John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.
Latest articles by John Velasco

Best phones 2026 tested — our top picks
By John Velasco last updated
These are the best phones you can buy at a wide range of prices based on our extensive testing and head-to-head comparisons.

Best foldable phones of 2026
By John Velasco last updated
More phone makers than ever are coming out with devices you can fold into more compact designs. These are the best foldable phones we’ve tested.

I drove the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ for a week — and I can’t believe this luxury EV starts under $50,000
By John Velasco published
Editor's ChoiceThe 2027 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250+ shatters the luxury EV mold by delivering flagship tech, flawless driver assistance, and class-leading efficiency.

I tried Moft’s new MagSafe wallet with Find My support — and its coolest feature turns your iPhone into a tripod
By John Velasco published
I've been testing Moft's new MagSafe wallets which have been updated with support for Apple's Find My network.

Samsung tipster says Galaxy Z Flip 9 could be cancelled — here's why that's a terrible idea
By John Velasco published
While Samsung's prepping the Galaxy Z Flip 8, there's already rumors that it's canceling the Galaxy Z Flip 9.

This underrated Motorola Razr Fold feature makes me more productive — Google, Apple, and Samsung should take notice
By John Velasco published
Samsung DeX has long been the gold standard for smartphone productivity, but the Motorola Razr Fold steals the crown with its Smart Connect feature.

I’ve been reviewing phones for almost 18 years — here’s my advice on when to upgrade your phone
By John Velasco published
I’m often asked when is it the right time to upgrade your phone and my advice is always the same — you really shouldn't upgrade yearly. Here's why.

I took over 200 photos with the Motorola Razr Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 — Motorola has done the impossible
By John Velasco published
Motorola has come up short for years now, but after taking photos with the Razr Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 7, I'm surprised by Moto's big camera performance leap.

Best MagSafe chargers for your iPhone in 2026
By John Velasco last updated
We break down the best MagSafe chargers that lets you use Apple's StandBy mode, along with charging other gadgets you might have.

I tested the Motorola Razr Fold for a week and it’s unbelievable — Samsung, you’ve met your match
By John Velasco published
Editor's ChoiceThe Motorola Razr Fold sets the benchmark for what it takes to be a notebook-style foldable phone. In fact, that it's the closest thing to replacing a laptop!

Best iPhones in 2026: Which iPhone should you buy?
By John Velasco last updated
These are the best iPhones for every need and budget based on our reviews.

My Pixel Buds Pros are awesome for music, but they're also just as good at protecting my ears at concerts — and they're 37% off right now
By John Velasco published
I've been using the Pixel Buds Pro to protect my ears while recording music festivals and concerts. And they're 37% off right now on Amazon.

Android Auto is about to change the way you drive: 3D Google Maps, redesigned interface, video support, Gemini and more
By John Velasco published
The next generation of Android Auto and cars with Google built-in is introducing a massive refresh featuring Material 3 design, 3D immersive navigation, and more.

I drove the Genesis GV80 Coupe for a week — and this SUV cured my need-for-speed itch
By John Velasco published
The 2026 Genesis GV80 Coupe sheds the old luxury stigma by pairing a stunning design with a high-tech, supercharged powertrain that delivers a youthful feel.

We tested 5 cheap power banks under $20 on Amazon — here's the one I'd buy with my own money
By John Velasco published
We put five of the most popular power banks on Amazon under $20 to the test to see which budget-friendly charger actually delivers the best value.

Best cheap phones 2026 tested — Our top budget phone picks
By Richard Priday last updated
These are the best cheap phones you can buy based on our testing and reviews.

I tested these ridiculously cheap off-brand phones you probably never heard of — here’s my honest verdict on what's worth buying
By John Velasco published
I've tested several off-brand phones and realize what kind of value they truly offer over conventional slates.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide could finally address my biggest issue with book-style foldables — and it’s not the crease
By John Velasco published
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide represents a sudden shift from the norm for notebook-style foldable phones and seemingly addresses my biggest concern using them.

I tested the Moto G Stylus (2026) for a week — and it’s an underrated budget phone
By John Velasco published
RecommendedThe Moto G Stylus (2026) justifies its new $499 price tag by pairing a premium, rugged design with a much-needed active stylus upgrade and extra accessories.

Forget Apple Intelligence — this is the one software feature Apple can't afford to miss at WWDC 2026
By John Velasco published
Apple Intelligence should be a big focus with WWDC 2026, but Apple really needs to introduce the iPhone desktop mode. Here's why.

'If I had to buy a vehicle right now, the 2026 Volvo EX30 Ultra would be at the top of my list' — here's my pros and cons after a week of driving
By John Velasco published
Editor's ChoiceNot only does the 2026 Volvo EX30 deliver an impressive all-around performance, but it's also cheaper with a single motor powertrain option.

Don't wait for the $2,000 iPhone Fold when the Pixel Fold price just crashed to $449
By John Velasco published
Woot brings the Pixel Fold down to its all-time lowest price thanks to a 75% off discount that brings it to $449.

Amazon’s customizable t-shirts are 10% off right now for Mother’s Day — and I made the most purrfect designs for that cat mom in my life
By John Velasco published
I used Amazon's custom t-shirt design tool to create these epic t-shirts for Mother's Day, and it's really incredible how easy it is to use.

I lived with the Galaxy Z Flip 7 for 8 months — 6 improvements I’m holding out for with the Galaxy Z Flip 8
By John Velasco published
After spending the past 8 months making the Galaxy Z Flip 7 as my daily driver, these are the upgrades I'm hoping to see with the Galaxy Z Flip 8.

I drove the Buick Enclave for a week — and this 3-row SUV is basically a more affordable Cadillac
By John Velasco published
Editor's ChoiceI put the 2026 Buick Enclave Avenir to the test and came away impressed by its luxury styling, tech-forward features, and the utility of seating up to seven passengers.
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