Expert Advice

Wondering if a DVD player is still worth it in 2026? Our buying guide covers what to look for, plus the Oakcastle DVD120 and DVD175 portable players

We've rounded up the best portable Bluetooth speakers available right now at Maplin — from pocket-sized minis that cost less than £25 to powerful party machines that fill a garden with sound — so you can find the perfect match for your needs and budget.

You've seen "ANC" on headphone packaging, heard it mentioned in reviews, and maybe even wondered whether it actually does what it claims. Active Noise Cancellation is one of the most useful technologies in modern audio — but it's also one of the most misunderstood. This guide explains exactly what ANC is, how it works, when it helps (and when it doesn't), and how it compares to other types of noise reduction.

You've decided to level up your audio. You've looked at microphones, and now you're faced with the choice that stops almost every new podcaster and streamer in their tracks: dynamic or condenser? Both types can produce great sound — but they work very differently, and the wrong choice for your setup can leave you frustrated. In this guide, we'll break down exactly what separates the two, and help you decide which is right for you.

Not sure which Bluetooth earphones to buy? Our 2026 guide covers noise cancelling, battery life, Bluetooth versions and the best picks for every budget.

Which microphone is right for you? Our buying guide covers dynamic vs condenser, USB vs XLR, polar patterns, and the best mic for podcasting, streaming and more.

If you spend any time on trains, buses, or walking through busy streets, a good pair of headphones can make all the difference. But with so many choices out there — noise-cancelling, wired, wireless, in-ear, over-ear — how do you know what’s right for you?

More and more UK races are banning in-ear headphones due to safety concerns and insurance regulations. But don’t worry — there’s a smart solution that’s not just allowed, but often encouraged: bone conduction headphones.

Heading off to university is a big step, and making sure you’re equipped with the right tech can make life on campus more productive, convenient, and enjoyable. While laptops are a given, many students overlook the supporting gadgets that can vastly improve their daily routines—from staying powered up during lectures to creating a comfortable and focused study environment. Here at Maplin, we’ve put together a breakdown of smart tech tools every student should consider packing before starting the academic year.

As the world becomes increasingly unpredictable, emergency preparedness is more important than ever. Natural disasters, power outages, and other crises can strike with little warning, leaving you vulnerable if you're not equipped. Thankfully, modern technology offers an array of tools to help keep you safe, connected, and informed during emergencies. In this guide, we'll explore the most useful emergency preparedness tech you should consider adding to your home emergency kit.

Planning an event and want to leave your guests in awe? Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, concert, or corporate gathering, the secret to a truly memorable experience lies in three key elements: stage lighting, fog machines, and the ever-classic mirror ball.

In this short guide, we’ll explore why noise protection is important, how different earplugs serve different needs, and which options are best for travel, work, and sleep.

Lavalier microphones are commonly used in settings such as broadcasting, filmmaking, public speaking, and live performances. It is also known as a lapel mic or clip-on mic due to its small size and ability to be discreetly attached to a person's clothing. Find out all you need to know in this article.

If you’re looking to buy a speaker but don’t know a lot about audio, the sheer number of options including styles and sizes can be overwhelming. One of the core decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want an active or passive speaker. But what’s the difference? Maplin are here to help you learn the basics.

Whether you need professional sound quality for a business call or you’re taking to the stage to perform, you’ll need a microphone to make sure your voice is heard. But which model is right for you? Here at Maplin, we can help you understand the different types of microphones so you can find the ideal match for your needs.