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How a VPN on Your Mac Can Help You Find More Freelance Work

by GeeksModo Staff

Learn how a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on your Mac can help you find more freelance work.

The contemporary world of work is increasingly shifting towards remote and freelance opportunities, thereby making digital tools more critical than ever. One such tool that stands out in this domain is a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN is an essential tool that boosts your online privacy, secures your digital activities, and allows you to bypass geographical restrictions and internet censorship. But how can a VPN help you find more freelance work? In this article, I’ll explain how using a VPN on your Mac can increase your freelance job prospects.

VPN stands for ‘Virtual Private Network’, and it allows you to set up a protected connection even when using public networks. VPNs basically disguise your identity online by encrypting your internet traffic. This is turn makes it much more difficult for anyone to track you online and access your data.

Think of it as using a secret tunnel for your internet traffic, keeping it safe from prying eyes. As a freelancer, setting up a VPN on your Mac will help you access freelancing websites without country bans and IP restrictions. Here’s everything you need to know.

Their secret weapon: A reliable VPN (virtual private network).

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a secure tunnel between two or more devices. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, hiding your IP address and location. This makes it difficult for third-parties to track you online or block your content.
A VPN is especially useful for remote workers and freelancers who often need to access sensitive information or bypass government censorship. A good VPN will keep your data safe and private, even on public Wi-Fi networks.

A VPN is a secure way of accessing freelancing websites without country bans and IP restrictions – a welcome encouragement for any freelancer. Instead of worrying about not being able to browse job listings or send in a proposal, you can focus on crafting attention-grabbing pitches and let your virtual private network take care of the rest.

Examples of Freelancing Websites Restrictions

Several kinds of freelancing websites impose IP restrictions and country bans that vary in nature. Below are some examples.

1. HireWriters

HireWriters is a** freelance writing platform**operated by a company called Moniker Online Services LLC since 2012. It connects freelance writers with clients that need the following services:

  • Blog posting.
  • Rewriting/Proofreading.
  • Ghost Writing
  • Product listings/descriptions
  • Copy Writing
  • Email swipes

However, HireWriters only accept writers from English-speaking countries. It also indicates that its project listings are only accessible to native writers.

Thus, the site has a pretty strict geo-filter for writers, not only manual but also technical. If you try to sign up as a writer from an IP that is not from one of the allowed countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, United Kingdom and the United States) you’ll be automatically denied access.

This can be a setback if you’re a native writer living outside of any of the eligible countries or can match a native writer’s tone, style, and grammar on any given day. Fortunately, you can use a VPN to connect to a server that’s located in any of the eligible countries and make an account on HireWriters.

For example, if you’re based in India, Pakistan, Philippines or an African country, you can connect to a server located in the United States before accessing the site. The connection would also transform your Indian IP address to a US IP address.

2. Upwork

Upwork accepts freelance applicants over the age of 18 from a multitude of countries, but individuals or businesses in a few nations are not eligible to utilize the platform or register for accounts. Additionally, the company says there may be other nations it does not service at the moment. Interested freelancers in these areas will be unable to make an account.

Even if people from these restricted countries manage to register an account – during travel, for instance – Upwork will suspend their account when they log in using an internet service provider from their home country.

Once Upwork suspends an account, it does not allow the holder of that account to work on its platform again ever.

Aside from imposing direct bans on specific countries, Upwork is known to frequently suspend accounts from non-native English countries like Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. While some freelancers do violate Upwork’s policies, many experience platform restrictions and account bans without a genuine reason.

Incredibly, many of these bans and restrictions can be avoided with a virtual private network. Connecting to a VPN server in a native English country should give you access to the full suite of Upwork’s services. Plus, it may also minimize the chances of your account getting suspended just because you’re from a non-native country.

3. Constant Content

Constant Content (CC) is a supplier of high quality prewritten and custom articles. With a roster of 100,000 writers working on projects for as many as 50,000 clients, you may find yourself writing for customers that range from independent bloggers to large corporations like Target.

Founded in 2006 and located in Victoria BC Canada, Constant Content is known as one of the higher paying content mills. But higher pay comes with a price…

They’re also known as having very strict quality standards and being difficult to get hired.

As a Constant Content writer you’ll be able to work on many projects including (but not limited to)…

  • Blog posts
  • Newsletter editorials
  • Articles and Listicles
  • Copywriting and Copyediting projects
  • SEO (search engine optimized) content
  • Press releases
  • White papers
  • Technical reports and tutorials
  • Product descriptions

However, Constant Content mostly accepts freelancers from the US, UK and Europe. Those living in places where English is spoken as a second language, like Southeast Asia, can find it hard (if not impossible) to get approved by Constant Content.

For those interested in finding freelance work on Constant Content, a VPN adds an extra layer of protection by switching their IP address to a native English country’s IP. If you can pass the grammar test, submit noteworthy samples, and get other bits and bobs right, there’s a likely chance that your application would be accepted. Once your application has been accepted you can begin selling your content.

Other Benefits of Virtual Private Network

In addition to offering unrestricted access to freelancing websites, a VPN also goes a long way in protecting your privacy. Reality is, privacy is a big challenge, and your credentials can be easily spoofed when you are using the internet. Anyone from curious people and government organizations, to marketing firms, can easily find your location, address and even bank account number with minimal hassle and you may not know about the theft of our information.

A VPN ensures that any information you transfer of the World Wide Web is encrypted. It does that by hiding your personal computer’s/mobile’s location and IP address. This is particularly crucial when using an insecure or public network to keep anonymous from prying eyes. Furthermore, you also get the ability to send anonymous emails and link to other digital properties without a third-party knowing who posted the link.

It’s possible to get started with a free VPN, but we strongly recommend against. Free-for-all virtual private networks can keep track of and log all your activity – the exact thing they’re meant to offer a safety net against. Worst of all, many of these free applications can sell your data to third parties, with some going as far as to monetizing your sessions (that’s why those ads pop up all the time).

Essentially, industry-leading virtual private networks like ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark are more stable, faster and reliable than their free counterparts. They don’t place limits on the data you’re allowed to use and shield your activity with top-grade encryption. It costs extra, but you get what you pay for. Bypassing restrictions while keeping your privacy intact require a lot of dedication and resources, and reliable VPN providers do just that for a mere $10 or less.

Tag: VPN
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How a VPN Can Boost Your Security and Privacy on Mac

by Moses Johnson

Everything we do now revolves around being online at all times

In today’s digitally connected world, online privacy has become a growing concern for many. As you browse, stream, and interact online, keeping your information and data secure is crucial. One effective solution to protect your online privacy is using a virtual private network (VPN) on your Mac. But how exactly does a VPN work on a Mac, and why do you need one?

The M1-powered 13-inch MacBook Pro.

In this comprehensive guide, we dive into the nuts and bolts of VPNs, exploring how they function, their advantages, and why they’re essential for safeguarding your privacy in the digital age by protecting your Mac.

What is a virtual private network (VPN), and how does it work?

A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between you and the internet. The VPN masks your IP address and location through an encrypted virtual tunnel. This ensures a protected connection that makes your IP address and online activities invisible to everyone.

Your Internet service provider (ISP) gives you a unique number known as an Internet Protocol (IP) address, which allows you to access the Internet. However, your online activities can be traced back to your physical home address using this number. Your ISP can also see everything you do by default, which isn’t great for privacy concerns. A virtual private network (VPN) service stops them from snooping on you. A VPN conceals your home IP address and encrypts your data through a secure tunnel, ensuring that your online activities remain private and inaccessible to third parties. Not even your ISP will know what you’re doing online.

When connected to a VPN, the initial web traffic starts its journey by authenticating your client or device with the remote server location. That data is encrypted based on the security protocol you use, sent to the remote server, and out to the public web. Your actual home IP address is faked or hidden using the new one from the VPN service or provider. Since encrypted data packets are sent between you and the remote VPN server when browsing online, you stay safe and secure no matter what. This entire process is often referred to as VPN tunneling.

Privacy Breaches and Data Leaks: How Mac Users Without VPNs are at Risk

Mac users who do not utilize a VPN are putting their privacy and data at significant risk. Without a VPN, your internet connection is vulnerable to interception by hackers and cybercriminals. Sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card details, and personal documents, can be easily accessed by malicious individuals.

Moreover, without the protection of a VPN, your online activities can be monitored and tracked by various entities, including government agencies and internet service providers. This invasion of privacy can lead to targeted advertising, identity theft, and even blackmail.

By not using a VPN, Mac users are essentially leaving their digital footprint exposed for anyone to exploit. It is crucial to prioritize online security by employing a reliable VPN service that encrypts your data and shields your identity from prying eyes.

The M1-powered MacBook Air in rose gold.

How a VPN Increases Security and Privacy on Your Mac

Evading Government Surveillance and Censorship Using a VPN for Mac

Government surveillance and censorship are growing concerns in today’s digital age. Mac users can benefit greatly from using a VPN to bypass these restrictions, ensuring secure internet browsing.

With a VPN, Mac users can hide their online activities from prying eyes, including government agencies that monitor internet traffic. By encrypting data and routing it through remote servers, a VPN provides an added layer of protection against surveillance.

Moreover, some countries impose strict censorship on internet access or block certain websites and services. With a reliable VPN service on your Mac, you can easily bypass these restrictions, gaining access to blocked content while maintaining your privacy.

Using a VPN not only enhances security but also empowers Mac users to take control of their online experience by evading government surveillance and censorship effectively.

Shielding Your Mac from Cyber Threats: Enhancing Security with a VPN

With the continuous rise of cyber threats, protecting your Mac from potential dangershas become more crucial than ever. Using a VPN for secure internet browsing is one of the best steps you can take to enhance your online security. By encrypting your connection and masking your IP address, a VPN shields your Mac from hackers and other malicious actors.

A VPN also offers an additional layer of protection when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are notorious for their vulnerabilities. With a trusted VPN service, you can browse the web with peace of mind, knowing that your sensitive information is safe from prying eyes.

Investing in a reliable VPN not only safeguards against cyber threats but also preserves your privacy by preventing unwanted tracking and data collection. Don’t compromise on security – make sure to incorporate a VPN into your Mac usage for safer internet browsing.

Protecting Your Online Privacy: Why Mac Users Need a VPN

As a Mac user, your online privacy should be one of your top concerns. In today’s digital age, cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and prevalent than ever before. Hackers can easily intercept your internet connection and gain access to your personal information, including passwords, financial details, and browsing history.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an essential tool that provides an added layer of security for Mac users. By encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address, a VPN ensures that your online activities remain private and protected from prying eyes. Moreover, it prevents advertisers and ISPs from tracking your behavior and selling your datawithout consent.

With the increasing number of cyber attacks targeting Mac users specifically, using a VPN has become vital for safeguarding both your personal information as well as maintaining control over who has access to it.

Safeguarding Personal Information on Public Wi-Fi Networks with a Mac VPN

Public Wi-Fi networks can be incredibly convenient, allowing us to stay connected while we’re on the go. However, they also pose significant risks to our online security and privacy. Hackers often target these networks to steal personal information or intercept sensitive data.

That’s where a VPN for Mac becomes essential. By encrypting your internet connection, a Mac VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the websites you visit. This means that even if someone tries to access your data on a public Wi-Fi network, they won’t be able to decipher it.

With a Mac VPN, you can confidently browse the web, check emails, or use online banking services without worrying about potential threats lurking in public Wi-Fi hotspots. Protecting your personal information has never been easier!

Should you use a free or premium paid VPN service?

That all comes down to what you need and how often you plan to use a VPN with your Mac. Clearly, free VPNs have their downsides. But are there any instances when they’re worth using? The answer is yes, although it depends. If you’re someone who’s never used one of these services before and want to try one out before buying a premium version, then downloading a free VPN isn’t a bad idea. It’ll give you an idea of what VPNs can do.

If you don’t plan on using a VPN often and want it for a specific task, then a free version should be fine. But again, they’ll lack a lot of features and won’t offer the best performance. Overall, paying for a premium version will not only provide more capabilities but will be much safer to use. And many of these services are actually quite cheap, costing as low as $2 per month which is negligible considering the additional privacy features, server selection, and modern VPN security protocols. And many of the well-known VPN services offer excellent multi-year subscription discounts, making it a small price to pay in the long run.

MacBook Air in midnight displaying a wallpaper.  

What can you expect when using a free VPN service?

A lot of the time, free VPNs make money through in-app advertisements. But these are often intrusive, make apps frustrating to use and can even affect device performance. To make things worse, these free services aren’t always legitimate; there have been many instances of malware masquerading as VPN services. So instead of improving online privacy and security, free VPNs can make your Mac less secure.

It’s also worth noting that free VPNs may employ weak or outdated encryption protocols, leaving your data vulnerable to interception and unauthorized access. Premium VPN services however, use advanced encryption standards and industry-standard networking protocols to secure your online communications and data transmission.

Many free VPN services also have various paid options, but that may not always translate to them being trustworthy with your personal data. Depending on the VPN service’s reputation and logging policy, they may collect or misuse your data even if you’re paying for a premium subscription tier. It’s also a good idea to avoid the random free VPN apps that pop up overnight on the Apple App Store. Most of them aren’t designed with your best interest in mind. Their sole purpose is to siphon your data without you ever knowing.

What about premium paid VPN services?

On the other hand, a premium paid VPN service typically offers more unique features than what you get with a free option. With a premium VPN, like ExpressVPN, NordVPN or Surfshark, you can strengthen your defenses through real-time malware defense, ad blockers that stop sneaky tracking practices, and protection from most known malicious websites. Additionally, a premium paid VPN service prioritize your security and employ robust encryption protocols to ensure your online activities remain private. Premium VPN service also operate with a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not monitor, collect, or store your internet traffic.

A premium paid VPN service also tends to have an extensive selection of high-quality servers you can access worldwide. Since there may be times when a server gets bogged down due to high traffic, the more options you have, the better. In this case, your connection speed can suddenly drop and become unstable, so server hopping would be beneficial. You also get more VPN security protocol choices, including Wireguard and other unique implementations. For example, NordVPN has NordLynx, while ExpressVPN offers Lightway. Both protocols are built around the needs of their respective customers.

What are some popular VPN services for Mac?

There are numerous VPN services available for Mac, each with its own set of features and pricing plans. Some popular options include:

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN owns all of its own ‘TrustedServer’ DNS servers, meaning at no point in the chain is your data ever handed over to a third party. Combine that with impenetrable encryption and a rock-solid, fully audited zero-logging policy, and you can feel safe in the fact that your personal info won’t be compromised.

Proton VPN

Proton VPN delivers excellent protection for its users across the board. Fully audited apps, an excellent no-logging policy and full AES-256 encryption alongside more unusual features like Tor over VPN and its rock-solid Secure Core servers make it a good choice for anyone looking for a properly secure Mac VPN.

Surfshark VPN

Surfshark is an affordable, feature-rich Mac VPN with over 3,000 servers in 65 countries. With full support for WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2, industry-standard AES-256 encryption and a few extra features like split tunneling and Double Hop, it’s a complete package. The simple, friendly interface also makes these features easy to either use or ignore, and just like ExpressVPN it’s a great option for first-timers.

NordVPN

NordVPN offers all the basics like powerful encryption and multiple protocols, but it also delivers a few features that aren’t available with rivals ExpressVPN and Surfshark. The unique ‘Onion over VPN’ setting routes your through the Tor network, which sacrifices speed for unrivalled privacy. You’ll also get two kill switches, and a nifty Double VPN feature.

How can you tell if a VPN service is safe and legitimate?

The first thing to look for in a VPN service is its no-logging policy. You need to be sure your information is safe and won’t be mishandled at any point. Some countries or governments may enforce strict data-logging policies, so look further into the company’s no-logging claims. Find the location or country where the VPN is based, then dig a little deeper using your own independent research. The goal is to see if the country they set up shop in requires a data-logging policy.

Aside from verifying their no-logging claims, you’ll want to learn as much about that VPN company or service as possible. For this part, stray away from their official website and explore other details using a search engine. Find out who runs it and how trustworthy they are based on community feedback. You should look up multiple third-party articles and videos to see if they all agree on its legitimacy. You can also check the user-based VPN app reviews on the Apple App Store for a little extra insight.

Can your personal data still be tracked when using a VPN?

This is a complicated question that often has a misleading answer, inadvertently giving the average user a false sense of security. A VPN can encrypt your internet traffic and keep your browsing session private to an extent. However, it won’t protect you from everything. For example, you can still be indirectly tracked by website cookies, ad trackers, and the information you share on social media. And the more online accounts you log in to that are tied to your factual personal details, the higher your chances of having that data getting tracked, sold, or stolen by an unwanted third-party entity.

A reputable and well-designed VPN does what it was meant to do by keeping your internet traffic encrypted. However, it still falls on the user to practice safe online browsing habits for everything a VPN can’t protect you from. We also trust these big tech companies and websites to keep our online accounts and personal information safe from harm. Still, data breaches and ransomware have been on the rise recently, which is beyond our control. Because of that, your private data can sometimes be taken from you without your consent or knowledge, VPN or not.

Overall, a VPN can encrypt your internet traffic and keep your browsing activities hidden from others on the public web to an extent. Your ISP won’t be able to tell what you’re doing either. They can only see that you’re using a VPN. This allows you to browse the web and use internet-connected devices, without being tracked by the unique IP address given to you by your ISP. Just be cautious about what information you put online, which links or websites you visit, and how much of your personal life you share with strangers on social media.

What are some safe online browsing habits you can use with a VPN?

No amount of VPN security can protect you from sharing private details online that can be tied to your personal information. People often overlook this when using a Mac VPN. It’s not a magic bubble that keeps you protected without thinking about your actions. VPN users must still be careful when freely browsing the open web. The VPN companies or services offering a premium subscription won’t always point this out either. You have nothing to worry about here if you combine various safe online browsing habits while using your favorite VPN provider.

So what are some examples of safe online browsing habits you can use in your personal life? For starters, avoid websites that are unencrypted and marked as unsafe. Web browsers are excellent at alerting you to this, but you still have to back out of the site manually. At the same time, don’t fall victim to spam calls, emails, or text messages. If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. Some VPN services have features to identify and protect you from these common scams.

We also want to touch on two-factor authentication (2FA), which can further protect your online security. In this case, you should ensure your VPN account has a strong primary password and that 2FA is enabled. A VPN might be able to encrypt your web traffic. However, your VPN account is still susceptible to being hacked. Once 2FA is active, you’ll enter a random passcode before you or anyone can log in to the account. You should use 2FA for as many online accounts as possible to keep your personal and private information safe.

Is there another reason to use a VPN ona Mac other than security purposes?

Many Mac users likely use a VPN service for its privacy and security features. Still, another popular reason makes them appealing. Most streaming services offer unique content that can’t be viewed if you live outside a specific country. Using a VPN to spoof or fake your personal IP address in order to bypass these geo-restrictions can give you instant access to many of these shows you couldn’t view before. Some Mac users are less concerned about security and more interested in streaming content outside their own country. For them, the added safety features of a VPN would be a welcomed bonus.

It’s worth noting that using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions or access blocked streaming content may violate the terms of service for some websites and streaming services. When you sign up for a service, you agree to follow their terms and conditions, which might forbid VPNs. If you ignore those rules and use a VPN, you could risk getting your account suspended or terminated. So, be smart and cautious with your VPN usage when it comes to streaming!

Potential downsides and risks of using a VPN ona Mac

While VPNs offer many benefits to Mac users, there are also some potential downsides and risks to consider. One concern is that using a VPN can sometimes result in slower internet speeds since your data must travel through the VPN server before reaching its destination. This can be particularly noticeable when using a VPN server located far away from your actual location, so it’s best to choose a location that is closer to your current location.

Another concern is the trustworthiness of the VPN provider. When you use a VPN on your Mac, you are essentially entrusting your data to the VPN company. Some VPN providers may log your data or even sell it to third parties, negating the privacy benefits of using a VPN. To minimize these risks, it’s essential to choose a reputable VPN provider with a strict no-logs policy and strong encryption standards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up a VPN on your Mac: Easy Ways to Strengthen Online Privacy

Setting up a VPN on your Mac is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you can enhance your online privacy and strengthen your security. First, choose a reputable VPN service that meets your needs and offers strong encryption protocols. Next, download the VPN client software provided by the service onto your Mac computer.

Once installed, launch the app and enter your login credentials to connect to the server of your choice. Many VPN services offer servers in various locations worldwide, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.

To ensure maximum security, it’s recommended to enable features like kill switch or automatic connection on startup in case the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. You can also customize other settings according to your preferences.

Remember to regularly update both the VPN client software and macOS for optimal performance and protection. By following these steps, you’ll be able to take full advantage of a secure internet browsing experience on your Mac with peace of mind knowing that your data is protected from prying eyes.

Protecting your Mac with a VPN has never been easier

If you’ve gotten this far, you now know that a VPN is an essential tool to keep your personal information safe while using your Mac. With a VPN, your online activities are private and secure, even from your internet service provider. However, a VPN cannot protect you from everything, like sharing private information online or falling for scams. Always practice safe online browsing habits, like avoiding unencrypted websites, enabling two-factor authentication, and being cautious about what information you share with strangers on social media.

While free VPN services may seem tempting, it’s best to invest in a premium paid VPN service to avoid data caps and get extra features like real-time malware defense and ad blockers. Finally, be sure to research and choose a VPN provider with a no-logging policy and a good reputation to ensure your personal data is safe.

Have you ever used a VPN on your Mac, and if not, what’s holding you back? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Tags: macOS, Security, VPN
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Boost Your Mac’s Internet Speed with a VPN: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Kevin Hollington

Are you tired of sluggish internet speeds on your Mac? Frustrated by endless buffering and slow downloads? Well, we have a game-changing solution for you: a VPN. Yes, you heard it right! A VPN can not only enhance your online security but also turbocharge your Mac’s internet speed. Intrigued? In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of boosting your Mac’s internet speed using a VPN.

An unresponsive process in the Activity Monitor window.  

Understanding the Benefits of Using a VPN to Boost Internet Speed on your Mac

Increasing Internet speed with a VPN on Macis an effective solution that many users are turning to. But what exactly is a VPN and how can it enhance your online experience?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet. It acts as a middleman, routing your internet traffic through its servers before reaching its destination. This not only provides an extra layer of security but also offers several benefits for boosting your Mac’s internet speed.

One of the key advantages of using a VPN is bypassing ISP throttling. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) often limit bandwidth for certain activities like streaming or torrenting, resulting in slower speeds. By connecting to a VPN server, you can mask your online activities and prevent throttling, allowing you to enjoy faster internet speeds.

Additionally, a VPN can optimize your connection by reducing latency and improving network stability. It achieves this by connecting you to servers located closer to your desired website or service, minimizing the distance data has to travel.

By following the steps below, you’ll be able to harness the power of a VPN and increase Internet speed with VPN on Mac.

Step 1: Choosing the Right VPN Provider for Mac Users

If you’re on the hunt for a VPN service, chances are you’ll consider a number of factors, including security strength, features and cost. But if you’re planning to use a VPN for data-heavy activities such as gaming, videoconferencing, streaming or torrenting, a VPN service’s connection speed should be a major consideration as well. Even if your internet speed is fast, it’s typical for most VPNs to cut your speeds in half, which could negatively affect your overall experience online. A fast VPN can help ensure that your games are free of lag, calls are stable, your streams are smooth and downloads are quick.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. Compatibility with Mac: Ensure that the VPN provider offers a dedicated app or software that is compatible with macOS. This will ensure seamless integration and optimal performance on your Mac.

  2. Server Locations: Look for a VPN provider that has a wide range of server locations. The closer the server is to your physical location, the faster your internet speed will be. Additionally, having servers in different regions can help you bypass geo-restrictions and access content from around the world.

  3. Speed and Performance: Check if the VPN provider offers high-speed servers specifically optimized for streaming and downloading. Look for providers that have a reputation for fast and reliable connections.

  4. Security Features: A good VPN should offer robust security features such as encryption protocols, kill switch, and DNS leak protection to ensure your online activities remain private and secure.

  5. Customer Support: Opt for a VPN provider that offers excellent customer support, preferably 24/7 live chat or email support. This will come in handy if you encounter any issues during setup or usage.

Step 2: Installing and Setting Up the VPN Software on Your Mac

Setting up a VPN on your Mac to optimize internet speed is a quick and easy process. First, download and install the VPN client software of your choice on your Mac.

Once installed, launch the app and enter your login credentials to connect to the server of your choice.

Next, go into your VPN settings and look for options related to strengthening or optimizing internet speed. Some VPN providers offer specific features like “acceleration” or “fastest server” options that can help improve performance.

It’s also worth noting that choosing a nearby server location can often result in faster speeds, so check if your VPN client allows you to manually select a server location.

Another key consideration is ensuring that you are not simultaneously running multiple bandwidth-intensive applications while connected through the VPN. This includes things like streaming videos or downloading large files, as they can significantly impact your overall internet speed.

Remember, finding the right balance between security and speed is crucial when using a VPN on your Mac. So take some time to experiment with different configurations until you find what works best for you.

Step 3: Configuring VPN Settings to Optimize Internet Speed

When using a VPN to boost your Mac’s internet speed, it’s important to choose appropriate VPN protocol. In theory, WireGuard and newer, proprietary VPN protocols that more and more providers are offering should offer faster speeds than OpenVPN. You can try one of these protocols to boost your speeds if gaining maximum speed is your primary objective and you’re not getting what you want out of your OpenVPN connection.

It’s also important to connect to the fastest servers available. This will ensure that your online activities are not only secure but also optimized for speed. Here’s how you can connect to the fastest servers with a VPN on your Mac:

  1. Choose a server location close to your physical location: If location is not a concern, you’ll want to connect to the server that’s the closest to your physical location. This will cut down on the physical distance your data has to travel and, in turn, deliver faster speeds.

  2. Select servers with low user load: Connecting to a server that is overloaded with users can result in undesirable speeds. Many VPN apps include information regarding server load, so try to look for a server indicating a light load for optimum speeds.

  3. Use the VPN provider’s speed test feature: Many VPN providers offer built-in speed test features that allow you to check the performance of different servers. Use this feature to identify the fastest servers available and connect to them.

  4. Experiment with different servers: If you’re experiencing slow speeds with one server, don’t hesitate to try connecting to another one. Sometimes, certain servers may be congested or experiencing technical issues, so switching to a different server can help improve your internet speed.

Remember, finding the fastest server for your specific needs may require some trial and error. But by following these steps and experimenting with different servers, you can optimize your Mac’s internet speed while enjoying the benefits of a secure VPN connection.

Step 4: Testing and Monitoring Internet Speed Performance with a VPN

Choosing the Right Speed Testing Tool for Mac

A reliable and accurate speed testing tool will help you to effectively monitor and optimize your internet speed performance with a VPN on your Mac. Here are the key things to consider:

  1. Mac-compatible speed testing tools: Look for speed testing tools that are specifically designed for Mac users. These tools are optimized to provide accurate results on your Mac.

  2. VPN-friendly speed testing tools: Some speed testing tools may not accurately measure the speed when you’re connected to a VPN. It’s important to find a tool that takes into account the VPN connection and provides reliable results.

Measuring Internet Speed Performance with a VPN on Mac

All you need to do to test your own VPN speeds is to use an online speed testing tool like the one provided by Ookla. First, test your base internet speeds with the VPN disengaged and make a note of your non-VPN speeds. Then, connect to a server through your VPN app and run a new speed test and note the speed change. It’s a good idea to run multiple tests both with and without the VPN turned on to get a fuller picture of the VPN’s speed performance.

When using an online speed testing tool, make sure to connect to various servers provided by your chosen VPN provider. By testing different servers and locations, you can identify the fastest ones that offer optimal performance for browsing, streaming, or downloading content.

Analyzing and Interpreting Speed Test Results on Mac

Once you’ve connected to a VPN server on your Mac, it’s important to test and monitor the internet speed performance. This will help you determine if the VPN is indeed boosting your internet speed. There are several key metrics to pay attention to when analyzing the speed test results.

  1. Download Speed: This measures how quickly data can be downloaded from the internet. A higher download speed indicates faster access to websites, streaming platforms, and downloads.

  2. Latency or Ping: Latency refers to the time it takes for data packets to travel between your computer and the VPN server. Lower latency or ping times result in a more responsive experience while browsing or gaming online.

Monitoring and Optimizing Internet Speed with a VPN on Mac

When it comes to monitoring and optimizing internet speed with a VPN on your Mac, make sure that the VPN service you’re using provides features or options for monitoring your connection speed. This can help you identify any potential bottlenecks in your network setup. Additionally, some VPN providers offer server recommendationsbased on their performance and speed capabilities, allowing you to connect to the fastest servers available.

Once connected to a VPN server, you can use various online tools or applications specifically designed for measuring internet speeds. By conducting regular speed tests while connected to different servers, you can determine which ones provide the best performance and choose them accordingly. Remember that factors such as server location and distance from your physical location may also impact overall connection speed.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips for Increasing Internet Speed using a VPN on your Mac

Slow Connection: One common issue when using a VPN to increase internet speed on your Mac is experiencing slow connection speeds. This can be due to various factors such as server distance, network congestion, or even the VPN provider’s infrastructure.

To overcome this issue:

  • Choose a VPN provider that offers optimized servers for faster connections.
  • Connect to servers that are geographically closer to your location.
  • Switch between different server locations to find the one with the best performance.

VPN Compatibility: Another potential issue could be compatibility problems between certain VPN software and macOS versions. This might result in slower speeds or even connectivity issues.

To address this problem:

  • Ensure you have the latest version of both macOS and your chosen VPN software installed.
  • Check if there are any known compatibility issues reported by other users.
  • Contact the VPN provider’s support team for assistance in resolving compatibility-related problems.

Firewall Interference: Sometimes, firewalls or security settings on your Mac can interfere with the functioning of a VPN, leading to diminished internet speeds.

To resolve firewall-related issues:

  • Temporarily disable any third-party firewalls or antivirus software installed on your Mac and check if it improves speed.
  • Adjust firewall settings to allow necessary traffic through while using a VPN.

Overloaded Servers: When connecting via a popular server location, it may become overloaded with users, resulting in reduced speeds.

To tackle server overload issues:

  • Experiment with less popular server locations that may offer better performance due to lower user traffic.
  • Consider upgrading your subscription plan (if available) which provides access to more exclusive servers offering higher bandwidth allocation.

Remember that troubleshooting network-related issues can sometimes involve trial and error. If you encounter persistent problems despite following these tips, consider reaching out to customer support from both Apple and your chosen VPN service provider for further assistance.

Conclusion

Using a VPN to boosting your Mac’s internet speed is a game-changer. By encrypting your internet connection and routing it through secure servers, a VPN can not only protect your online privacy but also optimize your internet speed. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  1. Choose the right VPN provider: Look for a VPN service that offers fast and reliable servers, optimized for streaming and gaming. Consider factors like server locations, bandwidth limitations, and customer support.

  2. Optimize VPN settings: Some VPN providers offer settings that can help improve internet speed. For example, you may be able to switch between different protocols or enable features like split tunneling to prioritize certain traffic.

  3. Connect to the fastest servers: Most VPN apps allow you to connect to servers in different locations. Experiment with different servers to find the ones that offer the best speed and performance for your needs.

  4. Monitor your internet speed: Use online tools or built-in features in your VPN app to regularly test and monitor your internet speed with and without the VPN enabled. This will help you identify issues.

Remember, while a VPN can improve your internet speed by bypassing certain restrictions or reducing network congestion, it may not always guarantee faster speeds in every situation. However, by following these steps and choosing a reliable VPN provider, you can significantly enhance your Mac’s internet performance while enjoying a secure online experience.

Tags: macOS, VPN, Wi-Fi
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7 reasons to use a VPN when streaming on your Mac

by Dave Johnson

Streaming your favorite shows, movies, and music has never been easier, particularly if you’re a Mac user. However, you might sometimes run into geo-restrictions or want to prioritize your online security and privacy. In such cases, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be your savior. This comprehensive guide details the reasons to use a VPN when streaming on a Mac.

MacBook Air in starlight showcasing M2 running multiple applications.  

WHAT IS A VPN?

A VPN (virtual private network) is a tool used to protect your internet traffic and keep your identities private online. As you connect to a secure VPN server, your internet traffic goes through an encrypted tunnel that nobody can see into, including hackers, governments, and your internet service provider.

The VPN servers make it possible to stream your TV services and tap into local stations on your Mac when you’re traveling. Your device’s IP at home is used to let the streaming services know where you are and that you’re allowed to watch local channels.

When you travel out of your viewing area, the IP address changes to the one used by the WiFi network you connect to. Later when you attempt to watch your favorite movies on your Mac, the IP address tells where you are and will result in content being locked down. This is known as geo-locking.

Connecting to a VPN server in your home area gives you an IP address that you can then use to log into your streaming accounts and watch live TV or the latest dropped episodes on your Mac.

A streaming VPN keeps you in the know of the best shows you’re watching now, even if you are traveling for business or pleasure outside of your viewing area. By connecting to a VPN server in the location of your streaming service address, you won’t have to wait to know what happens or have it spoiled before you can watch it yourself. Here are 5 benefits of using VPNs while streaming movies and TV shows on your Mac.

Why use a VPN when streaming on Mac?

Here’s why you need a VPN to safely stream your favorite TV shows and movies from anywhere with your Mac:

1. Watch geo-restricted sites like BBC iPlayer

While some streaming services are available globally, there’s a huge amount that are geographically locked to just one country – such as BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and many more.

Some are free-to-watch while others are paid-for, but if you’re outside of the service’s covered region, the result will always be the same – access blocked. For those on trips abroad, this can be a real pain, especially when you’re paying for a service.

This simplest way to get around this is to virtually change your location by using a VPN.

Just connect to a server in the country where the streaming service is available, then head to the website (or open the app). The site should think that you’re in your country of choice, and you’ll be able to stream whatever you want, wherever you are.

2. Watch Netflix content from other countries

Netflix offers completely different libraries to users in different countries. The reason why Netflix catalogs differ from country to country is simple: copyright law. Movie studios have different contracts in different countries, so it’s possible that one series may be available in one country but not in another.

A Netflix VPN changes where the service thinks you are in the world by spoofing your IP address and encrypting your data. This lets you watch your favorite shows no matter where you are.

To use a Netflix VPN, just connect to a server in the country you want to watch exclusive content from. It’s the same process whether you’re globetrotting, or just trying to watch something from back home when you’re abroad.

In practice, this means if you’re in the US but want to access shows only available on Netflix’s UK or Canadian libraries – or just about anywhere else – you can hop on the appropriate server and gain access to a whole other catalog. The same works in reverse. In the UK and want to get American Netflix? A VPN can do that too!

3. Watch exclusive live events from around the world

While most sports fanatics are looking forward to their favorite games, broadcasters often black out local games. That’s because TV broadcasters buy the rights to stream local games, so you either have to purchase the TV package or go watch the match live.

Luckily, these issues are easy to bypass with a high-quality VPN.

. Depending on what you want to watch, the best streaming VPN should be able to access the streaming sites and services you need, such as MLB.tv, NFL Game Pass, and NBA League Pass.

4. Improve Buffering Issues

Since streaming services are so popular, it’s not unusual for the bandwidth to get overloaded and cause buffering issues. A VPN can help circumvent this, ensuring a smoother viewing experience.

5. Avoid network throttling

Streaming Netflix or using gaming in high definition on a Mac uses up a lot of bandwidth. To keep things moving, ISPs may throttle, or slow internet service in order to allow users to at least keep accessing the sites they need to, even if the experience is slower. In fact, a lot of ISPs have a monetary incentive to throttle specific types of content. And that means that an ISP needs to know what content you are looking at in order to throttle it.

A VPN encrypts all the information that goes between the server and the receiver, and hides it from your ISP. An ISP cannot legally slow all your traffic to all sites, and if it doesn’t know where your traffic is going, it can’t slow any of it.

When using a VPN, the ISP can’t distinguish between HD streaming and simple web browsing. That means you won’t experience throttling, and you can enjoy high-quality, smooth streaming experience on sites such as BitTorrent, YouTube, **Twitch **and Usenet.

6. Stream on restricted networks

Some networks – like schools, offices and Wi-Fi on public transport – limit usage to browsing only. If you want to watch some Netflix or even listen to music on Spotify on your Mac, you may well find any and all apps blocked.

By using a VPN, you can hide your activity from the ISP, and access anything you like, anywhere. We’re not necessarily advocating watching Netflix at work, but with a VPN you’ve certainly got the option…

7. Stay more private when streaming

When streaming online content, your Mac connects to a web server. In the process, it exchanges information that could be intercepted by cybercriminals, your Internet Service Provider (ISP), or even government agencies.

A VPN will provide an encrypted server and hide your IP address from corporations, government agencies and would-be hackers. A VPN will protect your identity even if you are using public or shared Wi-Fi, and your data will be kept private from any prying internet eyes. With a VPN, you get an enhanced level of privacy, letting you stream your favorite shows worry-free.

How to use a VPN for streaming on your Mac

  • The first thing you’ll need to do is sign up to a quality VPN.
  • Make sure you’re signed in to your streaming site of choice. Signing in when connected to a VPN has proven problematic in our testing, so make sure you’re ready to go before you connect. Once you’re signed in, close the tab.
  • Launch your VPN, and connect to your chosen server.
  • Open the streaming site in your browser.
  • Search for your chosen TV show or movie.
  • Enjoy!

What if it doesn’t work?

On rare occasions, even the most reliable VPNs can have issues with accessing streaming content – especially with Netflix. If you find this happening to you, there are a couple of things to try.

First of all, test out a couple of different servers in your chosen location. Some VPNs allow you to select certain cities, while others automatically connect you to the best server. In any case, this ‘turn it off and on again’ approach often remedies any issues.

If you’re still having problems, it’s time to contact your VPN provider. Most of the top VPNs have a live chat feature, so just open that up and get chatting to a member of the team. They should be able to point you in the right direction, and should have up-to-date info on the best servers for each particular streaming service.

If all else fails, most VPNs also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re within that period, you’re well within your rights to request a refund, and try a different VPN.

Final Thoughts On Using A VPN on Mac While Streaming

Being unable to watch the content you want on a streaming service you pay for just because it’s restricted to a certain country is frustrating. Therefore, it’s definitely important to consider using a VPN on your Mac while streaming.

With the right VPN, you can continue to surf the internet on your mac and stream content while remaining anonymous to your ISP without fearing someone may be able to access your private information.

You’ll also be able to make the most out of your streaming experience by gaining access to geo restricted content.

Tags: macOS, VPN
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How to Bypass Geo-blocking on Your Mac With a VPN in 2025

by Dave Johnson

While Mac computers are renowned for their security and privacy features, they’re not immune to geographical restrictions. In this article, I’ll explain how to bypass geographical restrictions on your Mac using a VPN.

The new profiles feature in Safari displayed on MacBook Pro.

Sometimes when you’re trying to watch a video on a streaming service on your Mac, you might find the video isn’t available in your country. This is called geo-blocking and while it can be annoying, there’s a way around it.

Streaming services aren’t the only places you might run into geo-blocked content. A few examples of geo-blocking include online stores restricting sales to certain regions and state governments blocking access to services like WhatsApp or Twitter.

Here’s how geo-blocking works and what you can do to get around these restrictions on your Mac.

What Is Geo-Blocking?

Geo-blocking, or geo-filtering, is the act of denying or limiting access to digital content or services based on their geographic location. Geo-blocking works on all types of content, including streaming services, news sites, online gaming, and retail websites, but it’s most notable for videos. Video-sharing platforms and streaming services, like YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu, use geo-restrictions. They make some of their content inaccessible to users from specific regions.

Companies can apply geo-filters to countries, cities, and even buildings and offices. The degree of filtration can vary from service to service. Some services allow you to browse their content but limit you from viewing it. Others will hide the content entirely in your region.

"Geoblocking restricts access to online content based on the user’s geographical location," said Peter Yu, the director of Texas A&M University’s Center for Law and Property.

You can think of geo-blocking in terms of school districts. If you live within a certain community you can send your child to particular schools and have access to that district’s resources. When online content is geo-blocked, you can access content specific to your "school district" but not others.

How does geo-blocking work?

Your public IP (internet protocol) address makes geo-blocking possible. An IP address is a unique numerical label attached to a device on the internet or a local network. This address makes it possible to send and receive information online — without it, you wouldn’t be able to read this article right now.

Your IP address also holds information about your geographic location because it’s determined by your router, not the device you’re using to browse the internet. For example, if you connect your Mac to your home network, you will have a different IP address than if you connect your Mac to your work network.

You get an IP address as soon as you register with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). With varying levels of accuracy, this IP address can identify your device’s geographic location. Online services use your IP address to decide whether to allow you to view their content. So, if you try to request content from an IP that falls outside the allowed list, they deny your request.

Geo-blocking can also occur even when you pay for a premium service. For example, if you live in the US and pay for a Netflix subscription, you can stream the content as long as you’re within US borders. If you go on vacation or travel to other countries for work, you won’t be able to access the same Netflix library.

How can I bypass geo-blocking on Mac?

The best and most reliable method of bypassing geoblocking on a Mac is by using a VPN. A VPN, like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or CyberGhost can allow you to disguise your IP address to make it look like it’s coming from another country or region.
A VPN redirects your traffic through a server in another region, and your IP address will reflect that server’s location. That also means that you have to choose a VPN server from another region in order to get around geo-blocking.

So if you want to watch a US Netflix show while traveling abroad, you can use a VPN to connect to a US server.

While you might be tempted to use a free VPN to bypass geo-blocks on your Mac, we strongly advise against that. Many free VPNs compromise on performance and usability and limit the amount of data you can use. Some free VPNs are even loaded with malware and sell your personal data.

When using a VPN, make sure it uses advanced security features and encryption protocols to keep your identity anonymous. Make sure it offers critical privacy features such as DNS leak protection, obfuscated servers and a kill switch.

Is Geo-Blocking Legal?

Regardless of how frustrating it can be, geo-blocking is still legal. It’s a way for media companies to enforce legal contracts based on geo-restrictions. It’s common among media companies because the broadcasting rights of TV shows and movies usually vary from country to country. While this is all good, other reasons tempt companies to restrict services based on location.

Is bypassing geo-blocking illegal?

Using a VPN to access geo-blocked content on your Mac isn’t illegal — unless using a VPN is illegal in your country — but it could lead to other ramifications.

Using a VPN to access geo-blocked content on your Mac could violate a streaming service’s user agreement, and your account could be terminated or suspended. You could also face legal trouble if you use a VPN to access content that is illegal in your region.

We advise reading through terms of service before using a VPN with any app, game or other service. Also, remember that illegal activity is still illegal, even if you’re masking your location with a VPN.

Geo-Blocking Is Frustrating, But Easy to Overcome

A VPN is an effective tool to remove geo-blocking on your Mac, offering the added benefits of enhanced privacy and security. So, if you’re looking to access some of your favorite TV shows and movies on your Mac, but can’t get past geographical restrictions, try using a VPN to open up a whole new world of entertainment.

Tags: macOS, VPN
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Will using a VPN protect my Mac from hackers?

by Dave Johnson

While a virtual private network (VPN) is a great way to protect your privacy and security online, it’s not designed to defend you against hackers in all situations. We explain how and when a VPN can help to protect your Mac from hackers.

The Liquid Retina XDR display is shown on 14 Inch MacBook Pro.

Connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in coffee shops, airports, and other public areas, is incredibly risky.

All it takes is one hacker connected on the same network and they can easily spy on all your activity.

In this guide, we’ve put together everything you need to know to use a VPN to protect your Mac from hackers.

What Is A VPN?

VPN stands for ‘virtual private network—a tool that protects your internet connection and privacy online. It does this by creating an encrypted digital tunnel between your computer and the internet, protecting your online identity and hiding your IP address (which is a series of numbers that identifies a device or network).

Another way to understand a VPN is to picture it as an outer packet that ensures your data stays secure inside the packet. This keeps the data safe during transfer.

A VPN also allows you to use public Wifi hotspots safely. It’s a buffer against the nasties of the internet, and you’ll certainly be better off with a VPN on your Mac than without. But will it protect your Mac from hackers?

We explain below the ways a VPN can – and can’t – have your back against hackers, and the different kinds of cyberattacks you can experience when being hacked.

What hackers can a VPN protect your Mac against?

A VPN can quite literally block your IP address from everyone. Governments, hackers, or anyone else spying on you as you navigate the web.

A VPN works by changing your IP address and encrypting your online activity. There are certain forms of hacking, then, that the best VPNs are reliable in protecting you against where hackers require your IP address. These include:

  • Remote hacking: Attempting to gain access to your system through all devices connected to your Wi-Fi, this is done through your IP address. However, when connected to a VPN, your IP address is concealed with all your browsing data instead tied up in another server, leaving you untraceable.
  • Man-in-the-Middle attack: Targeting you at the point before connection, here a hacker goes through the network you’re connected to, circumvents the weak encryption in place, and intercepts your data.
  • DDoS attack: Commonly mentioned when it comes to gaming, a hacker will flood your network in order to slow down and even get you kicked off your network. Once again, the hacker needs your real IP address to do this.

It’s worth noting if for whatever reason a hacker already knows your IP address, a VPN can’t protect you against these kinds of attacks, and you should instead speak to your Internet Service Provider.

What hacking attacks are VPNs less well equipped for?

It’s fair to say hackers can be scarily sophisticated these days – whether targeting Macs or any other internet-connected devices – and a lot of internet safety can come down to common sense and being extra vigilant. This much is true when it comes to malware and phishing, where the fundamentals of a VPN’s IP spoofing abilities don’t offer the same realm of protection. That’s because this comes down to the websites you choose to visit, and avoiding clicking on certain links in dodgy emails, or downloading dangerous files.

That said, a lot of VPN providers go the extra mile to equip users with features that can tackle these safety concerns.

Can a VPN on my Mac protect me against hackers?

Essentially, yes. It does this by creating an encrypted digital tunnel between your Mac and the internet, protecting your online identity and hiding your IP address.

Please Note: while a VPN offer a stronger connection that makes you less susceptible to particular hacking approaches, it’s not a foolproof way to protect your Mac from external dangers infiltrating your device.

The best thing to do to protect yourself is to remain vigilant and avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments from unknown users.

For more complete protection, you should equip your Mac with antivirus and firewalls for more comprehensive protection against online threats.

Make sure you shop around, and be a little wary of free VPNs as they may not be as secure.

Which VPNs Are the Most Secure?

When trying to track down a VPN service to use on your Mac, start by thinking about why you need one in the first place.

For example, if you’re using free Wifi in the cafe a lot, then maybe it’s a good idea. Alternatively, if you work from home and don’t want your browsing history to be trackable, particularly if you work in a sensitive industry, such as banking, accounting or media, then it may be worthwhile.

A VPN also means you don’t have to worry about content restrictions if you’re using your mac to conduct research online, for example.

Also consider whether the VPN is free, or is offered via a subscription service. You should also check if you can contact the provider with any questions. You can read online reviews of VPN online.

Conclusion

So, to wrap things up, does a vpn protect your Mac from hackers? Essentially, yes. A VPN is a great way to keep anyone unwanted from accessing your data.

VPNs offer top-tier encryption protection, making your online activity practically impossible for hackers to observe. It will also keep your real IP address hidden, making it harder to target you in a cyber attack.

Like most elements of the big wide web, VPNs aren’t all built the same, and they are still capable of being hacked.

VPNs protect your privacy online so you cannot be targeted or discriminated against based on location. It is important to note that you can also still be susceptible to phishing scams and being infected by malware whilst having a VPN, so it is vital that your Mac is current with all software updates and that you have a reputable antivirus/anti-malware software installed.

Tags: macOS, Security, VPN
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10 AirTags tips and tricks to Get The Most Out of Your Item Trackers

by Moses Johnson

Here are our top AirTags tips and tricks to help you get the most out of Apple’s item trackers.

If you’re an iPhone user, Apple’s AirTag is a tailor-made option to help track your items. Whether it’s keys, a bag, or something else, the item tracker takes the best of Apple software and hardware design to provide a great solution. We want to help you get the most out of the item tracker by highlighting the best AirTags tips and tricks.

Here are our top tips and tricks to ensure you master your Apple AirTags in no time.

Top 10 AirTags Tips and Tricks

1. How to set up an AirTag

If you’ve just got hold of a new AirTag, you’ll want to get it set up and ready for use. Thankfully, setting up an AirTag is super easy. Here’s how:

  1. Make sure your ‌iPhone‌ is unlocked and showing the Home Screen.
  2. Remove the battery tab from the AirTag if you haven’t already done so, then hold it near your ‌iPhone‌.
  3. Tap Connect on the card that appears on the screen.
  4. Choose a name from the list, or tap Custom Name to type a name and select an emoji, then tap Continue.
  5. Tap Continue to register the item to your Apple ID, then tap Finish.

Front and back view of AirTag personalised with a smiley-face emoji.

2. How to View the Location of an AirTag Item

After setting up a new AirTag, you’ll want to know how to track it so that you can locate the attached item, should you misplace it. If your iPhone or iPad is running iOS 14.5/iPadOS 14.5 or later, you can use the ‌Find My‌ app to locate a missing AirTag that’s linked to your Apple ID. Here’s how.

  1. In the Find My app, tap Items, then tap the item that you want to locate.
  2. If the item can be located, it will appear on the map. You’ll see the updated location and timestamp under the item’s name.
  3. If the item can’t be found, you’ll see where and when it was last located. To receive a notification once it’s located again, turn on Notify When Found under "Notifications."

Use Find My to find your AirPods, Apple Watch, and AirTag  

3. How to Make an AirTag Play a Sound to Find it

If an AirTag is nearby, you can get it to play a sound so that you can locate it easier.

  1. Open the Find My app and tap Items.
  2. Select the AirTag that you want to play a sound.!
  3. Tap Play Sound.

To stop playing the sound before it automatically ends, tap Stop Sound. You can also pick up the AirTag and give it a squeeze to make it stop.

Pro tip: If you ask Siri to find my [item] or play a sound on my [item], ‌Siri‌ will ping the AirTag and cause it to make a noise so that you can locate it.

4. How to Check Your AirTags Firmware Version

Apple routinely issues over-the-air firmware updates for AirTags with updates that fix bugs, add features, and attempt to quench safety concerns.

Apple’s AirTag usually update automatically, but you can check the current firmware version of your item tracker on a connected iPhone. Here’s how:

  1. Open up the Find My App.
  2. Tap on the "Items" tab.
  3. Tap on the AirTag that you want to check in the list.
  4. In this view, tap on the name of the AirTag to see the current firmware version.

5. How to Check an AirTag’s Battery Life

AirTags come equipped with a CR2032 battery that Apple says is designed to last for at least a year, so you shouldn’t need to worry about the battery in your AirTag often.

If you’re curious about how it’s holding up or if you’re worried it could get low at a time that would be inconvenient, it’s easy to check the battery level of an AirTag in the Find My

  1. Open the ‌Find My‌ app and tap on the Items tab.
  2. Tap on the name of the AirTag that you want to check.
  3. Battery life is listed right under the AirTag’s name and location, so you can see it at a glance.

The battery icon does not provide a specific percent, but it’s similar to an iPhone battery and will drain down over time.

You don’t need to keep a close eye on the battery because your ‌iPhone‌ will let you know when it’s starting to get low so you can swap it out.

6. How to Change an AirTag’s Battery

AirTags use standard coin-shaped CR2032 batteries, which are designed to last at least a year before needing to be replaced. Most early AirTag adopters have probably already had to swap in a new battery, but if you’ve never done it before and find yourself in need of a battery replacement, it’s easy to put in a new one.

CR2032 batteries are common batteries that can be purchased on Amazon for about a dollar per battery, and you can also get them at many retail stores.
Once you have a new battery, follow these steps to put it in:

  1. Press down on the stainless steel backing of the AirTag.
  2. As you press down, rotate counterclockwise until the cover stops rotating.
  3. Pull apart the two halves of the AirTag.
  4. Take out the old battery and replace it with the new battery in the same orientation, which is positive side up. You’ll hear a chiming sound when the battery is seated correctly.
  5. Replace the stainless steel bottom of the AirTag, and make sure the three tabs on the cover align with the slots on the AirTag.
  6. Rotate the cover clockwise back in place until it stops.

7. How to rename an AirTag

If you chose the wrong name during setup, or simply want to change it, you can rename your AirTag in just a few steps.

  1. Open the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac
  2. Choose Items
  3. Find your AirTag in the list and tap to select it
  4. Swipe to bring up the full information panel about that AirTag
  5. Tap on Rename Item. This takes you into the same naming selection you had during initial setup. So you can again pick from one of Apple’s suggestions.
  6. You can also choose Custom Name
  7. By default, you can now tap on an emoji to use that as the name.
  8. Or you can instead tap above the emoji, where the old name is
  9. This dismisses the emoji and brings up a regular keyboard for you to type what you want
  10. Tap Done.

Front and back view of AirTag personalised with a smiley-face emoji.  

8. How to get notified when you leave an AirTag behind

With this AirTag trick, you’ll be alerted when you’re leaving the AirTag behind, or if the AirTag is being moved away from you in a theft. This reduces the time it takes for you to be aware that something’s wrong, and therefore to act.

  • Open Find My.
  • Tap Items.
  • Tap the AirTag or the name you’ve given to the AirTag.
  • Scroll down and select Notify When Left Behind.
  • Tap the toggle next to Notify When Left Behind to turn it green.

9. How to Put an AirTag in Lost Mode

‌AirTags‌ can be tracked using the Items tab in ‌Find My‌, and just like your Apple devices, if one should become lost, you can put it in Lost Mode to locate it. If an AirTag is nearby, it will connect to an Apple device over Bluetooth to relay its location, and there’s even a Precision Finding feature on iPhone 11 and newer that uses the U1 chip for finding items that are misplaced close by.

An AirTag that’s out of range can still be tracked using the ‌Find My‌ app, but it won’t rely on the Bluetooth signals from your own device. Instead, the ‌‌‌Find My‌‌‌ Network takes advantage of nearly a billion Apple devices out in the world to help you locate your AirTag.

However, if an AirTag isn’t nearby and there are no Apple devices in the area in which it’s located, ‌‌Find My‌‌ will only be able to tell you where it was last seen on the map. In such cases, you can place the AirTag in Lost Mode. That way, if someone with an ‌iPhone‌ or Android device that has NFC comes across the item, they can help return it to you. Here’s how it works.

  1. Launch the Find My app on your ‌iPhone‌.
  2. Tap Items.
  3. Tap the AirTag you want to mark as lost.
  4. Swipe down on the card and under "Lost Mode," tap Enable.
  5. Tap Continue.
  6. Enter your phone number in the input field, then tap Next.
  7. Toggle the switch next to Notify When Found, and optionally customize the lost message that is shown when someone finds the item. Note that you can only customize the message and activate Notify When Found if the AirTag is out of range of your device.
  8. Tap Activate.

Now that the AirTag is marked as lost, anyone who finds it can bring it close to an NFC-enabled ‌iPhone‌ or Android phone and they will see a notification linking them to a website URL that contains your lost message and phone number.

See also: Top 11 benefits of AirTags: Apple’s Item Trackers

10. How to Factory Reset an AirTag So Someone Else Can Use It

When you set up an AirTag, it’s automatically associated with your Apple ID, which means it’s linked to your ‌Apple ID‌ and can’t be used by someone else unless you reset it.

Resetting is as simple as removing an AirTag from your ‌Apple ID‌, by following these steps:

  1. Open the Find My app.
  2. Tap on the AirTag that you want to remove by choosing its name from the list.
  3. Swipe upwards to bring up the full AirTag settings.
  4. Tap on "Remove Item."
  5. Tap on "Remove" and then tap again on the "Remove" popup.

Once you’ve gone through this process, the AirTag’s ownership is cleared and you can give it to someone else to set up and use with their own account.

Tag: AirTags
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One AirPod Pro Louder Than The Other? Here’s How to Fix the Problem

by Dave Johnson

If one of your AirPods Pro is louder than the other, don’t panic — there’s a simple fix. The same steps should apply to the original AirPods, the AirPods 2, the AirPods 3, the first-generation AirPods Pro and the new AirPods Pro 2.

The second-generation AirPods Pro and new charging case.

If one of your AirPods Pro is louder than the other, let’s face it — this can be rather annoying.

Fact: AirPods Pro aren’t cheap. AirPods Pro (2nd generation)can set you back a cool $240. So if you spring for the technology, obviously you want it work, and for the sound to be crystal clear.

And yet, some users are reporting that one side of their AirPods Pro is louder than the other. Sigh. What to do?

Well, the kinda good news is that if you experience this pesky problem, you aren’t alone. It seems practically since the tech was released in 2016, the issue of one AirPod being louder than tthe other has existed, too. And users have come up with a wide range of tips on how to rectify the imbalance. Read on for details.

why is one AirPod Pro louder than the other?

An audio balance, connectivity glitch, or broken AirPod could be causing the problem. However, this problem is most commonly caused by an excessive amount of debris in one of your AirPods. Since your AirPods Pro reside in your ear, they may become clogged up with earwax. OK, they definitely will.

Yup — your ear excretions could be to blame for why your AirPods Pro are not emitting equal sound.

You’ll want to try cleaning the product to restore it to equilibrium, but there is a specific way to do this so as to avoid damaging your pricey Pods.

How to fix your AirPods Pro when one is louder than the other

Clean your AirPods Pro

Here’s how to clean your AirPods Pro and hopefully restore equal sound to both sides.

Step 1: Use a cloth

Apple recommends using a "soft, dry, lint-free cloth" to clean your AirPods Pro, but one thing you must never do is run them under a tap or immerse them completely in water. They won’t like that at all.

Step 2: Add some moisture

Your AirPods Pro are water-resistant but not fully waterproof, so if you’ve spilled something on them you can dampen a cloth with some H2O and give them a wipe down, but be careful to make sure no liquid gets into any of the holes.

Step 3: Remove the eartips

To remove the tips of an AirPod Pro, pull firmly from the base of the tip, where it’s connected to the earbud.

Second-generation AirPods Pro’s ear tip sizes, including the new extra small ear tip.

Step 4: Use a cotton bud

If any earwax or other detritus has built up in the speaker grilles, use a clean cotton bud or soft-bristled brush to get rid of it. Be careful not to scrub or press too hard.

Step 5: Give the tips a rinse

The eartips are made of silicone so you can safely run them under the tap to get rid of any filth, but don’t be tempted to use soap or any other household cleaner. Give them a tap to remove any excess water.

Step 6: Let everything dry

Use another cloth to wipe off any moisture and leave your AirPods and separate ear tips out of the case until they’re completely dry. Don’t reattach the eartips, put the buds away, or attempt to use them before that.

Step 7: Reattach the eartips

To reattach them, align the tips with the oval-shaped connectors on the earbud’s speakers and firmly push them in. Once you’ve aligned the connectors, they should attach easily with a click.

Clean your charging case, too.

It’s important to clean the case your AirPods Pro call home, too.

First, use a soft, dry and lint-free cloth to wipe away any dirt. You can slightly dampen the cloth with water or alcohol, but avoid getting any liquid inside the charging ports.

To clean the inside of the case, use a soft bristle brush or a soft toothbrush — the bristles will help dig dirt out of the nooks and crannies inside of the case.

The second-generation AirPods Pro and new charging case.

Check The Audio Balance On Your iPhone

If the balance is set to the left or the right, one side of your headphones will sound louder than the other. A lot of people use earbuds these days, and it can get rather irritating if the audio coming from them is at different levels.

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Tap Accessibility.
  3. Select Audio/Visual.
  4. Adjust the Balance slider. Set the audio volume balance to the center.

Ensure your iPhone’s Software is up to date

Making sure your iPhone’s software is up to date can also mitigate any potential AirPods issues. Software updates usually include security fixes and sometimes add new features to your AirPods, so it’s a good idea regardless.

  1. Launch Settings.
  2. Tap General.
  3. Select Software Update.
  4. If an update is available, tap Download & Install.

Reset Your AirPods

It may seem simple, but resetting your AirPods Pro may fix minor software glitch causing this problem. Follow the steps below:

  1. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Tap the name of your AirPods, just below your Apple ID banner. Alternatively, tap Bluetooth, and then tap the ‘i’ icon next to your AirPods in the list.
  3. Scroll down to the bottom of the menu and tap Forget this Device.
  4. Ensure that both AirPods are in their charging case and that the case has charge.
  5. Locate the small button on the back of the case, near the bottom. It’s flush with the case and the same color as it, so you might need to feel about for it.
  6. Open the charging case lid.
  7. Press and hold the button on the back of the case for at least 15 seconds. The case’s internal light between the AirPods will flash white and then amber, indicating the AirPods have reset. You can find this light on the front of the case.
  8. Now, close the lid of your AirPods case and then open it up again.
  9. Hold the AirPods case with open lid next to your iPhone or iPad. Your iOS device should recognize the AirPods and you’ll see a popup to connect them.

Repair Your AirPods Pro With Apple

Resetting your AirPods usually fixes this problem. But if you’re still experiencing issues with one or both AirPods being louder than the other, you need to reach out to Apple Support for help. Check out this article to learn how to make an appointment at the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store.

The low-distortion audio driver and custom amplifier on the second-generation AirPods Pro.

Bringing Balance To Your AirPods Pro

You’ve successfully fixed the problem with your AirPods Pro and now their audio levels are the same.

If you find this guide helpful, be sure to share it with your family and friends to teach them what to do when one of their AirPods Pro is louder than the other.

If you have any other questions about your AirPods Pro, drop a comment and let us know!

Tag: airpods pro
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Trackpad Not Working On MacBook Pro? 8 Ways to Fix it

by Dave Johnson

The Trackpad is an essential input device on your MacBook Pro. It offers precision, multi-touch gestures, and a seamless experience. However, what happens when the MacBook Pro Trackpad stops working? Not only does it disrupt your workflow, but it can be quite frustrating. In this article, we will explore what to do if your Trackpad is not working on a MacBook Pro.

The solutions in this article will work in everything from the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro to the new M2 13-inch MacBook Pro.

Why Is My Trackpad Not Working On My MacBook Pro?

The Trackpad on your MacBook Pro may become unresponsive for various reasons. It could be due to outdated software, incorrect system settings, peripheral interference, dust accumulation, or hardware failure.

How Do I Fix an Unresponsive Touchpad on MacBook Pro?

Before diving into technical fixes, ensure that you are using only one finger on the Trackpad, as using more fingers might cause the pointer not to move due to certain Trackpad settings. Also, ensure your MacBook Pro is not showing a low battery alert which you can’t see. Connect your MacBook Pro to an electrical outlet or connect an external keyboard to see the alert.

1. Clean Your Trackpad

Dust and debris can hinder the Trackpad’s performance. So, if you find the MacBook pro trackpad not working, turn off your computer and clean the Trackpad with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth.

2. Disconnect external devices

External devices like a mouse or other peripherals connected via USB or Bluetooth can sometimes interfere with the trackpad causing the Touchpad not working on MacBook Pro issue. Disconnect all peripherals and restart your MacBook to see if the trackpad starts working again.

To restart your Mac, choose Apple menu > Shut Down.

3. Update macOS

You need to check if your MacBook Pro’s software is up to date. Running an outdated OS can cause compatibility issues with hardware, and result in situations such as Trackpad not clicking on MacBook Pro.

  1. Go to the  Apple menu in the top left corner on the Mac
  2. Choose “System Settings”
  3. Select “General” from the list of settings
  4. Select “Software Update”
  5. If there’s an update available, download and install it.

4. Disable Force Click

Some people prefer light taps, while others like the tactile feedback of a click. If you have been using tap-to-click, make sure the Force Click option is disabled as it requires a firmer press. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Go to the  Apple menu in the top left corner on the Mac
  2. Choose “System Settings”
  3. Go to Trackpad and toggle off Force Click and haptic feedback.

5. Reset Trackpad to Factory Settings

There is a good chance custom configurations in Trackpad settings could cause unresponsiveness. To revert back to the default settings, do the following:

  1. Go to the  Apple menu in the top left corner on the Mac
  2. Choose “System Settings”
  3. Go to Trackpad and toggle Tap to click.
  4. Under Scroll & Zoom, ensure Natural scrolling is selected. These two settings should reset your Trackpad to its factory settings.

6. Reset NVRAM, PRAM and SMC

Resetting NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory) or PRAM (Parameter RAM) can resolve a plethora of issues such as Trackpad not working on MacBook Pro. Note that NVRAM/PRAM reset is only possible on Intel-based Macs, as on Apple Silicon Macs, NVRAM is reset automatically.

7. Run Apple Diagnostics

Apple Diagnostics can help identify hardware issues, including problems with the Trackpad.

First, identify if your Mac has Apple silicon or an Intel processor by going to Apple menu > About This Mac, and then follow the corresponding steps:

For Macs with Apple Silicon:

  1. Press and hold down the power button on your Mac (on laptops with Touch ID, this means pressing and holding the Touch ID button).
  2. Keep holding the power button until your Mac turns on and displays startup options. Once you see the Optionslabel, release the power button.
  3. Now, press and hold** Command D** on your keyboard.

For Macs with Intel Processor:

  1. Turn on your Mac and immediately press and hold down the D key on your keyboard as your Mac boots up.
  2. Release the key when you see a progress bar or when prompted to select a language.
  3. If holding the D key doesn’t initiate the diagnostics, try pressing and holding Option D instead. If neither method initiates the diagnostics, refer to Apple’s guidelines for using key combinations at startup.

Note: During the diagnostic process, you may need to choose a language, and it’s essential to have an active internet connection. You can connect to a Wi-Fi network using the Wi-Fi menu in the upper-right corner of the screen.

8. Contact Apple Support

If you’ve tried all these steps and your MacBook Pro trackpad still isn’t functioning, it might be a hardware issue. Contact Apple Support or make an appointment at the Genius Bar at your nearest Apple Store. They can help diagnose the problem and guide you on the next steps. Make sure not to attempt any hardware repairs on your own as this could void the warranty and potentially cause further damage to your MacBook Pro.

Tags: macOS, Trackpad
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The 3 Best MacBooks for Home Use in 2025

by Kevin Hollington

Here are the best MacBooks for home use according to our testing.

As more people embrace the flexibility of working and studying from home, selecting a MacBook that meets your requirements becomes essential. Only one question remains, then: which is the best MacBook for home use? That’s not as simple as it would seem on the surface, as Apple’s MacBook lineup has grown increasingly complex in recent years. Take one look at the choice you have on Apple’s website and it’s easy to get stuck in a tangled web of models, sizes and configuration options.

For example, should you buy a MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro? What size display do you need for your work? Which chip is the best one to go for? And how much storage do you need? These are just a few of the questions you’re likely to confront when trying to pick a MacBook for home use.

Fortunately, our guide is here to help. We’ve gone through all the options so you don’t have to, picking out the best MacBooks for home use. There’s no need to agonize over the decision anymore – just give our guide a read and you’ll know what to opt for. So, without any further ado, let’s dive in!

macOS Sonoma displayed on MacBook Air, the 27-inch iMac, and MacBook Pro.  

Which is the best Mac to buy for home use?

Our first pick, which we’ll come to later, is the M2 MacBook Air. It’s the best MacBook you can buy for home use, and is packed full of all the features most people will need, like a zippy processor, impressive graphics performance, and a gorgeous display. It does all that while wrapped up in a durable chassis, and it won’t burn a hole in your finances. That makes it an excellent choice if you want an Apple laptop for home use.

If your budget is a bit more constrained, the M1 MacBook Air is an excellent choice. You still get the classic Apple experience — solid build quality, speedy components, best-in-class software — but can save you a bit of money while doing so. It’s not only the best budget MacBook, but one of the best laptops under $1,000.

Finally, if you just want power and don’t care what it costs, try the 14-inch MacBook Pro from 2023. It can be equipped with the M2 Max, Apple’s most performant laptop chip, which can take on even the most heavy-duty tasks and still come up smiling. Pair it with one of the best displays in the industry and a set of superb speakers, and you’ve got an incredible laptop that is built for ultimate productivity.

What to look for

Whether you want a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, it’s important to know what your needs are. Do you just need something for web browsing and content creation? Or do you plan to edit videos and make music on your laptop? The MacBook Air will be best for the former, while the MacBook Pro is ideal for the latter.

The chip inside the machine will make a big difference. Right now, almost every MacBook comes with a chip from the M2 generation. The 13-inch MacBook Pro and every MacBook Air model come with the base-level M2, while the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro can be configured to use the M2 Pro or M2 Max chip. Apple also sells a 13-inch MacBook Air with an older M1 chip.

Aside from those key specs, look out for the price. Right now, the MacBook Air starts at $999 (£999 / AU$1,499) for the M1 model. The 13-inch MacBook Air with M2 chip costs $1,099 (£1,149 / AU$1,799), while the 15-inch version starts at $1,299 (£1,399 / AU$2,199).

The price of the 13-inch MacBook Pro begins at $1,299 (£1,349 / AU$1,999), and for the 14-inch and 16-inch models it’s $1,999 (£2,149 / AU$3,199) and $2,499 (£2,699 / AU$3,999) respectively. Note that you can also get refurbished versions from Apple’s website. These laptops have any faulty parts replaced, so that they’re essentially like new.

What specs do you need?

There are plenty of specs to consider when buying a MacBook for home use, and we’ll start with one of the most obvious ones: the display. Every MacBook falls within the 13-inch to 16-inch range. The MacBook Pro comes in 13-inch, 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, and the latter is the largest MacBook you can buy. The MacBook Air, meanwhile, has 13-inch and 15-inch options. The 15-inch MacBook Air is a new addition, and means you no longer have to splash out on a MacBook Pro if you want a larger screen.

Note also that aside from the sizes, the MacBook Pro offers a brighter screen with a higher dynamic refresh rate and greater pixel density.

On the inside, the chip is a key consideration. The ‘weakest’ chip is the M1 found in the 13-inch MacBook Air, but it’s still good for day-to-day tasks and even light gaming. The M2, meanwhile, is the successor to the M1 and comes in both the Air and the Pro.

If you need a powerful MacBook for home use, you’ll want to look at the MacBook Pro, as it’s the only Apple laptop that offers the M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. These are much better suited to intensive tasks like photo editing and 3D rendering, and are more adept playing games too. If you think you’ll be doing anything like that at home, the M2 Pro or M2 Max could be what you need.

The interesting thing about Apple’s M-series chips is that the memory is part of the chip itself. That helps it work much more quickly and efficiently than regular PC setups, where the processor and memory are separate.

Every model of the MacBook Air starts with 8GB of unified memory, while the M2 models top out at 24GB and the M1 version can go up to 16GB. As for the MacBook Pro, the M2 13-inch model gets between 8GB and 24GB of memory, while the M2 Pro 14-inch MacBook Pro can have between 16GB and 32GB. M2 Max models (in both sizes) get from 32GB to 96GB of memory.

Apple’s MacBooks use super-fast SSDs for storage, and you can equip up to 8TB in the MacBook Pro and up to 2TB in the MacBook Air. Note that every MacBook equipped with the minimum amount of storage (256GB) has slower SSD speeds than the larger-capacity models, but you probably won’t notice it in day-to-day tasks (although you might in demanding workloads).

There are also a few extras you might want to think about. You can include peripherals and software, from a Magic Trackpad to Final Cut Pro, with your purchase; whether you do or not depends on what you need.

There’s also the issue of AppleCare . This grants you unlimited incidents of accidental damage protection, battery replacements, and priority access to Apple support and service. The price varies, but for the M1 MacBook Pro (the cheapest AppleCare option) it starts at $64.99 (£64.99) for one year or $179 (£179) for three years. If you don’t have existing insurance, it might be worth a look.

The Best MacBooks For Home Use

1. MacBook Air (M2, 2022)

MacBook Air in midnight displaying a wallpaper.  

Best all-round MacBook for home use

Specifications

CPU: Apple M2 chip with 8-core CPU

Graphics: Integrated 9-core — 10-core GPU

RAM: 8GB — 24GB unified memory

Screen: 13.6-inch (diagonal) 2560-by-1664 LED-backlit display with IPS technology

Storage: up to 2TB

Reasons to buy

Great balance of price and performance

Beautiful design

Reasons to avoid

–

Price increase

–

Struggles with intense workloads

What Makes It Perfect for Home Use?

MacBook Air with M2 chip combines all the elements that make Apple’s laptops so spectacularly good, from a high-quality, durable chassis and beautiful design to speedy performance and a fantastic typing experience, all for a fair price. If you’re looking for a new MacBook for home use, this is the best choice for most people.

The M2 chip on the inside is plenty powerful for most tasks bar the most heavy-duty workloads, and it’ll be a dream for day-to-day work like word processing, photo editing and light gaming. But it’s not just the performance you’ll notice — it’s the battery life, too. Apple’s M-series chips are incredibly efficient, and you get over 18 hours of Battery life. That combination of power and battery life is extremely hard to beat.

The M2 MacBook Air is incredibly designed and extremely sturdy despite its lightweight frame, and it’ll give you years of quality service. And because it can keep cool without needing a fan, it’s totally silent no matter what you put it through. You’ll really feel that difference compared to noisy rivals that ramp up their fans at the first sign of trouble.

2. MacBook Air (M1, 2020)

The M1-powered MacBook Air in rose gold.

The best budget MacBook for home use

Specifications

CPU: Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU

Graphics: Integrated 7-core — 8-core GPU

RAM: 8GB — 16GB unified memory

Screen: 13.3-inch 2560 x 1600 Retina display

Storage: 256GB — 2TB SSD

Reasons to buy

Most affordable MacBook

M1 chip still performs well

Reasons to avoid

–

Outdone by M2 MacBook Air

–

Old design

What Makes It Perfect for Home Use?

The MacBook Air with M1 chip is the best budget MacBook for home use. Now that Apple is selling laptops with M2 chips, it’s easy to forget that the M1 revolutionized the computing industry when it launched in 2020 by showing it was possible to marry incredible performance with incredible efficiency. That’s still true today.

Alongside the M1, you get all the usual great additions from Apple, including a rock-solid design, fantastic software, and comfortable keyboard. And just like the M2 MacBook Air, the M1 model is totally fanless and thus completely silent in use. If you’re looking for a MacBook for home use under the $1,000 mark that still performs admirably, this is the model to start with.

3. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023)

Two MacBook Pro devices are shown back to back.  

Best premium MacBook for home use

Specifications

CPU: Apple M2 Pro (10-core) – Apple M2 Max (12-core)

Graphics: Integrated 16-core GPU – 38‑core GPU

RAM: 16GB — 96GB unified memory

Storage: 512GB — 8TB SSD

Dimensions (W x D x H): 0.61 x 12.31 x 8.71 inches (1.55 x 31.26 x 22.12 cm)

Reasons to buy

Tons of power

Incredible display

Reasons to avoid

–

Expensive

–

Price rise for UK and Australia

What Makes It Perfect for Home Use?

The 14-inch MacBook Pro grants you access to Apple’s best laptop chips, while still coming in a sturdy, portable package that’s light enough to pop into a backpack.

The 14-inch MacBook Pro can be configured to have an M2 Pro or M2 Max chip. If you opt for the latter, you’ll get a 12-core CPU, 38-core GPU, and up to 96GB of memory, making it the most powerful chip you can get in an Apple laptop. It will absolutely tear through almost anything you throw at it.

It’s not just the chip that will blow you away. The 14-inch MacBook Pro’s display is one of the best in the business, with a mini-LED panel, a 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 1,600 nits of peak brightness for HDR content. There’s a superb keyboard with Touch ID, plenty of ports (including MagSafe, HDMI and USB-C), and even the speakers are incredible. Apple also sells a 16-inch MacBook Pro, but it comes with a much higher price tag, meaning the 14-inch version holds its own as the best premium MacBook.

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