Samuel Contreras
When Samuel is not writing about networking or 5G at Android Central, he spends most of his time researching computer components and obsessing over what CPU goes into the ultimate Windows 98 computer. It's the Pentium 3.
Latest articles by Samuel Contreras
How to turn off battery optimization on your Samsung Galaxy phone
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Powered up! Keep your apps running regardless of battery usage.
Best GaN chargers 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
GaN on! Compact and portable chargers with plenty of power for fast charging.
Stop wasting money on heat with an epic $70 off this Nest Smart Thermostat during Best Buy's Black Friday sale
By Samuel Contreras published
The deals are heating up Save on energy by switching to a smart thermostat from Google.
Looking for outdoor security cameras? Get 50% off two Blink Outdoor 4 cameras during Black Friday at Amazon
By Samuel Contreras published
Peace of mind for cheap! Upgrade your home security without calling a service thanks to Blink Outdoor 4 cameras that don't need a single wire to be run.
You’re not dreaming, this Streaming Stick 4K from Roku is 40% off
By Samuel Contreras published
Cheap 4K The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a powerful little streaming device with support for 4K video, HDR with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, and even surround sound with wireless speakers.
¡Qué pasa! This Kasa Smart Power strip is an incredible 50% off for Black Friday
By Samuel Contreras published
Under $50! TP-Link Kasa makes some of the best values in smart home tech. This HS300 Smart Power Strip is no different with six individually controlled plugs and three USB ports for charging.
Hey Alexa, louder for the people in the back! The Echo Show 5 is 56% off for Black Friday
By Samuel Contreras published
Whoa! The Amazon Echo Show 5 is is a smart speaker with a 5.5-inch screen so you can stay in control of your smart home without your phone.
The Fire TV Stick 4K just got a record-smashing 50% discount during Amazon's Black Friday sale
By Samuel Contreras published
Fire deal! The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is at its lowest price ever with a 50% price cut thanks to Amazon's Black Friday deals.
How to sell or trade in your Android phone to get the most money
By Samuel Contreras last updated
If you're ready for a new phone but your old one is still hanging in there, you can sell it for cash or put it towards a new device. It's not only good for your wallet, but the environment as well.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (2023) vs. Chromecast with Google TV: Which should you buy?
By Samuel Contreras published
Versus With new features like Live View Picture-in-Picture and Wi-Fi 6, the Fire TV Stick 4K is technically more advanced than Google's Chromecast, but not enough to leave Google's ecosystem.
Which Echo speakers have eero built-in?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
eero on echo Your Echo speaker can improve your Wi-Fi, as long as you have 4th gen or newer.
USB Type-C FAQ — everything you need to know
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Superior connector USB Type-C, or more simply, USB-C, is a rounded and reversible plug for charging and data transfer. Used by most Android phones, USB-C can deliver fast charging and transfer speeds up to 40Gbps.
Goal Zero Sherpa 100 PD Qi review: An expensive yet powerful 100W battery pack
By Samuel Contreras published
Power up! Built like a tank with up to 100W of power
Verizon vs. Mint Mobile: Which is right for you?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Versus Verizon and Mint Mobile offer some of the best cell phone plans today, but picking between the two isn't easy. Both carriers offer excellent service, but the right one for you depends on your needs.
Should you worry about data prioritization on prepaid carriers?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
If you're looking to save with a prepaid carrier, keep in mind that not all data is treated equally. Here is what you need to know about "de-prioritization".
Best Kindle Paperwhite cases 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Protect your virtual library with a stylish case.
Best T-Mobile Cell Phone Plans 2024
By Samuel Contreras last updated
If you want to use the nation's largest 5G network, you have a few plan options to choose from.
How much do Ring camera storage plans cost?
By Jeramy Johnson, Samuel Contreras last updated
Ring's smart security cameras work fine with a free account, but they're made even better with a Ring Protect subscription.
Tello vs. Ultra Mobile: Which low-cost carrier is right for you?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Versus Whether you're looking to build your own plan or save some money buying in bulk, you're guaranteed to find the right plan with one of these MVNOs.
What is Pixel Call Assist?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Feature Save time on calls with Pixel Call Assist.
Nest Wifi Pro Review: Honestly, it’s a bit disappointing
By Samuel Contreras last updated
This is a fast mesh system but I don’t know who it’s supposed to be for.
How to turn your old Samsung phone into a smart home sensor through SmartThings
By Samuel Contreras published
Samsung's Upcycling program turns your old Samsung Galaxy phone into a smart sensor for your home. Here's how to do it!
Mint Mobile vs. Verizon Prepaid: Which is better for you?
By Samuel Contreras last updated
Versus Two carriers that give you discounts for loyalty, but Mint's savings are there on day one.
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