Feed aggregator

68 birthday gift ideas we'd actually be excited to unwrap

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 05:00

Kids aren't the only ones who get excited about birthday gifts. You can be a full-grown adult and still lose your shit when you open up the gift that topped your wish list. But as you get older, it does become a little more difficult to come up with a list of birthday gift ideas. You can't just ask for all the coolest new toys anymore. Well, you can if you want — we're not going to stop you.

SEE ALSO: Try Gift Lab: Our interactive gift guide

If your birthday is coming up and you're struggling to think of what you want, don't sweat it. We compiled the ultimate birthday wish list, with gifts ranging from tech to outdoor essentials to home goods. Read on for some birthday inspo and start casually dropping hints to your friends and family. And hey, happy birthday!

P.S. Some stellar birthday gifts will be on sale during Prime Day on July 16 and 17.

The gift of clean air Credit: Levoit

I know, I know, an air purifier is not the sexiest gift, but it is a practical one. The Levoit Core 300S is a smart air purifier with a companion app that lets you control the device and see real-time stats about your home's air quality. It's suitable for spaces up to 1,095 square feet.

Levoit Core 300S smart air purifier $149.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Coffee from around the world Credit: Atlas Coffee Club

Atlas Coffee Club is a coffee subscription that sends you coffee beans and postcards from a different country each month. So, you get to try roasts you probably can't get from your grocery store and you get to learn about a new place — and maybe get some travel inspo. You can select from whole beans, grounds, Keurig pods, and Nespresso pods. Subscriptions can be three, six, or 12 months.

Opens in a new window Credit: Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription Starting at $55 Shop Now A puzzle with a few tricks up its sleeve Credit: Magic Puzzle Company

Magic Puzzle Company makes incredibly fun 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles that have a secret envelope for you to open when you're done. This surprise envelope unlocks a "magical twist ending," so placing that final piece will be even more exciting. The intricate designs feature tons of Easter eggs and some of the puzzle pieces are even shaped like items throughout the scene. The Big Rock City puzzle has a hot dog-shaped piece and music note-shaped piece to name a couple.

Opens in a new window Credit: Magic Puzzle Company Magic Puzzle Company (Big Rock City puzzle) $33.89 at Amazon
Shop Now Somewhere to put your headphones Credit: Coreminded

Rather than laying your headphones throughout your home or having them clutter up your desk, ask for a universal headphone stand for your birthday. This one is compatible with almost any pair of over-ear headphones or gaming headsets — and it has a pretty sleek look, too.

Opens in a new window Credit: coreminded Universal headphone stand $24.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A stylish candle warmer lamp Credit: Geezo

Big candle fan? Then a candle warmer should be on your birthday list. It helps your candle last longer and you don't need an open flame burning in your home. And if you're going to ask for a candle warmer, make it a cute one. With glass lamp shade, this warmer blends seamlessly into your home decor.

Opens in a new window Credit: Geezo Candle warmer lamp $24.99
Shop Now Sony's latest bass-heavy headphones Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable

Sony released its new ULT Power Sound lineup in April, and we adore the headphones. The ULT Wears have Sony's impressive sound quality and noise cancellation, and are made even more impressive by the addition of the ULT button, which punches up the bass two additional levels. These headphones are booming, and the best part is they're relatively budget-friendly.

Opens in a new window Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Sony ULT Wear headphones $198.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A personalized Yeti mug Credit: Yeti

This Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug is a great size for both true coffee lovers and beer drinkers. It can also hold two Moscow mules, according to Yeti, if that's more your speed. The Rambler is available in an array of fun and neutral colors. Plus, you can customize it with an etched design or monogram. For just $6 to $10, you can choose designs from Yeti's library or upload your own file. I personally own the king crab orange mug with a cowboy boot and flowers etched on the side.

Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug $35.00 at Yeti
Shop Now Mini zodiac cupcakes Credit: Baked by Melissa

Birthday cake is the standard, but might we suggest this fun alternative: mini cupcakes selected by an astrologer specifically for your zodiac sign. This Baked by Melissa offering comes with 25 cupcakes and the flavors vary depending on your sign — though there are some fan-favorites that show up in each zodiac variation. These also make for a great last-minute ask if you're in Manhattan or Boston, as there's same-day delivery for select locations.

Opens in a new window Credit: Baked by Melissa Baked by Melissa zodiac cupcakes $37.00
Shop Now A desk you can take anywhere Credit: Miller Kern / Mashable

If you work remotely, you gotta get this portable desk from Logitech. The Casa Pop-Up Desk includes a wireless keyboard, wireless trackpad, and a desk stand that doubles as a discreet and stylish carrying case. It comes in three colors so you can match your aesthetic. This is an especially great tool if you like working from coffee shops or move around while you work.

Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk $179.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A portable, smokeless fire pit Credit: Solo Stove

Whether you're a hardcore camper or you just like unwinding with a few beers by the fire, Solo Stove's Ranger fire pit is a fantastic gift to ask for. It's designed to be smokeless and portable, making it great for balconies, backyards, beach hangs, or camping trips. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel reviewed the larger Solo Stove Bonfire and wrote that it burns "beautiful, clean fires when conditions are right." The best part? The Ranger is typically on sale for $199.99, so whoever gifts it has 30 extra dollars to spend on your birthday.

Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 $199.99 at Solo Stove
$229.99 Save $30.00 Shop Now A fancy desk chair Credit: Branch

My favorite type of birthday gift is something I want to buy myself but just can't justify spending my own money on. The Verve chair is a prime example of that. It's super comfy and ergonomic, and it comes in really cute colors, but it's definitely on the luxury end of pricing. If you work from home or just spend a lot of time sitting at a desk, put this at the top of your wish list.

Opens in a new window Credit: Branch Verve Chair $549.00 at Branch
Shop Now Film vibes from a digital camera Credit: Paper Shoot Camera

Film photos are back in a big way, but not all of us have the patience to fill up an entire roll and then wait for it to get developed. Paper Shoot is a really neat camera that takes film-esque photos and stores them on an SD card so you can pull them to your computer or phone and post immediately. The design is super low-profile, making it easy to slip into your purse or pocket on a night out. Plus, there are a bunch of cute designs to choose from for the outside case.

Opens in a new window Credit: Paper Shoot Camera Paper Camera $139.00 at Paper Shoot
Shop Now A handheld gaming console that's not a Switch Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Mashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry described the Lenovo Legion Go as "beefier and more powerful" than the Nintendo Switch. It has a huge display, solid performance, and all-around great specs. It's not a one-to-one competitor of the Switch, but rather a portable way into PC gaming that's "really good at running all kinds of games."

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Legion Go $699.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now A Bluetooth record player Credit: Sony

Are your Spotify playlists just not cutting it anymore? Switch it up and go retro with a vinyl music collection. This turntable connects to Bluetooth speakers and headphones, or you can hook it up to a traditional sound system using cords. It costs $249.99 (but you can sometimes find it on sale for under $200).

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony Turntable $248.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A smart speaker Credit: Amazon

If you don't have a smart speaker by now, it's time to make a change. The Echo Dot is an affordable voice-controlled companion that'll keep you in the loop on the weather, current events, and keep track of your most important reminders. Also, they're great for playing music. Get one for $49.99.

Echo Dot smart speaker $49.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A portable, waterproof speaker Credit: Bose

Beach days and outdoor adventures are made complete with your favorite playlist. The Bose SoundLink Flex is a portable speaker that can handle the elements while still providing stellar sound quality. It's waterproof, rust and drop resistant, and even floats. Plus, it comes in five fun colors. For even bigger sound, try the Bose SoundLink Max.

Bose SoundLink Flex $149.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A pair of AirPods Pro Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

When you already own a pair of earbuds, it can be hard to justify splurging on a new pair — even if you really, really want to. And that's why the new AirPods Pro (Gen 2) earbuds are an ideal birthday present. For people still using lightning cables (gross), the new USB-C version will be a welcome upgrade. Apple stepped up its audio game with these buds, which feature improved sound quality and active noise cancellation. For a cheaper alternative, ask for the latest 3rd Gen AirPods, which start at $169.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple AirPods Pro 2 $189.00 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $60.00 Shop Now A massage gun Credit: TheraGun

Whether you're working at a desk all day, running around, or just inexplicably tense, a massage gun will get you limber and relaxed again. What better gift than the gift of painless movement? Our best recommendation? Go for the TheraGun. Their Prime model costs $299, but if that's not quite in your budget, then check out our gadget gift guide for more gifting inspiration.

Opens in a new window Credit: Theragun TheraGun $299.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A cool drone with a 12MP camera Credit: DJI

This drone is small and super lightweight, but it takes stunning photos and videos. It's great for traveling or for use at home. DJI is one of the top names in drones and the Mini 2 SE costs $339 with a remote control.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Magic Mini 2 SE $299.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A personal blender for smoothies Credit: Nutribullet

Make smoothies in your own kitchen with a NutriBullet personal blender — it's fast and easy. The NutriBullet Nutrient Extractor comes with the 600W motor base, blender blade, 24-ounce blending cup, travel lid, and lip ring, plus a recipe book if you're sick of the same old smoothies. It costs $58 at Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: NutriBullet NutriBullet $58.00 at Walmart
Shop Now A new phone Credit: Apple

Still living that single-camera iPhone 8 life? Don't spend your own money on an expensive phone — have someone who loves you spend their money! The new iPhone 15 starts at $799 while the iPhone 15 Plus retails at $899 and up. (Group gift, anyone?)

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 15 Starting at $799 at Best Buy Shop Now A camera to rival your phone Credit: Nikon

When giving your friends and family birthday gift ideas, it's usually best to look for gifts under $50. But if you have a partner or parent who really loves you, then it's okay to dream big.

An easy-to-use mirrorless camera designed with creators in mind, the Nikon Z 30 boasts video, camera, and live streaming capabilities at an affordable price. The camera body can be purchased alone or with one or two kit lenses. There’s also the creators’ accessory bundle which comes with a mic, tripod grip, and Bluetooth remote.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nikon Nikon Z 30 Mirrorless Digital Vlogging Camera Bundle $696.95 at Amazon
Shop Now Or a pack of disposable cameras Credit: Fujifilm

We mentioned the Paper Shoot Camera above, but sometimes you really just want that classic disposable camera experience. You'll capture some fun, in-the-moment memories with no do-overs. A three-pack of disposable cameras costs $79.99 (these have become kind of expensive since the invention of digital/phone cameras).

Opens in a new window Credit: Fujifilm Fujifilm disposable cameras $79.99 at Amazon
Shop Now An Apple Watch Credit: Apple

An Apple Watch lets you access smartphone features conveniently on your wrist. You can control your music, send and receive texts, monitor your health, and tons more. The Apple Watch Series 9 is $399 at Amazon, but you can usually find it on sale.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 9 $399.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A media streaming stick Credit: Amazon

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is one of the best streaming devices we've tested, and it's also one of our favorite birthday gift ideas. If you don't already have a smart TV but want to access Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Disney+, and all the other streaming apps directly from your TV, ask for a Fire TV Stick for your b-day. Amazon's streaming stick has better voice control than similar products from Roku, and the 4K version normally goes for $49.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $39.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Cold hard cash Credit: Pixabay

You really can't beat the gift of cold, hard cash — or a gift card. A Visa card is a perfect birthday gift because you can spend it on literally whatever you want; buy yourself something fun or get some help with groceries. Best of all, you don't need to decide exactly what you want before your birthday. The gift card starts at $10.

Opens in a new window Credit: Visa Gift card Starting at $10 at Giftcards.com Shop Now A delicious-smelling candle Credit: Bonita Fierce

Candles are a timeless gift that you can ask for at every single gift-giving opportunity (and will likely receive anyway if you don't specify what you actually want). We are firm believers that you can never have too many candles. Add some sweet scents from Bonita Fierce, a Latina-owned small business, to your b-day wish list this year and every year. Candles start at $16

Opens in a new window Credit: Bonita Fierce Bonita Fierce candle Starting at $16 at Bonita Fierce Shop Now The delicious scent without the fire hazard Credit: Pura

If candles are a no-go, opt for a Bluetooth-enabled diffuser to make any room in your home smell divine. The Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser ($49.99) holds two fragrances and is controlled entirely through the app. Schedule one smell to wake up to and one to fall asleep to with the in-app calendar feature. Pura collaborates with brands like NEST, Anthropologie, Disney, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to source their scents, so whatever the occasion calls for, they’ve got your back.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pura Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser $49.99 at Pura
Shop Now A cast iron skillet Credit: Lodge

A cast-iron skillet is the true sign that you're graduating from cheap nonstick cookware and all mismatched plates. It's something you probably want, but don't particularly want to spend the money on. Lodge has different sizes depending on what you're wanting to cook. A 10.25-inch skillet costs $40.75, but we've seen it drop below $25 recently.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lodge Lodge cast iron skillet $40.75 at Amazon
Shop Now A pressure cooker and air fryer in one Credit: Instant Pot

Maybe not quite as heavy duty as a cast-iron skillet but just as useful: a pressure cooker that can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, slow cook, prepare rice, steam, sauté, and more. Impress guests with your culinary skills (that are in fact just throwing all the ingredients listed in the recipe into this thing and then waiting a few hours). The Instant Pot 11-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker will cost your gift-giver $199.99, but they can reap the rewards when you cook for them with it.

Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Pot Instant Pot Duo Crisp $199.95 at Amazon
Shop Now A custom pet portrait Credit: LeFlore Studio

Sometimes, the best birthday gifts are the ones made just for you. If you're obsessed with your pet, these custom pet portraits need to be on your birthday list. There are many different styles to choose from, each one super freakin' adorable. Prices vary depending on size.

Opens in a new window Credit: LeFlore Studio Custom pet portrait Prices vary at LaFlore Studio on Etsy Shop Now Color-changing smart light bulbs Credit: Philips

Turn your bedroom into a party with these color-changing smart light bulbs. You can control the lights from your phone and set whatever mood you're feeling. This kit includes two smart Bluetooth bulbs for $99.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Bulbs $99.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now A portable projector The portable projector fits in the palm of your hands. Credit: Anker

All of your friends will start calling your home the "cool house" if movie nights involve this mini portable projector. Use it to play movies, shows, or games outside on a screen or indoors on a blank wall. The Anker Nebula Capsule in black costs $299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Nebula Capsule Projector $299.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A new bike Credit: Schwinn

Head outdoors with this hybrid bike designed for both leisure and more adventurous rides. It comes in different colors and a couple of different styles for men and women. The 18-inch Schwinn GTX 2.0 bike normally goes for $549.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Schwinn Schwinn GTX bike $549.95 at Amazon
Shop Now An app for exploring Credit: AllTrails

Love to be outside, but can’t fold a map to save your life? Enter AllTrails+, the app designed to get you off your phone and into the wild. Featuring over 400,000 curated trails all over the world, the app allows you to download maps in case of a poor signal, record your hikes, create your own trails, and more. A yearly subscription costs $35.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: AllTrails AllTrails yearly subscription $35.99 at AllTrails
Shop Now A MacBook Air Credit: Apple

MacBook Airs are super nice computers, but they can definitely be a bit pricey... which is what makes them such a great addition to a birthday wish list. Someone who loves you can drop the big bucks for you! A 13.6-inch MacBook Air M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD goes for $1,099 at Best Buy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple MacBook Air $1,099.00 at Best Buy
Shop Now A robot vacuum Credit: iRobot

Stop manually vacuuming your house every day and let a robot vacuum clean your floors for you. The Roomba 694 has WiFi connectivity for mobile and voice controls and it's tough on pet hair. This robot vacuum costs $274.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Roomba 694 $274.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A more advanced robot vacuum Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni is a combination robot vacuum and mop that has a squared design for getting dust along walls and corners. It features spinning mop heads that don't just drag water along your floors but actually scrub and clean. After it's done cleaning, the vacuum returns to its charging dock where it empties its dustbin and cleans and dries its mop pads. The vacuum even has an onboard camera onboard so you can watch where it's cleaning.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ecovacs Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni robot vacuum and mop $999.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $500.00 Get Deal A weighted blanket Credit: Quilty

For what seems like an extraneous expense, an extra-heavy blanket can be a total game-changer. Besides providing all the comfort of a partner without the snoring, a weighted blanket can reduce tossing and turning and keep you extra warm. This one at Amazon comes in a bunch of colors, sizes, and weights, but the 60-inch by 80-inch 15-pound blanket (a good place to start) costs $76.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: quilty Quilty weighted blanket $76.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A new Kindle Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

The Mashable team has tested every Kindle e-reader, and we think the Kindle Paperwhite is the right e-reader for most people. Instead of asking for a book, ask for a Kindle for your birthday and save yourself money and space. Yes, it doesn't smell the same as a new book, but now you'll have no excuses for not keeping up with your yearly reading resolutions. The newest Kindle Paperwhite with 16GB storage and onscreen writing is $149.99 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite $149.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Something to make your life a little more eco-friendly Credit: Stasher

Whether you're packing your lunch or storing leftovers, using plastic bags should be your last resort. Heck, you should be trying to stay away from all single-use plastics if you're able to. But, if you want to start small, these Stasher bags are a great option to make your daily life more eco-friendly. These silicone bags are secure and completely reusable — either wash them by hand or stuff them in the dishwasher. Grab a starter pack for $99.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Stasher Stasher Bags starter kit $99.99 at Stasher
Shop Now A new comforter Credit: Buffy

Comforters, like a mattress, shouldn't be an item you cheap out on. They're supposed to last you a while, so why not have something a little more luxurious? The Buffy Cloud comforter is a sustainable comforter made from recycled fiber and eucalyptus. Mashable Shopping Reporter Leah Stodart reviewed it here, calling it "the first piece of bedding I've used that actually feels kind of dreamy." Snag a full/queen size comforter for $195 at Buffy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Buffy Buffy Comforter $195.00 at Buffy
Shop Now A trusty pet camera Credit: Furbo

If you're anything like us, you view your pet like it's your actual child. We support that. Now, you can up your pet parent game by picking up a Furbo pet camera. Not only does it livestream what your pet is up to while you aren't home straight to your phone, but it also has the ability to toss treats and produce two-way audio for quick check-ins. This pet camera is often on sale, so check for the latest price at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Furbo Furbo pet camera $210.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A reusable water bottle Credit: Hydroflask

It's always a good time to get more serious about hydration. A HydroFlask is a perfect way to make sure you have a cool (or hot) beverage on-hand, and they're super durable during outdoorsy activities. Grab one for $49.95 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: HydroFlask Hydroflask $49.95 at Amazon
Shop Now Elegant chopsticks Credit: Pingto

Step up your take-out game and do right by the environment with a set of elegant, reusable chopsticks. The bundle of six bamboo chopsticks comes in two color palettes and retails for $32.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pingto Pingto Bamboo Chopstick Sets $32.00 at Amazon
Shop Now Local flavors delivered Credit: Goldbelly

Speaking of take-out: if you’ve maxed out your city’s culinary offerings, see what’s available from the rest of the country. Goldbelly makes it possible to order meals and gifts from restaurants around the United States. No matter your craving, a Goldbelly gift card at any price point is bound to satisfy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Goldbelly Goldbelly gift card starting at $50 at Goldbelly Shop Now A habit tracker Credit: MochiThings

You’re one year older, so it's time to get your shit in order and form some healthy habits. Whether there’s an exercise regimen you’re hoping to stick to, a project you want to finish, or a vice you’re trying to quit, this weekly habit tracker will keep you on track without judgment. It only costs $10.95 to become a better person. 

Opens in a new window Credit: MochiThings Good Habit Tracking Memo Pad $10.95 at MochiThings
Shop Now A tiny bag Credit: Nanobag

There’s running errands and there’s running errands. If you’re prone to getting in a few miles before you stop at the grocery store, ask for a Nanobag, a tote bag that can fold up into a pocket-size ball. The standard size starts at $13.95 and comes in ten different colors and patterns.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nanobag Nanobag $13.95 at Nanobag
Shop Now A photo printer Credit: Canon

Have some photos on your phone or Instagram that you want to pin to your fridge? Ask for the Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer ($139). This sleek gadget connects to your Android or iPhone through WiFi, SD card, or USB stick and prints out your favorite pics in a layout design of your choosing. The printing isn’t instant (the color ink layers print one at a time), but the quality of the final product makes it worth the wait.

Opens in a new window Credit: Canon Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer $138.97 at Amazon
Shop Now Stronger abs Credit: Plankpad

Who says ab workouts can’t be fun? (Most people). The Plankpad PRO ($129) turns core exercises into games through the specialty balance board and synchronized app. In addition to games, the app also has the standard exercise series if you’d prefer to suffer through it without some silly graphics to distract you. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Plankpad Plankpad PRO $129.00 at Amazon
Shop Now An inconspicuous fanny pack Credit: FlipBelt

Whether you’re going for a run or heading to a music festival, keep your necessities at the ready with a FlipBelt Zipper pack. This handy belt can hold your phone, money, credit card, keys, and all sorts of everyday necessities. Coming in multiple sizes, the FlipBelt doesn’t bounce or chafe and is machine washable. Choose a color or pattern you like and add it to your Amazon cart for $39.

Opens in a new window Credit: FlipBelt FlipBelt Zipper Running Belt $39.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A new kind of jump rope Credit: Crossrope

Turn traditional jump roping on its head with Crossrope. The weighted jump rope (available in 1/4, 1/2, one, and two-pound weight options) and associated app keep you on your toes and strengthen your entire body through guided workouts. For those with downstairs neighbors or curious pets, the weighted ropeless option provides a silent solution for an otherwise noisy activity. Upgrade to the Bluetooth-connected AMP handles for a more individualized experience.

Opens in a new window Credit: Crossrope AMP Jump Rope Set $199.00 at Crossrope
Shop Now A cookie cutter of your pet Credit: FormaCookieCutters

Celebrate your favorite furry creature by eating their face — in a good way. Send in a photo of your best pet friend to this Etsy store and get a four-inch-wide, food-safe PLA cookie cutter of their likeness in return. Whether you’re taking care of the baking or you’re leaving the prep work for the recipient, you’re going to be hailed as an absolute gift-giving wizard. Order these custom birthday gifts for $30 from Etsy seller the FormaCookieCutters.

Opens in a new window Credit: FormaCookieCutters Custom Pet Portrait Cookie Cutter $30.00 at Etsy
Shop Now Authentic chai Credit: Kolkata Chai

Not satisfied with supermarket-bought chai? Get the real thing from New York-based chai-preneurs at Kolkata Chai. This small business will send authentic chai straight to your door with the Chai Trio Variety Pack ($62) or the Chai Starter Kit ($45). For devoted chai drinkers, Kolkata Chai offers subscription packages to keep that tea coming.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kolkata Chai Kolkata Chai Starting at $45 at Kolkata Chai Shop Now New reading materials Credit: Getty Images / iStock / Extreme-Photographer

Support independent bookstores from around the country with a gift card to Bookshop. Starting at $10, the gift cards can either be used to buy books from a specific shop you love, or the purchase can feed the site’s profit-sharing pool to benefit all of Bookshop's partner stores. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Bookshop.org Bookshop.org Gift Cards Starting at $10 at Bookshop Shop Now A one-of-a-kind planner Credit: Papier

Are you a proud Type A over-planner and over-thinker? Or maybe your meticulously organized BFF is having a birthday soon? This planner can be customized with the recipient's name and three personal photos, and despite the personalization, this spiral-bound planner costs just $35.

Opens in a new window Credit: Papier Personalized Photo Strip 2024 Planner $35.00 at Papier
Shop Now A Lego set that doubles as decor Credit: LEGO

One of our favorite gifts under $50 is this Lego Orchid that's fun to build and adds a nice touch of greenery to your space that feels more unique than a plastic plant. This set is part of the Lego Icons line, which also features succulents, a bonsai tree, and a bouquet, in case orchids aren't your thing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Orchid $49.99 at Amazon
Shop Now An endless supply of veggies and herbs Credit: AeroGarden

Whether you're an enthusiastic home chef, like a bit of greenery, or simply can't stand running to the grocery store every time a recipe calls for some cilantro, a hydroponic garden is a great way to keep veggies and herbs on hand, even if you don't have a green thumb. We're fans of AeroGarden, which has gardens that start at $57.72.

Opens in a new window Credit: AeroGarden AeroGarden Sprout $57.72 at Amazon
Shop Now The smart temperature-controlled mug Credit: Ember

There's a lot of debate about what makes a good gift, but getting something that is a) practical and b) something just extravagant enough that you'd never get it for yourself may be the infallibly perfect combo. We think for coffee and tea drinkers, that combo is found in the Ember Mug 2, which retails for $129.95. This temperature-controlled mug may be unnecessary (and expensive), but boy does it feel good to take a hot sip of coffee after forgetting you poured it an hour ago.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ember Ember Mug 2 $129.95 at Amazon
Shop Now Year-round spa days Credit: Molly Flores / Mashable

You can ask for a day at the spa, or you can ask for the gift of getting a facial whenever you want and from the comfort of your home. In her review of the device, Mashable's Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern wrote the TheraFace Pro is "a hell of a lot cheaper than getting regular professional facials, and I truly feel like I've received a spa treatment every time I use [it]."

Opens in a new window Credit: TheraGun TheraFace Pro $399.00 at Therabody
Shop Now Five hair tools in one Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable

Instead of asking for the $600 Dyson Airwrap, you can get a product that performs nearly identically for half the price in the Shark FlexStyle (trust us, we tested them head to head). Pick up a version for textured hair or straighter hair for $299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle $299.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A necessary Nintendo Switch upgrade Credit: Nintendo

It's never too late to upgrade your Switch set up, and the Pro controller can help you do just that. This controller is perfect for when you connect your device to a larger display, and it has the added bonus of zero Joy-Con drift.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch Pro Controller $69.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Design-friendly humidifier Credit: Vitruvi

There's something to be said for a product that can marry form and function, and this Vitruvi humidifier does just that. Admittedly, $229 is probably a hefty price for a humidifier you're buying for yourself, but it's a great splurge gift if you prefer your household appliances not be eyesores.

Opens in a new window Credit: Vitruvi Vitruvi Cloud Humidifier $229.00 at Amazon
Shop Now A custom neon sign Credit: GITM Store

Pick out a funny phrase, inside joke, or a family name and get a custom sign in as little as one week. It might sound too good to be true, but Mashable editors have ordered from this Amazon storefront before and had a great experience. In fact, this is one of our favorite undiscovered gems on Amazon, and you can buy signs for as little as $53.96.

Opens in a new window Credit: GITM Store Custom Neon Sign $53.96 at Amazon
Shop Now A tea and coffee lover's best friend Credit: Cosori

There's a certain electric gooseneck kettle that's beloved by design nerds, but that's also a tad overpriced (more than a tad, really). Instead, make the smart choice and opt for the infinitely more practical Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle. It still has plenty of charm — not to mention pre-set buttons for tea, coffee, and boiling water — and it's available via Prime for $69.99 or less.

Opens in a new window Credit: Cosori Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle $69.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Enjoy artisanal cocktails at home Credit: Shaker & Spoon

Why go out for overpriced cocktails when you can make them at home? Shaker & Spoon sends you a new cocktail kit every month with all the ingredients you need to make 12 delicious cocktails. All you need to do is buy the alcohol and follow the recipes to recreate the same cocktails mixed up by award-winning bartenders. The company also makes it easy to give a subscription via email, so no excuses. Subscriptions start at $59 per month.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shaker & Spoon Shaker & Spoon Gift Subscription Starting at $59 per month at Shaker & Spoon Shop Now Learn something new Credit: Coursehorse

You’ve successfully completed one more trip around the sun, so to celebrate, develop a new skill or indulge a passion by taking an IRL class on the subject of your choice. Coursehorse partners with real-world instructors and schools in major cities to offer nearly 70,000 classes in subjects such as art, language, music, cooking, self-defense, gardening, and anything else you could possibly want.

Opens in a new window Credit: Coursehorse Coursehorse Gift Card Starting at $5 at Coursehorse Shop Now Affordable no-worry earbuds Credit: Anker

Worried your earbuds will fall out of your ears and be lost forever? Get peace of mind with the affordable Soundcore Sport X10 wireless earbuds ($79.99). Designed for athletes but perfect for anyone, these headphones hook around your ears and stay put no matter how sweaty or active you get (a fact we can personally attest to). Keep them in their case for on-the-go charging.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Soundcore Sport X10 Earbuds $79.99 at Amazon
Shop Now

NYT's The Mini crossword answers for July 9

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 04:44

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for July 9 SEE ALSO: 'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for July 9

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, July 9, 2024:

AcrossSubstance used by violin players
  • The answer is rosin.

One of the world's largest land animals, familiarly
  • The answer is hippo.

Trojan War epic
  • The answer is Iliad.

N.B.A. team that recently agreed to its first trade with the Knicks in over 40 years
  • The answer is Nets.

Lyric poems
  • The answer is odes.

DownOne of the world's largest land animals, familiarly
  • The answer is rhino.

Well-___ machine
  • The answer is oiled.

Petty ill will
  • The answer is spite.

"Skip me," in a game
  • The answer is I pass (no space).

Nonverbal agreement
  • The answer is nod.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

4 gadgets to help keep your home clean, from robot vacuums to electric scrubbers

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 04:32

Having a clean and tidy home is a joy. Cleaning and tidying said home is less of a joy. Though there are some elevated beings among us who find scrubbing their stovetop a meditative experience, most people consider such tasks exhausting, reviled chores only undertaken with reluctance.

Fortunately, the steady march of technological advancement continues to lighten the burden of domestic labour. The popularisation of washing machines and dishwashers revolutionised everyday chores in the '50s, freeing up precious time for millions of people. New devices are now furthering the cause, seeking to become the next ubiquitous household cleaning essential.

Here are four gadgets to help keep your home clean with minimal effort.

SEE ALSO: How to clean your laptop screen Dremel Versa electric scrubber Scrubbing made way easier. Credit: Dremel

Keeping a home clean unfortunately often necessitates scrubbing for hours on end until your fingers are permanently, painfully stuck in a clawed position. The Dremel Versa is an electric scrubbing device designed to make this chore much easier, replacing your elbow grease with 2,200 RPM.

The Versa has a slew of attachments available to suit a variety of scrubbing needs, whether you want to clean steel, grout, or glass. While its brushes screw in, the sponges adhere to the Versa via a Velcro-like pad, keeping them firmly attached while also making them ridiculously easy to swap out.

Dremel has a handy chart to help you determine the appropriate sponge for a variety of tasks, though it's still fairly nerve-wracking at first. As someone who has inadvertently scratched shower glass with a drill-powered scrubbing brush, you don't want to be applying such power unless you're absolutely sure you have the right attachment. You should consider wearing hearing protection as well, especially if you're using the Dremel Versa in an enclosed space such as a shower. After all, it is essentially a drill.

Though once you've figured it out, the Dremel Versa can go a long way to making home upkeep less taxing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dremel Dremel Versa electric scrubber at Amazon
Shop Now Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra robot vacuum A powerful tool when it comes to cleaning. Credit: Roborock

A decade ago robot vacuums were frequently considered novelties, more suitable as subjects of drunken shenanigans than reliable home helpers. They've developed significantly in the years since, evolving to the point where having a robot vacuum is actually a reasonable proposition. Roborock's S8 MaxV Ultra is the result of those years of technological advancement. 

Boasting 10,000 Pa of suction power, Roborock's flagship model does practically everything you could ask of a robot vacuum within the bounds of current technology — as well as a few things you probably wouldn't have thought to request. In addition to vacuuming and mopping, the S8 MaxV Ultra's docking station allows it to automatically wash its own microfibre mop pad, empty its dust bin, refill its water tank, and even top up its detergent. Using LiDAR and AI to identify obstacles and navigate your home, the S8 MaxV Ultra can respond to voice commands and even has a novel in-app feature for tracking down your pet, letting you observe your furry friend via its onboard camera.

SEE ALSO: The 4 best robot vacuums for carpet and rugs in 2024

The camera quality isn't much to write home about, but the S8 MaxV Ultra is a powerful tool when it comes to cleaning, which is its primary purpose anyway. The robot vacuum's stand out feature is it FlexiArm Design side brush, which reaches out to sweep up corners as well as areas under low furniture that might otherwise be missed. Its edge mop also ensures that you get a close clean along walls.

One caveat is that this handy robotic friend will set you back a pretty penny. The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra is one of the most expensive robot vacuums currently on the market, meaning it will primarily appeal to those with a couple of thousand dollars to spend. But if you're sick of vacuuming and want a set-and-forget solution to keeping your floors clean, investing in a S8 MaxV Ultra might very well be worth it.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock. Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra robot vacuum at Amazon
Shop Now Coway Airmega 200M air purifier A good air purifier can be vital to the comfort of a home. Credit: Coway

As someone who lives in a fairly suburban area, I used to think air purifiers were largely unnecessary gadgets. Having now been through several dire bushfire seasons which smothered my home in smoke, I now know better.

Whether you're dealing with wildfire smoke or city smog, a good air purifier can be vital to the comfort of a home. After all, it's difficult to relax if you can't even get a lungful of good, clean air. The Coway Airmega 200M is a relatively unobtrusive workhorse that can maintain clean air in a 361 square foot area, whether you're binge-watching Netflix in your living room or optimising your sleep in your bedroom. The result is an environment that feels undeniably fresher and more peaceful.

The Airmega 200M has four stages of filtration: a pre-filter for larger particles such as hair and dust; a deodorisation filter to capture smells; a True HEPA filter for ultra fine particles like pollen, viruses, and germs; and a vital ioniser to catch any ultra fine particles the previous filters missed. 

Operating at a whisper-quiet volume, Conway's air purifier has a timer which can be set to one, four, or eight hours, as well as three different fan speeds. It also has an Eco Mode, which will save you energy by turning the fan off if the Airmega 200M doesn't detect pollution for half an hour, then turning it back on when it does.

Opens in a new window Credit: Coway Coway Airmega 200M air purifier at Amazon
Shop Now Bosch GlassVAC Solo Plus window vacuum A gadget that aims to simplify window washing. Credit: Bosch

Having an abundance of windows can make a home feel refreshing and bright, allowing in natural light to transform an otherwise gloomy space. Unfortunately, these benefits are significantly diminished if you can't keep said windows clean.

Bosch's GlassVAC Solo Plus window vacuum aims to simplify this chore, squeegeeing and sucking up liquids for a tidy, streak-free finish. Bundled with a spray bottle affixed to a microfibre cloth head, this handheld gadget is designed to clean windows, mirrors, shower screens, tiles, and other such surfaces. Just turn it on, squeegee as usual, and watch as dirty water collects in its 100mL tank instead of on your window sill. 

The vacuum isn't quite as effective when running the GlassVAC Solo Plus horizontally across surfaces as opposed to vertically, and it may not get every last drop. Depending on how wet your window was, you may still need to give the sill a quick wipe. Even so, the GlassVAC Solo Plus does an excellent job of substantially minimising mess, and is particularly handy when dealing with morning condensation on bedroom windows.

The Bosch's GlassVAC Solo Plus also doesn't make that grating squeaking sound that most standard squeegees do, which is an undeniable bonus.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bosch Bosch GlassVAC Solo Plus window vacuum $98.75 at Amazon
$134.99 Save $36.24 Shop Now

How to watch the athletics at Paris 2024 online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 01:00

TL;DR: Live stream the athletics at Paris 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It's Olympics month and it's not long before the action kicks off for Paris 2024. There are plenty of sports to keep us entertained, including races from some of the fastest athletes in the world.

With so much to keep track of, we've put together all the information you need to watch all the athletics races, from anywhere in the world.

From 100m hurdles to shot put, keep reading to find out how to live stream all the athletics races in the 2024 Olympics.

When are the athletics at Paris 2024?

The athletics races begin on August 1 and will run until August 11, ending with the Women's Marathon race.

How to watch the athletics at Paris 2024 for free

The athletics at Paris 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but keen athletics fans can access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock free streaming sites like BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Unblock BBC iPlayer for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream the athletics at Paris 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it gives you time to stream the athletics at Paris 2024 (plus all the events that follow) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream the athletics at Paris 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Alcaraz vs. Paul in Wimbledon 2024 online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 00:30

TL;DR: Live stream Alcaraz vs. Paul in Wimbledon 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Wimbledon excitement is cranking up, with the quarter finals serving up some highly anticipated action. Today's action sees defending Wimbledon champion and No. 3 seed Carlos Alcaraz take on No. 12 seed Tommy Paul.

The 21-year-old Spaniard is the favorite here, having won three of the four Grand Slam tournaments, including the French Open just weeks ago. But can Alcaraz get past Paul and challenge for a second Wimbledon on the bounce?

Tommy Paul won't go down without a fight. Last year he reached the Australian Open semi-final but hasn't reached those heights since at a Grand Slam tournament. This could be the moment for the 27-year-old American to prove his mettle on the biggest stage in tennis.

If you want to watch Alcaraz vs. Paul in Wimbledon 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Alcaraz vs. Paul?

Alcaraz vs. Paul will meet in the quarter final of the men's singles at Wimbledon 2024. The match will take on July 9 from 8 a.m. ET / 1 p.m. BST.

How to watch Alcaraz vs. Paul in Wimbledon 2024 for free

Wimbledon 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer, including the quarter final matchup between Alcaraz and Paul.

BBC iPlayer is geo-blocked outside of the UK, meaning that only viewers within the UK can access it. But you can access this free streaming platform from any country around the world with a VPN. VPNs are clever tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock free streaming sites like BBC iPlayer no matter where you are.

Live stream Wimbledon 2024 for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream Wimbledon 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPN providers usually have generous offers such as free trial periods or money-back guarantees. By signing up to these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer without committing any cash. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you more than enough time to stream Wimbledon 2024 before recovering any upfront investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 for a limited time only — a huge saving of 49%. The plan includes an extra three months for no additional cost, a whole year of unlimited cloud backup, and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Alcaraz vs. Paul in Wimbledon 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Sinner vs. Medvedev in Wimbledon 2024 online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 00:30

TL;DR: Live stream Sinner vs. Medvedev in Wimbledon 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Jannik Sinner is one of the true superstars of tennis at the moment. The 22-year-old Italian is also the No. 1 seed at Wimbledon and the favorite to win.

Next up he faces Daniil Medvedev. The 28-year-old Russian is the No. 5 seed, making this quarter final clash one of the biggest matchups of the tournament so far.

Both Sinner and Medvedev reached the semi-finals last year, but fell to Djokovic and Alcaraz respectively. This year, however, the quarter final is the end of the road for one of these competitors. It promises to be a thrilling showdown.

If you want to watch Sinner vs. Medvedev in Wimbledon 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Sinner vs. Medvedev?

Sinner vs. Medvedev will meet in the third round of the men's singles at Wimbledon 2024. The match will take place on July 5 at 8.30 a.m. ET / 1.30 p.m. BST.

How to watch Sinner vs. Medvedev in Wimbledon 2024 for free

Wimbledon 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer, including the quarter final matchup between Sinner and Medvedev.

BBC iPlayer is a free streaming platform that's geo-restricted to the UK. But overseas viewers can access BBC iPlayer by using a VPN. A VPN is a useful tool that can obscure your real IP address (digital location) and then connect you to a secure server in the UK, allowing you to unblock UK-based streaming sites such as BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world. All you need is a decent enough connection for streaming.

Live stream Wimbledon 2024 for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream Wimbledon 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPN services do tend to offer generous incentive deals like free trial periods or money-back guarantees. By signing up to these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer, which will give you enough time to watch all the Wimbledon 2024 games. And you won't have to commit any cash. Simply recover any initial payment once the trial period is finished.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is discounted to $99.95 for a limited time only — a saving of 49%. The plan includes a bonus three months at no additional cost, a year of unlimited cloud backup, and a reassuring 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Sinner vs. Medvedev in Wimbledon 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Paolini vs. Navarro in Wimbledon 2024 online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 00:30

TL;DR: Live stream Paolini vs. Navarro in Wimbledon 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Jasmine Paolini is on a roll right now. She reached the final of the French Open and, as the No. 7 seed, one of the highest ranked women left in the quarter final stage at Wimbledon. But reaching the semi-final won't be easy for the 28-year-old Italian. Her opponent, Emma Navarro, is on a roll too.

Navarro, the No. 19 seed, knocked out Coca Gauff in the previous round. The 23-year-old American also holds three victories over Paolini in previous competitions. Can she do it again when it matters the most?

Both women will give it everything in what could be the biggest match of their careers so far. All of which means this a match not to miss.

If you want to watch Paolini vs. Navarro in Wimbledon 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Paolini vs. Navarro?

Paolini vs. Navarro will meet in the quarter finals of Wimbledon 2024 on July 9 from 8.30 a.m. ET / 1.30 p.m. BST.

How to watch Paolini vs. Navarro in Wimbledon 2024 for free

Wimbledon 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer, including the quarter final matchup between Paolini and Navarro.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but you can access this free streaming platform from abroad by signing up for a VPN. VPNs can mask your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock UK-based streaming sites like BBC iPlayer from any country around the world.

Live stream Wimbledon 2024 for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream Wimbledon 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPN brands offer incentives such as free trial periods or money-back guarantees. By signing up to these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer without committing any cash in the long run. This is obviously not a permanent solution, but it gives you enough time to stream Wimbledon 2024 before recovering any initial cost.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is currently discounted to $99.95, which includes an extra three months for free. That's an impressive 49% off the regular price for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Paolini vs. Navarro in Wimbledon 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Sun vs. Vekic in Wimbledon 2024 online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Sun vs. Vekic in Wimbledon 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It's exciting to see up and coming players do well at Wimbledon, the most prestigious tennis competition in the world. That's what's happening for 23-year-old New Zealander Lulu Sun, the world No. 123, at Wimbledon 2024.

Sun knocked out sentimental favorite Emma Raducanu, demonstrating a formidable forehand in her stunning performance. But Sun will have to get through Donna Vekic, a 28-year-old Croatian, if she wants to make it all the way to the semis.

Vekic has never reached the Wimbledon quarter final before either, so she's sure to come out swinging. Whoever wins, there's a chance at Wimbledon glory up for grabs.

If you want to watch Sun vs. Vekic in Wimbledon 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Sun vs. Vekic?

Sun vs. Vekic will meet in the quarter finals of Wimbledon 2024 on July 9 from 8 a.m. ET / 1 p.m. BST.

How to watch Sun vs. Vekic in Wimbledon 2024 for free

Wimbledon 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer, including the quarter final matchup between Sun and Vekic.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but you can access this free streaming platform from abroad by signing up for a VPN. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can unblock free streaming sites like BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Wimbledon 2024 for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream Wimbledon 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPN brands offer incentives such as free trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer without committing any cash. This is obviously not a permanent solution, but it gives you enough time to stream Wimbledon 2024 before recovering any downpayment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for the discounted price of $99.95, including an extra three months for free. That's an impressive 49% off for a limited time only. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Sun vs. Vekic in Wimbledon 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

Apply to hundreds of positions with this AI job hunter — save £69 on LazyApply

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Make the job hunt more efficient with help from a lifetime license to LazyApply, now just £46.80 (reg. £116.28) through July 21.

Being funemployed only lasts so long. Once the paycheck stops hitting and it's time to start the dreaded job search, you forget all those jobless perks pretty quickly. If you're looking to make the application portion of your job hunt less painful, it might be time to check out LazyApply.

With LazyApply, finding and applying for jobs becomes a whole lot easier — no more typing and retyping your professional history with every single online application. And you can currently score a lifetime license to LazyApply Job Application Basic for only £46.80 — over £69 off the usual price of £116.28 — until July 21.

Imagine applying to 100 jobs in a day. While that would take 10 hours on your own, this AI job application tool makes it a reality. This Chrome plugin helps you save time in a tough job market, helping your CV reach more eyes as you apply on platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn. Just save your info once and let LazyApply automate the job application process. Their AI automatically fills apps with your information, so you can spend your time more wisely. 

Learn new skills in lieu of tediously typing out your professional history over and over with LazyApply. This Basic license lets you apply to 150 jobs a day, while analysing your application performance day after day to give you unique insight. You'll also receive a weekly consultation call, where you can potentially learn better application strategies. 

Speed up your job hunt with this lifetime Basic license to LazyApply, now only £46.80 through July 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: LazyApply LazyApply Job Application Basic: Lifetime License £46.80 at The Mashable Shop
£116.28 Save £69.48 Get Deal

How to watch Spain vs. France online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/09/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Spain vs. France in Euro 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Euro 2024 final is looming on the horizon. It's one of the biggest fixtures in world football, but getting to that point is incredibly tough. Even at this late stage, the remaining sides will need to be nearly perfect to progress to the final.

And while Spain have been clinical and dominant so far, having won every game and netted 11 goals, France haven't been up to their usual standard. We know France are a world class squad and have the capacity to give Spain a run for their money. After beating Portugal on penalties in the quarter final, can France step their game up?

Either way, it's a clash of European football titans and it's all to play for — there's only one spot in the Euro 2024 final available.

If you want to watch Spain vs. France in Euro 2024 semi-final for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Spain vs. France?

Spain vs. France in Euro 2024 kicks off at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. BST on July 9. This fixture takes place at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany.

How to watch Spain vs. France for free

Spain vs. France in Euro 2024 is being broadcast by BBC, with free live streaming available on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These powerful tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to access BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Access BBC iPlayer by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Stream Spain vs. France in Euro 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to BBC iPlayer without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to stream every remaining Euro 2024 fixture for free from anywhere in the world.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Spain vs. France in Euro 2024 semi-final for free with ExpressVPN.

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for July 9

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 23:00

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for July 1's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer. If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

  • Yellow: Events written down

  • Green: Crazy locks

  • Blue: Certain pop culture product made singular

  • Purple: Words to follow a synonym for "bush"

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

  • Yellow: CHRONICLE

  • Green: MESS OF HAIR

  • Blue: TV SHOW MINUS "S"

  • Purple: WORDS AFTER HEDGE

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • CHRONICLE - JOURNAL, LOG, RECORD, REGISTER

  • MESS OF HAIR - MANE, MOP, SHOCK, TANGLE

  • TV SHOW MINUS "S" - CHEER, FRIEND, SCRUB, WEED

  • WORDS AFTER HEDGE - FUND, HOG, MAZE, TRIMMER

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for July 9

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 23:00

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for June 29's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Trumpet.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

No letters repeat.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter B.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle...

BLARE.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Reporting by Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

[Update] Google on 'Maps' pop-up ad claims: 'Promoted pins in navigation are not new'

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 17:23

UPDATE: July 8, 2024, 6:33 p.m. EST

In a statement to Mashable, a Google spokesperson says that this so-called "experimental feature" isn't new:

"Promoted pins in navigation are not new - they let people see relevant ads for businesses like gas stations, restaurants, and stores along their route. To avoid driver distraction, these ads do not pop up, expand only if they’re tapped on, and disappear quickly after a short time."

Original article: July 8, 2024, 5:24 p.m. EST:

Is Google Maps is testing a new feature that may drive — no pun intended — you up a wall? Anthony Higman, a Google Maps user, posted on X about it, pointing out that he spotted a "never-before-seen" pop-up ad while driving with the navigation app near Atlantic City, New Jersey.

"Yo Check Out This Wild New Ad Format On The Google Maps App," Higman wrote. "I Put In Directions Down The Shore And Then When I Passed This Gas Station This Royal Farms Ad Popped Up With 'Add Stop.'"

Higman added that he didn't input anything regarding gas or food into the app. "Anyone Know What Kind OF Ad Format This Is?!?!?!" he asked.

Tweet may have been deleted SEE ALSO: Your Google Maps' ‘Timeline' data may soon be deleted on the web. Here's how to save it. Google Maps experimenting with new pop-up ads?

It appears that Google Maps is testing a new feature that, without being prompted, launches a sponsored pop-up ad for a nearby business with the buttons "Cancel" and "Add Stop."

Calling it "aggressive," 9to5Google pointed out that this is an ad format that Google has used for its Waze app. Of course, Google Maps is no stranger to sponsored content. For example, per Neowin, Google highlights sponsored businesses on maps and search results, particularly when people search for adjacent locations (e.g., "pizza near me").

According to AndroidPolice, this so-called "intrusive" ad may be based on a recent memo Google sent to advertisers that says, in part, "We're launching ads on Google Maps to help advertisers like you get more leads. The current launch is limited to the iOS version of the Google Maps mobile app."

However, when Mashable reached out to Google for comment, a spokesperson told us the following:

"Promoted pins in navigation are not new - they let people see relevant ads for businesses like gas stations, restaurants, and stores along their route. To avoid driver distraction, these ads do not pop up, expand only if they’re tapped on, and disappear quickly after a short time."

In other words, this isn't a new practice. You probably have seen these ads already, and if you haven't, it's only a matter of time.

Donald Glover and Jordan The Stallion link up for lookalike TikTok

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 16:01

Multihypenate talent Donald Glover, who just dropped his new single "Lithonia," can add another accomplishment to his resume: a major collaboration on TikTok. OK, so it's not necessarily the same as the award-winning series Atlanta, but Glover teamed up with TikTokker @Jordan_The_Stallion8 to film a video joking about the fact that many folks seem to think they look alike.

If you're unfamiliar with Glover, well, where have you been? He's a movie and TV star, an accomplished musician under the moniker Childish Gambino, and a brilliant writer and creator. If you're unfamiliar with Jordan The Stallion, his real name is Jordan Howlett, and, well, that's a bit more understandable. But he's a very popular TikTokker, known for his hot takes, bringing awareness to food "secrets," and ranting in front of his bathroom mirror.

And folks seem to think these two men look alike. I don't see it, but the TikTok playing off that fact on Howlett's account has already racked up some 11 million views.

The TikTok itself is pretty funny. It starts with Glover copying Howlett's signature style and then both revealing themselves on frame in the same outfit. The video features a couple of playful jokes like "Grownish Gambino" and Glover lamenting the fact that people ask him for ridiculous recipes. It's a funny TikTok, and it's obviously gone wildly viral.

However, it just goes to show how powerful a platform TikTok has become. Consider the fact that a major Hollywood star is teaming up to make jokes with a popular TikTokker. Sure, it probably has a lot to do with the fact that Glover is promoting his upcoming album, Bando Stone & The New World, but promoting that album on TikTok is as powerful a tool as anything else.

In case you missed it, ChatGPT on Mac suffered a serious security issue

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:32

OpenAI released a ChatGPT app for Mac less than two weeks ago – and there's already been a security issue.

It turns out the ChatGPT for Mac app had been storing users' conversations with the AI chatbot in plain text. 

OpenAI has since fixed the issue with an update, so its important to download the latest ChatGPT for Mac version from the OpenAI website.

SEE ALSO: It’s not just ChatGPT. A new AI chatbot is coming to iPhone, according to new report. ChatGPT for Mac security flaw

Last week, Threads user @pvieito discovered that the recently released ChatGPT for Mac application was storing user conversations with the AI chatbot in plain text in a non-encrypted location.

These conversations were stored locally, so a bad actor would've needed to access the user's computer to utilize these conversations for nefarious purposes. However, as Mashable and other outlets have recently reported, due to Microsoft's own issues with its Recall feature, bad actors are increasingly gaining access to unsuspecting victims' computers via malicious remote methods.

Post by @pvieito View on Threads

As @pvieito pointed out, OpenAI distributes its ChatGPT Mac app from its own website — not through Apple's own Mac App Store. Apple is notorious for its strict guidelines for developers who choose to distribute apps through their official app stores. However, third-parties who distribute through their own platforms are not held to the same security standards.

“We are aware of this issue and have shipped a new version of the application which encrypts these conversations,” an OpenAI spokesperson told The Verge in a statement last week. “We’re committed to providing a helpful user experience while maintaining our high security standards as our technology evolves.”

While the issue has since been fixed, it could not have come at a worse time for OpenAI. The ChatGPT creator and Apple just announced a partnership last month and Apple is notorious for prioritizing users' privacy. In fact, Apple's inability to trust Meta regarding privacy concerns has reportedly led to the iPhone maker passing on using Meta's AI models for its Apple Intelligence ambitions.

OpenAI will need to be more proactive about privacy and security issues in the future so its credibility doesn't come into question from its partners.

YouTube Music is testing an AI-powered ‘Ask for music any way you like’ feature

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 13:21

YouTube Music is stepping up its game with an exciting new AI feature that lets users create custom radio stations just by asking. Spotted by an eagle-eyed Reddit user, kater_pro, this experimental feature is currently rolling out to a lucky few.

SEE ALSO: YouTube has delivered an important update to its audio eraser tool

When fully launched, the new feature will introduce an "Ask for music any way you like" card on the Home feed. This card, displayed in vibrant purple and pink hues, is similar in appearance to the existing "Create a radio: Your music tuner" card in the Library tab. Selecting this card will create a chat-based interface where users can request music via voice or keyboard.

Reddit

For instance, a request for "Queer Hip Hop Beats" produced a station the AI described as "Rhymes and flows from the heart, a celebration of queer pride in hip hop's art." The interface also offers a variety of suggested prompts such as "Catchy pop choruses," "Epic soundtracks," and "Upbeat pop anthems," with a "Surprise me!" option for a randomly generated station.

After a prompt is entered, the AI generates a radio station, which appears in the familiar playlist card format. The station is named after the prompt and marked "Created for you," with a description to match. YouTube Music has added a note cautioning users that "AI-generated responses are experimental," indicating that the quality and accuracy of responses may vary. It also advises against sharing personal or confidential information.

While it's still being tested by a few lucky users, it'll be interesting to see how well YouTube Music's foray into generative AI playlist-making stacks up against Spotify's own endeavors.

Get the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop for $300 off during Target Circle Week

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 13:15

GET $300 OFF: As of July 8, Target Circle members can snag a Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop for just $399.99, down from $699.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Our pick: Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop $399.99 at Target
$699.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal

If you’re looking for a new robot vacuum that can handle mopping duties, the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop (previously known as the Sharl AI Ultra 2-in-1) might be your best option.

SEE ALSO: Target's Circle Week is here and runs through July 13

As of July 8, Target Circle members can get this amped-up robot vacuum hybrid (and self-emptying base) for $399.99, down from $699.99. That’s $300 off the listing price and the lowest price we’ve seen on this model since April. (If you don’t want to sign up for Target Circle, Amazon matches this price.)

The Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop is the real deal. According to Mashable contributor Timothy Beck Werth, this little robot is “actually good at mopping, a rarity in this market, and it cleans just as well as flagship robot vacuums that cost two or three times as much.” He even dubbed it the best robot vacuum mop combo you could buy in 2023.

With Matrix Clean technology, this robo-vac is built to clean floors more thoroughly than most. The matrix grid system uses multiple passes to hit every inch of your floors, and the self-emptying base means you won't have to empty the dustbin as often. You can set no-go zones and control it via the SharkClean app.

It also features true HEPA filtration to capture allergens, and the Sonic Mopping feature works on hardwood, tile, and laminate floors.

A Best Buy sale during Prime Day? Almost definitely.

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 13:01
A quick look at the best summer deals at Best Buy Best TV deal Toshiba 75-inch C350 4K Fire TV $449.99 (save $200) Get Deal Best Apple deal 5th gen Apple iPad Air, 10.9-inch (M1, 64GB, WiFi) $499.99 (save $100) Get Deal Best laptop deal Asus Vivobook Pro QLED, 16-inch (Intel 13 Gen i9, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 (save $600) Get Deal Best headphones deal Sennheiser Momentum 4 $251.99 (save $128) Get Deal

In the same way that Black Friday has become more of a season than a singular day, the entire month of July could aptly be called Prime Day season at this point. Past the sheer deal count at the behemoth that started it all, it's become tradition for other huge retailers like Best Buy respond to Amazon with a major sale event of their own — lining up on or near Prime Day, of course.

SEE ALSO: Just in time for Prime Day, Target's Circle Week is back July 7 through 13

Hot on the heels of Best Buy's 4th of July sale, Best Buy is surely set to release dates for another summer sale any day now. We can use context clues like the official dates for Amazon's Prime Day, which runs July 16 and 17, to predict the dates Best Buy is eyeing. For instance, during the fall version of Prime Day in 2023, Best Buy ran a 48-hour Flash Sale on Oct. 11 and 12 — the same days Amazon chose.

Where Best Buy beats Amazon

It's true that there are a ton of overlapping deals at both Best Buy and Amazon during these events. But both stores also have their own unique strong points, and there are also plenty of opportunities to shop strategically within certain product categories.

While Amazon's discounts typically extend to a wider variety of product categories from a huge crop of stores and sellers, Best Buy has a history of beating Amazon's deals in several major tech categories. Best Buy tends to have a much more reliable slew of TVs and laptops on sale, compared to Amazon's shorter lists composed of a smaller variety of brands (and which are also more likely to be bogged down by iffy third-party sellers). Meanwhile, Amazon typically wins when it comes to home stuff, like robot vacuum deals and kitchen deals.

Best Buy doesn't gatekeep its deals quite like Amazon does, generally leaving most discounts available to the public and reserving a handful of exclusive discounts on premium brands like Samsung or Dyson for paid My Best Buy Plus or My Best Buy Total members. Amazon does, however, surprise some shoppers with access to invite-only deals, which features some pretty jaw-dropping price cuts on items like headphones or Fire TVs that you definitely won't find anywhere else.

SEE ALSO: Walmart vs. Amazon: Which retail giant has the best deals?

Throughout the entire year, Best Buy also does this thing called Best Buy Drops: a feature found only on the Best Buy mobile app that gives shoppers a heads-up about upcoming "drops" of high-profile items and deals in categories like gaming, cheap TVs, fan-favorite pop culture merch, high-profile hair tools, kitchen gadgets, and more. As long as you have the Best Buy mobile app, you can preview what's coming on what day that week so that you're ready to click "add to cart" when the item or deal goes live.

Similar to many Prime deals, only a certain number of Drop items can be claimed while the offer is live, and then they sell out. Unlike Prime deals, Best Buy does drops about three times a week throughout the entire year.

For a more granular assessment of the best deals between the two, check out our favorite Best Buy deals below and our running list of the best Prime Day deals in every category.

Best TV deal at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: Toshiba Toshiba 75-inch C350 4K Fire TV $449.99 at Best Buy
$649.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're eyeing a Fire TV this Prime Day season, don't automatically opt for the Omni on name recognition alone. While Amazon's own in-house Fire TVs are on sale, you definitely won't be seeing one of those 75-inch bad boys go on sale for less than $500. Toshiba's well-reviewed C35- Fire TV, however, is a different story. The C350 admittedly is a basic 4K TV that's definitely decent enough for casual living room watching or light gaming, especially if you care more about getting the biggest screen for your buck over specs.

More TVs on sale at Best BuyBest Apple deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 5th gen Apple iPad Air, 10.9-inch (M1, 64GB) $499.99 at Best Buy
$599.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The iPad Air from 2022 was the first Air to wield the snappy M1 chip that powers several MacBooks and iPad Pros. With it, the 5th generation Air performs about 60 percent faster than the older Airs, making undertakings like 4K video editing, 3D designing, or graphics-heavy gaming a breeze on the most portable iPad. The 5th gen Air also sees upgrades like an Ultra Wide 12MP front camera and faster wireless connectivity.

More Apple deals at Best BuyBest laptop deal at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus Vivobook Pro QLED, 16-inch (Intel 13 Gen i9, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 at Best Buy
$1,999.99 Save $600.00 Get Deal Why we like it

For $150 less than the 14-inch MacBook Pro, you can bump up to a 16-inch display with OLED backlighting by snagging the Asus Vivobook Pro during Best Buy's 4th of July sale. That beast of a display comes with a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card and runs a 120Hz refresh rate, making it one of your best bets for securing a high-powered work laptop that's just as upstanding for gaming.

More laptops on sale at Best BuyBest headphones deal at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: Sennheiser Sennheiser Momentum 4 $251.99 at Best Buy
$399.99 Save $148.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you don't care to wait for other premium pairs like the Sony WH-1000XM5 to drop below $300, Sennheiser's Momentum 4 headphones would be a stellar choice. While the vibrant audio and effective ANC is all well and good, the standout feature for the Momentum 4 is easily the battery life — you can listen for 60 hours on a single charge. That beats the 24 hour max of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra.

More headphones on sale at Best Buy

'Agatha All Along' trailer: Kathryn Hahn, Patti LuPone, Aubrey Plaza, and Sasheer Zamata form a coven

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 12:49
Following the events of "WandaVision," "Agatha All Along" sets Agatha Harkness down the Witches' Road to regain her powers.

These are the best Target Circle Week deals for Apple AirPods

Mashable - Mon, 07/08/2024 - 12:34

For many, Apple AirPods are a daily essential. From enjoying a podcast on a morning commute to cranking favorite tunes during a workout, Apple AirPods let you immerse yourself in your favorite audio entertainment on the go. These days, there are plenty of different AirPods models on the market to fit a variety of budgets and needs.

Today's Best Target Circle Week Apple AirPods deals: Best Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) deal Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $79.99 at Target (save $50) Get Deal Best Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) deal Best Aple AirPods (3rd Generation) $139.99 at Target (save $30) Get Deal Best Apple AirPods Max deal Apple AirPods Max $549 (Get two free months of Apple Music ) Shop Now

Whether you're looking for a budget pair of earbuds or an over-ear splurge, Apple has it. While sales on AirPods are pretty common, this week Target has some of the best deals as part of the retailer's Target Circle Week. Now through July 13, Target Circle members can access tons of members-only deals, including these AirPods deals. If you're not a member yet, don't worry: it's free to sign up and you can start scoring deals right away.

Best Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Our pick: Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $79.99 at Target
$129.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The 2nd generation Apple AirPods aren't the most sophisticated model on the market, but that doesn't mean they're not a great buy. With a list price of $129.99, they're more price-conscious than newer models. With a Target Circle Week sale price of $79.99, these everyday earbuds are even more budget-friendly. Like all AirPods, they're known for their comfortable fit, hands-free connectivity, and reliable battery life that provides more than 24 hours of listening time thanks to their handy charging case.

Best Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Our pick: Best Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) $139.99 at Target
$169.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Sweat and water-resistant, Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) are a great pick if you're looking for a new pair of earbuds to accompany you during your workouts. With 30 hours of total listening time, these earbuds are ready to keep up with you even on your longest days. Offering an upgraded sound experience from its previous generation, these Apple AirPods have personalized spatial audio and head tracking features that work together to place sound all around you, making your listening experience more immersive. The Circle Week sale is bringing the price down to only $139.99, making it a worthwhile time to buy.

Best Apple AirPods Max deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Our pick: Apple AirPods Max with two free months of Apple Music $549.00 at Target
Shop Now Why we like it

While the splurge-worthy Apple AirPods Max are not technically on sale, Target Circle members do get some perks if they buy the over-ear headphones this week. As part of Circle Week, members receive two free months of Apple Music when they buy a pair of Apple AirPods Max. An individual subscription to Apple Music costs $10.99 a month, so that's a total value of $21.98. While that's not much in the grand scheme of things, every penny counts when you're making a big purchase like this. It's worth noting that over at Amazon, the same headphones are listed for $529. However, Amazon shoppers do not get the same Apple Music deal.

Pages

Subscribe to Page Integrity, Inc. aggregator