How-To Geek - Hobbies

Someone made a Now Playing screen for their turntable using a Raspberry Pi

Jon Fingas — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 17:33:32 GMT

You don't have to give up the conveniences of digital music when you prefer the sound of vinyl, provided you're willing to put in some work. Reddit user Simon Trost has built a Raspberry Pi-based "Now Playing" screen, the VinylPi64, that automatically detects songs playing on your turntable.

Power tools you probably didn’t know Milwaukee invented

Cory Gunther — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 15:00:14 GMT

Milwaukee is one of the most popular tool brands, and many enthusiasts might even know that the company has been around for over 100 years. But what you might not know is that Milwaukee invented many power tools, like the Sawzall, and other new technologies during that century.

Ryobi’s real advantage over Milwaukee and DeWalt isn’t the price—it’s the ecosystem

Cory Gunther — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:00:14 GMT

Ryobi is a go-to in the DIY and homeowner space for multiple reasons. Not only do they have a ton of tools for just about any task, but they also make dozens of accessories for hobbies, outdoor activities, and more. Just like tools in general, there's a lot of personal preference and brand loyalty involved, and while Ryobi gets hate online, they're clearly winning in several ways.

3 things I've gained from rooftop solar that nobody seems to talk about

Bertel King — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 22:30:14 GMT

When I mention that solar panels blanket the roof of my house, the first thing people ask is whether I have an electric bill. Well, yes and no — but that's only part of the story. Here's what I've truly gained from rooftop solar.

Stop using Milwaukee batteries with adapters before you ruin them

Cory Gunther — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 16:00:15 GMT

Many DIYers start with one brand of power tools, then eventually switch things up. Like initially buying Milwaukee or DeWALT, then moving to Ryobi's more affordable line. A common solution to having a mix of different tools, battery packs, and chargers is to buy a battery adapter. And while some people use adapters just fine, you probably shouldn't use them on your Milwaukee battery packs, and here's why.

What LoRa actually is, and why it can send messages miles without cell towers

Tim Brookes — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 14:00:14 GMT

If you’ve spent any time in hobbyist electronic spaces, you’ve probably come across the term “LoRa” before. Like Wi-Fi and cell networks, LoRa can be used to send and receive data through the air.

Your Ryobi drill is overheating because you're doing these 5 things wrong

Tim Brookes — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 10:00:15 GMT

Overheating tools can really slow you down, and you might be to blame. Let’s take a look at some of the main reasons your brightly-colored bargain of a drill might be running hot and what you can do about it.

4 Ryobi tools you need to level up your DIY game

Cory Gunther — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 22:30:14 GMT

Fall is the perfect time for DIY projects. It's not too hot, but not too cold, and as long as you have the right tool for the job, you'll be able to power through those hard tasks easier than ever. Whether you're new to the Ryobi ecosystem or have been buying for years, here are some of the best tools you'll need to level up your DIY game.

The first Boox pocket eReader is up for pre-order, and Xteink should watch out

Jon Fingas — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 14:08:01 GMT

You won't have to wait much longer to try Boox's take on a pocket eReader. The company has started taking pre-orders for the Picco ahead of an October release date, and promises to give its rival Xteink some stiff competition.

Ryobi's $20 clamp fan is the most versatile tool in my garage—here's why I own three

Cory Gunther — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 14:00:14 GMT

If you own some Ryobi power tools and battery packs, there's a good chance you have one of its fans. Ryobi makes all sorts of extremely useful tools to keep you cool, but the internet's favorite model is the clamp fan. Here's why, and several creative ways to use this affordable little gadget.