Expert Advice

Cables play a vital role in almost every piece of modern technology we use. Whether you’re charging a smartphone, connecting a laptop to a monitor, setting up a home cinema or wiring a home office, choosing the right cable ensures your devices perform reliably and efficiently.

At Maplin, we offer a wide selection of cables, adapters and connectivity solutions designed for everyday home use, professional environments and specialist setups. In this comprehensive guide, we answer some of the most common questions about cables, helping you make informed choices and get the best performance from your equipment.

Walkie talkies explained – a complete two-way radio buying guide for outdoor activities, security and events. Features, ranges and tips.

Batteries are essential for everyday electronics, from TV remotes and toys to smart home sensors and safety devices. Yet choosing the right battery — and using it correctly — can be confusing with so many sizes, chemistries, and claims on the packaging.

This guide answers the most common questions about batteries, helping you choose the best option from Maplin’s range of AA, AAA, rechargeable, lithium, coin cell, and specialist batteries.

Qi vs MagSafe wireless charging explained. Learn the differences, compatibility, speeds and which wireless charger is best for your devices.

Becoming a parent means juggling a million things at once — feeding schedules, nap times, laundry, and trying to sneak in a moment for yourself. That’s why a reliable baby monitor has become one of the most essential parenting tools. It gives you peace of mind, keeps your baby safer, and lets you stay connected even when you’re not in the same room.

Whether you’re preparing for your first baby or want to upgrade your older tech, here’s a friendly, simple guide to the benefits and features of today’s best baby monitors.

Maplin’s guide to help you choose the right phone charger - will it be a USB charger, wireless charger, power bank, car charger, multi-port adapter or a desktop charging station?

A clear guide to HDMI ARC and the Maplin HDMI cables that support it, helping you upgrade your home-theatre sound easily.

Photography has long evolved — from bulky 35 mm film cameras, to sleek DSLRs and now to high-resolution smartphones. And yet, there’s something quietly charming and timeless about disposable film cameras. For those who want their photos to carry a vintage vibe or spontaneous authenticity, a disposable camera delivers an entirely different experience from digital. That’s where the Praktica single-use cameras come in as a simple, affordable choice for capturing real moments without fuss.

As homeowners and businesses look for smarter, more sustainable ways to protect their property, solar-powered security cameras have quickly become one of the most searched-for solutions. Offering wire-free installation, eco-friendly operation, and reliable performance even in remote areas, these cameras are transforming modern security.

If you're considering upgrading your surveillance system, this guide covers everything you need to know—including key features, benefits, and what to look for before you buy.

Troubleshoot USB hub issues with easy fixes. Find out why your hub isn’t working and how to solve common problems with tips from Maplin.

Learn the key differences between USB hubs and docking stations, and find out which is best for your setup in this simple guide.

Compare alkaline vs lithium AA batteries to find the best fit for your devices. Find out which lasts longer, performs better, and offers the best value..

This guide compares six top Maplin charging blocks so you can find the perfect USB-C phone charger, multi-port USB-A and USB-C charger, or all-round best charger for your phone, tablet and laptop.

Discover how to choose the best rechargeable batteries for 2025. Selecting the right battery can enhance performance and sustainability, and help you make an informed purchasing decision.

HDMI cables are essential for connecting your TV, gaming console, laptop, or streaming device to displays and monitors. But when your HDMI cable isn't working, it can be incredibly frustrating — especially when your screen suddenly says “No Signal” or you’re getting no picture or sound.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common HDMI cable issues, explain how to fix them, and help you determine if the problem lies with the cable, the port, or your device settings.

Whether it’s your phone not charging, your screen flickering, or your internet dropping, a faulty cable is often the hidden culprit. Knowing how to diagnose and replace a cable can save you time, frustration, and even prevent hardware damage.