Tech
Some of Amazons early Prime Day Apple deals are already add-to-cart worthy
Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)
(save $79.01)
Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS + cellular, 42mm)
(save $170)
Apple iPad, 10.9-inch (A14 Bionic, WiFi + cellular, 256GB)
(save $150)
Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)
(save $200)
Apple fans should circle Oct. 7 and 8 on their calendars: That's when Amazon is having its fourth annual Prime Big Deal Days sale. This "October Prime Day" event (an informal Black Friday kickoff) typically prompts record-low prices on AirPods, Apple Watches, iPads, and MacBooks, marking one of the absolute best times of year to upgrade any older Apple gadgets that just aren't cutting it.
This year, Prime Big Deal Days comes hot on the heels of Apple's "Awe Dropping" launch of new iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods. I doubt the new iPhone 17 series or iPhone Air will go on sale once the event starts, but I'm pretty confident we'll see some initial discounts on the new Apple Watch Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3, as well as the updated AirPods Pro 3.
At the time of publication in early October, the Series 11 was already $10 off (normally $399, now $389). I'd personally wait to see if it dips even lower, but if you're jonesing to have it right away post-release, this is a fine excuse to add it to your cart. An even better pre-Prime Day Apple Watch deal stars its predecessor, the Series 10, which is a whopping $170 off if you opt for cellular connectivity. That blows past its previous all-time low price.
Two other Apple gadgets that I'd go ahead and buy now without hesitation are the 10th-generation iPad with 256GB of storage and cellular connectivity, and the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air with 512GB of storage. Amazon currently has on sale for record lows of $499 and $1,199, respectively. I can't see them getting much cheaper once Prime Big Deal Days begin. (Happy to be proven wrong, though!)
If you're in the market for new AirPods, the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 are already seeing steep discounts. While neither has dropped to its best price on record, we don't see prices this low on either option very often. You could hold off until the shopping event starts, but there's no guarantee they'll get any cheaper.
Below, I've rounded up over two dozen of the best early October Prime Day Apple deals. I'll continue to monitor prices and flag record lows (marked with a 🔥) in the lead-up to the sale, so check back often.
Best AirPods deal
Opens in a new window
Why we like them
The second-generation AirPods Pro offer top-tier sound quality, excellent noise cancellation, and a battery life of about seven hours per charge. They're our current favorite earbuds for Apple users, though that may soon change once we finish testing the newer AirPods Pro 3, which have a different design and five swappable ear tips (up from three), even better active noise cancellation, Live Translation, and extra health features. They're a pretty significant upgrade on paper, but if price is your biggest concern, the AirPods Pro 2 are $79 cheaper. While this isn't the cheapest they've ever been, it's still a hefty discount compared to its usual $199 sale price.
Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C).
More AirPods deals
-
Apple AirPods 4 — $89.99 $129 (save $39.01)
-
Apple AirPods 4 with ANC — $139.99 $179 (save $39.01)
-
Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) — $519 $549 (save $30)
Best Apple Watch deal
Opens in a new window
Why we like it
While the Apple Watch Series 10 is virtually identical to its successor in terms of features and design, its battery life is worse. That's not ideal if you plan to regularly use tracking tools like Sleep Score, which get less accurate in Low Power Mode, but it's an easy sacrifice at a price like this. The rose gold Series 10 with cellular connectivity and a light blush sport band is now just $329 — a 34% savings and a new all-time low. Before this month, it never dipped below $370.
This deal is so good, I almost think it might be a fluke on Amazon's part (either that or an inventory-clearing clearance discount). The non-cellular version is on sale for the exact same price there.
Read Mashable's full review of the Apple Watch Series 10.
More Apple Watch deals
-
Apple Watch SE, 2nd Gen (GPS, 40mm) — $179 $249 (save $70)
-
Apple Watch SE, 2nd Gen (GPS, 44mm) — $199 $279 (save $80)
-
Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) — $329 $399 (save $70)
-
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) — $389 $399 (save $10) 🔥
Best iPad deal
Opens in a new window
Why we like it
If you care more about storage capacity and cellular connectivity than processing power, this is a stellar deal on a 256GB 10th-gen iPad from late 2022. (It's a carbon copy of the 11th-gen model from early 2025, just with an older A14 Bionic chipset.) It usually retails for $649, but Amazon's dropped the silver variant down to a record-low price of $449 in the lead-up to Prime Big Deal Days. The other colors are either sold out or only available from a third-party seller.
More iPad deals
-
Apple iPad, 11-inch (A16, WiFi, 128GB) — $299 $349 (save $50)
-
Apple iPad, 11-inch (A16, WiFi + cellular, 128GB) — $449 $499 (save $50)
-
Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, WiFi, 128GB) — $399 $499 (save $100)
-
Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi, 128GB) — $449 $599 (save $150) 🔥
-
Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M3, WiFi, 128GB) — $649 $799 (save $50) 🔥
-
Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 256GB) — $899 $999 (save $100
-
Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 256GB) — $1,099.99 $1,299 (save $199.01 with on-page coupon)
Best MacBook deal
Opens in a new window
Why we like it
The latest MacBook Air is an absolute powerhouse, outperforming 89% of the laptops in our current testing database (many of which cost significantly more). Compared to the previous-gen M3 model, it offers a 24% speed boost along with an improved 12MP Center Stage camera and added open-lid support for two external displays. The 15-inch model with 512GB of storage (twice that of the base model) is on sale for $1,199 ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, or $200 off. It's currently the only MacBook that's sitting at an all-time low.
Read Mashable's full review of the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air (M4).
More MacBook deals
-
Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $897 $999 (save $102)
-
Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB, 512GB SSD) — $999 $1,199 (save $200)
-
Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,399 $1,599 (save $200)
-
Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch (M4 Pro, 24GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $2,249 $2,499 (save $250)
-
Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M4 Max, 36GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,869 $3,199 (save $330)
-
Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch (M4 Max, 36GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $3,099 $3,499 (save $400)
After a very busy fall, we finally have the new lineup of smartwatches from Apple, Samsung, and Google. And so whether you're team Apple or team Android, you have excellent choices for your wrist. Now that we've tested the major new releases, we're ready to name the best smartwatches of 2025. We have good news: As long as you stick to the flagship smartwatches from these three brands, you really can't go wrong.
Apple Watch SE 3
Apple Watch Series 11
Google Pixel Watch 4
Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro
Apple Watch Ultra 2
(save $150)
Fitbit Charge 6
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8
(save $20)
The smartwatch market is getting very crowded, and that's good news
In just the past few months, Samsung, Google, and Apple all released new flagship smartwatches. On top of that, the Venn diagram of the best smartwatches and the best fitness trackers is fast becoming an almost perfect circle. While brands like Garmin and Fitbit are more tailored to athletes than everyday use, the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra lines are packed with fitness-focused features. And don't forget, you can also opt for smart rings and sleep trackers for true 24/7 health tracking.
There's also a huge range in price. Recently released smartwatches include the relatively affordable Apple Watch SE 3 ($239.99 ) all the way up to the ultra-pricey Garmin Fenix 8 Pro ($1,199.99 to $1,999.99). However, you don't have to spend very much to get a kick-ass smartwatch. In fact, even if your budget caps out at $100, you still have good options. Case in point: The ChatGPT-connected Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro, priced at $99 but often available for $79.
Which wearables deserve a spot on your wrist? We're ready to render a verdict, and let's just say we have strong feelings and a couple of picks that might surprise you.
Yes, we chose not to include the new Apple Watch Ultra 3 (for now). Yes, we think the $99 Nothing Watch is a smarter buy than the new Galaxy Watch 8 (which we also love). No, we really don't think we can recommend the $1,999.99 microLED Garmin smartwatch, no matter how cool it is.
The best smartwatch for most people: Apple Watch SE 3
Credit: Apple
We're still in the process of testing the Apple Watch SE 3, but it's an Apple Watch — you know what you're getting. And here's the truth about the SE series: You get 98 percent of what you need from an Apple Watch or fitness tracker, and at a much better price. Unfortunately, you do take a hit on battery life. With 18 hours (versus 24 hours in the Series 11), you can't really call this an all-day smartwatch. And while you also miss out on blood oxygen monitoring, is that really crucial to the average user? We don't think so.
Add to that the fact that the SE 3 is the first Apple Watch SE to include an always-on display, and you have to wonder why you'd buy the Series 11 in the first place. In addition to its gorgeous OLED display, it has the same S10 chip inside the Ultra 3, the same water resistance as the Series 11, and all the necessary features you're looking for in a smartwatch — all for $150 less than the Series 11.
Opens in a new window
The best Apple upgrade: Apple Watch Series 11
Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable
OK, so you really, really do want all-day battery life? Then you really do need to upgrade to the $399 Apple Watch Series 11. As Mashable's Stan Schroeder said in his review, it takes everything we loved about the Apple Watch Series 10 and adds a new processor and longer battery life. To be honest, there's not a lot to say beyond that. Apple can once again monitor your blood oxygen (after a legal dispute took away the feature), and now offers hypertension notifications as well.
Read our full review of the Apple Watch Series 11.
Opens in a new window
The best Android watch: Google Pixel Watch 4
Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable
The Google Pixel Watch 4 looks really similar to the Pixel Watch 3 at first glance, but look more closely, and you'll notice a slightly more domed Actua display. It's a subtle change, but we think it makes the new smartwatch look absolutely gorgeous. We don't hate the "squircle" design of the Galaxy Watch 8 like some folks, but after comparing it to the Pixel Watch 4, let's just say Google takes this round.
We were also impressed by its feature set. Mashable senior reporter Christianna Silva is currently training for the New York City Marathon (and simultaneously testing 10+ smartwatches in the process), and they said the Pixel Watch 4 is a true runner's watch. That means it's elegant enough to wear to the office, but comfortable and smart enough to monitor workouts.
With a modern feel and a brighter display than the Pixel Watch 3, it's our current top choice as the best Android smartwatch.
Read our full review of the Pixel Watch 4.
The Budget Pick: Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro
Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable
Mashable readers have been going a bit gaga for this smartwatch ever since it was announced in July. And after testing it out for ourselves, we get it. We'll have an in-depth review of this budget smartwatch coming soon, but our reviewer had this to say: "I'm shocked by how awesome it is for the price." If you're looking for the best smartwatch under $100, nothing else comes close.
The British brand Nothing is known for its unique designs, which somehow look both retro and futuristic at the same time. CMF is the brand's budget line (which will soon be spinning off into its own company), but this doesn't perform like most cheap smartwatches. First of all, it offers direct ChatGPT integration, which even the Apple Watch can't do. Samsung and Google are eager to make you use their own AI tools, but if you prefer ChatGPT (and we know you probably do), then you'll love this watch.
Key specs include an extra-long battery life (Nothing promises 13 days), blood oxygen monitoring, stress tracking, and precise heart-rate monitoring and location tracking. For a smartwatch that often goes on sale for $79, that's frankly hard to believe.
Opens in a new window
The Dark Horse Pick: Apple Watch Ultra 2
Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable
Wait… the Ultra 2? Yes, the Ultra 2, not the latest flagship Ultra 3. Hear us out…
First, so long as you upgrade to the new watchOS 26, you can enjoy almost all of the new features that come with the pricier Apple Watch Ultra 3 (priced at $799, or $779.99 at Amazon). Plus, you can now pick up the past-gen Ultra 2 on sale for just $649, a big difference over the new version.
Look, if you're the type of person who always wants the newest Apple gadget, spend more on the new model, which does have some upgrades. The display is a teensy bit better, as is the battery life. But honestly? That's about it. The new Ultra arrived with the most iterative possible improvements. At the time, our resident Apple reviewer called it "a very minor upgrade." So, for our money, we're going with the Ultra 2, which has a killer OLED display, 36 to 72 hours of battery, and 3,000 nits of brightness.
Read our review of the Apple Watch Ultra 2.
Opens in a new window
The best budget fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6
Credit: Dylan Haas / Mashable
The Fitbit Charge 6 is… fine. We included this popular Fitbit in our guide to the best fitness trackers of 2025 for a reason. For the average, casual athlete, it does a fine job of tracking your steps, heart rate, and activity.
Once upon a time, Fitbit was synonymous with fitness trackers. But to be honest, the brand has been slacking. The most recent Fitbits aren't as comfortable as you'd expect, especially for long workouts, and they can't compete with Apple, Garmin, or Pixel watches in the features department. For instance, it's lacking features like an altimeter, but on the plus side, we are big fans of the Fitbit app. So much so that some of our reviewers buy a different smartwatch but still use the Fitbit app to track workouts.
So, our verdict on the Fitbit Charge 6 is simply this: if you must.
The Best Samsung Smartwatch: Galaxy Watch 8
Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable
Let's be clear: The new Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is a fantastic and smart wearable, especially if you use Gemini. It's a Mashable Choice product for a reason. It has a well-rounded feature set that offers everything you need in a smartwatch, fitness tracker, and sleep tracker. And we like the signature squircle design more than most people. It also benefits from Samsung's on-point design and technology.
While it was narrowly edged out by the Pixel Watch 4, we think you'll be happy with this watch, especially if you're already in the Samsung product ecosystem. It has a bright display, great software, and smart health features, including a new Sleep Coach. It also integrates Gemini in some clever ways. Our reviewer's only real complaint was the battery life, which is fine, but not great.
Read our full review of the Galaxy Watch 8.
Opens in a new window
TL;DR: Get a lifetime subscription to the AdGuard Family Plan for just $15.97 with code FAMPLAN (MSRP $169.99) through 11:59 p.m. PT on Oct. 12 and protect 9 devices from ads, trackers, and online threats.
Tired of dodging pop-ups, dealing with slow-loading websites, and feeling like your every move online might be tracked? You’re not alone. The internet should be a safe, smooth, and private space. The AdGuard Family Plan can help you smooth things out, digitally speaking.
For just $15.97 with promo code FAMPLAN, you’ll get lifetime protection for up to nine devices. Whether it’s your phone, tablet, or laptop, AdGuard blocks intrusive ads, prevents trackers from snooping on your data, and shields your family from possible malicious websites.
Ads aren’t just annoying; they slow down your browsing, eat up your data, and sometimes even carry malware. And if you’ve got kids online, you want to make sure they’re safe from inappropriate content. The AdGuard Family Plan does all that and more. With built-in parental controls, you can filter out harmful sites and ensure your family’s online experience is both secure and enjoyable.
With up to 9 devices covered, the AdGuard Family Plan is ideal for households where everyone’s connected. And because it’s a one-time payment for lifetime access, you’ll never have to worry about recurring fees or annoying subscription renewals.
So, whether you’re protecting your own devices or your whole family’s, AdGuard makes it easy to have a more peaceful online experience. Say goodbye to annoying ads and hello to a safer, faster internet.
Don’t miss the opportunity to save on a lifetime of AdGuard Family Plan protection while it’s just $15.97 (MSRP $169.99) with code FAMPLAN through Oct. 12 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window
TL;DR: Learn piano for life with Skoove Premium Piano Lessons, only $109.97 (MSRP $299.99) while you can.
These days, you don’t need a classroom or a strict schedule to learn piano. Skoove Premium Piano Lessons lets you learn on your own terms, right from the comfort of your own home. All you need is the Skoove app, a keyboard, and a phone, tablet, or laptop.
Currently, you can secure a lifetime subscription to Skoove Premium Piano Lessons for just $109.97 (MSRP $299.99).
Piano lessons that work around your schedule
If you’ve ever wanted to pick up an instrument, Skoove Premium Piano Lessons lets you fit it into your busy schedule. There are no specific times or appointments to make — just grab your keyboard, open the app, and start playing. It’s ready to school total newbies and skilled pianists alike.
Over one million people are taking advantage of Skoove’s flexibility. There are more than 400 lessons and thousands of instructional videos in the app, and thanks to the power of AI, Skoove can listen to your playing and recognize your notes. It provides real-time feedback, and if you have any issues, there are music instructors available for more guidance.
You get to learn piano using music you actually like — from pop songs by Adele to classical tunes from Beethoven. And monthly updates ensure you never run out of fresh music to play.
Keep improving your piano skills for life with this lifetime subscription to Skoove Premium Piano Lessons for just $109.97 (MSRP $299.99).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window
The 7 best smartwatches of 2025 include some surprises
Taylor Swift’s ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ Smashes Multiple U.K. Chart Records, Earns Biggest Opening Week Since 2017
WATCH: Trump’s Name Receives MASSIVE Cheers and Applause During Witkoff Speech in Tel Aviv, Israel After Negotiating Historic Peace Deal – Netanyahu Gets Booed
New Kid and Family Movies in 2025: Calendar of Release Dates (Updating)
Brooklyn Mirage Has Been Quietly Co-Managed by Hedge Fund Manager Axar Capital Amid Reopening Drama
The best sexting apps in 2025
-
Entertainment7 months agoNew Kid and Family Movies in 2025: Calendar of Release Dates (Updating)
-
Entertainment4 months agoBrooklyn Mirage Has Been Quietly Co-Managed by Hedge Fund Manager Axar Capital Amid Reopening Drama
-
Tech7 months ago
The best sexting apps in 2025
-
Entertainment6 months agoKid and Family TV Shows in 2025: New Series & Season Premiere Dates (Updating)
-
Tech8 months agoEvery potential TikTok buyer we know about
-
Tech8 months ago
iOS 18.4 developer beta released — heres what you can expect
-
Tech8 months agoAre You an RSSMasher?
-
Politics8 months agoDOGE-ing toward the best Department of Defense ever