Feature

Last weekend was a scorcher; and as someone who relishes tropical climates and often wonders why she hasn’t yet moved to one, I ate it up. But on Sunday night, as I was enjoying a glass of wine and a new book on my balcony, something tragic happened–the sun set. You might wonder why that’s tragic, but when you live in an apartment that has a small balcony that isn’t equipped with an electrical outlet, sunset means no light, and no light means no outdoor reading. So for those of you who, like me, have a small outdoor space, here are some patio lighting options that will ensure you can remain outside until you say it’s time to go in; or at least until you finish the chapter you’re reading!

I’m not sure about you, but rice is a staple in my diet. It’s ridiculously versatile, can be dressed up or down to complement or become a meal, and is relatively low calorie as far as starches are concerned. The problem is that cooking rice—real rice, not the “nuke-in-the-bag-pseudo-rice”—can take a bit of time. And let’s be honest, time can be a luxury; especially when you’re a parent with kids in school, or a student yourself. When I think back to my university days, I have vivid memories of being so busy that the very prospect of cooking dinner made me sweat with anxiety.  

Smart devices, connected homes, embedded connected sensors, mobile devices and computers are all coming together in the Internet of Things (IoT). This massive network is constantly connected, constantly exchanging information and if it isn’t already, your home will soon be part of it. Your PC is a part of the IoT—both as a connected device itself and as an interface to other devices—and your Wi-Fi router is a critical, but often overlooked component. In this part of our Internet of Things series, I take a look at the role your computer plays and especially the importance of that Wi-Fi router.

The phrase “starving student” doesn’t just refer to not having the money to eat, although that’s not a stretch when you consider the high cost of tuition, books, and living accommodations when you’re going away to school. Some students go hungry just because they aren’t quite sure how to quickly whip up a meal in their dorm room or first apartment. 

At the end of July, Microsoft will launch its brand new operating system called Windows 10. For many users still hanging on tightly to Windows 7 or XP—or who got stuck with the critically and consumer-panned Windows 8—it’s a free upgrade … but is it worth it? We take a look at the new operating system’s biggest improvements.

July 29. That’s the date circled on many PC owners’ calendars; the day that Windows 10 will finally launch—at least for PCs and laptops. The Start Menu is back, but this latest version of Microsoft’s operating system is a lot more than simply getting a much missed feature back. Millions of Windows Insiders have been putting the software through its paces for months and in only a few weeks, it can be powering your PC. If you aren’t already excited about July 29, I’ve put together a list of the coolest things to look forward to in the new Windows 10. That should help get you in the mood.

If you’ve been reading the Best Buy Plug-In Blog for a while now, you’ll probably be familiar with TUMI. They do a lot of stylish, well-made, super functional luggage pieces … but this fall, they’re coming out with a collection that’ll change the way you look at TUMI for good.

Drones are quickly becoming one of the best all-purpose gadgets out there. Read on to find out about more of some of the best accessories for your drones.

If you enjoy flying remote controlled drones and pursue this activity purely for the pleasure and relaxation it brings you, then you probably won’t object to being called a drone hobbyist. And why not?? After all, drones can be a great deal of fun, and they also provide an optimal level of challenge to master, making them all the more enjoyable. So, if the term drone hobbyist describes you, then come along for a brief overview of 3 drones that are perfectly suited to your interest level. These drones are fun, affordable, and they pose enough of a challenge to hold the attention of even the most hard core of drone enthusiasts!

The world of photography has exploded upwards, into the air, with the advent of high-quality drones built to shoot premium pictures and pristine video. As a professional photographer there are a few key features you’re going to look for. Here’s a breakdown of a few that may help you make the choice on which drone is right for you.