Verge readers, rejoice: Belkin's SoundForm Mini 2 wireless headphones for kids are now 25 percent less likely to make you wince at the price tag. These kid-focused on-ear cans come with an 85-decibel volume limit - because nothing says 'parenting' like pre-emptively protecting your child's hearing from their own questionable playlist choices - plus easy controls and a party trick: they can beam audio (wired or wirelessly) to a second pair without any extra hardware. That's right, siblings can finally share a screen without a physical fight over the headphone jack.
Use the code VERGE25OFF at checkout to save 25 percent on up to two pairs. The $29.99 model without the zip-up carrying case drops to $22.49. If you fancy the case, a more limited selection of colors is available for $29.99 instead of $39.99 once the code is applied. That's a savings of $10, which you can spend on snacks to bribe them into wearing them.
While these don't boast noise cancellation, they should be plenty for most situations - like drowning out your in-laws' opinions on screen time. They last up to 55 hours on a single charge, fold up neatly to fit into various bags, and are designed for ages 3 and up, with an adjustable headband and cushioned earcups. They're pretty no-frills, but that audio-sharing mode is a clever workaround for avoiding the purchase of an audio splitter or wireless transmitter to keep multiple kids entertained - because nothing says 'modern parenting' like technology that lets you not buy more gadgets.
If you're in the market for more grown-up audio, the Sonos Ace, now succeeded by the $449 Ace Ultra, remain a fantastic value at $299.99 from Amazon and Best Buy. The original lacked direct speaker linking and had some app woes, but Sonos has since overhauled its app and added TV Audio Swap support for Beam and Ray soundbars. It's almost like they listened to the criticism - who knew?
For Nintendo fans, Kirby Air Riders on Switch 2 is close to $20 off at Amazon, hitting $51.99 for the physical version (digital is still $69.99). It delivers F-Zero-esque frenzy that Mario Kart World can't match, and it's the follow-up to the GameCube classic, with more racers, aircraft, and modes. Not essential, but a fun splurge.
Finally, if you're feeling thrifty, Amazon Resale offers returned products marked down by up to 30 percent at checkout. Look for the green 'Save at checkout' on listings. No earthshaking console deals, but controllers and headphones can see nice savings. Because who doesn't love a gently used gadget that someone else already broke in?
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