But if you’ve encountered errors like the Generative Fill feature being grayed out, as shown in the screenshot below, it might be disappointing.

Here’s how to fix or enable the feature if it’s grayed out in your Adobe Photoshop app.

Confirm if It Is Really Grayed Out

Generative Fill in Photoshop only works if you have an area selected; otherwise, it will be grayed out by default.

For example, in the image below, before an area is selected, it’s grayed out, but it doesn’t mean that the feature isn’t working.

When you have an area you want to edit selected, you’ll notice the feature isn’t grayed out anymore.

Another way to confirm that it’s grayed out is to select an area in your image, then right-click to access the context menu and see if it’s grayed out.

If the feature is grayed out no matter what, then let’s start diagnosing and see if we can get that fixed.

1. Make Sure You’re Running the Right Version

First, make sure the Photoshop installed on your machine supports the Generative Fill feature. You must have Photoshop version 25.0 or greater installed to access Generative Fill.

To check if you are using the correct version that supports Generative Fill, in the menu bar, navigate to Help > System Info.

2. Check if You Are Logged Out

You will need to be signed in to your Creative Cloud app or Photoshop to use the Generative Fill feature.

To ensure that you are signed in, in Photoshop, go to Help, and click Sign In… if you haven’t yet.

If you’ve signed in, it should look something like this:

3. Check if You Have Sufficient Generative Credits Left

Starting January 17, 2024, Adobe has been enforcing generative monthly renewable credit limits on select plans. In Photoshop, you will use up 1 credit for each Generative Fill feature used once. Adobe says that even if you are running low on credits, the Generative Fill feature will still function for a limited time, but it’s unclear how long you can still use it.

If your Generative Fill feature is grayed out, you could possibly be running out of credits.

To check your generative credits, open the Creative Cloud app, click on your account’s icon on the top right, and see how much credit you have left.

To learn more about the details of Generative credits, check out this Adobe’s page.

4. Check if You Are Using VPN

This may sound odd, but being connected to a VPN may cause the Generative Fill feature to not work.

If all the above methods have been tried and your Generative Fill is still grayed out, consider pausing your VPN, or quitting the VPN app, then quit and reopen Photoshop and see if it works.

5. Check if You Have Multiple Accounts Logged In

Last but not least, check if you have more than two computers signed in. Adobe allows you to simultaneously log in to two machines at the same time. If you want to use it on a third machine, then one of the first two needs to be logged out.

Now here’s what possibly causes your Generative Fill to be grayed out. Consider the following scenario:

You are signed in to Photoshop on Computer A and B. Now, you want to use Photoshop on Computer C, and on Computer C, you enable Photoshop and log out of Computer A but found that Generative Fill is grayed out in Computer C.

The culprit? Computer A is not entirely logged out yet.

So what do you do? Go to Computer A, and manually sign out. Then in Computer C, quit and reopen Photoshop again.

So, What Can You Do with the Generative Fill Feature?

Before the introduction of the Generative Fill feature, you needed to have some technical know-how when it comes to editing your image.

For example, illustrated in one of our previous posts, to remove an object, it would take you about 6-7 steps and knowing which tool to use.

And now, with the help of Generative Fill, all you need to do is tell it to remove something for you simply by providing a prompt or instruction.

And of course, the Generative Fill feature can do much more. Check out the Generative AI art with Photoshop section of our previous article to see more of what the feature can do.

The post How to Fix Generative Fill Grayed Out in Adobe Photoshop appeared first on Hongkiat.

Knowing these methods can save you a trip to a technician or Apple Support. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to restart and start up your Mac. Whether it’s troubleshooting a stubborn problem or performing routine maintenance, these methods will help keep your Mac running smoothly.

Overview:

1. Manual Restart

A manual restart is often necessary when your Mac becomes completely unresponsive or frozen. It forces your Mac to shut down and restart, which can help resolve software issues or system crashes that prevent normal operation.

While it’s a more drastic measure, it can be a quick fix for severe problems.

How to Perform a Manual Restart

To manually restart your Mac, press and hold the power button until the screen goes black and the computer shuts off completely.

Wait a few moments, then press the power button again to start your Mac.

Be aware that you may lose any unsaved changes in open documents when performing a manual restart.

2. Restart and Prevent Automatic Login

Preventing automatic login can be useful when troubleshooting login issues or when you need to access a different user account.

This method is especially helpful if a specific user account is causing problems or if you need to perform maintenance tasks under a different account.

It ensures you have control over the login process and can address any issues that might arise.

How to Prevent Automatic Login

To prevent automatic login, start your Mac and wait for the progress indicator to appear on the screen.

As soon as you see the progress indicator, press and hold the left Shift key.

Continue holding the Shift key until the login window appears, then release the key and proceed with logging in.

3. Restart and Prevent Opening of Finder Windows and Login Items

This method is useful when you’re troubleshooting issues that might be caused by login items or previously opened Finder windows.

Sometimes, a problematic application set to start at login can cause your Mac to become slow or unresponsive.

By preventing these items from opening, you can identify and resolve such issues without interference.

How to Prevent Finder Windows and Login Items

After clicking the Log In button in the login window, immediately press and hold the Shift key.

Keep holding the Shift key until you see the desktop.

This will prevent any login items and Finder windows from opening automatically.

4. Start Up in Target Disk Mode

Target disk mode is an efficient way to transfer files between two Macs. This method is particularly useful when one Mac isn’t booting properly, but you need to access its files.

It allows the non-booting Mac to act as an external hard drive, making file transfers quick and easy.

This can also be a lifesaver when performing data migrations or backups.

How to Use Target Disk Mode

To start up your Mac in target disk mode, follow these steps:

1. Use a USB, USB-C, or Thunderbolt cable to connect the two Mac computers (if either Mac has macOS 11 or later, use a Thunderbolt cable).
2. Start the Mac in Target Disk Mode by either starting it up while holding the T key if it’s off, or by going to the Apple menu > System Settings > General > Startup Disk > Restart in Target Disk Mode if it’s already on.
3. Once the Mac has started in Target Disk Mode, its disk icon will appear on the desktop of the other Mac, allowing you to drag files to and from the disk as needed.
4. Eject the disk by dragging its icon to the Trash, which changes to an Eject icon when you drag, then on the Mac used as a disk, press the power button to shut it down and disconnect the cable.

5. Restart and Run Apple Diagnostics

Apple Diagnostics is a powerful tool for identifying hardware issues with your Mac, such as problems with the logic board, memory, or wireless components. This tool can be especially useful if your Mac isn’t starting up properly using macOS.

By running Apple Diagnostics, you can pinpoint the exact hardware issue and seek appropriate repairs, ensuring your Mac’s functionality and safety.

If the diagnostics report a problem, such as a malfunctioning Wi-Fi card, it’s recommended to contact Apple or an authorized service provider for professional repairs, as using non-genuine parts or untrained service can compromise your device.

How to Run Apple Diagnostics

To use Apple Diagnostics, follow these steps:

1. Ensure your Mac is connected to a stable internet connection and disconnect any external devices except the keyboard, mouse, display, and speakers.
2. Shut down your Mac, turn it on and immediately press and hold the D key, releasing the D key when you see a progress bar or a language selection screen.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the diagnostics and review the list of potential issues detected by Apple Diagnostics once the test is complete.
4. Before starting the diagnostics, you might want to print the instructions from the Apple Support article Use Apple Diagnostics to test your Mac by going to File > Print, then clicking Print.

6. Restart and Select a Startup Disk

Changing your Mac’s startup disk can be useful for a variety of reasons, such as booting from an external drive, running a different operating system, or accessing a network volume. This flexibility allows you to troubleshoot issues, perform maintenance tasks, or use specific software environments.

However, be cautious when selecting a network startup volume. Ensure you choose a standard network volume (displayed as a globe with a folder) and not a network install image (shown as a globe with a downward-pointing green arrow), as the latter can reinstall system software and potentially erase your disk’s contents.

How to Change the Startup Disk

To change your Mac’s startup disk and boot from a different drive, network volume, or operating system, follow these steps:

Apple Silicon Macs

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Press and hold the power button until the “Loading startup options” message appears.
3. Select the desired startup disk from the available options on the screen.
4. Click the Continue button.
5. To set a default startup disk, go to the Apple menu > System Settings, click General in the sidebar, then click Startup Disk on the right, select the icon of the disk you want to use as the default startup disk, and click Restart.

Mac Mini

1. Shut down your Mac Mini.
2. Press and hold the power button until the system indicator light turns amber.
3. Select the desired startup disk from the available options on the screen.
4. Click the Continue button.
5. To set a default startup disk, go to the Apple menu > System Settings, click General in the sidebar, then click Startup Disk on the right, select the icon of the disk you want to use as the default startup disk, and click Restart.

Intel Macs

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Press and hold the Option key while pressing the power button to start your Mac.
3. When the available startup disks appear on the screen, select the desired disk.
4. Click the Up arrow to continue.
5. To set a default startup disk, go to the Apple menu > System Preferences, click Startup Disk, select the icon of the disk you want to use as the default startup disk, and click Restart.

7. Start Up in Safe Mode

Safe mode is a diagnostic mode that helps you troubleshoot issues by preventing certain software from loading.

This can be particularly useful if your Mac is experiencing problems that may be caused by login items, system extensions, or fonts that load during startup.

Safe mode also runs a basic check of your startup disk, repairing directory issues if needed, which can help improve your Mac’s performance and stability.

How to Use Safe Mode

Starting your Mac in safe mode can help you determine if issues you’re experiencing are caused by software that loads during startup. Here’s how to do it based on your Mac type:

Identifying Your Mac Type

1. Click the Apple menu > About This Mac.
2. If it says “Chip” followed by a name, you have a Mac with Apple silicon.
3. If it says “Processor” followed by the name of an Intel processor, you have an Intel-based Mac.

For Macs with Apple Silicon

1. Shut down your Mac by selecting Apple menu > Shut Down.
2. Once it’s completely shut down (screen is black and lights are off), press and hold the power button until “Loading startup options” appears.
3. Select your startup volume.
4. Press and hold the Shift key, then click Continue in Safe Mode.
5. Your Mac will restart and you should see “Safe Boot” in the menu bar at the login window.

For Intel-based Macs

1. Turn on or restart your Mac.
2. Immediately press and hold the Shift key.
3. Release the Shift key when the login window appears.
4. Log in to your Mac (you might need to log in twice).
5. You should see “Safe Boot” in the menu bar on the login screen.

Verify Safe Mode

To confirm your Mac started in safe mode, use the System Information app:

1. Press and hold the Option key, then click the Apple menu > System Information.
2. Select Software in the sidebar.
3. Check the value next to “Boot Mode” where “Safe” means your Mac is in safe mode and “Normal” means your Mac is not in safe mode.

8. Start Up in macOS Recovery

macOS Recovery provides a versatile set of tools to help you troubleshoot and fix various issues with your Mac.

Whether you need to reinstall macOS, restore from a backup, repair your disk, or change security settings, macOS Recovery has you covered.

It’s particularly useful for addressing problems that prevent your Mac from starting up normally, ensuring you can get your system back to a functional state.

How to Use macOS Recovery

macOS Recovery is a built-in recovery system on your Mac that provides a variety of tools to help you fix your computer. Here’s how to access and use macOS Recovery:

1. To access macOS Recovery, shut down your Mac, turn it on and continue holding the power button until you see “Loading startup options”, then select Options and click Continue.
2. In macOS Recovery, here are the tasks you can do:

   Task	Steps
   Reinstall macOS	Select “Reinstall macOS”, click Continue, and ensure you have an internet connection to download the installation files.
   Restore from Time Machine Backup	Choose “Restore from Time Machine” and follow the on-screen instructions to recover your data.
   Use Disk Utility	Select “Disk Utility” and click Continue to repair or erase your internal storage.
   Browse the Web for Support Information	Select “Safari” and click Continue.
   Set Security Policies	Choose “Startup Security Utility” from the Utilities menu.
   Access Command Line	Select “Terminal” from the Utilities menu.
   Share Disk	Select “Share Disk” from the Utilities menu.
   Set Startup Disk	Choose “Startup Disk” from the Apple menu.

Note: If you need to prepare your Mac for trade-in or sale, use the Erase Assistant in macOS by starting up your computer normally, going to Apple menu > System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset, then clicking “Erase All Content and Settings” and following the instructions.

The post How to Restart and Start Up Your Mac (All Methods Explained) appeared first on Hongkiat.

Have you ever printed a design, aligned it perfectly with your Cricut machine, only to find that it doesn’t cut accurately?

Maybe it cuts some of the design off or creates an imbalance of offsets around the corners. Or perhaps, when you try to calibrate the machine, it just won’t calibrate properly? You’re not alone.

Many Cricut crafters, including myself, face this issue. It can be frustrating, but it’s solvable. In this post, I’ll share all the possible reasons for imperfect cuts and how to resolve them based on my experience.

First, Check Your Mat

The first thing most of us would probably do is jump right into calibration, but I’d suggest not quite yet. First, check your mat. In fact, check the following few things, and get them right:

• Make sure you are using the correct mat size.
• Make sure you are laying your paper on the top right of the mat.



• Make sure the mat is not bent or wavy on both the left and right sides.



• Make sure the mat is not crooked when loaded into the Cricut machine.

Takeaway: Use the correct mat size and ensure it’s perfectly flat.



Example of a mat crooked when loaded into the Cricut

Do a Machine Calibration

If your mat is all okay, let’s proceed to perform a calibration. This ensures your machine cuts precisely along the edge of your printed image.

Cricut provides a detailed guide on how to calibrate your machine, so I won’t repeat the instructions here. I suggest you read and follow it to try to calibrate your machine.

The goal is to keep calibrating until everything is perfect. However, here are a few things I’d like to point out that you should take note of when doing calibration.

Understand Normal Cuts and Massive Offsets

In the second step of the machine calibration, the Cricut machine will cut vertical and horizontal lines on the numbers 1-21 and A-U. You are supposed to find which cut line falls directly on or closest to the printed line.

But before you do that, here’s one thing you need to take note of: you need to know if the cut lines are normal cuts or massive offset cuts.

Normal Cuts

A normal cut means it meets the following conditions:

• The first cut is before 1, and the last cut is after 21.
• The first cut is before A, and the last cut is after U.

If these conditions are not met, it is considered a massive offset cut. Read below to learn more about massive offset cuts.

If you are getting a normal cut, then go ahead and figure out which lines fall most centered on the printed line and input them in the dialogue box in the calibration process in your design space.

Massive Offset Cuts

If the cuts are not within the boundary of normal cuts, then they are probably massive offset cuts. Massive offset cuts can occur in any of the following scenarios:

1. The first cut is after 1.
2. The last cut is before 21.
3. The first cut is after A.
4. The last cut is before U.

Here are some examples of massive offset cuts:

What to Do with Massive Offset Cuts?

It’s important that if any of these scenarios occur, you do not choose which lines fall most centered on the printed line.

Instead, for each of these scenarios, choose the following as your answer, and then repeat calibration:

1. First horizontal cut is after 1 – Choose 1.
2. Last horizontal cut is before 21 – Choose 21.
3. First vertical cut is after A – Choose A.
4. Last vertical cut is before U – Choose U.

Repeat the calibration process. You might need to do it a few times, possibly more than 5-8 times, until it is perfectly calibrated. This is normal. If this does not work, continue reading below.

Takeaway: Understand cut types, calibrate repeatedly, use the PDF sheet if needed, and print at 100% scale.

Use the PDF Calibration Sheet

When you do calibration, you are asked by Cricut Design Space right in the app to print the calibration sheet. However, many have reported that the calibration sheet directly printed from Design Space isn’t exactly accurate, at least when compared to the PDF version downloaded and printed manually.

Here’s an image of a user comparing calibration sheets directly printed from Cricut Design Space and the other from the PDF version.

As you can tell, there’s some difference between the two. So if calibration isn’t working for you, you may want to try going to the official Cricut help guide, scroll all the way down to the end of the article, and download the PDF version of the calibration sheet.

Remember, in your printing settings dialogue, always choose to print at 100% scale and never print to fit.

Takeaway: The PDF calibration sheet may differ slightly in size from the one printed directly from Cricut, which can cause imperfect cuts.

Cut Sensor Marks Could Be the Culprit

If all the above don’t work, the next thing you should consider is perhaps the cut sensor marks are not properly read by the machine. These are the marks/lines deliberately printed by Design Space for the Cricut machine to read to know the exact position of where to cut accurately.

If the machine fails to read part or the entire cut sensor marks, it will not cut accurately.

Here are a couple of things that may interfere with the machine’s ability to read the sensor marks properly:

Check Ambience and Lighting

Direct sunlight, overhead reading lamps, or glare directed towards the sensor may interfere with the machine’s sensor light. To ensure there’s no interference, you could do the following when the machine’s sensor is scanning for the cut sensor mark:

• Close the Cricut machine’s lid.
• Turn off any lights that may interfere.

Is the Machine’s Sensor Light Blocked or Dirty?

Make sure that the cut sensor light of the machine is clean, or else it will also affect its ability to detect the cut sensor mark. To clean the cut sensor light on your Cricut Explore or Cricut Maker machine, sweep gently with a small, clean, dry watercolor paintbrush.

Check the Sensor Marks on Printed Paper

If you are cutting stickers with paper that has a glossy film or other types of film on it, that may affect the accuracy of the machine reading the sensor mark as well. It is best to ensure the film does not cover the sensor mark or use matte transparent Scotch tape on the sensor marks.

Takeaway: Ensure the Cricut machine’s sensor light can properly read the sensor marks on your paper for accurate cutting.

A Faulty Cricut Design Space Update

The Cricut Design Space app gets auto-updated all the time. If your cuts were perfect and suddenly they are not, it might not be your fault. There’s a chance that a Cricut Design Space update is the culprit. This is something I’ve experienced personally.

What Happened?

My machine was cutting perfectly, then out of nowhere, it became inconsistent. Sometimes it cut well, other times it didn’t.

I tried all the calibration methods mentioned earlier, but nothing worked—it was always hit or miss. I noticed this started happening after an update to the Cricut Design Space app. While I was still troubleshooting, another update came through, and suddenly, everything was back to normal.

I believe the inconsistency was due to the update, and a quick search on X (formerlly twitter), i found few cricut users sharing similar experrience.

there's a global error where the Print Then Cut feature in Cricut Design Space is inaccurate. No amount of calibration will fix it. talked to customer support for 6 hrs and its something to do with their software engineer team pushing out an update that made Print&Cut inaccurate

— POGGY ✿ Shop Launch July 16th!! 4/16 pogpals.com (@pogpals) September 23, 2020

i swear cricut has an update every week and ruins my calibration -_-;;

— Phiphi ʕ·ᴥ·ʔ (@misoandtofuu) April 12, 2022

WAH I'VE BEEN FRUSTRATED AT MY CRICUT BUT TURNS OUT THE CALIBRATION WAS OFF BC I HAD THE "BAD VERSION" UPDATES WHERE THEY MOVED THE REGISTRATION MARKS UGHHHHHH

— birb ᓚᘏᗢ (@birbyatta) August 17, 2023

@cricut Your latest update wrecked the calibration on my cricut maker, and recalibration isn't fixing it. This is not the first time this has happened. Please get your stuff together, I have customer orders to fill.

— JuniCat Designs (@JuniCat81) August 10, 2023

Takeaway: If cuts suddenly become imperfect, check if the app has been updated recently. Contact Cricut support or wait for the next update.

Final Thoughts

So there you go, the possible reasons why your machine is not calibrating well or not cutting perfectly. Calibration is the key to perfection, but the most important thing is to make sure everything is in the right place before you start calibrating. This includes ensuring the mat is flat and nothing is affecting the machine’s ability to read the registration marks.

Calibration usually needs to be done a few times, or possibly more than 8-10 times. If all else fails, contact Cricut support for help. Good luck and happy crafting!

The post Cricut Print Then Cut Calibration Tips (2024) appeared first on Hongkiat.

Occasionally, you might find that an image on your Mac isn’t in the right format or is too large for uploading online. Instead of resorting to third-party apps or online services, you can resize and convert your images directly on your Mac, saving time and effort.

To do this, simply right-click on the image, select ‘Quick Actions‘, and then choose ‘Convert Image‘.

Opt for the JPEG format, and select a size that meets your needs.

A newly optimized version of your image will appear in the same folder, ready for use.

This feature isn’t just about reducing file sizes. It also allows you to change image formats or even batch convert multiple images simultaneously.

For more comprehensive details, visit our guide on converting images to other formats on macOS. Additionally, if you need to convert images on different devices, explore our guide on converting images on iPad and iPhone.

The post How to Easily Optimize Images on Your MacBook appeared first on Hongkiat.

To locate the IP address of your NAS and establish a connection, first make sure that your NAS is properly connected to your network and powered on.

Next, I navigate to this page in my browser: https://finds.synology.com/#

Upon landing at the page, it automatically begins searching for any Synology NAS devices connected to my Wi-Fi network.

When found, it displays the details of the NAS like this:

All I need to do then is click ‘Connect,’ and a new browser window opens where I can log in to my NAS.

Alternative Method

If the above method doesn’t work for you, there’s another approach you can try. This method requires using your computer’s command prompt if you’re on Windows or Terminal if you’re on Mac.

Simply enter the following command and press enter. It will display a list of all the IP addresses of devices connected to your network:

arp -a

Next, you can test each IP address by appending “:5000” to the end and pasting it into your browser. For example, if one of the IPs is 192.168.1.15, you would type 192.168.1.15:5000 into your browser.

This method can be somewhat hit-or-miss, especially if you have many devices connected to your network. It might require several attempts to find the right IP address.

The post How to Find the IP Address of Your Synology NAS Device appeared first on Hongkiat.

Here is a list of some of the best mind-mapping apps for individual or collaborating brainstorming. Most of these tools are available cross-platform and offer different features and functionalities. So take a look at the list and see which would suit your needs the best.

1. Coggle

An intuitive online tool for gathering thoughts through creative mind maps. It enables you to give a picture of your random ideas in planning or brainstorming. Moreover, you can invite your team or collaborators to work on the mind maps online.

Cogule offers many features, including floating text and images, adding multiple starting points, unlimited image uploads, and saving your private diagrams even when you unsubscribe from their service.

However, not being available for mobile or desktop takes some of the luster away from the app. But if you’re looking for an entirely online ming mapping solution, then this may be the best tool for you.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser
• Mobile Compatibility: No
• Coggle Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

2. Milanote

One of the easy-to-use mind-mapping apps you’ll find, Milanote helps you give a face to your thought process through text, images, graphics, and even videos. There are many pre-made templates to get you started with, and the simple drag-and-drop interface makes it simple enough for anyone to use.

On the aspect of collaboration, you can work with any number of team members on a single board, and it’s totally up to you to let your team edit, comment, or only view the mind maps. Also, Milanote is a multi-platform app, you can sync it between different devices.

There is, however, no option for having a free trial.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser, Windows, macOS
• Mobile Compatibility: iOS, Android
• Milanote Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

3. Miro

Miro is an online whiteboard that brings different team members together to share ideas from anywhere. You can brainstorm ideas, do visual mapping, plan and discuss, collaborate in real time, and even arrange webinars and remote workshops.

Ease-of-use is perhaps one of Miro’s most prominent features. You don’t need to learn too much to get started and even the collaboration takes only a few minutes. There are a few minor hiccups in the functioning of the app but the developers are working on its improvement so we can look forward to a more perfect tool with time.

• Desktop Compatibility: Windows, macOS
• Mobile Compatibility: iOS, Android
• Miro Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

4. SketchBoard

An intuitive virtual whiteboard, Sketchboard gives you the ability to develop and share your ideas and discussions through visual and textual mind mapping. It’s a great tool for working individually or with a team online. You can choose from over 400 freehand drawings with connections appearing automatically and add text where necessary.

Sketchboard gives you an infinite drawing board so you can drag the canvas and add as many ideas as you want. Though you can do all kinds of mind mapping through this tool but is based on coding and modeling themes, I think it would be ideal for technical projects like mobile app development.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser
• Mobile Compatibility: No
• SketchBoard Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

5. StormBoard

Stromboard allows you to discuss and streamline your ideas in real time. It’s more like an online shared workspace on which you can assign tasks and monitor your team’s progress on the project at hand.

The app offers professional templates, live sessions and webinars, and many dynamic reporting options. As an online whiteboard, it does miss out on a few features like diagramming and screen recording, etc. but it is an ideal tool for collaborative online mind mapping.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser, Windows, macOS
• Mobile Compatibility: iOS, Android
• StormBoard Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

6. Ayoa

Ayoa combines robust task management with an efficient mind-mapping solution. It features an easy-to-use interface with many collaborative features, customizable templates, agile project management, and time tracking.

One drawback of Ayoa is that it’s not available offline which makes it difficult to access your data on the go. Apart from that, the app is available cross-platform and gives you a lot of fluidity to capture and grow your great ideas with your team.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser, Windows, macOS
• Mobile Compatibility: iOS, Android
• Ayoa Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

7. Diagrams.net

Diagrams.net is basically a professional diagramming tool that you can use to visualize your ideas and create mind maps out of your thought process.

You can use it offline through the desktop app and the tool works perfectly with some of your most-used tools like Google Drive, Share Point, OneDrive, and many other cloud storage services.

The tool allows you to export your diagrams in a number of formats; however, exporting files from other tools needs some improvement. Other than that, it’s a simple and efficient tool for online collaborative brainstorming.

• Desktop Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Mobile Compatibility: No
• Diagrams.net Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: No

8. Lucidchart

An intuitive and easy-to-use app, Lucidchart brings you and your team on the same page of collective thought process. You can avail of the pre-made professional templates, keyboard shortcuts, and multi-edit a document with other collaborators in real time – all this with amazing and customizable graphics.

As Lucidchart features a whole gamut of features, for some users, they may seem a bit overwhelming at first. However, with helpful guides and a smooth learning curve, you get a hold of things soon and start an efficient collaboration on your ideas on the tool.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser
• Mobile Compatibility: iOS, Android
• Lucidchart Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

9. Mind Meister

An ideal mind-mapping tool for those who want a more visually vivid picture fo their ideas, MindMeister offers a seamless workflow and an array of collaborative features. You can use it for note-taking, collaborative brainstorming, and project management.

MindMeister has many features to help you create a comprehensive mind map. It also offers integration with Google Drive and other tools that you use most frequently.

Though the free version has a limited set of features, you still get enough tools to create amazing mind maps.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser
• Mobile Compatibility: iOS, Android
• Mind Meister Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

10. Mindup

MindMup is a mind mapping tool focused more on students and educationists in organizing their teams or students and managing academic projects. You can create and publish mind maps, workflows, storyboards, and project discussions online and on social media.

With MindMup, you can import or export files (though limited formats) and also use them as a note-taking app. Some of its features can use a bit of polishing, but all in all, it is a great tool for collaborative brainstorming among small and medium-sized teams.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser
• Mobile Compatibility: No
• Mindup Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

Bonus: IOctopus

IOctopus is an online service for mind-mapping; it follows the basic principles from Tony Busen, which helps you get into a state of flow and get an effective brainstorm.

Great for solo and team use. Users note the pleasant and intuitive interface without the clutter of buttons. It is characterized by organic, flexible branches with adjustable thickness. The functionality includes: drawing your own icon, checklists, relationships, real-time collaboration, sharing, and the ability to add any functionality you need through plugins. And all sorts of other things that should be in a mind map service.

So the IOctopus helps you to visualize your thoughts and allows you to see and understand both details and the whole picture at a glance. And makes you more productive.

• Desktop Compatibility: Browser, Windows, macOS
• Mobile Compatibility: iOS, Android
• IOctopus Price: Free
• Premium app/subscriptions?: Yes (Check pricing)

The post 10 Best Free Mind Mapping Tools appeared first on Hongkiat.

To add to your convenience, here is a list of the best time-tracking apps that you can find in the market. These tools offer different sets of features and include time tracking apps for browsers as well as the mobile platform. So, read on to know about each item in detail.

WebWork Time Tracker

Windows Mac Linux iOS Android Browser

WebWork is hands down the most practical time tracker for remote workers. It functions as an advanced time tracker along with employee monitoring, task management, and payroll.

It tracks the working hours of your employees automatically so you do not have to intervene in any way. Then WebWork turns the tracked data into timesheet reports. Using employee timesheet data, you can also pay your team directly from WebWork.

Other than tracking time, you can also see the work process of each employee through screenshots and activity tracking. Detailed reports show you the apps and websites visited by employees during work, while productivity tracking helps you measure productivity based on app & web usage.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android and browser
• Is WebWork Time Tracker free? It has a 14-day free trial
• Does WebWork Time Tracker have a paid plan? Yes, starts at $3.99/user/month

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out WebWork Time Tracker

Bonsai Time Tracking

iOS Android Browser

Bonsai is a powerful time tracker tool with features to make your workflow easier and efficient than without it. You can centralize your timesheets with Bonsai, thanks to its easy and straightforward interface. Also, it lets you manage tasks, track billed hours, and create and send invoices to clients.

Bonsai provides a 14-day free trial, after which, you have to subscribe to one of its two plans. Its Workflow plan costs $19 per month (3 max. users per account), and Workflow Pro plan costs $29 per month with more advanced features.

• Supported Platforms: iOS, Android and browser
• Is Bonsai Time Tracking free? Yes
• Does Bonsai Time Tracking has paid plan? Yes, Starts at $19/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Bonsai’s Time Tracker

DeskTime

Windows Mac Linux iOS Android Browser

DeskTime is the best time-tracking tool for remote teams. With this service manager can see who earned their paychecks and who spent working hours updating Facebook.

It tracks time and analyzes employees’ productivity in real time. It sorts apps and websites used into categories: productive, unproductive and neutral, and monitors who is using which app and for how long. It tracks mouse and keyboard clicks to see when an employee is working or having a break.

You can see advanced reports with graphs and sheets in real time. You can take screenshots from every 5 minutes to every hour. It’s available on Windows, Mac, Linux and iPhone and Android. I think it’s the best app to track not only time spent at work but the overall productivity of the user.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android and browser
• Is DeskTime free? Yes
• Does DeskTime has paid plan? Yes, Starts at $7/user/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out DeskTime’s Time Tracker

TimeCamp

Windows Mac Linux iOS Android Browser

Another great time tracking tool that supports complete billing system to handle employees. Time Camp lets you create unlimited projects to track time and activity to create billable reports.

You can create keywords for your tasks to automatically start monitoring when those keywords are used. I also found its reporting feature to be very detailed with ability to see the app in use and activity inside it with complete details.

Time Camp offers all its tracking features in the free version, making it perfect for individual users. You can upgrade to its pro version to get advanced reporting and automatic billing features; including online invoicing.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android and browser
• Is TimeCamp free? Yes
• Does TimeCamp has paid plan? Yes, Starts at $5.25/user/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out TimeCamp’s Time Tracker

Hubstaff Windows Time Tracker

Windows Mac Linux iOS Android Browser

An advanced time tracking app that comes with built-in employee payment system. Hubstaff is best for teams where you can track activity of your employees and automatically complete payments according to work done. It allows you to track time spent on applications and websites while taking occasional screenshots of individual users.

Using its free version, you can track total time spent, take screenshots (limited storage) and see activity level through interactive graphs. With its paid version, you’ll get the ability to track keyboard/mouse activity, automatically make payments, complete tracking of each app or website used, create weekly budgets, track offline time and track daily attendance.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android and browser
• Is Hubstaff Windows Time Tracker free? Yes
• Does Hubstaff Windows Time Tracker has paid plan? Yes, Starts at $7/user/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Hubstaff’ Windows’ Time Tracker

Harvest

Windows Mac iOS Android

Harvest is a modern time-tracking tool with an intuitive interface and a powerful set of features. One of the important features is it provides invoicing and payment options on the same platform. It automatically generates invoices from tracked time and expenses as well as sets up reminders and thank you notes.

Harvest avails its Free plan, allowing you to create and manage two projects by yourself. If you are looking forward to managing more projects or collaborating with your team members, its Pro plan comes for $12 per person per month.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, iOS, Android
• Is Harvest free? Yes
• Does Harvest has paid plan? Yes, Starts from $12/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Harvest’s Time Tracker

timeEdition

Mac iOS Android Browser

timeEdition is simple free software for tracking time. It focuses on simplicity and usability while providing detailed documentation of your working hours. This software is extremely convenient to track work with some special highlights like a color-coding feature to differentiate clients and notes for adding details.

With more features like deadline reminders and easy export options, it becomes an excellent choice for people who want a free yet handy tool for tracking time. It can export the entries to Apple Calendar, Google Calendar, and more.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, iOS and Android
• Is timeEdition free? Yes
• Does timeEdition has paid plan? Yes, 3.99.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out timeEdition’s Time Tracker

Tick

iOS Android Browser

If you are looking for a tool offering a button-click to start tracking time, Tick is your time-tracking tool. Tick helps track your time and measures tracked time against your projects’ budgets, highlighting issues to fix to stay profitable. It also supports exporting time-entries to other softwares for simpler invoices.

Tick offers a free plan for one project. The pricing plans are based on the number of projects per month; for example, it is $19 per month for 10 projects, $49 per month for 30, $79 per month for 60 projects, and $149 for unlimited projects.

• Supported Platforms: iOS, Android and browser
• Is Tick free? Yes
• Does Tick has paid plan? Yes, Starts from $19/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Tick’s Time Tracker

actiTIME

iOS Android Browser

actiTIME is a web platform that allows you to log hours via timesheets and track progress. It lets you include breaks and sick leaves, allowing you to properly account for the working hours for each project. It also provides features for the team’s accounting needs including invoices, like Freshdesk, and Harvest.

actiTIME provides a free version with limited functionality for 1-3 you while its paid plans start from $6 per user per month for 1-40 you, $5 per user per month for 41-200 you, and a custom, fixed-cost plan for 200+ you.

• Supported Platforms: iOS, Android and browser
• Is actiTIME free? Yes
• Does actiTIME has paid plan? Yes, $6/user.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out actiTIME’s Time Tracker

Minutedock

iOS Android

MinuteDock offers a time tracking platform that lets you set targets and budgets for teams and projects. Then, you can coordinate time tracking for projects across different clients and teams. It is recommended for professional service firms, recruiting agencies, etc. who need to track teams and bill clients.

An important feature of this platform is that it lets you see their progress in real-time and promotes sharing of data and billing invoices within a matter of seconds. Apart from its free trial, MinuteDock plans start at $19 per month + $9 per extra user per month for Freelancer, $49 per month for 5 users + $9 per extra user per month, and $99 per month for 10 users + $9 per extra user per month.

• Supported Platforms: iOS and Android
• Is Minutedock free? Yes
• Does Minutedock has paid plan? Yes, 14-days trial, or plan starts at $19/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Minutedock’s Time Tracker

Todo.vu

iOS Android

todo.vu offers an integrated cloud-based environment for task management, time tracking, and billing for small teams and freelancers. Unlike many tools like Harvest and Tick, todo.vu packs fully-functional project and task management with features like an effective CRM, checklists, access control, conversations, etc. Also, you can sync it with Apple Calendar, Google Calendar, and more.

todo.vu offers two plans: Free Solo for freelancers with almost all features for a single user or Business Time costing you $9 per user per month for teams.

• Supported Platforms: iOS and Android
• Is Todo.vu free? Yes
• Does Todo.vu has paid plan? Yes, Starts at $9/user/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Todo.vu’s Time Tracker

Fanurio

Windows Mac Linux

With a flexible timer and detailed invoicing features, Fanurio is a time tracking and billing software application. Its prominent feature is its dual option for tracking time: manual as well as automatic method to clock hours. It also supports organizing billed hours into projects and tasks and invoicing them.

Fanurio provides a free trial of 15 days for its Standalone edition. Its Standalone edition costs $59 as a one-time payment for one user while its Server edition costs $119 per user. Also, you need to install it on your own web server.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux
• Is Fanurio free? Yes
• Does Fanurio has paid plan? Yes, $59 for single user license.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Fanurio’s Time Tracker

Clockify

Windows Mac Linux iOS Android Browser

Clockify is one of the simplest time tracking applications with an easy-to-use interface and handy timesheet features. The platform comes with numerous features to help you track time, mark billed hours, and fill timesheets. Its Calendar and Dashboard views help you visualize your team’s efforts. Also, its reports help get detailed information about hours spent on a client or project.

Clockify is free for most of its features, which are commonly required by individuals and teams. And it also offers optional upgrades for teams looking for advanced features: Basic costing $4.99, Standard costing $6.99, Pro costing $9.99, and Enterprise costing $14.99 per user per month if billed monthly.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android and browser
• Is Clockify free? Yes
• Does Clockify has paid plan? Yes, Starts at $3.99/user/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Clockify’s Time Tracker

TopTracker

Windows Mac Linux

TopTracker is completely free with no limits to the number of users, clients, or projects. It’s available as desktop and web app. It is simple to work: just create a project, add team members, and start tracking your work.

TopTracker offers a lot of useful features like timer screenshots, webcam shots etc., however, you can control how often the screenshots are taken and even add blur to screenshots if needed. Just set your parameters and get back to work.

TopTracker desktop version sits in the status bar for quick access. If you ever need a break — use “Stop Tracking” button. It has real-time summaries and reports to easily improve productivity.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux
• Is TopTracker free? Yes
• Does TopTracker has paid plan? No

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out TopTracker

TMetric

Windows Mac Linux iOS Android Browser

TMetric is a brand new free time-tracking app which would be useful for freelancers and small business owners. It has a user-friendly simple interface, and is not limited to a specific number of clients and projects.

You can edit your working hours, create new tasks, switch tasks, add tags to each task, and get detailed reports on tasks and projects you have. You’re also allowed to edit your tasks and time during the day, and add break hours using the timeline.

Additionally, if you forget to stop the timer, it will remind you about it after 10 hours of a continuous session. TMetric can be easily integrated with a lot of task managers, such as Basecamp, Trello, Asana, Bitbucket, Bugzilla, GitHub, Jira, Producteev, Redmine and more.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android and browser
• Is TMetric free? Yes
• Does TMetric has paid plan? Yes, Starts at $5/user/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out TMetric’s Time Tracker

RescueTime

Windows Mac Linux iOS Android Browser

Rescue Time is the easiest yet highly customizable time tracking app that is perfect for individual users. Download this app for Windows and it will start logging in all your activity in its smart dashboard. The dashboard categorises your activity in different built-in categories, and lets you see how you have spent the time.

In the free version you will get unlimited website and applications monitoring, weekly summaries and ability to set goals. If you are looking for more features, then its pro version offers ability to block websites, unlimited report history, alerts for achievements and track time away from the PC.

Along with these handy features, it gives full control over when you would like to track time and which websites/applications should be tracked.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android and browser
• Is RescueTime free? Yes
• Does RescueTime has paid plan? Yes, 14-days trial, or plan starts at $6.50/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out RescueTime’s Time Tracker

Toggl Track

Windows Mac iOS Android Browser

Toggl is a highly customizable and comprehensive time tracking app that is perfect for both individuals and teams. It’s easy to use and many of its advanced tracking features are available for free.

It will let you track applications and website activity on your PC, manually add and delete entries, track idle time, track time automatically based on tags, see on demand reports and much more — all for free.

It’s paid versions offers complete billing system, ability manage reports, use custom logo, get alerts for tasks, setup goals, set budget, limit time allotted and more. Toggl is the perfect app if you are looking for a simple, customizable yet powerful time tracking app.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, iOS, Android
• Is Toggl Track free? Yes
• Does Toggl Track has paid plan? Yes, Starts from $9/month.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out Toggl’s Time Tracker

ManicTime

Windows Mac Linux Android Browser

One thing that attracted me the most to put ManicTime in this list is its a Windows app. All the apps listed in this article just track usage and send it to the web portal where you can see the reports in your browser. However, ManicTime tracks and shows reports in its desktop app without depending on web portals.

Furthermore, it’s real-time tracking is very detailed and separately shows time spent on each application and contents inside it. I was also very impressed by automatic tags and smart bar charts.

It’s free version offers automatic tracking and detailed stats. You will have to buy a paid lifetime license (without future updates) to get features like, auto tagging, time limitations, password protection, ability to hide the tracker and more.

• Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, Android and browser
• Is ManicTime free? Yes
• Does ManicTime has paid plan? Yes, $67 for single user license.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Check out ManicTime’s Time Tracker

The post 15 Time Tracking Apps For Remote Workers appeared first on Hongkiat.

This article focuses on a curated list of time trackers that operate directly within your browser, eliminating the need for any downloads or installations on your computer.

Continue reading to discover the best browser-based time tracker that suits your needs.

Overview:

Here’s a list of the tools featured in this post.

1. Replicon

Replicon offers a unified, cloud-based time-tracking solution that caters to businesses of all sizes -from small startups to large enterprises. This single platform tackles a variety of time-related challenges, including project time tracking, billing, and compliance with labor laws.

The platform features an intuitive dashboard that provides a complete overview of project hours, employee engagement, and billable vs. non-billable time. It also offers a pre-configured library of pay rules to help businesses adhere to local and international labor regulations. Furthermore, Replicon integrates effortlessly with existing CRM, ERP, HRMS, and payroll systems.

Utilizing the power of AI, Replicon’s ZeroTime™ feature captures accurate work-time data from over 100 apps like Jira, Slack, and Zoom. This eliminates the need for manual timesheet entries, thereby improving efficiency.

Over the past 27 years, Replicon has been a trusted name for time tracking solutions. Its platform not only boosts employee productivity but also enhances the overall profitability of projects.

• Supported Platforms: Browser, mobile apps.
• Is Replicon Free? Yes, a 14-day free trial is available.
• Replicon Paid Plans: Starting at $6.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About Replicon

2. Zoho Projects Time Tracking

Zoho Projects Time Tracking is a cloud-based platform designed primarily for small to medium-sized businesses. The platform is rich in features that empower project managers to allocate tasks, oversee timesheet submissions, and manage team members efficiently.

One of its standout features is its dashboard and reporting modules, which are designed to help you create insightful business summaries.

The service offers a free plan that supports two projects and up to three users. For larger teams, there are paid plans such as the Premium plan at $5 per user per month (up to 50 users) and the Enterprise plan at $10 per user per month (unlimited users).

• Supported Platforms: Browser.
• Is Zoho Projects Time Tracking Free? Yes.
• Zoho Projects Time Tracking Paid Plans: Yes, Starting at $5/user/month.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About Zoho Projects Time Tracking

3. Time Tracking by Freshbooks

Time Tracking by Freshbooks is designed to make your work life easier by automating time-tracking tasks. This feature-rich platform allows you to record work time down to the very last billable second. Additionally, it can effortlessly convert timesheets into invoices.

One of its standout features is the ability to capture the time spent by an entire team on a specific project or for a particular client.

FreshBooks offers a range of plans to fit various needs. The Lite plan costs $15 per month and supports up to five clients. The Plus plan is priced at $25 per month and caters to up to 50 clients. The Premium plan costs $50 per month and offers support for an unlimited number of clients. Custom pricing is also available for specialized features.

• Supported Platforms: Browser.
• Is Time Tracking by Freshbooks Free? Yes.
• Time Tracking by Freshbooks Paid Plans: Yes, Starting at $4.50/month.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About Time Tracking by Freshbooks

4. Timely

Timely offers an automated time-tracking solution suitable for freelancers and small-to-medium-sized businesses. The software auto-generates detailed timesheets based on the apps, documents, and websites you interact with. With a focus on user privacy, similar to Timing, Timely also allows you to monitor project budgets and assess team performance.

A 14-day free trial is available for those interested in trying out Timely. Post-trial, you can choose from a range of subscription plans. The Starter plan is priced at $10 per user per month and allows up to 50 projects and three teams. The Premium plan costs $18, and the Unlimited plan is priced at $26. For a more tailored experience, there’s also an Unlimited+ plan with custom pricing.

• Supported Platforms: Browser.
• Is Timely Free? Yes, with a 14-day free trial.
• Timely Paid Plans: Yes, starting at $8/user/month after a 14-day free trial.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About Timely

5. TimeSolv

TimeSolv excels in offering the ability to run multiple timers and track various tasks at the same time. It’s an ideal fit for professionals like accountants, consultants, and law firms. The software allows for unlimited clients and projects and supports variable hourly rates and recurring expenses.

Additionally, TimeSolv offers a desktop application, TimeSync, for offline time tracking without requiring a browser. After a free trial period, subscription plans are available starting at $39.95 per user per month for 1-4 users. Volume discounts are provided, similar to actiTIME, reducing the cost to $34.95 for 5-14 users and $29.95 for 15+ users.

• Supported Platforms: Browser.
• Is TimeSolv Free? Yes, with a free trial.
• TimeSolv Paid Plans: Yes, starting at $24.95/user/month.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About TimeSolv

6. Trigger

Trigger is designed for project managers and small teams who juggle multiple projects at once. It offers a centralized platform to manage all project-related tasks and track time for various clients, eliminating the need to switch between different platforms.

The service starts with a free plan accommodating up to three team members. Paid options are available with the Standard plan costing $11 per user per month, and the Premium plan priced at $15 per user per month.

• Supported Platforms: Browser.
• Is Trigger Free? Yes, offers a free plan.
• Trigger Paid Plans: Yes, starting at $11/user/month.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About Trigger

7. Timenotes

Timenotes streamlines the management of projects, billed hours, and absences through a single, user-friendly dashboard. This allows teams to concentrate on project tasks without getting bogged down by time tracking complexities. A standout feature of Timenotes is its robust system for managing and tracking team absences.

The software offers two flat-rate plans: a Small Team plan priced at $6.99 per month for up to 10 users, and an Unlimited plan priced at $69 per month for an unlimited number of users.

• Supported Platforms: Browser.
• Is Timenotes Free? Yes, offers a free plan.
• Timenotes Paid Plans: Yes, 14-day trial available, plans start at $6.99/month.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About Timenotes

8. Kimai Time-tracker

Kimai Time-tracker is an open-source platform with a user-friendly web interface. Designed to accommodate multiple users across various projects, Kimai lets you track time and manage expenses seamlessly. Role-based permissions ensure that only authorized individuals can access certain features, making it an ideal choice for small businesses needing to monitor progress and generate invoices.

As a free and open-source software, Kimai doesn’t offer paid plans. However, it does require a self-hosted web server for installation and operation.

• Supported Platforms: Browser-based, Open source.
• Is Kimai Time-tracker Free? Yes, entirely free and open-source.
• Kimai Time-tracker Paid Plans: No paid plans available.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About Kimai Time-tracker

9. WebWork Time Tracker

WebWork Time Tracker stands as a comprehensive solution for both employee monitoring and time tracking. Suitable for businesses of all sizes, this software delivers accurate insights into how time is being spent across various tasks, websites, or platforms. It proves especially useful for freelancers and companies employing remote teams.

The utility of this software extends beyond mere time tracking. With its varied screenshot monitoring features, it captures screen data to yield valuable insights into employee activity. The built-in Team Chat ensures seamless communication, while the platform’s task history features make productivity assessment straightforward. Available around the clock, it guarantees customer satisfaction and smooth operations.

• Supported Platforms: Browser-based.
• Is WebWork Time Tracker Free? No.
• WebWork Time Tracker Paid Plans: Yes, starting at $2.99/user/month.

Key Features of WebWork Time Tracker

• Time and screenshot tracking.
• Attendance monitoring.
• App and website usage tracking.
• Productivity and activity level analysis.
• Mobile and GPS tracking.
• Task management capabilities.
• In-built team chat for seamless communication.
• Comprehensive online reports and statistics.

What We Like:

What We Don’t Like:

Learn More About WebWork Time Tracker

The post 9 Best Browser-Based Time Tracking Tools appeared first on Hongkiat.

To make this easier, here are some of the top color tools for web designers to help you pick the best color schemes for your projects. Let’s dive in.

Mesher’s Color Gradients

Ever thought a simple spacebar press could dramatically enhance your website’s look? Mesher makes it happen, generating random, stunning color gradients effortlessly.

Khroma

Imagine an AI that knows your color preferences! With Khroma, after choosing 50 colors you love, it’ll craft palettes just for you, avoiding colors you dislike.

Muzli Colors

Need the perfect palette? Muzli Colors lets you create, edit, and match palettes effortlessly. Dive into UI kits or upload an image to discover its palette.

Material Design Palette

Pick two colors and watch Material Design Palette do its magic, offering a full palette and shades with hex codes. Available in various formats for download.

Colourcode’s Palette Builder

Find unique color combinations with Colourcode’s intuitive UI. Just move your cursor and adjust with dials for the perfect palette.

Color Inspire

Ales Nesetril brings you curated palettes right from his artistic explorations on Instagram. Dive into a world of color for endless inspiration.

Colorable

Adjust and customize colors to perfection with Colorable. Enter hex codes to check how well your colors match.

Pigment

Pigment offers a fresh take on color palettes, focusing on lighting and pigment for those of us who prefer creativity over math.

147 Colors

Curious about every CSS color? 147 Colors is your go-to, allowing easy browsing, viewing, and filtering to design the perfect palette.

Adobe Color

Formerly known as Adobe Kuler, Adobe Color is among the most favored features offered by Adobe for mixing colors. It’s a go-to for designers looking to craft the perfect palette.

ColourLovers

ColourLovers is a vibrant community for those passionate about colors. It’s a treasure trove of images and their color palettes, ready for you to explore and use in your projects.

Coolors

Coolors is your go-to for speedy color scheme generation. It’s incredibly user-friendly, letting you swiftly create and share color palettes. By selecting the main color from images, it uncovers perfect color matches for your design.

Color Snapper 2

Exclusively for Mac users, Color Snapper 2 is a dream tool for graphic designers. It’s crafted to let you experiment, fine-tune, organize, save, and export colors directly from your screen with ease.

Colordot

Colordot is a fantastic tool for both web and iOS, enabling you to effortlessly create and share color schemes. Whether with a tap of your finger or a snapshot from your camera, selecting colors has never been more intuitive.

cccolor

For a straightforward and effective color picking experience, cccolor is your tool. Not just a color picker, but also a HEX/RGB/HSL converter, it simplifies finding the ideal colors for your designs. Plus, it offers palettes of tints, shades, and tones based on your selected colors.

Adobe Capture

Adobe Capture turns any photo into a color palette, brush, or pattern with just a click. Whether you’re on your desktop or on the move with your mobile, it brings your creative ideas to life.

LOL Colors

Curated by Mackenzie Child, LOL Colors offers a palette of inspiration with clickable colorful teardrops and ready-to-copy hex codes. It’s a playground of color for designers looking for the perfect match.

Gradients.io

Gradients.io is perfect for those who love gradient fills. With a collection of squares in various color palettes, complete with hex codes, it makes choosing and using gradients a breeze.

Color Hunter

Find an image you love, upload it to Color Hunter, and watch as it crafts a color palette inspired by your image. It’s an invaluable tool for designers seeking color inspiration from their favorite visuals.

TinEye

With TinEye, dive into a sea of over 20 million Creative Commons images from Flickr and extract the colors you need. Adjust the dividers, add tags, and find the perfect color for your project.

Paletton

Paletton is designed for graphic designers aiming to create websites with harmonious color combinations. Explore pre-made palettes or craft your own, ensuring your site stands out in just the right way.

Color Explorer

Color Explorer takes color analysis to the next level. This comprehensive tool allows you to create, analyze, and fine-tune your color schemes with ease—and it’s completely free.

0to255

0to255 is a handy tool that finds varying shades of any color, making it easier to discover everything from lighter tints to darker tones of your chosen hue.

ColorRotate

For tablet users, ColorRotate offers a revolutionary way to edit colors with its 3D color space. It gives you unparalleled control over your palette, making color editing both intuitive and engaging.

SpyColor.com

SpyColor.com is a treasure trove for color enthusiasts, offering detailed information on any color, including conversions across various color models like RGB, CMYK, HSL, HSV, and more. It’s a playground for creating color schemes that pop, from complementary to clash and beyond.

Designspiration

Designspiration becomes your muse when you select up to five colors from its vast palette. Watch as it conjures up a collection of images from its database that perfectly match your selected color combination, inspiring your next design project.

ColorZilla

ColorZilla, available as a Firefox and Google Chrome plugin, is an all-in-one solution featuring a color picker, eye-dropper, CSS gradient generator, and palette browser. It’s an essential toolkit for digital artists and web designers alike.

Color Hunt

Color Hunt is a vibrant social media platform for color enthusiasts. Here, you can explore handpicked color palettes, finding inspiration among the Hot, Popular, or Random selections for your next design project.

Material UI Colors

For those who love material design, Material UI Colors offers an excellent resource for picking contrasting colors. It simplifies the process of finding harmonious colors for your UI designs.

ColorDrop

ColorDrop is your palette paradise, featuring hundreds of stunning color combinations. With easy navigation through “Favourites” and “Flat Colors,” you’ll find the perfect palette for any project in no time.

The post 30 Best Color Tools for Web Designers (2024) appeared first on Hongkiat.

If you’ve found a product on Amazon, there’s a good chance it’s also available on Taobao – provided you know the right keywords to search for it.

In this post, I’d like to share some insights into Taobao, from a buyer’s perspective.

Endless Array of Products

Right off the bat, once you’ve signed up and logged into Taobao, you’re presented with a plethora of products on the homepage.

It showcases a wide variety of items you can purchase, along with suggestions that the site thinks you might like based on your previous searches and shopping habits.

As someone who has been an avid online shopper for years, frequenting platforms like eBay, Amazon, Etsy, and Red Ribbon, I can attest that the volume and variety of goods available on Taobao are quite unparalleled.

Things are Cheap!

It’s well-known that many products we use are manufactured in China, so it’s not surprising that items found on Amazon can often be found on Taobao at significantly lower prices.

For instance, a quick search for an iPhone screen protector on Amazon reveals prices ranging from $5 for the cheapest option to $18 for the most expensive, with an average cost of about $11.

On Taobao, however, prices for a similar item start as low as 9.90 yuan (approximately USD 1.37) to 69 yuan (around USD 9.5), with an average price of about 40 yuan (USD 5).

However, price isn’t the only factor to consider when making a purchase. Product quality, shipping fees, and delivery times are also important considerations.

My point isn’t to convince you that Taobao is always the cheaper option, but rather to highlight its potential for offering similar, if not identical, products at more attractive prices.

It’s worth checking Taobao when looking to get the best bang for your buck.

But there’s an exception

However, it’s important to note that not everything on Taobao is cheaper compared to Amazon and other e-commerce platforms. The price often depends on the item’s source and shipping location.

For example, the Cricut Explorer 3 machine, which is probably not manufactured in China, costs around 3500 yuan on Taobao, equivalent to about $480 USD.

This is significantly higher than Amazon’s price of around $249, not including shipping.

Detailed Logistics Information

One critical aspect of online shopping is tracking your order: knowing when it’s dispatched and when it will arrive at your doorstep.

While most established e-commerce stores provide this information, Taobao takes logistics tracking to another level of detail.

The following screenshot gives you the of the kind of comprehensive logistic information provided for every product ordered from Taobao. They are in Chinese, but I’ll explain.

But first, let’s first understand the delivery options Taobao offers, as they may vary by country and region.

Essentially, there are two shipping modes: by sea and by air. Additionally, you have two methods for how your items are shipped: directly or collectively.

If you purchase just one item, you can opt to have it shipped directly to you, either by sea or by air.

However, if you’ve ordered multiple items from different sellers on Taobao, you can choose the collective shipping option, again, either by air or by sea.

In collective shipping, each seller sends your product to a dedicated warehouse. Once all your items have arrived at the warehouse (which can take about 3-7 days), Taobao can then package them together and ship them to you or your designated address.

No matter which shipping mode you choose, Taobao provides comprehensive updates about your order’s journey. These updates include:

• The status of the product on the seller’s side (acceptance, processing, and dispatching)
• The status of the product in transit (location and intermittent stops en route to the warehouse)
• The status of the product in the warehouse (arrival, processing, and packaging for shipment)
• The status of the product during shipping (departure from the port, arrival at the destination port, and arrival at the destination warehouse)
• The status of last-mile delivery to your address

Deals at Lower Prices

If you’re a savvy online shopper, you’re probably familiar with various strategies to purchase items at reduced prices.

For example, on Amazon, waiting for sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday can lead to significant savings. Similarly, hunting for coupons or discount codes on other sites can also lower the cost of your purchases.

Similarly, Taobao offers numerous ways to shop smarter and save money. To start, you might come across shop vouchers. Additionally, Taobao has a system of coins that can directly be converted into discount cash.

There are several ways to earn these coins, including:

• Reviewing a purchased product
• Claiming coins after making a purchase
• Participating in in-house Taobao games

Beyond that, some shops on Taobao also offer discounts to returning customers, encouraging shoppers to come back for more deals.

Final Thoughts

Taobao is like a huge online shopping place, almost like Amazon but in China, with tons of different things you can buy for really good prices.

You can find almost anything you want there, often cheaper than other places. But it’s not always the cheapest for everything, especially items not made in China. Taobao also makes it easy to keep track of your orders with detailed shipping info, and there are lots of ways to save money like with shop vouchers or coins you can earn.

Whether you’re used to shopping online or new to it, Taobao is worth checking out for deals and a wide selection of products.

The post The Taobao Shopping Experience: An Insider’s Guide appeared first on Hongkiat.

Well, couple of reasons really.

Firstly, it’s genuinely enjoyable and useful to know. Secondly, using command lines allows for automation. You can duplicate commands, compile them into a script, and run it to batch capture screenshots of predetermined websites or URLs.

To take a screenshot on your Mac using the command line, here’s how to do it. Start by opening the Terminal app (duh!)

Next, you’ll need to adjust the following command to specify two key things:

1. your screenshot’s saved location and its filename, and
2. the URL of the website you want to capture.

/Applications/Google\ Chrome.app/Contents/MacOS/Google\ Chrome \
  --headless \
  --screenshot=/path/to/screenshot/image.png \
  https://www.domain.com

Let’s walk through an example. If you want to capture a screenshot of apple.com, name it "apple.jpg", and save it to a folder named "screenshots", this is how your command would look:

/Applications/Google\ Chrome.app/Contents/MacOS/Google\ Chrome \
  --headless \
  --screenshot=/screenshots/apple.png \
  https://www.apple.com

And this is what the screenshot will look like:

If you wish to customize the screenshot’s dimensions, you can do so by adding the following parameter:

--window-size=WIDTH,HEIGHT 

For instance, to capture a screenshot of apple.com at a resolution of 450×800, your command should be formatted as follows:

/Applications/Google\ Chrome.app/Contents/MacOS/Google\ Chrome \
  --headless \
  --window-size=450,800 \
  --screenshot=/screenshots/apple.png \
  https://apple.com

And here’s the resulting image:

The post How to Capture Website’s Screenshot Using Command Line appeared first on Hongkiat.

I’ve been using this app for a variety of print and cut craft projects for some time now. It’s actually the only app that lets you communicate directly with your Cricut machine, which is pretty cool. Overall, it’s a great tool, but I can’t help feeling that it’s missing a few bells and whistles—some of which are quite crucial. Here are my thoughts on the features or functions that are noticeably absent from the app and really should be included.

Turning off Cricut Access prompts

Cricut Access is a subscription service that, for about $10 a month, offers exclusive access to thousands of images, projects, and fonts. If you haven’t subscribed to it, every time you open the app, it prompts you to consider subscribing.

You can dismiss the prompt by clicking the X button, but it pops up again every time you launch the app.

Additionally, it appears in the sidebar and a few other spots within the app.

I find this quite irritating because it keeps showing up after you launch the app, even if you’ve previously clicked the X to dismiss it. It would be really helpful if Cricut could include a feature that remembers our preference to not see this subscription prompt repeatedly.

Enabling Users to Delete Pattern Fills

Within the sidebar’s upload feature, you have the option to upload your own artwork for use in print and cut projects. Cricut allows you to upload your artwork either as an image for your designs or as a pattern fill to be used as a background or texture in your designs.

If you upload artwork as an image, you can find it under Images > Uploaded. From there, you can organize your images into folders or delete them if necessary.

However, when it comes to artwork uploaded as a Pattern Fill, there’s currently no option to delete them. So, for those who frequently upload artwork for Pattern Fill, you might find your Design Space getting cluttered with old pattern fills that you no longer need or want.

It would be incredibly useful if Cricut introduced the ability to delete unwanted pattern fills to keep our design space tidy and organized.

Bulk Deletion for Uploaded Items

When it comes to deleting uploaded items and keeping the Design Space tidy, as of now, Cricut Design Space lacks the ability to let users delete uploaded images in bulk. Currently, deleting images is a bit of a hassle.

To delete an image, you first need to click on the specific image you want to remove. Then, on the next page, click the three-dot menu and select delete.

Now, imagine wanting to delete 20-50 images that you’ve already uploaded.

This process can be quite time-consuming and inconvenient for users who frequently update their design libraries or need to clear out space. Introducing a bulk delete option would significantly streamline the process, making it much easier and faster for users to manage their uploaded content and keep their Design Space organized and efficient.

The post 3 Features Cricut Design Space Desperately Needs appeared first on Hongkiat.

Well, it’s time to break the mold! There are tons of stylish, sleek, and unique laptop sleeves and bags out there, just waiting to be discovered. And the best part? One of them is bound to be the perfect fit for your laptop. So, if you’re ready to distinguish yourself from the crowd with something more ‘you’, we’ve got something special for you.

Here are 30 of the coolest laptop sleeves and bags you can buy. Whether you’re looking for something sleek and professional, quirky and colorful, or practical and durable, our list has it all. Get ready to give your laptop a fresh new look that screams your style!

tomtoc Recycled Laptop Sleeve

$29.99

Protect your MacBook and the planet with the tomtoc Recycled Laptop Sleeve. This military-grade protector uses recycled materials and features CornerArmor Technology for superior safety. Its sleek design, spill-resistant fabric, and high-quality YKK zippers offer both style and durability. With additional pockets for accessories and compatibility with various laptop models, it’s an award-winning choice for the environmentally conscious user.

Get from Amazon

DOMISO 17″ Multi-Functional Laptop Sleeve

$23.99

The DOMISO Multi-Functional Laptop Sleeve is the ultimate companion for larger laptops. Its unique USB charging port sets it apart, allowing on-the-go charging. The product’s flexible carrying options and ample storage space make it a practical choice. The 5-layer protection system, including a water-resistant exterior, ensures your device stays safe from everyday wear and tear.

Get from Amazon

Comfyable Laptop Sleeve

$16.99

Tailor-made for the 13-inch M1 M2 MacBook Pro and Mac Air M1 M2, the Comfyable Laptop Sleeve offers a snug, protective fit. Its minimalist design and fine felt lining ensure your MacBook stays safe and stylish. The sleeve’s flat design also allows it to double as a protective pad, enhancing its utility and safeguarding your device.

Get from Amazon

Durable Business Computer Carrying Bag

$15.99

This versatile, water-resistant sleeve is perfect for the professional on the go. It offers comprehensive protection with its soft flannelette lining and anti-collision rubber strips. Its slim design, extra storage pockets, and convertible handle make it a practical choice for daily use, fitting a variety of 13-14 inch laptops.

Get from Amazon

Simpolor Laptop Sleeve

$26.00

The Simpolor Laptop Sleeve is a testament to elegance and functionality. Compatible with a variety of laptops, it’s crafted from luxurious PU leather and velvet, offering a premium feel. This sleeve is more than just a protective case; it’s a sophisticated accessory with dual-pocket organization and a mouse pad feature. Perfect for professional or educational settings, it slips easily into a backpack, keeping your essentials organized and protected.

Get from Amazon

BUILT NY Neoprene Laptop Sleeve

$21.00

Experience ultimate protection with the BUILT NY Neoprene Laptop Sleeve. Made from wetsuit-grade neoprene, it’s designed to safeguard your iPad, MacBook, or other 12-inch devices. Its plush interior lining adds an extra layer of care, while the slim design ensures easy portability. Washable and durable, this sleeve is the ideal choice for those seeking a simple yet effective way to protect their gadgets.

Get from Amazon

Belkin Air Protect Laptop Case

$34.00

The Belkin Air Protect Laptop Case offers superior protection in a sleek package. Designed for Mac, PC, or Chromebook users, this robust case is perfect for daily commutes and travel. Its always on design provides easy access while maintaining ventilation. Durable and suited for business or education use, it’s a compact solution for those who need reliable protection on the go.

Get from Amazon

SOYAN Laptop Sleeve

$15.00

The SOYAN Laptop Sleeve is specifically designed for the 16-inch MacBook Pro M1 Pro/Max & M2 Pro/Max, offering a sleek, practical accessory for laptop protection. Made from high-quality microfiber-leather, this durable and easy-to-clean sleeve is perfect for travel or on-the-go use. Its slim design and surface that doubles as a mouse pad make it a stylish and convenient choice for MacBook users.

Get from Amazon

Nordace Siena Pro 17 Backpack

$129.00

With a sleek, contoured design, the Nordace Siena Pro 17″ Backpack enhances the classic Siena Classic with more storage and functionality. It’s a stylish travel companion that organizes your essentials in strategically placed pockets and compartments. This backpack is perfect for those who need a sophisticated and practical solution for their travel needs, blending space, style, and efficiency.

Get from Nordance

W.F.A Sleeve for MacBook

$49.99

The W.F.A Sleeve for MacBook combines style with protection. Crafted from 100% recycled polyester, this sleeve features a hard-wearing exterior and padded interior for your MacBook. It’s eco-friendly, with water-repellent coating and refined accents made from sustainable materials. Compatible with MacBook Air 13, MacBook Pro 13, and MacBook Pro 14, it’s an elegant choice for tech protection.

Get from Native Union

Moft Laptop Carry Sleeve

$59.99

Moft Laptop Carry Sleeve is a stylish and versatile choice for your laptop, doubling as an invisible stand with adjustable height. Made from vegan leather and reinforced with fiberglass, it fits devices up to 14.2H x 9.8W. The sleeve accommodates your essentials and comes in two sizes, blending functionality with a sleek design for everyday use.

Get from Moft

Radtech Neocase

$29.95

The RadTech NeoCase offers minimalist, effective notebook protection without added bulk. Made from water-repellant neoprene, it’s designed for security and accessibility with retractable handles and high-quality zippers. Ideal for any situation, this lightweight sleeve is perfect for use alone or within a larger bag.

Get from Radtech

Bellory Via Workpack

$159.00

Bellory Via Workpack is a versatile bag for modern commuters, easily converting from a backpack to a tote. It features a padded laptop sleeve, ultra-wide zip opening, and organized storage solutions, including a bottle sleeve. With soft handles, padded straps, and water-resistant zippers, it’s a comfortable, durable choice for everyday travel.

Get from Bellroy

Hybrid Laptop Sleeve

$79.90

Hybrid Laptop Sleeve is more than just protection for your laptop; it transforms into a desk mat. Its magnetic, zip-free design is perfect for on-the-go use, doubling as a mouse pad area. Made from premium vegan leather and recycled fabric, it’s a stylish, practical solution for creating a workspace anywhere.

Get from Orbit Key

W.F.A Everyday Backpack

$149.99

The W.F.A Everyday Backpack, made from 100% recycled polyester, is perfect for daily use. With a 20L capacity, it features a padded laptop sleeve, interior pockets, and a hidden tracker pocket. Comfortable to wear, it’s designed with water-resistant finishing and reinforced seams, making it a durable and eco-conscious choice.

Get from Native Union

Nomadgoods Leather Sleeve

$200.00

The Nomadgoods Leather Sleeve, tailored for the MacBook Pro 16-inch 2019 model, offers stylish protection. Made from quality Horween leather, it develops a unique patina over time. Featuring a magnetic closure and EVA shell, it’s a durable accessory that adds character to your MacBook.

Get from Nomad

Casetify Custom Macbook Sleeve

$69.00

Elevate your MacBook’s style with the Casetify Custom MacBook Sleeve. This accessory isn’t just a treat for the eyes with its iridescent and black options; it’s a canvas for your creativity. Personalize it with your name, initials, or a catchy slogan in vibrant colors and fonts. But this sleeve isn’t all about aesthetics. Its high-quality, waterproof material ensures your laptop stays safe from spills and bad weather. Its sleek, lightweight design makes it a practical yet chic companion for your on-the-go lifestyle, easily slipping into your handbag.

Get from Casetify

Stow Slim For Macbook

$79.00

For the eco-conscious MacBook user, the Stow Slim for MacBook is a game-changer. This premium sleeve, priced at $79.99, stands out with a magnetic closure for easy access and an exterior pocket for essentials. Crafted from 100% recycled canvas, it demonstrates that style and sustainability can go hand-in-hand. It’s perfect for those who appreciate practicality without compromising their environmental values.

Get from Native Union

Nomad Leather Sleeve

$70.00

The Nomad Leather Sleeve combines rugged elegance with practicality. Designed for daily use, it offers robust protection with its high-density EVA shell. Made from USA-sourced Horween leather, this sleeve ages beautifully, developing a unique patina over time. The strong magnetic closure and reinforced stitching keep your MacBook secure, while the EVA interior cushions it against impacts. Its standout feature? A USB-C port access for charging convenience.

Get from Nomad

Satechi Water-resistant Laptop Case

$24.99

At just $24.99, the Satechi Water-resistant Laptop Case is a blend of affordability and protection. Available for both 13-inch and 15-inch laptops, this case features water-resistant nylon fabric, ensuring your device stays safe from moisture. The fully-padded interior provides an added layer of safety against drops and scratches, making it an ideal choice for those seeking reliable protection on a budget.

Get from Satechi

Moft Carry Sleeve

$59.00

The Moft Carry Sleeve redefines versatility in laptop sleeves. Not just a holder, it features an invisible stand with adjustable height for ergonomic working. Its vegan leather and fiberglass construction offer durability with a touch of sophistication. Available in two sizes, it caters to a range of laptops, including the 13.6 M2 MacBook Air and the 16 MacBook Pro. It’s a stylish, eco-friendly, and practical solution for daily use.

Get from Moft

MOSISO Laptop Sleeve

$16.99

The MOSISO Laptop Sleeve is the epitome of style meets functionality. Made from durable polyester fabric, it features extra storage pockets and internal bubble foam padding for ultimate protection. Its versatile design allows it to function as both a laptop briefcase and a sleeve, making it a great choice for those who need a stylish yet functional laptop protector.

Get from Amazon

Hyfant Laptop Sleeve

$22.99

Discover the multifunctionality of the Hyfant Laptop Sleeve. Crafted from premium synthetic leather with a soft microfiber interior, it goes beyond mere protection against scratches and stains. Uniquely doubling as a laptop stand and a portable mouse pad, its adjustable foldable stand enhances comfort and aids cooling. Slim and lightweight with a secure magnetic closure, it’s an ideal companion for school, work, or travel. Tailored for those who value a light, thin, and soft case, it’s the epitome of elegance and functionality.

Get from Amazon

Allinside Laptop Sleeve

$15.99

The Allinside Laptop Sleeve offers tailored protection for your MacBook Air and Pro models from 2016 to 2020. With its precise fit, even when your MacBook is in a case, it’s a perfect blend of practicality and elegance. Crafted from water-resistant synthetic leather with a soft lining, it shields against everyday hazards like water and dust. Lightweight and slim, it’s easy to carry or slip into a bag. Doubling as a mouse pad and featuring an invisible magnetic closure, this sleeve is a must-have for stylish MacBook users.

Get from Amazon

Funky Planet Laptop Sleeve

$14.99

Make a style statement with the Funky Planet Laptop Sleeve. This neoprene case is more than just a fashion accessory; it’s designed to protect your laptop from daily wear and tear. With dimensions suitable for larger laptops, it combines optimal protection with a personal touch. Its easy-to-clean surface and zip fastening make it a practical choice for both kids and adults. Choose Funky Planet for a sleeve that’s as reliable as it is fashionable.

Get from Amazon

Bellroy Laptop Sleeve

$55.00

The Bellroy Laptop Sleeve is the epitome of minimalist elegance. Protecting laptops or iPads up to 16 inches, it’s the perfect lightweight solution without compromising on protection. Its magnetic bumper entry and quilted microfiber lining ensure secure and gentle care for your device. Made from recycled woven fabric, it’s a testament to sustainable design. With a 3-year warranty, it’s a refined choice for those who value eco-friendly tech accessories.

Get from Bellroy

Society6 Retro 70s Laptop Sleeve

$43.00

Step back in time with the Society6 Retro 70s Laptop Sleeve. Its durable woven polyester exterior and soft microfiber lining provide the perfect combination of durability and gentle care. Available in two sizes to suit different laptops, it features a large, reliable YKK zipper for easy access. The vibrant Retro 70s Color Palette III design adds a unique touch, making it a top choice for those who love retro charm with modern functionality.

Get from Society6

Kensington K62911US Reversible Sleeve

$6.00

The Kensington K62911US Reversible Sleeve is a versatile choice for your 7 to 9-inch netbooks. Crafted from stretchable neoprene, it ensures a secure fit for your device. The reversible design allows you to switch between black or gray, suiting your style preference. It’s an ideal accessory for netbook users who prioritize functionality and style in a compact design.

Get from Amazon

Cassette Tape Tote Bag

$27.00

The Cassette Tape Tote Bag combines retro charm with modern functionality. Its velvet and canvas construction provides excellent protection for your laptop, with additional pockets for accessories. This versatile bag can be used as a shoulder bag or briefcase, featuring a nostalgic cassette tape design for a unique fashion statement.

Get from Amazon

Targus Intellect Essentials Backpack

$30.00

The Targus Intellect Essentials Backpack is a blend of convenience and comfort. Featuring a side-loading laptop compartment and an air mesh back panel, it’s designed for ease of use and comfort in warmer conditions. Its durable, water-resistant material and practical design make it a top choice for professionals and students needing a functional, stylish backpack.

Get from Amazon

The post 30 Best Laptop Sleeves and Bags to Buy (2024) appeared first on Hongkiat.

In this guide, we unveil a diverse range of iPad stands, each handpicked for its exceptional design, durability, and ease of use. From minimalist and sleek stands that cater to the style-conscious to heavy-duty options designed for rigorous use, our selection spans across the needs of every iPad owner. Whether you’re looking for a travel-friendly stand or a permanent addition to your workspace, these top iPad stands promise to elevate your iPad experience.

Find the perfect match for your device and lifestyle with our comprehensive rundown.

BookBook Case

$79.99

The BookBook case by Twelve South brings a touch of elegance to your iPad. This handmade leather case offers a typing angle, display stand, and hardback covers for ultimate style and protection.

Get from Twelve South

Viozon iPad Stand

$34.98

Opt for the Viozon iPad Stand for its robust aluminum design, adjustable angles, and sleek silver finish. It’s compatible with various tablets and perfect for ergonomic viewing in multiple settings.

Get from Amazon

Lamicall Stand

$19.99

Choose the Lamicall iPad Stand for its versatility. Compatible with 4-13 inch tablets, it offers multi-angle adjustment, sturdy construction, and is lightweight yet strong for various viewing needs.

Get from Amazon

Stump Tablet Stand

$24.95

The Stump Stand’s universal compatibility makes it ideal for smartphones, e-readers, and most tablets. It offers multiple viewing positions, portability, a secure grip, and comes in various colors.

Get from Amazon

Leather iPad Folio

$98.00

Embrace sophistication with the Leather Folio, a slim, full-grain leather case specifically crafted for the iPad. This eco-friendly case enhances your iPad’s look without adding bulk and features an automatic wake/sleep function for effortless use. Its flexible design is ideal for comfortable viewing angles, whether you’re reading or using FaceTime. The interior’s microfiber lining protects your device, and the magnetic features offer secure, hassle-free handling. Its Apple Pencil compatibility makes it an optimal choice for both protection and style.

Get from Nomad

Ugreen Stand

$9.99

Ugreen Tablet Stand is perfect for 4 to 11-inch devices. Its foldable, portable design, multi-angle adjustment, and sturdy construction with silicone pads ensure your device’s protection.

Get from Amazon

Balance Folio Case

$39.99

The Balance Folio case, slim yet durable, provides excellent protection for 9.7-inch iPads. Enjoy up to 4 feet drop resistance, scratch-guard lining, and an adjustable stand with automatic sleep/wake functionality.

Get from Speck Products

Zagg Rugged Keyboard

$129.99

Transform your iPad into a productivity powerhouse with the Zagg Rugged Book. This case comes with a detachable keyboard, 6.6 feet drop protection, and multiple viewing angles for your comfort.

Get from Zaagg

Moft X Stand

$39.99

The Moft X Invisible Stand is impressively slim and adjustable. Compatible with 9.7 or larger tablets, including iPad Pro models, it features a magnetic attachment for convenient use.

Get from Moft

OMOTON Tablet Stand

$19.99

OMOTON’s Adjustable Tablet Stand, fitting 3.5-12.9 inch devices, offers superior stability, multiple viewing angles, and a convenient charging port design, all in a solid metal build.

Get from Amazon

JOBY GorillaPod Pro

$74.95

JOBY’s GripTight GorillaPod Stand Pro is a premium choice for tablet users. Its versatile tripod, durable build, and adjustable tilt cater to various tablet models for optimal viewing.

Get from Joby

Tablift Stand

$43.99

Tablift Tablet Stand is universally compatible, featuring flexible legs for storage and adjustable slots for different sizes. It fits iPads to Samsung Galaxy tablets, offering convenience and versatility.

Get from Amazon

STM Omni Folio Case

$10.00

The STM Omni Universal Folio Case, suitable for 7 to 10-inch tablets, combines elegance and utility. Its micro-suction technology, dual-purpose screen cover, and microfiber wrapping offer style, protection, and a 1-Year Warranty.

Get from Radtech

Snap Float Case

£49.00

Elevate your iPad experience with the Snap Float Folio, a revolutionary cover designed to bring your screen to eye level. Inspired by origami, this lightweight folio lifts your iPad for comfortable viewing, reducing neck strain during extended use. Its slim profile ensures portability, making it the perfect accessory for on-the-go productivity or entertainment. Experience ergonomic comfort and convenience, wherever you are, with this uniquely designed folio.

Get from Moft

Wooden iPad Stand

$150.00

Discover the perfect blend of elegance and functionality with the Wood iPad Stand. Made from fine American hardwood and stainless steel, this stand is not only sturdy but also adds a touch of sophistication to your space. Its merino wool felt padding ensures your iPad remains scratch-free. The integrated cord management system keeps your workspace tidy, while the stand’s weight and design provide stable support. This accessory is ideal for enhancing your iPad interaction, offering easy access for charging and on-the-go use.

Get from Grove Made

HoverBar Duo Stand

$79.99

Transform how you use your iPad or iPhone with the HoverBar Duo, an adaptable arm stand with a weighted desktop base and an adjustable shelf clamp. Its versatility shines in any setting, from the kitchen to the office. The New QuickSwitch Tab allows for quick transitions between base and clamp, adapting to your needs. Available in Black or Matte White, it blends into any decor and offers endless positioning options. Its second-generation QuickSwitch Tab adds to its convenience, making it a top choice for video calls and presentations.

Get from Twelve South

Magic Keyboard

$299.00

Revolutionize your iPad Pro 11-inch or iPad Air experience with the Magic Keyboard. This accessory features backlit, scissor-mechanism keys for a responsive typing experience, along with a trackpad for enhanced iPadOS interaction. Its unique floating cantilever design allows for magnetic attachment and angle adjustments. The keyboard also doubles as a protective case and includes a USB-C port for pass-through charging. Combining functionality, protection, and innovative design, the Magic Keyboard is a must-have for iPad users.

Get from Apple

Flippy Pillow Stand

$29.99

The Flippy Tablet 4.0 Pillow Stand, in a chic Smokey hue, redefines tablet comfort. Compatible with a range of tablets, it offers three viewing angles for various activities. Its portability is enhanced by a convenient carrying strap, making it an ideal travel companion. The stand also features a storage pocket for essentials and is designed to minimize neck and arm strain. Crafted from durable, lightweight materials, it’s the perfect accessory for comfortable and stylish tablet use.

Get from Amazon

Aluminum Desktop Stand

$44.99

Enhance your iPad experience with the Aluminum Desktop Stand, an accessory designed for optimal functionality. Its adjustable hinges allow for perfect viewing angles in any setting. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum with silicone rubber sides, this stand is durable yet elegant, complementing Apple’s design ethos. It features a rubber pad for secure placement and includes numerous ports for a clutter-free workspace. This stand is the ideal combination of durability, style, and practicality.

Get from Satechi

Compass Pro Stand

$59.99

Meet the Compass Pro Stand, an all-metal folding stand redesigned for the iPad Pro and suitable for all iPad models. This versatile easel supports your iPad in three angles, perfect for a range of activities from display to sketching. Compatible with SideCar, it enhances your creative workflow. The stand features a soft silicone lining to protect your iPad and folds flat for portability. Whether for professional or personal use, this stand offers stability, flexibility, and ease of use, making it an indispensable iPad accessory.

Get from Twelve South

MoKo Smart Case

$13.99

Enhance your iPad experience with the MoKo Smart-shell Case. Its adjustable angles, auto wake/sleep feature, and durable PU leather construction make it a perfect fit for your iPad 9.7 2018/2017.

Get from Amazon

MoKo Duty Case

$15.95

Keep your iPad safe with the MoKo Heavy Duty Case. Designed for the iPad 9.7 2018/2017, it features a rugged dual-layer design, built-in screen protector, and superior shock absorption.

Get from Amazon

The post 22 Best iPad Stands to Buy (2024) appeared first on Hongkiat.

For context, my experience is with the Epson EcoTank L6460 inkjet printer.

What Are Phantom Paper Jams?

Have you ever had your printer stop working, claiming there’s a paper jam when you can’t see any paper stuck at all? This is known as a phantom paper jam.

It’s really annoying because it stops all your printing but looks like there’s nothing wrong. Sometimes, the culprit can be tiny bits of paper or other small stuff hiding inside your printer. A good look inside, maybe with the help of a flashlight, can sometimes fix the problem.

How to Clear Paper Jams from the Rear Cover

Follow these steps to remove any jammed paper from the rear of your printer:

1. Press the buttons to release the rear cover and then take it off your printer.



2. Gently remove any jammed paper you find inside.



3. Don’t forget to check the duplexer for jams as well.



4. Open the duplexer cover, carefully remove any stuck paper, and then close it back up.



5. Finally, reattach the rear cover to your printer.

If you’ve checked everywhere and still can’t find anything, like what happened to me, the issue might be with the printer’s paper sensor. When this happens, it’s probably time to take your printer to a service center so the experts can have a look.

Maintaining Your Printer

To make sure your printer stays in tip-top shape, here are some easy-to-follow tips:

• Use plain paper of at least 80 GSM. Avoid paper with punched holes, crumpled sheets, or sticky media to prevent jams.
• Keep the rear paper support tray away from the wall to avoid interference.
• Extend the front tray properly so documents lay flat, reducing jam risks.
• At the end of the day, remove paper from the tray and store it flat to prevent curling.
• Perform a nozzle check weekly to ensure ink flow and prevent clogs across all colors: black, cyan, magenta, and yellow.

To print a nozzle check (procedure varies by brand and model):

• For Epson users, install the printer driver on your PC. Then, navigate through Control Panel > Devices and Printers > right-click on your printer > select Printing Preferences > Maintenance > Nozzle Check.
• If the nozzle check prints with missing colors, lines, or breaks, it indicates compromised print quality. Proceed to perform a head cleaning by selecting Maintenance > Head Cleaning and follow the on-screen instructions.
• If the nozzle check is clear, no further cleaning is needed.

Epson Printers with LCD Panels

For printers with an LCD panel, choose Maintenance > Nozzle Check directly.

Epson Mobile Apps

Using mobile apps (Epson iPrint (iOS / Android) or Epson Smart Panel (iOS, Android), connect your printer, tap on your printer model, then go to Maintenance > Nozzle Check.

If you encounter problems you can’t resolve, contacting support is always the best course of action. Hopefully, these tips will help you maintain your printer’s performance and avoid those pesky paper jams!

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