform does not require registration or account creation, which means users can jump straight into editing their videos without any delays.

Moreover, Video Candy performs well when it comes to processing and exporting videos. Although the platform is browser-based, it provides a smooth editing experience, and the final output maintains a high level of quality.

Things I like:

1. It’s 100% free.
2. It supports 4K.
3. I’m yet to figure out if there’s a file size limit, but per testing, I tried to upload a 3GB video, and it didn’t result in any error, so neat!
4. A whole bunch of features for free. Can’t get over the free part.
5. It’s a very intuitive and simple tool to use; it’s too minimalistic in design to the point where I can’t really feature too many screenshots on this review – which is good!

Things I don’t like:

1. No user accounts – so if something happens to your browser, like if you reformat your machine or delete all of your history, cookies, and browser cache, your files might be lost forever, too (I actually didn’t try, but this is the logical conclusion to it).
2. As an extension to number 1, if you move to a different machine, you can’t access your files.
3. The video compression feature doesn’t let you adjust by how much you want to compress it, it just compresses it to the maximum, and it results in loss of quality too.

Conclusion

Overall, Video Candy is an impressive free online video editor that offers a comprehensive set of tools for users to create and edit high-quality videos. Its user-friendly interface, combined with its wide range of features, makes it an excellent choice for both casual and professional users.

While there may be some limitations, such as the lack of options for reducing GIF file sizes, the platform’s benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks. If you’re looking for a versatile, easy-to-use video editor that won’t break the bank, Video Candy is an excellent option to consider.

Edit Videos Online with VideoCandy

The post Video Candy’s Free Online Video Editor (Review) appeared first on Hongkiat.