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New analysis shows a mini PC can deliver major energy savings without changing everyday computing tasks

• Switching from a traditional desktop PC to a mini PC could reduce computer electricity costs by about 83%.

• The average household could save around $67 per year, or about $333 over five years, according to the analysis.

• The electricity saved each year is enough to charge a smartphone for more than 90 years or brew about 4,500 cups of coffee.

When people look for ways to lower their electricity bills, they often focus on appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, or heating systems.

But a new analysis from GEEKOM suggests another household device may deserve more attention: the desktop computer.

According to the analysis, a traditional desktop PC uses significantly more electricity than a mini PC while handling the same everyday activities, such as web browsing, email, and office work. Over time, that difference can translate into noticeable savings on a home's electric bill, especially for people who spend several hours each day using a computer.

Computers have quietly become devices used for the longest periods in many homes, Max Tang, CMO at GEEKOM, said. A desktop that stays powered for hours every day can add up to hundreds of dollars in electricity costs over its lifetime. Helping people see that hidden cost gives them another way to make smarter choices about their technology.

Why mini PCs use less energy

The analysis estimates that a standard desktop computer draws about 150 watts during everyday use, while a mini PC uses about 25 watts. Assuming the computer is used for eight hours a day throughout the year, that equals roughly 438 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually for a desktop, compared with about 73 kWh for a mini PC.

At average U.S. residential electricity rates, that works out to approximately $80 a year to operate a desktop versus about $13 for a mini PC. That's an estimated savings of about $67 annually, or roughly $333 over a typical five-year lifespan an 83% reduction in electricity costs.

The amount households save depends on where they live because electricity prices vary by state. Hawaii residents could save the most, at about $170 per year, followed by Connecticut, Massachusetts, and California. Even in states with lower electricity rates, the analysis found households could still save around $45 annually by making the switch.

To help put those energy savings into perspective, GEEKOM estimates the 365 kWh saved each year is enough electricity to charge a smartphone for more than 90 years, power an LED light bulb for more than three decades, brew about 4,500 cups of coffee, or run a refrigerator for nearly 11 months.

What this means for consumers

For people who use a computer for work, school, or everyday household tasks, energy use may be another factor worth considering when it's time to replace an older machine.

The analysis found that the longer a computer stays powered on each day, the greater the potential savings.

While actual electricity costs depend on the computer's hardware, workload, and local utility rates, the findings suggest that choosing a more energy-efficient computer could help reduce long-term operating costs without changing the way many people use their computers every day.

New discounts, lower prices and in-store events aim to stretch budgets further

• Target says 95% of its school supply deals are priced at or below last year's retail prices.

• A weeklong sale beginning July 26 includes discounts on clothing, shoes, backpacks, and dorm dcor.

• The retailer is expanding in-store back-to-school and college events with giveaways and personalization activities.

Back-to-school shopping can add up quickly, whether you're buying crayons for a first grader or bedding for a college freshman.

To help families prepare for the upcoming school year, Target is introducing a mix of lower everyday prices, limited-time discounts, and expanded in-store events designed to make shopping a little easier.

The retailer says it has reduced prices on thousands of products across school supplies and everyday essentials, including many food and beverage items. According to Target, 95% of its school supply deals are priced at or below last year's retail prices. Shoppers will also find school supplies starting at 25 cents, apparel starting at $5, and a variety of college essentials priced under $20.

"From picking out a first-day outfit to finding the perfect sheets for your dorm, back-to-school and college is filled with so many meaningful moments, and Target is making them easier for busy families," Cara Sylvester, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, Target, said in a news release.

"With fresh styles, everyday essentials and incredible value all in one place, we're helping families spend less time shopping and more time celebrating the start of a new school year."

Discounts cover everything from uniforms to dorm dcor

One of the biggest promotions is a weeklong savings event running from July 26 through Aug. 1.

During that time, shoppers can save up to 30% on kids' clothing, receive 25% off kids' shoes, and save 30% on school uniform polos and dresses. The sale also includes 20% off Champion backpacks and lunch items, 20% off All in Motion backpacks, lunch kits, and hydration products, and 30% off teen home dcor.

Beyond sale prices, Target says it will participate in state tax-free shopping holidays where applicable.

Verified college students and teachers can also receive 20% off one storewide purchase through Target Circle during the promotional period.

The retailer is also expanding its in-store experiences. On Aug. 8, about 2,000 stores will host back-to-school events featuring activities such as personalization kits for backpacks and school gear, giveaways, and opportunities to explore new merchandise.

Later in the month, Target will hold back-to-college move-in events at nearly 150 stores, with select locations offering DJs, samples, and welcome bags timed to local campus move-in schedules.

What it means for shoppers

For families and students, the announcement provides several ways to save depending on what they need most. Everyday price reductions may help with routine school supply purchases, while the limited-time sale offers deeper discounts on clothing, backpacks, and dorm items.

Students heading to college and teachers preparing for the new year may be able to stretch their budgets further by combining Target Circle offers with seasonal promotions.

Meanwhile, the expanded in-store events add an extra element for shoppers who enjoy browsing in person while picking up supplies before the school year begins.

The family car has gotten bigger but has your family?

• Many families are buying larger SUVs than they need, increasing costs for insurance, fuel, maintenance, and repairs.

• Look beyond the monthly payment and compare the total cost of ownership before choosing your next family vehicle.

• Don't overlook the minivan it often offers more practical space and better value than a three-row SUV.

The American family has gotten smaller, but our vehicles have gotten bigger.

A new study from Bumper found that only 10% of households have three or more children the type of family that originally made the minivan a household staple. Yet 44% of respondents drive an SUV, while just 5% drive a minivan. Even more surprising, 63% said their ideal family vehicle is an SUV, compared with just 12% who chose a minivan.

That preference may be costing families far more than they realize.

Buying the biggest or trendiest vehicle isn't always the smartest financial move. Before you sign on the dotted line, here's how to make sure you're buying the right vehicle for your family, and not just the one everyone else seems to want.

Buy for your family today not the one you might have someday

It's easy to justify buying a three-row SUV "just in case."

But if you have one or two children and rarely travel with extra passengers, chances are you'll spend years paying for seats you seldom use.

Ask yourself these questions:

• How often is every seat occupied?

• Do you really need a third row every week or only just a few times each year?

• Would renting a larger vehicle for vacations cost less than owning one year-round?

The answers may surprise you.

Look beyond the monthly payment

Many shoppers compare only the sticker price or monthly payment and fail to look at the big picture.

Instead, compare the total cost of ownership, including:

• Insurance premiums

• Fuel costs

• Tire replacement

• Maintenance

• Registration fees

Those ongoing expenses can add thousands of dollars over the life of the vehicle.

Pro tip: Before buying, get insurance quotes for several models. The difference between two similar vehicles can easily add up to hundreds of dollars per year.

Don't underestimate the humble minivan

For years, minivans have battled an image problem, but practicality hasn't gone out of style.

Having raised three kids, I can vouch for the sliding doors making it so much easier to load and unload children in tight parking spaces.

Plus, most minivans offer more usable cargo space than many three-row SUVs, while providing similar seating capacity. They also tend to be easier and less expensive to repair because they're built on car-based platforms rather than truck-based designs.

If functionality tops your priority list, a minivan deserves a strong second look.

Separate wants from needs

The Bumper survey found an interesting contradiction.

When people were asked what matters most when shopping for a family vehicle, seating capacity, fuel economy, and price topped the list. Yet the vehicle that performs well in those categories the minivan remains one of the least popular choices.

That suggests many buyers are making emotional decisions instead of financial ones.

There's nothing wrong with buying a vehicle you love. Just make sure you're paying for features you'll actually use.

Think about the money you'll keep

Every extra dollar spent on a vehicle is money that can't be saved, invested or used for other family financial goals.

If a less expensive vehicle meets your needs just as well, the savings could help fund a family vacation, pay down debt, boost your emergency fund, or add to a college 529 plan.

That's a trade-off worth considering before you head to the dealership.

The Galaxy Card rewards Samsung purchases and Samsung Wallet spending

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• Samsung is launching its first credit card, offering 5% cash back on eligible Samsung purchases and 3% on purchases made through Samsung Wallet.

• New cardholders can earn a $200 bonus after spending $2,000 during the first 90 days.

• Applications open to the general public on July 22, but consumers should review the cards interest rate, fees. and reward restrictions before applying.

Samsung is entering the crowded credit card market with a card designed to encourage customers to buy more of its devices and use its digital wallet.

The company announced the Samsung Galaxy Card this week. Barclays U.S. Consumer Bank will issue the card, and purchases will be processed through the Visa network.

Applications open to the general public on July 22, according to the Samsung announcement. Eligible customers who received early access can apply sooner.

The card will be available both as a virtual card and as a black metal physical card bearing the Samsung logo. Cardholders can add the virtual version to Samsung Wallet.

How the rewards work

The Galaxy Card offers several levels of cash rewards:

• 5% on eligible purchases made directly from Samsung

• 3% on purchases made using Samsung Wallet

• 2% on eligible streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, and Spotify

• 1% on other purchases

Purchases eligible for the 5% rate include those made through Samsung.com, Samsung Experience Stores, the Samsung Shop app, and Galaxy Store. Certain services, including Samsung Care+, Samsung Secure Wi-Fi, Samsung Smart TV Store, and SmartThings Videos also qualify.

Samsung is also promoting 5% cash rewards for consumers who preorder the companys next Galaxy device.

New cardholders can earn an additional $200 in bonus cash rewards after spending at least $2,000 during the first 90 days after opening the account. That spending requirement works out to about $667 a month.

Cardholders will also receive 20% off a Samsung VIP Advantage membership and earn 5% back when purchasing or renewing that membership. Terms and exclusions apply to both the membership and the card rewards.

Card is closely tied to Samsung Wallet

Samsung said the card is intended to work closely with Samsung Wallet, where users can also store compatible payment cards, identification cards, passes, and some digital keys.

Using Samsung Wallet requires a compatible smartphone running Android 9.0 or later and a Samsung account. That means the cards 3% mobile-wallet category may be most useful to consumers who already own a compatible Galaxy phone and regularly use Samsung Wallet.

The rewards structure may also appeal to consumers planning to purchase an expensive Samsung television, appliance, or mobile device. For example, a qualifying $1,000 Samsung purchase could generate $50 in cash rewards at the advertised 5% rate.

However, consumers should not choose a credit card based on rewards alone. Samsungs announcement did not prominently detail the cards annual percentage rate or all applicable fees. Applicants should examine Barclays complete pricing and terms, including whether there is an annual fee, how rewards can be redeemed, and whether any purchases are excluded.

Interest charges can quickly erase the value of cash-back rewards if a balance is carried from month to month. The card is likely to provide the greatest value to Samsung customers who qualify for its higher reward rates and pay their balances in full.