Articles by Karen Freeman, Freelance Contributor

Karen is a world traveler, writer, teacher, family woman, and occasionally a movie extra. She has been writing about Apple, consumer tech, and lifestyle products since 2010 for various publications including TechRadar, CNET, Tom’s Guide, iMore, Macworld, AppAdvice, and WatchAware.

Articles by: Karen Freeman

Graywind's Smart Blinds can be finicky to install, but work with just about every smart home ecosystem

By Karen Freeman Published 20 July 25

You'll be spoilt for choice with so many window coverings that can be controlled in so many ways.

Are smart blinds worth it? My thoughts after installing them in my own home

By Karen Freeman Published 27 June 25

Smart home week Should you buy smart blinds for your home?

DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine on counter

The De'Longhi Linea Classic is a budget-friendly, entry-level espresso machine that makes you the barista

By Karen Freeman Published 22 April 25

The DeLonghi Linea Classic Espresso Machine is ideal for budding and budget-minded baristas

The Ninja Swirl by Creami is a new twist on a popular ice cream maker, and I put it to the test

By Karen Freeman Published 9 April 25

Make your own soft-serve frozen treats at home.

SmartWings Motorized Smart Shades halfway down

SmartWings Motorized Smart Shades review: Smart blinds that harness the power of the sun

By Karen Freeman Published 4 April 25

Control your window treatments with your smartphone.

Touching the screen on Kalorik Vivid Touch air fryer

With the Kalorik Vivid Touch Touchscreen Air Fryer, I can tap my way to perfectly-done meals

By Karen Freeman Published 3 March 25

The Kalorik Vivid Touch 7-Quart High-Resolution Touchscreen Air Fryer with Window makes air frying easier than ever.

The Ninja Crispi isn't your typical air fryer – and its unique design makes it worth the price

By Karen Freeman Published 17 February 25

Are you looking for a unique, portable air fryer? Look no further than the Ninja Crispi.

I'm a huge Apple fan but even I'm getting bored of the iPhone

By Karen Freeman Published 30 December 24

I'm a long-time Apple fan, but even I'm beginning to question my interest in the iPhone.

Ninja Thirsti Max review: your own personal soda machine

By Karen Freeman Published 16 November 24

Make soda, sparkling water, and other fizzy drinks at home.

SMEG Combi Steam Oven on a kitchen counter

Smeg Combi Steam Oven review: a multi-functional countertop oven that looks stunning and cooks well

By Karen Freeman Published 10 November 24

This gorgeous high-tech mini-oven costs a pretty penny, but is it worth it?

How to know if someone blocked you on iMessage

By Karen Freeman Published 16 October 24

There's no surefire way to know if someone has blocked you, but there are some clues you can put together that will give you a pretty good idea.

How to tell which iPhone you have

By Karen Freeman Published 15 October 24

There are so many iPhone models, it can be confusing to remember which one you've got in your hands. Luckily, it's easy to find out in just a couple of taps.

How to unsend an iMessage

By Karen Freeman Published 15 October 24

You've accidentally sent an iMessage you wish you hadn't. Don't worry, just a few simple steps will make it un-happen.

AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: Which should you buy?

By Karen Freeman Published 5 October 24

Apple's two best in-ear headphones both offer active noise cancellation, but there are some important differences you'll want to consider before making a purchase.

Apple AirPods 4 with AirPods 4 ANC, on purple background

AirPods 4 vs AirPods 4 with Noise Cancellation: which should you buy?

By Karen Freeman Published 1 October 24

Active noise cancellation is the most significant difference between the two models, but it's far from the only one.

Three iPhones on a blue and red background running Apple Intelligence

A18 Pro: what to expect from Apple's next rumored chipset

By Karen Freeman Published 5 September 24

Updated We've rounded up everything we've heard about Apple's next rumored chipset, the A18 Pro.

Naturepedic Adagio Organic Latex Mattress Topper review

By Karen Freeman Published 17 February 24

Recommended

In my review of the Naturepedic's Adagio, you'll learn why I think this pricey mattress topper is worth every penny.

Stearns & Foster Estate mattress in reviewer's bedroom

Stearns & Foster Estate mattress review

By Karen Freeman Published 21 January 24

The high-end Stearns & Foster Estate is comfortable, supportive mattress with a traditional feel.

Brooklyn Bedding DreamFoam Essential mattress, press photo

DreamFoam Essential mattress review: A budget-friendly mattress to fit anywhere

By Karen Freeman Published 29 October 23

Great Value

The Brooklyn Bedding DreamFoam Essential mattress comes in so many different sizes, it can fit in just about any space you can dream up.

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