Saving Money

Amazon's Kindle Fire, Google's main competitor for its Nexus 7, is displayed at a news conference in New York, New York in 2011. Both the Nexus 7 and Kindle Fire will likely hit all-time low prices soon as Google and Amazon seek to release new models of their tablets. (Mark Lennihan/AP/File)

Google Nexus, Amazon Kindle Fire: Best prices are coming soon

By Lindsay Sakraida, Guest blogger / 07.19.13

We see hundreds of excellent deals every day here at dealnews, but sometimes a discount comes across our plate that actually tells a story. In the case of this Editors' Choice Google Nexus 7 deal, it's a story that predicts the refresh cycle for the Nexus 7, as well as future pricing for its competitor, the Kindle Fire HD.

Just yesterday we found a deal on the Google Nexus 7 16GB 7" Android Tablet that came within a buck of the lowest total price we've ever seen, dropping the 16GB slate to $149.90. Simultaneously, the 32GB version was cut to $169, another all-time low price. (And just $19 more!) But even though those deals are eye-poppingly cheap, it's important to keep one thing in mind: Google is scheduled to hold a press event next Wednesday. As such, these prices seem to validate the rumors that the corporation is about to debut a brand new generation for its flagship tablet.

Deals Before the Storm

While most electronics tend to see new price lows right before they're refreshed, this is especially true of tablets. In the past, reseller deals have preceded new iPads and Kindle Fire tablets, and it appears that such deals are now foreshadowing a new Nexus tablet. Whether this is a good deal to buy then depends on a few factors.

If Google follows the precedent that Amazon has already established, then the next generation Nexus will probably debut for the same starting price as the current generation. That means the refreshed model will only cost $199, or $49 more than the above deal. Keep in mind, however, that last year Amazon also kept its original Fire tablet in production at a lower retail price; if Google does the same with the original Nexus, its retail price could possibly fall to $159 (where the original Fire tablet currently resides). That means this current deal is still $9 less than what the retail price might be, come next week.

The Kindle Fire HD Is Next on the Deal Chopping Block

Last year, Amazon debuted its Kindle Fire HD tablets shortly after Google announced its Nexus line. The Amazon affair took place during the first week of September, and it seems likely that the megaretailer will target that general time frame once again for a refresh.

If resellers treat the current Fire HD like they have the Nexus 7, then we should begin seeing new all-time low prices on the Amazon slate in mid- to late-August. So far, the lowest the 16GB model has gone is $169, so anything below that ($149.90 maybe?) will be an Editors' Choice-level price cut. Look to stores like Best Buy, Staples, Office Depot, and eBay for special promotions.

Don't want to miss a deal? Sign up for an email alert now to receive product announcements and sales on both the Google Nexus 7 and the Amazon Kindle Fire HD.

Lindsay Sakraida is the features director at dealnews.com, where this article first appeared. Original article: http://dealnews.com/features/Theres-More-to-That-Google-Nexus-7-Deal-Than-Just-a-Great-Price/795135.html

Papa John's, pictured above, has more than 3,400 restaurants in all 50 states and 29 countries. Save money on pizza and more by using coupons at restaurant chains this week. (Business Wire/File)

Too hot to cook? Dine on a dime at Denny's, Papa John's, and more.

By Lou Carlozo, Guest blogger / 07.18.13

It's supposed to hit 100 degrees in New York City this week. And while it's always balmy in Los Angeles, and Chicago only got its first taste of summer just this week, it's officially mid-July and thus, in our book, too hot to cook. But that doesn't mean you have to go broke eating out. These delicious food and drink deals from Buca di Beppo, Denny's, and Papa John's Pizza will keep your belly and wallet full.

1. Buca di Beppo Coupon

 Discount: $20 off via printable coupon
 Expires: July 31

Is It Worth It?: If you've ever been to Buca di Beppo, you know this Italian eatery gets loud and rowdy, and serves extra-large portions for family-style sharing. With this printable coupon, you get $20 off any combination of two pastas, baked pastas, or entrees. It's good for dine-in only, and excludes pizza and lunch items, with a limit of one coupon per visit and per table. Taxes and gratuity are excluded as well. But there's no limit on how big an appetite you can bring with you.

2. Denny's Coupon

Discount: 20% off via printable coupon
 Expires: July 28

Is It Worth It?: Denny's is one of the capitals of American comfort food, and this printable coupon snags you 20% off your entire check, excluding taxes, gratuity, and alcoholic beverages. Ah, but where is the nearest Denny's? Just enter your ZIP code into this handy restaurant locator to find a participating restaurant near you. Then you can stop dreaming, and start scoring some Apple Pie French Toast, or BBQ Pepper Jack Country-Fried Steak. Mmmmmmmm. ( Continue… )

Looking to buy a laptop for your college-bound child without breaking the bank? Best Buy's HP Pavilion dv3510nr Notebook PC, a 13.3" widescreen laptop, comes bundled with a flash drive, laptop sleeve, and security software for just $300. (HP/File)

Yes, you can buy your college student a laptop on a budget.

By Louis Ramirez, Guest blogger / 07.17.13

These days, few back-to-school shopping lists are complete without a laptop. But parents, before you begin hyperventilating at the potential cost of a new notebook, take a deep breath and consider this: With the best laptop deals now hovering around the $225 price point, buying a new laptop has never been cheaper. In fact, now is probably the best time to find laptop deals. But don't let the range of configurations and prices stress you out. Here's a guide to back-to-school laptop deals, including the specs that a typical student needs and the price that you can expect to pay.

Buying a Laptop for College: The Components

First things first, while most students probably want one of these monster configurations as their back to school laptop, the truth is that most systems available today are sufficient for the average student. So more importantly, parents should be concerned with overpaying; you don't want to splurge on a laptop with features your student will never use. So what specs are necessary?

Processor

Let's first start with the processor. Intel dominates the market, and its processors typically pack more punch than the competition. We recommend looking for systems with a dual-core Core i3 (entry-level) or Core i5 (mainstream) processor. Core i5 systems are more common, and our June data shows that the price difference usually isn't more than $30, so you really should opt for a Core i5 for better performance. As a side note, Intel also offers Core i7 processors, but systems that include this CPU are usually high-end laptops that are designed for cutting-edge PC gaming and HD video editing; so unless your student wants to be the next Scorsese, you don't have to worry much about them. To get the most power for your penny, avoid splurging on a quad-core setup and stick with dual-core configurations.

Ivy Bridge or Haswell?

Another consideration when assessing the processor on your kid's laptop is the series. Back in June, Intel released its new Haswell processors. Designed to use less power than the previous Ivy Bridge generation, Haswell is worth the upgrade if your student will be spending a large amount of time away from a power outlet, perhaps toting his laptop to classes. An example of Haswell's power comes in the form of the new Haswell MacBook Air, which nearly doubles the battery life of the previous Ivy Bridge MacBook Air. If traditional note-taking and desk-sitting is more in line with your kid's study habits, know that Haswell's performance increase when plugged in is minimal, and you'll save more money (roughly $277 based on our June deals) by opting for an Ivy Bridge system.

So how can you tell which series you're buying? Most retailers don't actually label their laptops as Ivy Bridge or Haswell, so to distinguish between the two, look at the laptop's spec sheet. Ivy Bridge processors have a "3" as their starting number, whereas Haswell systems start with a "4." For instance, a Core i7-4700MQ uses the new Haswell chip while a Core i7-3517U uses an Ivy Bridge chip. ( Continue… )

Lynn Cameron of Mount Crawford, Va., looks out at the view while hiking the Mines Run Trail on Shenandoah Mountain, Va., in 2010. Enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. Carlozo lists the five best deals for outdoors enthusiasts right now. (Nikki Fox/Daily News-Record/AP/File)

Hike in style for less: 5 must-have items for outdoors fun

By Lou Carlozo, Guest blogger / 07.16.13

This year, our National Parks will receive about 280 million visitors, with summer being a peak season. But are you ready? Do you have your boonie hats? Your hiking boots? Your all purpose tool? Well, grab your gear, or pick up some new supplies with our roundup of camping and outdoors deals.

1. Totes-Isotoner Outdoors Boonie Hat 2-Pack

Store: Tanga
 Price: $10.99 with free shipping
 Lowest By: $5

Is It Worth It?: Exploring the high desert with your fearless (and stylish) accomplice? This pair of hats feature UPF 50, a 3" wide brim, and 3.5" high crown. And scoring this deal surely means you're surely using your noggin.

2. Mens' Zach Hiking Boots

Store: Walmart
 Price: $17 with 97-cent s&h
 Lowest By: $13

Is It Worth It?: The next time someone tells you to take a hike, smile and show 'em the footwear you nabbed at the lowest total price we've seen for any men's hiking boots. They're available in most sizes 7 to 13, come in Taupe, and feature a PVC/mesh upper, mesh lining, and a padded tongue and footbed. ( Continue… )

A flamingo walks along the beach on Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands, May 17, 2013. Norwegian Cruise Line has a deal for a 7-day cruise to the Caribbean in early December. (/Todd Vansickle/AP/File)

Still time for a summer vacation: best deals on 3-, 6-, and 7-day getaways

By Joshua Nichol-Caddy, Contributor / 07.12.13

You may not think there's a lot left to celebrate this summer, but we say there sure are plenty of places to visit while the sun is high in the sky. This week's best travel deals make it possible for you to fly coast-to-coast or cruise on down to the Caribbean and still have some cash left over for Labor Day fireworks.

American Airlines Nationwide Weekend Roundtrip Flights
Vendor: Shermans Travel
Price: From $112.80
Lowest By: $151
Expires: July 12

Is It Worth It?: We know you're saving those vacation days to extend a Christmastime getaway, so anything but a weekend trip this summer is next to impossible. But thanks to American Airlines' weekend airfare sale, you can still get in that mini vaca while the weather is warm. Destinations include Chicago, Miami, New York, and more.

This price is valid on flights departing from Dallas, TX, (DFW) to Wichita, KS, (ICT) on July 20 with return on July 23; prices vary depending on the travel cities and dates chosen. Book this travel deal by July 12 for travel July 19 through July 23.

Virgin America 1-Way Fares
Vendor: Travelzoo
Price: From $68.90
Lowest By: $50
Expires: July 31

Is It Worth It?: Famous for its low fares and high-quality service, Virgin America offers nonstop flights to major cities throughout the U.S. for as little as $69 each way. While these fares are for mid-week travel, destinations do include Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, New York, and more.

This price is valid on flights from Los Angeles, CA, (LAX) to San Jose, CA, (SJC) departing on July 24; prices vary depending on the travel cities and dates chosen. A 14-day advance purchase may be required and blackout dates may apply. Book this travel deal by July 31 for travel July 22 through August 28. ( Continue… )

The Alienware M17x laptop is 9.39 pounds of fast, powerful computer processing. It has been called the 'ultimate gaming notebook' by several magazines. (Business Wire/File)

The best laptops for gamers

By Simon Hill, Guest blogger / 07.12.13

PC gaming devotees: Are you tired of that hulking desktop chaining you down when you want to engage in some FPS mayhem, a marathon strategy session, or some immersive role-play? We feel your pain. Have hope because freedom is within reach! All you need is a good gaming laptop, and the world is your oyster.

What to Look for in a Gaming Laptop

Two things that need to be at the top of your list when you begin to scan the spec sheets: the GPU and CPU. Your graphics processor (GPU) is vital and will determine whether you can play the latest games with all the bells and whistles turned on or not. Ideally, you want something from the Class 1 list in this comparison of laptop graphics cards. Your processor (CPU) needs to be good as well, in order to squeeze the best performance from certain games. Currently, the most high-end choice available is the Haswell Intel Core i7 quad-core processor; if you're on a tighter budget, then a Haswell Core i5 quad-core processor will meet most needs, but keep in mind that not all i5 CPUs are quad. Beyond that, Ivy Bridge processors provide great value too, as they're barely a year old and are seeing considerable discounts now that they're previous-generation.

Additionally, an SSD (Solid State Drive) will prove a lot faster than a traditional mechanical hard drive and could drastically cut load times. Even though they've come down in price over the last 18 months, SSDs are still more expensive. You'll also want a decent display; the higher the resolution, the better, although it won't make as much of a difference on a smaller screen. Save some money for a good set of headphones, and you're all set. 

The Top 5 Gaming Laptops on the Market Right Now

Alienware M17x

It's hard to look past the Alienware brand: the 9.39-lb M17x hits all the right notes and is called an "excellent gaming laptop" by the experts at Digital Trends. It's fast and powerful, has great quality sound, and offers thoughtful extras like customizable backlighting. PC Mag scores it 4.5 out of 5 and names it a midrange Editors' Choice: "For just under $2,500, you get the bang-for-the-buck champion certainly." ( Continue… )

You could save 46 percent on hotel stays by booking your lodging through Airbnb, a travel website. (Holly Ramer/AP/File)

Going on vacation? Book on Airbnb, save money.

By Angela Colley, Guest blogger / 07.11.13

If you're ready to pack your swimsuit, sun block, and beach towel and hit the road, then you're not alone. The American Express Spending and Savings Tracker survey found that 69% of consumers plan to take a summer vacation this year. Additionally, 69% of respondents told American Express that they plan on spending $1,000 or less on their travel plans this season.

If you're similarly stricken with wanderlust and likewise have a small budget to work with, then another recent study may have the answer for how to make a great getaway possible. Research by Priceonomics found that staying at an Airbnb property can be up to 50% cheaper than staying in a traditional hotel.

Airbnb Can Save You Up to $65 per Night in NYC

Instead of booking a room at a destination hotel or a quaint bed and breakfast, Airbnb users can book lodging — from a couch or private room, to an entire house, condo, or cabin — from an Airbnb host. Currently, there are Airbnb listings in 34,000 cities across 192 countries. And while many accommodations are located in downtown districts, there is also an abundance of AirBnB listings in less tourist-heavy neighborhoods and locales. A majority of accommodations include access to a full kitchen, television, free WiFi, and other at-home amenities, the cost of which can add up quickly at an ordinary hotel. ( Continue… )

iTunes offers countless tracks for purchase, but it also lets users download singles for free. Scanning through digital content vendors, music magazines and blogs, and retailers' offerings can save you money when you're updating your music collection. (Apple/PRNewsFoto/File)

Free music that's legal: Where to find it.

By Summer Ghias, Guest blogger / 07.10.13

In the age of digital music, it's easy to download whatever song that may strike your fancy with just a click of a mouse. But even though doing so will only cost you about a buck per track, filling your library (or even just building a new playlist) in this fashion can add up pretty quickly.

A smart music fan should thus always be on the lookout for opportunities to get free music online, as well as promotions and credits for free music downloads. Here's a look at the best places to access the music of top artists, discover up-and-coming bands, and reminisce with oldies, all without shelling out any cash.

Free Playlists Curated by Music Magazines and Blogs

Blogs like Stereogum, Spinner, and Pitchfork have a loyal following of millenials on the hunt for the latest tunes to emerge from the indie biosphere, and not only do these culture hubs provide ample music streams on a regular basis, but many also dole out downloads too. Stereogum offers downloadable monthly MP3 mixes of 12 or 13 tracks featuring everyone from electronic newcomers like Nicolas Jaar to well-known indie bands such as Tegan & Sara and Phoenix. Similarly, Spinner offers free daily MP3 downloads, and Spin Magazine has a free monthly iTunes list inspired by its print publication. Fans can read artist reviews and then download artists' music at no cost, seamlessly taking the magazine experience online and then on the go.

Free Music Downloads from Digital Content Vendors

Digital content giants like Amazon and iTunes charge for the majority of available MP3s and albums, but they also maintain a substantial free database of singles for download. Amazon's collection of free MP3s currently stands at 54,796 and features tracks from Blondie, The Walkmen, and The Generationals, but the available free songs aren't likely to include top radio hits like the latest from Beyonce or Daft Punk. For loyal Amazon customers, however, rewards cards and subsequent credits can be put towards purchasing the songs and albums that aren't free. Plus many electronics and media purchases at Amazon come bundled with free MP3 credits. ( Continue… )

Children play in their backyard in Traverse City, Mich., earlier this summer. Take advantage of summer and lounge about outside with discounted loungers, grills, and outdoor swings. (Keith King/Traverse City Record-Eagle/AP/File)

Deals to beat the heat: Discounts on grills, swings, and more.

By Joshua Nichol-Caddy, Guest blogger / 07.09.13

OK, so it's a little hot. But sitting out on the patio and relaxing in the backyard after work is one of the many great pleasures of summertime. We want you to enjoy the season in your yard with help from this roundup of backyard furniture and accessories that'll turn a warm evening into a cool hangout spot.

1. Set of 2 Fitzpatrick Sling Patio Comfort Loungers

 Store: Target
 Price: $89.50 with $14.99 s&h
 Lowest By: $15

Is It Worth It?: We want you to literally kick back and relax with your bestie in a new Editors' Choice lounge chair. This set of two comes in Tan and feature powder-coated and rust-resistant steel frames. And though they're a part of the Fitzpatrick Sling Patio Furniture Collection, these easy-to-clean chairs can easily stand alone in any patio setting.

2. Sunbeam Bostwick Barrel BBQ Grill

Store: Sears Outlet
 Price: $19.99 with in-store pickup
 Lowest By: $30

Is It Worth It?: Looking for a new charcoal or gas grill? Head to Sears Outlet and you'll save up to 63% off on a selection of refurbished and "like new" BBQ grills. We're a fan of the barrel grill for a mere $19.99, or 60% off its marked price. While this setup is portable and maybe not suited for hosting large backyard cookouts, it's ideal for camping or as a secondary grill for roasting marshmallows around. ( Continue… )