Product reviews

Chomp SMS

$79

4/5

Backed by 2 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Chomp SMS is like a comfy favorite hoodie—it just works. The main drawback they noted: Something like Chomp SMS or another alternative with a web browser version might be preferable if you need something that works across all of your devices.

Chomp SMS is like a comfy favorite hoodie—it just works.

It has a passcode app lock, scheduled messaging (great for birthdays), and a "stop sending" button for when you hit send and immediately regret it.

Something like Chomp SMS or another alternative with a web browser version might be preferable if you need something that works across all of your devices.

It’s still running on older SMS/MMS protocols, though.

From Google Messages Replacement · Aug 12, 2026

Samsung Messages

Samsung

$79

3.5/5

Backed by 5 credible sources. What reviewers liked: here's the open-source alternative I'm replacing it with Turns out the best replacement wasn’t the obvious one. The main drawback they noted: Of course, it's not a perfect replacement for Samsung Messages.

here's the open-source alternative I'm replacing it with Turns out the best replacement wasn’t the obvious one.

Having used it for about a week, it feels like the next best thing to Samsung Messages.

If you want the best text message app for Android, then these options offer speedy, modern, and feature-packed text messaging.

Of course, it's not a perfect replacement for Samsung Messages.

you'll still be able to send messages using the app until then, except for emergency services or contacts.

From Google Messages Replacement · Aug 12, 2026

Textra SMS

$79

3.5/5

Backed by 4 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Textra SMS reminded me why Android customization used to be great Close The first thing that stood out after installing Textra SMS was how much control it gave me over the experience. The main drawback they noted: Textra SMS does not support RCS, which can lead to issues with group messages for users expecting RCS functionality.

Textra SMS reminded me why Android customization used to be great Close The first thing that stood out after installing Textra SMS was how much control it gave me over the experience.

Google Play Store Textra SMS A long-time favorite, Textra is a clean-looking SMS app loaded with plenty of features for hardcore users.

Highly customizable interface (themes, colors, emojis), supports scheduled messages and quick replies.

Textra SMS does not support RCS, which can lead to issues with group messages for users expecting RCS functionality.

Has no full RCS support

From Google Messages Replacement · Aug 12, 2026

Handcent Next SMS

$79

3.5/5

Backed by 2 credible sources. What reviewers liked: far, I am liking Handcent Next SMS Messenger the best. ... The main drawback they noted: The Handcent Next SMS app has received some criticism for requesting as many as 118 permissions from the devices it's installed on, though.

far, I am liking Handcent Next SMS Messenger the best. ...

Offers extensive customization, AI features, cloud backup, MMS Plus, privacy features, and smooth texting.

The Handcent Next SMS app has received some criticism for requesting as many as 118 permissions from the devices it's installed on, though.

This, coupled with a focus on AI feature integration, may be a worthy cause for concern if you feel like AI is frying your brain and compromising your privacy.

From Google Messages Replacement · Aug 12, 2026

Pulse SMS

$79

3.5/5

Backed by 2 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Pulse SMS (Best for Cross-Device Sync) Pulse SMS is a versatile text message app for Android that focuses on syncing your messages across multiple devices like phones, tablets, and web browsers. The main drawback they noted: not as seamless as Pulse SMS or MightyText.

Pulse SMS (Best for Cross-Device Sync) Pulse SMS is a versatile text message app for Android that focuses on syncing your messages across multiple devices like phones, tablets, and web browsers.

Pulse SMS still holds a solid 3.6-star rating on the Google Play store.

After disabling RCS, it's a good idea to restart the Pulse SMS app

not as seamless as Pulse SMS or MightyText.

Users are advised to disable RCS if experiencing delivery issues with Pulse SMS.

From Google Messages Replacement · Aug 12, 2026

Samsung Messages

Samsung

$79

3.5/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: The "One UI" design is great because it puts all the buttons at the bottom of the screen where your thumb can actually reach them. The main drawback they noted: you'll still be able to send messages using the app until then, except for emergency services or contacts.

The "One UI" design is great because it puts all the buttons at the bottom of the screen where your thumb can actually reach them.

you'll still be able to send messages using the app until then, except for emergency services or contacts.

it's not a perfect replacement for Samsung Messages.

From Google Messages Replacement · Aug 12, 2026

Shark CryoGlow Face Mask

Shark

$350

4.5/5

Backed by 2 credible sources. What reviewers liked: If budget is top of mind, a full-face mask with under-eye coverage is best. The main drawback they noted: Anyone who wants a multipurpose device or full face coverage.

If budget is top of mind, a full-face mask with under-eye coverage is best.

If you choose the Shark CryoGlow face mask, I think these patches are a great complement to the cold therapy the mask delivers.

The round brush bristles are extra long and sturdy, so they grab on to my thick, wavy strands with ease.

Anyone who wants a multipurpose device or full face coverage.

From Red Light Therapy Facial Mask · Aug 20, 2026

Shark CryoGlow Under-Eye Cooling+LED

Shark

$350

4/5

Backed by 10 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Our Picks Best red light therapy face mask Shark CryoGlow $349 at Amazon Bottom Line Why we chose it: The Shark CryoGlow is the only LED face mask cleared by the FDA that combines red light therapy with cryotherapy. The main drawback they noted: The Fan Is Noticeably Loud At first, I tried using the Shark CryoGlow

Our Picks Best red light therapy face mask Shark CryoGlow $349 at Amazon Bottom Line Why we chose it: The Shark CryoGlow is the only LED face mask cleared by the FDA that combines red light therapy with cryotherapy.

✨ The Shark CryoGlow™ LED Face Mask is the perfect way to relax

giving your skin a little extra love.

The Fan Is Noticeably Loud At first, I tried using the Shark CryoGlow

unless I wanted to blast the volume loud enough for my neighbors to complain, it wasn’t happening.

From Red Light Therapy Facial Mask · Aug 20, 2026

Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask

Shark

$350

4/5

Backed by 6 credible sources. What reviewers liked: It’s recommended to follow one program daily for eight weeks, switching to the four-minute Skin Sustain program afterward to maintain the best results. The main drawback they noted: not very portable for travel Battery life could be better What is the Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask?

It’s recommended to follow one program daily for eight weeks, switching to the four-minute Skin Sustain program afterward to maintain the best results.

Prevention.com (Mar 2026) review of Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask highlights its unique features, intuitive design, and surprisingly affordable price compared to similar models.

You might have seen a wave of people on social media channeling their best Hannibal Lecter

not very portable for travel Battery life could be better What is the Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask?

From Red Light Therapy Facial Mask · Aug 20, 2026

Omnilux Contour Face

$349.99

4/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: Powerful Powerful Omnilux Contour Face is the most powerful flexible LED device on the market today. No specific criticism surfaced in the sources we read — not proof none exists, so check recent reviews before buying.

Powerful Powerful Omnilux Contour Face is the most powerful flexible LED device on the market today.

One of the things I love most about the Omnilux Contour Face is that it's lightweight, flexible and easy to travel with.

[Dec 19, 2025 the Omnilux Contour Face mask is perfect for the jet-set crowd.

From Red Light Therapy Facial Mask · Aug 20, 2026

Shark CryoGlow Mask

Shark

$350

3.5/5

Backed by 5 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Once you place the mask over your head, you can adjust the straps for the most comfortable fit. The main drawback they noted: A less expensive acne version is also available

Once you place the mask over your head, you can adjust the straps for the most comfortable fit.

My skin close up after using the Shark CryoGlow mask (Image credit: Tom's Guide) I can typically get through a week's worth of treatments before needing to recharge the CryoGlow.

A less expensive acne version is also available

though it only has 35 LEDs

From Red Light Therapy Facial Mask · Aug 20, 2026

LightStim for Wrinkles

$350

3.5/5

Backed by 4 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Dennis Gross Best Handheld LED Device LightStim LightStim for Wrinkles Jump to review $249 Lightstim Jump To AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron How I Test LED Devices What Am I Testing Next? No specific criticism surfaced in the sources we read — not proof none exists, so check recent reviews before buying.

Dennis Gross Best Handheld LED Device LightStim LightStim for Wrinkles Jump to review $249 Lightstim Jump To AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron How I Test LED Devices What Am I Testing Next?

[Nov 26, 2025 “LightStim for Wrinkles is a favorite of many patients and I like it as a spot treatment because you can use it in key areas of concern,” he says.

From Red Light Therapy Facial Mask · Aug 20, 2026

Shark CryoGlow Mask

Shark

$350

3.5/5

Backed by 2 credible sources. What reviewers liked: the CurrentBody LED Face Mask Series 2 only offers red light, it features three wavelengths: red (633 nanometers), near-infrared (830 nanometers), and the standout deep near-infrared (1,072 nanometers). The main drawback they noted: A less expensive acne version is also available, though it only has 35 LEDs.

the CurrentBody LED Face Mask Series 2 only offers red light, it features three wavelengths: red (633 nanometers), near-infrared (830 nanometers), and the standout deep near-infrared (1,072 nanometers).

A less expensive acne version is also available, though it only has 35 LEDs.

From Red Light Therapy Facial Mask · Aug 20, 2026

From What Smart Bulb Brands Currently Meet All of These Strict Criteria? Offers Matching Bulbs in Both A19/E26 and E12 Form Factors. Full RGB + Tunable White with 90+ CRI (must Have Dedicated Warm/cool White Emitters). Uses Matter or Zigbee Protocols. Fully Compatible with Home Assistant. Released in 2024 or Later. Priced Under $30 Per Bulb. · Jun 25, 2026

TP-Link Tapo Multicolor Smart Bulb

TP-Link

$24

4/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: The Linkind Matter Smart Light Bulb is a versatile LED that offers good color quality, fun effects, and compatibility with the most popular home automation platforms. No specific criticism surfaced in the sources we read — not proof none exists, so check recent reviews before buying.

The Linkind Matter Smart Light Bulb is a versatile LED that offers good color quality, fun effects, and compatibility with the most popular home automation platforms.

The TP-Link Tapo L535E is an ultra-bright, Matter-ready smart bulb that delivers rich colors, tunable whites, and seamless integration with Alexa, HomeKit, Google, and SmartThings.

[Feb 10, 2024 Let's compare “Matter” smart bulbs from Nanoleaf, TP-Link Tapo, Sengled and Wiz to see one you would be a good addition to your Apple smart ...

From What Smart Bulb Brands Currently Meet All of These Strict Criteria? Offers Matching Bulbs in Both A19/E26 and E12 Form Factors. Full RGB + Tunable White with 90+ CRI (must Have Dedicated Warm/cool White Emitters). Uses Matter or Zigbee Protocols. Fully Compatible with Home Assistant. Released in 2024 or Later. Priced Under $30 Per Bulb. · Jun 25, 2026

Philips Hue White Ambiance

Philips Hue

$31.97

3.5/5

Backed by 3 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Best smart light reviews Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance The main drawback they noted: Smart light strips are notoriously prone to failure, particularly the cheap ones.

Best smart light reviews Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance

Wyze also now offers an excellent BR30 color smart bulb .

Nest Philips Hue smart bulbs are pricey, their reliable connectivity, customizable light options, and ease of use.

Smart light strips are notoriously prone to failure, particularly the cheap ones.

Hue products are also much more expensive than the competition.

From What Smart Bulb Brands Currently Meet All of These Strict Criteria? Offers Matching Bulbs in Both A19/E26 and E12 Form Factors. Full RGB + Tunable White with 90+ CRI (must Have Dedicated Warm/cool White Emitters). Uses Matter or Zigbee Protocols. Fully Compatible with Home Assistant. Released in 2024 or Later. Priced Under $30 Per Bulb. · Jun 25, 2026

Philips Dimmable A19 Smart

Philips

$31.97

3.5/5

Backed by 2 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Best Smart Light Bulb without a Hub 3. No specific criticism surfaced in the sources we read — not proof none exists, so check recent reviews before buying.

Best Smart Light Bulb without a Hub 3.

[Jul 24, 2025 Smart A19 LED light bulb offers more brightness through its powerful 1000 lumens.

The Philips Dimmable A19 Smart Wi-Fi Wiz light bulb is an affordable, hub-free LED you can control from your phone that offers plenty of options for customization and third-party connectivity.

From What Smart Bulb Brands Currently Meet All of These Strict Criteria? Offers Matching Bulbs in Both A19/E26 and E12 Form Factors. Full RGB + Tunable White with 90+ CRI (must Have Dedicated Warm/cool White Emitters). Uses Matter or Zigbee Protocols. Fully Compatible with Home Assistant. Released in 2024 or Later. Priced Under $30 Per Bulb. · Jun 25, 2026

Wyze Bulb

Wyze

$24

3.5/5

Backed by 2 credible sources. What reviewers liked: [Sep 5, 2025 BEST SMART: Wyze 800 Lumen 90+ CRI Smart LED Light Bulb. The main drawback they noted: the Wyze Bulb Color doesn't support Matter, which means it's a no-go for Apple HomeKit users, and the Wyze lighting ecosystem can't match Philips Hue's.

[Sep 5, 2025 BEST SMART: Wyze 800 Lumen 90+ CRI Smart LED Light Bulb.

the Wyze Bulb Color doesn't support Matter, which means it's a no-go for Apple HomeKit users, and the Wyze lighting ecosystem can't match Philips Hue's.

Wyze Labs can't match Philips Hue in terms of the breadth of its smart lighting ecosystem

From What Smart Bulb Brands Currently Meet All of These Strict Criteria? Offers Matching Bulbs in Both A19/E26 and E12 Form Factors. Full RGB + Tunable White with 90+ CRI (must Have Dedicated Warm/cool White Emitters). Uses Matter or Zigbee Protocols. Fully Compatible with Home Assistant. Released in 2024 or Later. Priced Under $30 Per Bulb. · Jun 25, 2026

LIFX Everyday Smart Light

LIFX

$34.99

3.5/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: $26.26 for a 2-pack Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Amazon Prime Day is Today! No specific criticism surfaced in the sources we read — not proof none exists, so check recent reviews before buying.

$26.26 for a 2-pack Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Amazon Prime Day is Today!

From What Smart Bulb Brands Currently Meet All of These Strict Criteria? Offers Matching Bulbs in Both A19/E26 and E12 Form Factors. Full RGB + Tunable White with 90+ CRI (must Have Dedicated Warm/cool White Emitters). Uses Matter or Zigbee Protocols. Fully Compatible with Home Assistant. Released in 2024 or Later. Priced Under $30 Per Bulb. · Jun 25, 2026

Ikea Kajplats Zigbee

Ikea

3.5/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: IKEA KAJPLATS Review - Probably the best budget Matter and .... No specific criticism surfaced in the sources we read — not proof none exists, so check recent reviews before buying.

IKEA KAJPLATS Review - Probably the best budget Matter and ....

TurboTax

$85

4/5

Backed by 8 credible sources. What reviewers liked: Who it’s best for: TurboTax’s Expert Assist and Expert Full Service packages are great for freelancers, gig workers and self-employed filers who want to simplify the filing process. The main drawback they noted: CNET found TurboTax's constant nudges to upgrade to pricier tiers annoying and disruptive [expert-domain .

Who it’s best for: TurboTax’s Expert Assist and Expert Full Service packages are great for freelancers, gig workers and self-employed filers who want to simplify the filing process.

Best tax services for the self employed: TurboTax vs.

TurboTax also isn’t great for super budget-conscious filers, as it’s known for dynamic pricing and add-ons. ...

CNET found TurboTax's constant nudges to upgrade to pricier tiers annoying and disruptive [expert-domain .

TurboTax is more expensive than competitors [expert-domain .

From Best Tax Software for Self Employed · Jun 25, 2026

H&R Block

$85

4/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: Our Picks Best Overall & Best Use of AI H&R Block Get H&R Block for as low as $32 with code: Sign Up & Save See at H&R Block 8.4/10 CNET Score CNET Score CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services. The main drawback they noted: H&R Block's paid tiers are considered more expensive than many services [expert-domain .

Our Picks Best Overall & Best Use of AI H&R Block Get H&R Block for as low as $32 with code: Sign Up & Save See at H&R Block 8.4/10 CNET Score CNET Score CNET provides expert, unbiased reviews of products and services.

Who it’s best for: H&R Block is a great choice for freelancers, gig workers and independent contractors who want guidance on how to deduct expenses.

Here are the best services for the job.

H&R Block's paid tiers are considered more expensive than many services [expert-domain .

TurboTax’s Expert Assist tier pricing starts at $59 (significantly less than the $85 for H&R Block’s Self-Employed package pricing), TurboTax tried to charge me $120 or more when I prepared my taxes using several scenari

From Best Tax Software for Self Employed · Jun 25, 2026

TaxAct

$85

4/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: Who it’s best for: TaxAct’s importing tools are limited, so it’s best suited for freelancers and self-employed people who don’t receive lots of 1099-NECs. The main drawback they noted: TaxAct’s importing tools are limited

Who it’s best for: TaxAct’s importing tools are limited, so it’s best suited for freelancers and self-employed people who don’t receive lots of 1099-NECs.

Who shouldn't buy it: If you aren’t comfortable with manually inputting lots of information, TaxAct isn’t a good choice for you.

TaxAct® has easy and affordable tax filing software for you.

TaxAct’s importing tools are limited

Tools for calculating expenses and deductions also rely heavily on manual input.

From Best Tax Software for Self Employed · Jun 25, 2026

FreeTaxUSA

$420

3.5/5

Backed by 1 credible source. What reviewers liked: Profile Badge for the Freetaxusa is the best, you can use Gen IT(Income Tax) software No specific criticism surfaced in the sources we read — not proof none exists, so check recent reviews before buying.

Profile Badge for the Freetaxusa is the best, you can use Gen IT(Income Tax) software

File Deceased Federal Taxes for Free Online & Easy - FreeTaxUSA.

From Best Tax Software for Self Employed · Jun 25, 2026