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Finally, a way to stream 1993's Zombies Ate My Neighbors to your iPhone.

That's one of the main takeaways from the news that Antstream is coming to iPhone and iPad, per Cult of Mac. The retro video game streaming service is the first game streamer to officially launch in the App Store, beating out competition like Xbox.

Apple first allowed game streaming apps to come to the App Store back in January, but it took until now for one to actually manifest.

SEE ALSO: iOS 18: How to lock and hide your iPhone apps

Well, not literally right now. It launches on June 27. It's also not free; it's normally $4.99 per month or $39.99 per year, but Antstream will offer a time-limited discount of $3.99 per month or $29.99 per year for Apple users at launch.

Antstream purports to carry more than 1,300 old video games; sure enough, the list on the official website is extensive. Supported platforms include Atari's 1979 8-bit home computer system and the original Nintendo Entertainment System, but the service's library also goes as far forward as the original PlayStation. Aside from Zombies Ate My Neighbors, one of the most interesting games available is Super Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. I don't know if it would be fun to play with stream latency, but it's a neat and notoriously difficult old Star Wars game.

Time will tell if Antstream is a good deal or not, but don't expect this to be the last of its kind on the App Store.

Best deals on antivirus software this week

• Bitdefender Internet Security — $42.49 for 3-Devices on 1-Year Plan (List Price $)

• Surfshark One — Protect 5-Devices for $3.19 Per Month + 3-Months Free and Includes VPN

• Bitdefender Total Security — $49.99 for 5-Devices on 1-Year Plan (List Price $)

• Norton 360 Deluxe — $49.99 for 5-Devices on 1-Year Plan (List Price $)

• McAfee — $89.99 for Unlimited Devices on 1-Year Advanced Plan (List Price $)

It's important to have a great antivirus software package that can protect your PC from threats while you browse online. Viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing threats are all potential dangers when you're online, even if you think you're being careful. New threats are emerging every day, which is why many antivirus software manufacturers take a holistic approach, protecting your system from all kinds of potential threats, not just the obvious ones.

There are plenty of options out there so it's important to find the right one for you. While free apps are available, they typically offer fewer features. Generally, you get what you pay for, so it's important to purchase the right paid antivirus software.

SEE ALSO: How to unblock Netflix with a VPN

A dangerous virus or piece of ransomware can lock you out of your system. You could lose banking details, private documents, and personal photos that can never be recovered. Fortunately, if you install the right paid antivirus software, you won't have to worry. 

There are a lot of options out there, but we've picked out nine packages that are the best around. Here's our pick for the best antivirus solutions:

EDITOR'S NOTE: We've updated this story to remove Kaspersky, following plans for the US government to ban the software. Mashable will continue to monitor the situation, and update this story with any new developments.

Amazon Prime Day is creeping up on us.

Avid shoppers keeping their eyes on exclusive Prime Day deals can enjoy a breezy shopping experience while they benefit from major deals this July thanks to Amazon's flexible payment options. Users are no longer limited to debit and/or credit cards or Amazon gift cards; if you're an Apple loyalist, you can also use Apple Pay to make purchases on Amazon.

Note that not all vendors accept Apple Pay, and availability may depend on your location.

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about Amazon Prime Big Deal Days: Dates, invite-only deals, and the competition

Here's how.

Step 1: Setting up Apple Pay on iPhone: If you haven't already, add your debit or credit card to your iPhone's digital wallet to set up Apple Pay on your mobile device.

Step 2: Open the Amazon app.

Step 3: Add items to your cart and go to checkout. If your vendor accepts Apple Pay, you'll see it under payment options (you can use the method only if you have linked a card to your iPhone's Wallet app); select Apple Pay.

Step 4: Confirm your address and payment details.

Step 5: Once Apple Pay's payment authenticator pops up on your screen, use your Face ID or Touch ID to authenticate the purchase.

Step 6: Confirm payment to finish the process.

You can also use an Apple Card to make payments on Amazon

If your third-party vendor doesn't accept Apple Pay, you can work around it by using your Apple Card instead. The process is fairly straightforward.

Step 1: Make sure you add your Apple Card to the Wallet app on your iPhone by clicking on the + symbol.

Step 2: Now, go to the Amazon app.

Step 3: You'll find four clickable options at the bottom of the home screen. Start the process by clicking on the Account icon which is right next to the homepage icon.

Step 4: A new app page will appear. Tap on Your Account to access account details.

Step 5: Scroll down on the page until you see the Payments section and click on Your Payments.

Step 6: Another page with all your linked cards and bank accounts will appear on the app. Go to the Wallet tab and press +Add.

Step 7: Click on Add a credit or debit card and input your Apple card details.

Step 8: Finally, click on Add and continue to finish the process. Now, you can use your Apple Card to make purchases on Amazon.

Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has announced plans to lock its livestreaming feature behind its premium subscription service. As noted by Engadget, this would make X unique among its competitors in the live streaming space like YouTube, Twitch, and Kick, which don't charge for livestreaming.

Tweet may have been deleted

X's live streaming service is yet another feature that the Elon Musk-owned company will try to use to lure users to its premium subscription model. For users who want to pay for X, the Basic tier starts at $3, with the Premium and Premium+ tiers at $8 and $16, respectively. Users on these plans gain access to features like longer video uploads, ad-free feeds, and the ability to edit and write longer posts.

SEE ALSO: Elon Musk's X is officially making likes private

In its post announcing the change, the company offered no explanation. However, the news comes just days after a report showed that the beleaguered platform was losing money hand over fist.

Overall, the move is unsurprising as Musk tries to find new ways to increase revenue. The company has even tested charging new accounts for the privilege of posting on X. So don't be shocked when, perhaps, non-premium accounts are one day charged $1 to reply to posts.

Apple's AI features won't be available in Europe due to regulatory concerns. For now, at least.

On Friday, the company shared in a statement to European outlets that it will block the release of Apple Intelligence, iPhone Mirroring, and SharePlay Screen Sharing to users in the European Union because of the Digital Markets Act.

SEE ALSO: iOS 18: 4 'Apple Intelligence' features you won't see until 2025

"Specifically, we are concerned that the interoperability requirements of the DMA could force us to compromise the integrity of our products in ways that risk user privacy and data security," said Apple in an email to The Guardian. The features will reportedly not arrive in the EU until 2025.

At this year's WWDC, Apple finally got on the AI train, but in the most Apple way possible. Dubbing its tech Apple Intelligence, the company announced a slew of features for prioritizing notifications, drafting and summarizing emails, automated audio transcriptions, and a newly revamped Siri. Apple also announced a ChatGPT integration with iOS 18. Throughout the event, Apple emphasized its commitment to privacy and data autonomy, which would mean, it said, running Apple Intelligence on a private cloud computing system and asking users for permission before they proceed with ChatGPT actions.

The other two features that will be delayed in the EU aren't part of Apple Intelligence, but relate to interoperability of devices, or lack thereof if you don't have an iPhone or Mac. iPhone Mirroring is a new feature that lets users control their iPhone screen from their desktop with the macOS Sequoia update. SharePlay Screen Sharing is a FaceTime update that lets users take control of a remote device.

But the DMA sees Big Tech companies as "gatekeepers" that wield their power through monopolistic practices. Passed by the European Commission in 2022, the legislation is designed to make the tech industry more competitive and equitable by forcing companies to adhere to a strict set of rules. That includes allowing third party interoperability by not favoring their own products and services or blocking the use of third party apps.

Apple has fought back against the DMA, citing privacy and data security risks as the reason for its tight control over practices like banning alternative app stores and making Safari undelete-able. But the EU is having none of it, and accusing Apple of thwarting competition. Recently, it was reported that Apple could face hefty fines for failing to comply to EU laws.

So now, Apple is withholding its rollout of AI features in the EU for the time being, which means hundreds of millions of Apple users will miss out until it's resolved. "We are committed to collaborating with the European Commission in an attempt to find a solution that would enable us to deliver these features to our EU customers without compromising their safety,” said the Apple statement.

In response to Apple, the European Commission said, "Gatekeepers are welcome to offer their services in Europe, provided that they comply with our rules aimed at ensuring fair competition." It looks like we've got a bit of a staring contest until the two factions can work it out. In the meantime, European Apple users will have to wait.

Amazon Prime Day is coming up again, and exciting deals await on electronics, clothes, makeup and more — but there's a catch. To access exclusive Prime Day deals, shoppers must first sign up for Amazon Prime and opt for a free 30-day trial or a full subscription.

Subscribers can save plenty on big brands like Apple, HP, Bose, and more if they shop on Prime Day in July this year, and they'll also gain other Prime benefits, such as free delivery and hours of entertainment thanks to full access to Amazon Video, Amazon Music, and Prime Gaming.

Here's how shoppers can sign up for Amazon Prime:

Total Time

• 5 minutes, email address or phone number

What You Need

• Internet access

Step 1: Go to the Amazon Prime sign-up page and click on Start your free 30-day trial.

Head to Amazon Prime's sign-up page.

Step 2: Input your email if you have an existing Amazon account or click on Create Your Amazon account.

A new sign-in page will open up on the website. Input your email or mobile number and password if you have an existing Amazon account or click on Create Your Amazon account. If you make a new account, you'll need to provide some basic information such as name, email, and password.

Step 3: If you're creating a new account, follow the steps to verify your email with a One-Time Password.

If you choose to create a new account, Amazon will send an OTP to your respective email address or mobile number for account verification. If you are using an existing account, skip to Step 5.

Step 4: Input the OTP and click on Verify.

Once the OTP verification page appears on the screen, input the code and click on Verify.

Step 5: Sign up for your free one-month trial or purchase a full subscription.

Now users have two options: sign up for a free one-month trial or purchase a full subscription, though many users might not qualify for a free trial if they have already availed it in the past with the same email or phone number. If you are purchasing a subscription, click on one of these four plans to become a prime member: Monthly Prime Membership — costs $14.99 per month Annual Membership — costs $139 per year or under $12 monthly Student Monthly Membership — costs $7.49 per month; students are eligible for exclusive offers including a 6-month free Prime trial. Prime for government assistance recipients — costs $6.99 per month (must verify eligibility)

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 June 22 SEE ALSO: 'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for June 22

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Saturday, June 22, 2024:

AcrossAilment that sounds like a past-tense verb

• The answer is Flu.

Oozes slowly

• The answer is Seeps.

Cheese named for an English village

• The answer is Cheddar.

Disappointing firework

• The answer is Dud.

Principal on "Abbott Elementary"

• The answer is Ava.

Cheese named for an English village

• The answer is Stilton.

Mean, mocking smile

• The answer is Sneer.

Deity

• The answer is God.

Down"No ___ the animals" (zoo sign)

• The answer is Feeding.

Took charge of

• The answer is Led.

All caught up on the latest

• The answer is Updated.

Closes

• The answer is Shuts.

Section of a music store, maybe

• The answer is CDs.

Took charge of

• The answer is Ran.

One born in late July, astrologically

• The answer is Leo.

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

What if, in 14 years, a newly-discovered asteroid was likely to strike Earth?

But that's not all. This threatening space rock, some 330 to 1,050 feet in diameter (or 100 to 320 meters), has just disappeared behind the sun, making crucial observations impossible for the next seven months.

To prepare for such an unsettling scenario, NASA just completed an exercise to "inform and assess our ability as a nation to respond effectively to the threat of a potentially hazardous asteroid or comet." A possible asteroid or comet collision can pose a number of uncertainties, which the space agency continued to test during the recent fifth Planetary Defense Interagency Tabletop Exercise.

"A large asteroid impact is potentially the only natural disaster humanity has the technology to predict years in advance and take action to prevent," Lindley Johnson, NASA's planetary defense officer emeritus, said in a statement.

SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.

Importantly, there are no known asteroids on a collision course with Earth for at least 100 years, and the chances of a major impact in our lifetimes is extremely small, astronomers say. Planetary defense agencies have never needed to raise an alarm about a threatening impact — though you've undoubtedly seen sensationalized news about menacing asteroids over the years.

"We have never actually issued a warning," Johnson previously told Mashable. (But they have informed the public about what some asteroids of interest are doing.)

"We have never actually issued a warning."

But, at some point, an impact is inevitable. "Yes, asteroids have hit Earth over the course of its history, and it will happen again," NASA notes.

In the latest asteroid collision scenario, the space agency presented a hypothetical object some 330 to 1,050 feet across that has a 72 percent chance of walloping Earth. Something in that range, while not nearly the biggest class of asteroid, could be hugely destructive. Take the 600-foot-deep "Meteor Crater," which landed in present-day Arizona 50,000 years ago. The culprit was likely some 100 to 170 feet across, but created a blast big enough to destroy Kansas City.

As the hypothetical trajectory below shows, this asteroid passes over some densely populated areas like Dallas, which would almost certainly create a national emergency, even if the exact trajectory is uncertain. The scenario's impact is expected in 14 years, in July 2038, giving countries a relatively short time to prepare — especially with a seven month gap in surveillance. From initial observations, the object's size, composition, and trajectory are uncertain.

"To complicate this year’s hypothetical scenario, essential follow-up observations would have to be delayed for at least seven months — a critical loss of time — as the asteroid passed behind the Sun as seen from Earth’s vantage point in space," the space agency said.

A hypothetical asteroid impact scenario created for the Planetary Defense Interagency Tabletop Exercise. Credit: NASA A slide from the Planetary Defense Interagency Tabletop Exercise showing courses of action for contending with a likely impact. Credit: Planetary Defense Interagency Tabletop Exercise

This latest planetary defense exercise underscores how critical near-Earth object surveillance is (these are objects that come within some 30 million miles of Earth's orbit around the sun). Fourteen years is a rushed timeline.

"You need to know what's coming, when it's coming, and how hard it's going to hit," Eric Christensen, the director of the NEO-seeking Catalina Sky Survey in Arizona, previously told Mashable.

"You need to know what's coming, when it's coming, and how hard it's going to hit."

Among the courses of action discussed by NASA, FEMA, and other partners included a flyby of the incoming object, which would vastly improve our grasp of its composition, rotation, speed, and beyond. Will it break apart into smaller pieces in Earth's atmosphere? Is it rubble-like, or solid? How likely is it to hit the ocean? Also discussed was the major operation, a "Purpose-Built Rendezvous," which implies using a spacecraft to deflect an object.

Asteroid deflection is a realistic future possibility. In 2022, NASA plunged a refrigerator-sized spacecraft into a stadium-sized asteroid, with hopes of simply nudging it. It was an unprecedented, successful test — proving humanity could alter the path of a menacing asteroid, should one ever be headed our way. The impact cut the asteroid Dimorphos' loop around its parent asteroid (they journey around the sun as a pair, or binary system) by a whopping 33 minutes and 15 seconds — when the original goal was to change it by at least 73 seconds.

Participants at the fifth Planetary Defense Interagency Tabletop Exercise. Credit: NASA / JHU-APL / Ed Whitman

Ultimately, this latest tabletop impact exercise resulted in a number of "High-level Takeaways." A glaring problem is the uncertainties involved in planning for a likely impact. The participants recommended developing "the capability to rapidly launch an NEO [near-Earth object] reconnaissance mission," which could include repurposing existing spacecraft.

Thankfully, NASA and its planetary defense partners will continue exercising hypothetical asteroid threats. It behooves us to be prepared, even if the overall risk is low.

The risks of an asteroid impact

Here are today's general risks from asteroids or comets both tiny, and very large. (Importantly, even relatively small rocks are still threatening, as the surprise 56-foot (17-meter) rock that exploded over Russia and blew out people's windows in 2013, proved.

• Every single day about 100 tons of dust and sand-sized particles fall through Earth's atmosphere and promptly burn up.

• Every year, on average, an "automobile-sized asteroid" plummets through our sky and explodes, explains NASA.

• Impacts by objects around 460 feet in diameter occur every 10,000 to 20,000 years.

• A "dinosaur-killing" impact from a rock perhaps a half-mile across or larger happens on 100-million-year timescales.

A group is using the Mothers Against Drunk Driving playbook, sharing personal tragedies, to lobby for the Kids Online Safety Act.

Who will survive? Die? Thrive? And how? We talked to nearly a dozen top media executives and asked them to predict what lies ahead.

The C.E.O. and his team drove Meta’s efforts to capture young users and misled the public about the risks, lawsuits by state attorneys general say.

TL;DR: Through June 26, take advantage of this two-for-one drone deal and get the Ninja Dragon Phantom Eagle Pro 4K drone and Blade K drone for just $159.97 (reg. $299).

Drones have revolutionized the way we capture and experience the world from above. They offer stunning aerial views and allow us to experience the thrill of flying, even just for a little while. Drones have even given businesses an additional tool to market, record, and showcase their businesses.

This limited-time offer gets you two smart 4K drones for what you'd pay for just one. You get the Ninja Dragon Phantom Eagle Pro 4K drone and Blade K Drone for just $159.97 (reg. $299) when you order by June 26. And if you want to share your drone hobby with a friend, this bundle allows you to make it happen at a 44% savings.

Both drones are foldable and can fly up, down, side to side, and perform a full roll. They both also feature headless mode, which means you don't have to fuss with the position of the drone before flying. They both have a beginner-friendly one-key takeoff and landing feature.

However, there are some differences to note. 

The Ninja Dragon Phantom Eagle Pro 4K drone features a 4K adjustable camera supporting vertical and horizontal shooting. Its battery can hold a charge for up to fifteen minutes, and it can detect and avoid obstacles in its flight path. The Ninja Dragon Blade K 4K drone has both a front and bottom camera and four-way anti-collision tech for safer navigation. Its battery lasts for slightly less time, at ten to twelve minutes per flight.

Take your outdoor adventures to new heights with this double-action drone bundle while it's on sale.

Pick up the Ninja Dragon Phantom Eagle Pro 4K drone and Blade K drone for just $159.97 (reg. $299) until June 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Dragon Ninja Dragon Phantom Eagle PRO 4K with Blade K Drone Bundle $159.97 at The Mashable Shop
$299.99 Save $140.02 Get Deal

TL;DR: This minimalist LED corner floor lamp has millions of colors and hundreds of effects and is just $69.99 for a limited time.

Imagine having the ability to customize your room’s lighting with over 16 million colors and 300+ multicolor effects. Whether you want a calm, warm glow or a dynamic, colorful light show, this lamp can deliver. It can set the mood for any occasion. Change the colors to match your decor, celebrate and enhance holidays, or create a fun environment for movie and game nights. The Lamp Depot Minimalist LED Corner Floor Lamp is on sale for $79.99 (reg. $149) for a limited time.

Designed to fit into any corner, the floor lamp takes up minimal space while providing maximum impact. Its slim, space-saving design is a fantastic choice for apartments, small rooms, or any area where floor space is at a premium (which is kind of everywhere).

Equipped with soft-white, integrated LEDs, this lamp offers a soothing light that’s gentle on the eyes. Whether you’re reading, working, or just relaxing, the soft white light provides terrific illumination without harshness. And when you'd like to shake things up and create a festive mood, the included remote control allows you to easily switch between colors, adjust brightness, and choose from various lighting effects.

Complete with metal finishes and a weighted rubber bottom, it's an easy way to elevate your decor without cluttering your space.

Pick up a minimalist LED corner floor lamp while it's on sale for just $69.99 (reg. $149) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lamp Depot Lamp Depot Minimalist LED Corner Floor Lamp $69.99 at The Mashable Shop
$149.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: This refurbished Apple iPad Air comes with a black protective case and is on sale for just $155.99 (reg. $499).

Most of us are looking forward to upcoming travel plans. Whether it means a week away with the family in the tropics or a day trip to the vineyard with friends, traveling often means finding the right balance between staying connected, entertained, and productive, all while keeping your luggage light.

The refurbished Apple iPad Air is the ideal tablet for many travel needs. It has a grade "B" refurbished rating, which means it has been inspected and cleaned, but may arrive with some light scuffing, scratches, or other slight blemishes. It's also why it is available for the reasonable price of $155.99 (reg. $499). 

Complete with a black protective case, it has 16GB storage, which is a decent amount for day-to-day tasks or staying connected on the go. The iPad Air’s 9.7-inch Retina display delivers crisp, vibrant visuals that make everything from reading electronic books to watching movies enjoyable.

It has WiFi capabilities, but you won't be able to connect using cellular data. This iPad Air features a 5MP back camera so you can take pictures and videos of all the places you go. And the 1.2MP front camera is there if you want to Facetime with friends and family while you're away.

Powered by the Apple A7 chip with a 1.4GHz speed, the iPad Air offers smooth and efficient performance, ideal for multitasking on the go. Whether you’re catching up on work emails, streaming your favorite shows, or navigating new places, this iPad handles tasks like a champ.

With Bluetooth 4.0 and a slim design, it can be your devoted travel device at a price that saves room for souvenirs. 

Grab this refurbished Apple iPad Air with a black protective case on sale for just $155.99 (reg. $499).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air 9.7" 16GB (Refurbished: Wi-Fi Only) $155.99 at The Mashable Shop
$499.00 Save $343.01 Get Deal

TL;DR: Amp up your home fitness efforts with this Goplus Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine with LCD display and adjustable resistance while it's on sale for $189.99 (reg. $399) for a limited time.

Staying fit and healthy year-round can be a challenge, especially with the recurring costs and time commitments of a gym membership. In a perfect world, you can get the convenience of a full-body workout right in your own home without the hassle of monthly fees or crowded gym spaces, but that's not always possible.

The Goplus Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine is available for just $189.99 and could be your solution to creating an effective and affordable home gym. Rowing is also a terrific way to work out, offering more benefits than meets the eye. An article in Shape reports that rowing uses 86 percent of your body's muscles, which is a big win for a little machine.

The Goplus Magnetic Rowing Machine was designed to provide a comprehensive workout that targets your legs, core, arms, and back. It helps you build muscle, burn calories, and improve your overall fitness from the comfort of your home. It features eight levels of magnetic tension resistance to choose from, depending on your strength and needs, which can be controlled with the turn of a knob.

It has textured pedals and ergonomic nylon rowing handles for comfort and slip resistance, as well as a molded, U-shaped seat for a more comfortable experience. It also has a built-in LCD monitor that shows you your total count, per-minute count, time, and calories burned.

When you aren't rowing your way to increased health, the foldable design and wheels make it easy to stash out of the way.

Take advantage of this offer to enjoy a full-body workout, a flexible training schedule, and the comfort of exercising at home.

Purchase this Goplus Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine with LCD display and adjustable resistance while it's on sale for $189.99 (reg. $399).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Goplus Goplus Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine with LCD Display & Adjustable Resistance $189.99 at The Mashable Shop
$399.99 Save $210.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: You can get this 6.8-inch foldable touchscreen car display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support for $89.97 through June 26.

Driving has become more than just getting from point A to point B — it’s also about enjoying the journey in convenience and style. While many newer cars have a central display hub for the driver, many slightly older models don't have an integrated unit. 

If you have one of the older models and would like to enjoy the benefits that come with a dash display, this 6.8-inch foldable touchscreen car display is on sale for just $89.97 (reg. $159) through June 26. It can help transform your car into a smart, connected hub.

With full support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this display lets you connect your smartphone easily. You'll have access to your favorite apps, navigation, music, and calls directly on the screen, all while keeping your hands on the wheel and not holding your phone. Whether you’re an iPhone or Android user, enjoy a familiar interface tailored for safer, smarter driving.

Navigate through apps, control your media, and access important functions with the touchscreen interface. The high-resolution display responds quickly to your touch, making it easy to manage your driving essentials. It also supports a TF card for music and movie playback when the passengers get bored.

And if you want to use voice commands to be extra safe on the road, an easy push button activates voice commands so you can ask Siri or Google Assistant to help you make calls or change up the music.

With broad compatibility, backup cam support, and screencast options, it's an easy add for your daily commute or upcoming summer road trips.

Pick up the 6.8-inch foldable touchscreen car display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support for $89.97 (reg. $159) until June 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay 6.8" Foldable Touchscreen Car Display with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Support $89.97 at The Mashable Shop
$159.99 Save $70.02 Get Deal

The deep sea teems with life. But in the black depths, these organisms remain largely mysterious.

Squids in the deep ocean are rarely observed alive, but scientists on an exploration mission used a deep-sea robot to capture footage of a squid clutching a brood of unusually large eggs — twice the size of typical squid eggs. The new research, aptly titled "Giant eggs in a deep-sea squid," concludes it's an unknown species.

"Our unexpected encounter with a squid brooding giant eggs caught the attention of everyone in the ship’s control room," Steven Haddock, a senior scientist at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute and an author of the new research, said in a statement. "This remarkable sighting underscores the diversity of ways that animals adapt to the unique challenges of living in the deep."

SEE ALSO: Giant squid footage shows they're not terrible monsters, after all

The eggs you see in the footage below, numbering 30 to 40, are about half an inch across. That's much bigger than most fish and squid eggs, and why biologists called them relatively "giant." Often, related Gonatus squids brood up to 3,000 eggs at a time, explained the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, which uses remote controlled vehicles (ROVs) to explore the deep sea. In ocean regions with lots of predators or limited nutrients, unleashing hundreds or thousands of offspring boosts the odds of a few survivors.

But it makes sense for some species to carry large eggs. "Giant eggs may be more beneficial in the more stable and predictable conditions found in the deep sea, allowing for higher investment in fewer offspring that have a better chance of survival," the institute wrote.

A view of the unusually large eggs seen in the squid species swimming in the Gulf of California. Credit: MBARI

The above footage is from 2015, but the biologists just completed a meticulous review of deep-sea squid ROV footage from different expeditions in an attempt to identify the species. The creature, seen at some 8,419 feet (2566 meters) below the surface in Mexico’s Gulf of California, is indeed new to science.

Aboard a small number of high-tech research vessels around the globe, organizations are now vigilantly documenting and mapping the deep sea. Scientists want to shine a light — literally and figuratively — on what's down there. The implications of knowing are incalculable, particularly as deep-sea mineral prospectors prepare to run tank-like industrial equipment across parts of the seafloor. For example, research expeditions have found that ocean life carries great potential for novel medicines. "Systematic searches for new drugs have shown that marine invertebrates produce more antibiotic, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory substances than any group of terrestrial organisms," notes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

What are the best new movies on Netflix? With the streaming service offering a wide array of comedies, action movies, thrillers, and more, it can be difficult to choose what to watch. Sure, Netflix aims to promote their latest releases to grab your attention. But just because it's new doesn't mean it's worth your time.

Fret not. We've done the hard part for you. Below, you'll find the very best Netflix original films of 2024, now streaming. Whether you want something heartwarming, mind-bending, pulse-racing, funny-bone-tickling, or gut-wrenching, we've got you covered with the top tier of Netflix's new dramas, docs, true crime, animated movies, action-adventures, and more.

The Imaginary Rudger and Amanda fly high in "The Imaginary." Credit: Netflix

Director Yoshiyuki Momose, who had a hand in such Studio Ghibli classics as Spirited Away and Porco Rosso, offers a fresh tale of adventure with this animated darling.

The Imaginary centers on Rudger, a blonde boy who is the devoted imaginary friend to a mischievous little girl named Amanda. Together, they can get up to all kinds of extraordinary adventures. But when a strange man begins poking around, seeking to steal Rudger away, the boy will have to rely on his newfound community of "imaginaries" to get back to Amanda and save her from emotions so big they could swallow her whole. Featuring voice work from Louie Rudge-Buchanan, Evie Kiszel, Hayley Atwell, Sky Katz, Jeremy Swift, Kal Penn, LeVar Burton, Jane Singer, Ruby Barnhill, Roger Craig Smith, Courtenay Taylor, and Miles Nibbe, this Netflix original is as full of charm as it is astounding visuals. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: The Imaginary is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: Escape reality with the 10 best animated movies on Netflix The Greatest Night in Pop Musicians of every kind got together for "We Are the World." Credit: Netflix

Travel back to 1985, when some of the biggest names in music — Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Cyndi Lauper, Willie Nelson, Bette Midler, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, and more — came together for a charity single in hopes of making a better world.

Centering on interviews of the artists and technicians who made the charity single "We Are the World" together, this delightful doc is full of flashy anecdotes, zinging one-liners, and even some heartache. (You deserved better, Sheila E!) While plenty of interviewees offer fun and insights, Lionel Richie, who also produced the doc, proves the MVP, providing not only plenty of context, but also some stellar impressions of Michael Jackson and his exotic pets.* — K.P.

How to watch: The Greatest Night in Pop is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: The 35 best documentaries on Netflix Orion and the Dark Orion learns to find the good in the dark. Credit: Netflix

Charlie Kaufman, the brilliant but twisted mind behind movies like Being John Malkovich, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and I'm Thinking of Ending Things, tried his hand at family-friendly in 2024 with Orion and the Dark.

Centering on a fearful 11-year-old boy (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), this adaptation of Emma Yarlett's children's book follows Orion on an adventure way past bedtime, when the Dark he feared comes out of hiding to introduce himself. Together, they travel the world with the creatures of night and learn what wonders can come from confronting what scares you. An animated adventure about the anxieties of children and their grown-ups, Orion and the Dark is a winsome and weird wonder for all ages. But maybe don't watch it right before bed. It's not nightmare fuel, but it's so surreal it could toy with your dreams! — K.P.

How to watch: Orion and the Dark is now streaming on Netflix.

Power "Power" examines the history of policing in America. Credit: Netflix

This brand-new doc from Oscar-nominated writer/director Yance Ford (Strong Island) examines the history of policing in the United States, from its roots in frontier militias, slave patrols, and strike-breaking to the symbiotic relationship of modern policing and the military, the murder of George Floyd, and Biden's "fund the police" speech. Ford's deft directorial hand, extensive archival footage, and voiceover asking viewers to be curious — if not downright skeptical about who the police serve and protect — makes this vital viewing. The scholarly interviews are grounded by time spent with Minneapolis Police Inspector Charlie Adams, who comes across as thoughtful and deeply empathetic. 

While it's not a particularly easy watch, Ford is especially considered about how this may affect viewers. (Watching footage of a person being murdered is, despite what social media may have you think, not your responsibility, and it is traumatizing.) As he told Netflix, "We chose to obscure the George Floyd murder in a way that completely blots out Mr. Floyd on the ground, but also as a result, highlights the officer and the two people who were demanding that he check Mr. Floyd’s pulse. In that way, one of the things that we achieved was this focus on who was complicit in Mr. Floyd’s murder and who had power to intervene but chose not to." It's this sort of brilliance in filmmaking and editing (kudos to co-writer/editor Ian Olds) that makes Power unmissable. — Jenni Miller, Contributing Writer

How to watch: Power is now streaming on Netflix.

Spaceman Adam Sandler and a giant spider voiced by Paul Dano star in "Spaceman." Credit: Netflix

When Adam Sandler teams up with Netflix, the results are often willfully stupid comedies like Hubie Halloween, The Do-Over, and the infamously repugnant Western The Ridiculous 6. But the Sandman's been on a roll recently, with the sweet coming-of-age comedy You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah, which starred his real-life daughters; the charming animated musical Leo; and this bizarre and bittersweet sci-fi drama about a sad astronaut and a giant space spider voiced by Paul Dano.

Directed by Johan Renck and written by Jaroslav Kalfar and Colby Day, Spaceman stars Sandler as Czech astronaut Jakub Prochazka, who is six months deep on a solo mission, while his pregnant wife (Maestro's Carey Mulligan) is back on Earth seriously considering dumping his oft-space-trekking butt. Enter Hanus, a giant, talking space spider who loves the hum of a toilet, the taste of Nutella, and giving life advice to his "skinny human" friend. Spaceman is as unexpected as it is surreal and strangely enchanting. — K.P.

How to watch: Spaceman is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: The best sci-fi movies on Netflix to escape reality Damsel Millie Bobby Brown is trapped in "Damsel." Credit: John Wilson / Netflix

She's a damsel. She's in distress. She can handle this. Have a nice day. Millie Bobby Brown gives one of her strongest performances to date in Damsel, Juan Carlos Fresnadillo's film about a princess named Elodie, who's yeeted into a dragon's lair by her extremely fresh prince husband (Nick Robinson) on their wedding day. But what seems like quite a flippant premise actually ends up being a kick-ass survival film.

There are plenty of surprises as Elodie scrambles to escape the cave using only her dress for equipment — and solve the mystery of why the hell she's been thrown in there in the first place. Robin Wright and Angela Bassett are impeccable as the cold Queen Isabelle and Elodie's loving stepmother, Lady Bayford, respectively. As Belen Edwards wrote in her review, "Yes, Damsel isn't like most other fairy tales. But with its blend of dark fantasy and themes of self-empowerment, it makes for a gripping story that's great fun to experience." — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: Damsel is now streaming on Netflix.

How to Rob a Bank Hollywood reimagined in animation in "How to Rob a Bank." Credit: Netflix

Netflix's true crime section is so vast that it can be difficult to pluck the treasures from the trash. For every Amanda Knox, there's a bunch of unsavory options. Thankfully, Amanda Knox producer Stephen Robert Morse teamed with Class Action Park director Seth Porges for this curious bank robber bio-doc, How to Rob a Bank.

This doc, brought to life with animated reenactments, news footage, home movies, and a slew of interviews, unfurls the stranger-than-fiction story of a bank robber known to the police as "Hollywood." This was because he had a penchant for modeling his crimes after movies (Point Break chief among them) and used prosthetic makeup to successfully disguise his face. But who was the man behind the mystique? Talking with the cops who tracked him and the family and friends who loved him, How to Rob a Bank explores that complicated question with unsettling results. — K.P.

How to watch: How to Rob a Bank is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: 21 best crime documentaries on Netflix right now Hit Man Adria Arjona and Glen Powell in "Hit Man." Credit: Netflix

Richard Linklater and Glen Powell reunite for Hit Man, a rom-com that is killer in all senses of the word.

Powell plays Gary Johnson, a college professor whose side gig as an undercover hit man leads to an unexpected meet-cute with would-be client Madison (Andor's Adria Arjona). The pair's connection (and electrifying chemistry) sparks a delightful game of false identities, reinvention, and twisted love that toggles between hilarious, thrilling, and sexy at a moment's notice. Oh, who am I kidding, sometimes it's all three at once!* — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Hit Man is now streaming on Netflix.

The Kitchen "The Kitchen" is a must-watch sci-fi drama. Credit: Netflix

Kibwe Tavares and Daniel Kaluuya's film The Kitchen is more than a sci-fi drama set in near-future London; it's a sharp commentary on privatization and oppression, police brutality, and the power of community resistance. It's also Kaluuya's directorial debut, and a hell of a watch.

Protagonists Izi (Top Boy star Kane Robinson) and Benji (Jedaiah Bannerman) live within the titular neighborhood known as The Kitchen, the last remaining bastion of independent housing in London. Plagued by brutal police raids and skint resources, the community is constantly under threat. It's a brilliantly shot, superbly acted, and all-too-real cautionary tale. — S.C.

How to watch: The Kitchen is now streaming on Netflix.

The best headphones of 2024: Best noise-cancelling headphones Bose 700 headphones $379 at Amazon Shop now Best sound-first headphones Sony WH-1000XM5 $398 at Amazon Shop now Best noise-cancelling earbuds Apple AirPods Pro $189.99 at Walmart (Save $59.01) Shop now Best AirPods alternative Beats Studio Buds + $169.95 at Amazon Shop now Best workout headphones Beats Fit Pro $159 at Amazon (Save $40.95) Shop now Best premium noise-cancelling headphones Bose QuietComfort Ultra $429 at Amazon Shop now Best wired earbuds Marshall Mode $37.63 at Amazon (Save $1.93) Shop now

There are hundreds of different headphones and earbuds in varying shapes, sizes, styles, colors, and of course, prices. These days, you can grab a random pair off the digital shelf without too much research and find that they do the job just fine.

However, if you're tired of settling for "just fine" when it comes to the gadgets that you're using for hours every day, then it's worth investing in the best headphones. This doesn't necessarily mean giving up on budget options and going all in on a $500 pair. For instance, our favorite wired earbuds will only set you back $38.

How to choose the best headphones for you

We'll show our hand early: There's no definitive "best" product here. Sure, elite headphones brands like Bose, Sony, and Apple put out high-quality products across the board, but even within each of those brands, you'll find different tiers of products. Some will deliver better value, and some will deliver better hardware and performance.

SEE ALSO: Sonos Ace headphones review: Hands-on with the first headphones from the audio giant

All this to say, the best pair of earbuds and headphones largely comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use them. Some listeners swear by over-ear headphones while others prefer the minimalism of earbuds — one is not necessarily better than the other. Athletes who like to use headphones at the gym will appreciate waterproof materials and certifications, while frequent fliers will prefer devices with a long battery life, comfort, and portability. Finally, music lovers and audiophiles will want to invest in premium features like a custom equalizer, spatial audio, or best-in-class active noise cancellation.

You can use these factors to guide your purchasing journey, but don't get overwhelmed. To help you pick, we tested all of the headphones in this guide to bring you the best for noise cancellation, music, budget shoppers, and wired connections. So, read on to find the perfect new pair of headphones or earbuds.

Best noise-cancelling headphones: Bose 700 Bose 700 headphones $379.00 at Amazon
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Read our full review of the Bose 700 headphones.

Who it's for:

Most headphones with ANC only offer one level of noise cancellation, plus a transparency mode, so you're not completely unaware of the world around you. The Bose 700s amp that up tenfold, giving you ten different adjustable levels of ANC, plus one level without, for the ultimate customization experience. If you're picky about the intensity of your ANC, these are the best headphones for your ears.

Why we picked this:

When Mashable tech reporter Alex Perry tested out these headphones, he found they worked effortlessly in multiple loud scenarios: "I've tried these out in the lively Mashable office, on the busy streets of New York City, and even in a particularly noisy bar. In every scenario, I couldn't hear much, except for what I chose to listen to."

To cycle through the different levels, you can use the app or cycle between three favorite settings directly on the headphones. These headphones do have one major downside: They originally came out in 2019. We think they remain current because no other brand has yet delivered headphones with as much ANC customization, but for anyone who loves top notch sound quality, you'll no longer find it in the Bose 700s. It's good, but not industry leading.

As these headphones are being phased out of Bose's lineup (the Bose QuietComfort Ultras are serving as their replacement, though they only have one level of ANC and transparency mode), they are on sale — you'll just want to grab them while they're still around.

Battery life: 20 hours | Colors: Black, soapstone, silver luxe

Best sound-first headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5 Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones $398.00 at Amazon
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Read our full review on the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Who it's for:

For music lovers, we have to recommend the latest flagship Sony headphones. The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones deliver top-notch ANC and audiophile-level sound quality, with a hefty 30-hour battery life. Their design offers a less expensive alternative to the AirPods Max, for those who like their headphones to sound and look good.

Why we picked this:

If you're into Bose headphones but aren't totally sold on Sony, we're willing to bet you'll see something you like in the WH-1000XM5s.

Often, people herald Bose as having the superior ANC but Sony as owning the sound space. Our Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern definitely noticed that these headphones excelled in the latter arena when she tested them out: "[The sound] is full and clear, and feels like surround sound. I’m a big fan of power ballads (I’m not allowed to pick the music at parties), and Brandi Carlile’s 'Right on Time' sounded like it was meant to be listened to on these headphones. The vocals and instruments all got to shine, and the headphones made it feel like I was there in the studio. These are probably the best-sounding headphones I’ve ever tried."

We do wish they folded up so they weren't so bulky to take on the go, but it's a relatively small con compared to the pros, especially if you're planning on wearing these headphones all day long.

Battery life: 30 hours | Colors: Black, blue, silver

Best noise-cancelling earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro Apple AirPods Pro $189.99 at Walmart
$239.00 Save $49.01 Shop Now

Read our full review of the second-generation USB-C AirPods Pro.

Who it's for:

If portability, active noise cancellation, and balanced sound are what you're looking for, your search ends with the AirPods Pro. It's not uncommon for earbuds to have active noise cancellation, but the AirPods Pro deliver an impressive performance. Plus they're versatile — whether you like to wear your headphones around the house, on a run, or as you're falling asleep at night, the AirPods Pro fit the bill. For obvious reasons, they're also the best headphones for iPhone users.

Why we picked this:

Last year, Apple finally gave their AirPods Pro a much-needed upgrade in the form of a USB-C charger. Other than the charging port, they're identical to the second-gen Pros released in 2022, which Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder described as "the first pair of earbuds I'd actually consider taking on an airplane (instead of my much larger and clunkier over-ear headphones)." He went on to say "In some aspects, the active noise cancellation was even better than on my daily drivers: B&W's excellent PX7 over-ear headphones."

Despite their size and enhanced ANC, the Pro's battery still lasts for up to six hours on a single charge and 30 hours overall with the case. However, it is worth noting that the battery life will noticeably decline after a few years.

Battery life: 6 hours per charge (30 hours with case) | Colors: White

Best AirPods alternative: Beats Studio Buds + Beats Studio Buds + $169.95 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

If you're into earbuds with good ANC but less into shelling out $249, you'll find your happy medium in the Beats Studio Buds +. There's a reason we've consistently named them the best AirPods alternative.

Why we picked this:

The AirPods Pro are great, but these popular wireless earbuds aren't in everyone's budget. These Beats will run you about $80 less (or more, if you catch them on sale), give you some more leeway with color options, integrate just as well into an Apple ecosystem as AirPods, have the same battery life as AirPods, and still deliver pretty good ANC. If you're into a more bass-heavy sound, you'll definitely be happy with them.

While we didn't find them to be a one-to-one experience during our testing — you should expect the AirPods to block out more noise, and we missed wireless charging — they were still incredibly comfortable. We also found them to fit better than AirPods, so if those Apple earbuds usually slip out of your ears, you'll want to try these buds instead. And for Android users, Google Fast Pair makes these earbuds a much better option than AirPods.

We do want to mention that if $169.95 is still fairly steep, you can also get ANC through Amazon's Echo Buds for just $119.99. (Echo Buds were our former budget pick, but we found the Beats have more to offer all-around.) For another solid option in the budget wireless earbuds space, try the Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds, which offer ANC and great battery life for under $50. Though, they do lack multipoint pairing and have a less rich sound profile than Beats earbuds.

Battery life: 6 hours with ANC, 9 without (27 hours with charging case) | Colors: Ivory, black, transparent, silver

Best workout headphones: Beats Fit Pro Beats Fit Pro $159.00 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $40.95 Shop Now

Read our full review of the Beats Fit Pro.

Who it's for:

When it comes to workout headphones, you need a pair that'll actually stay in your ears. Motivating yourself to get through a set of push-ups is hard enough without an earbud popping out. The Beats Fit Pro earbuds are more than up to the task, and they deliver exceptional battery life, sound quality, and a few extras.

Why we picked this:

Earbuds designed for exercise typically have some sort of wingtip to help hold them in place, but those wingtips can often squeeze uncomfortably on your ears, especially with longer-term use. The small wingtip of these Beats hits the sweet spot — they're large enough to provide hold, and small enough to be undetectable. Mashable tech reporter Alex Perry writes that the wingtips "result [in] a pair of earbuds that never feel like they're going to fall out and, more importantly, never intrude on your comfort. I've worn these bad boys for six straight hours without any problems. It's hard to ask for more than that."

Beyond comfort, these earbuds provide an impressive sound profile, including that deep bass that Beats are known for. And of course, as any workout earbuds should be, these earbuds are sweat and water-resistant with an IPX4 rating.

Battery life: 6 hours (24 hours with case) | Colors: Black, white, coral, gray, purple, blue, yellow, tan, brown, beige

Best premium noise-cancelling headphones: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $429.00 at Amazon
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Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones.

Who it's for:

If you're looking for a headphone experience built around excellent ANC, we think the Bose 700 headphones will more than do the job (and for a lot less). However, if you appreciate premium features such as spatial audio and want the most comfortable pair of headphones we've ever tested, then you'll be happy with the new Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones — and you'll still dole out less than you would for Apple AirPods Max over-ear headphones.

And if you need more convincing, we recently named these new Bose headphones the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying.

Why we picked this:

We weren't at all surprised that these QuietComfort headphones delivered all-day wear without issue. Even with glasses on, they never felt too tight or heavy, despite being an over-ear headphone with earcups that sealed out sound. Speaking of sound, it always came out well-rounded and functioned well with the immersive audio (which, by the way, is a new feature for the QuietComfort line).

They don't have adjustable ANC like the 700s, but the one ANC level works, though it will shine the most with lower-pitched tones (for higher tones, a bit of music or a podcast will go a long way in assisting the built-in noise cancellation). As for the downsides, these headphones are expensive at $429 (though you can find them on sale), so we expected a lot out of them. The pairing can be a little touch and go at times and completely fine at others, but this inconsistency is characteristic of other Bose headphones we've tested.

The most baffling flaw of these headphones is the lack of passive playback, meaning you have to turn on the headphones to use the wired connection. Though these are clearly meant to be wireless headphones first and foremost, this feels like a weird oversight (and a deviation from older models). Still, on balance, we think they justify the investment — they're really comfortable.

Battery life: 24 hours | Colors: White, black, sandstone

Best wired earbuds: Marshall Mode Marshall Mode earbuds $37.92 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

There are a lot of good reasons to consider wired earbuds. Some people simply don't want the hassle of constantly charging their headphones. Fair enough. Some people want impressive audio quality without shelling out $100 or more, and some simply aren't buying what Big Bluetooth is selling. For shoppers who fall into any of the above groups, we recommend the affordable Marshall Mode earbuds.

Why we picked this:

Though they're only $60 (and usually on sale for less than $40), Marshall Mode earbuds deliver better sound than most wireless earbuds that are triple the price. The bass is clear but not overpowering, and the highs bright but never too thin or tinny-sounding.

As for how you sound on the headphone's built-in mic, friends we spoke to on the phone said we came through with perfect clarity (the same can't be said for our tester's two-and-a-half year old first-generation AirPods Pro). Lower down on the wire is a separate remote, so you can pause and play your audio or hang up your calls without fiddling around with the mic. If you're sensing a theme, these earbuds are well-designed, and that comes through in how they wear and store.

During our testing, we had no trouble with the wire tangling, and it never felt too long during everyday wear. The buds themselves come with three ear tip sizes and wear comfortably all day. If you're not a fan of the shape of AirPods, then you're likely to find these a better shape for actually keeping your earbuds situated in your ears. There is one major downside with these wired earbuds, however. Unlike their more expensive wired counterparts, Marshall's don't come with a replaceable wire, so you'll want to take extra care to be as gentle as you can with the wire to extend its lifespan.

Battery life: N/A | Colors: Black

How we tested the best headphones

Over the years, we've tested out a lot of headphones and wireless earbuds at Mashable. To determine the best of the best, and not just pick what's trendy at the moment, we went back through our reviews from former and current tech reporters, editors, and shopping reporters. From JBL and Sony to Samsung and Anker Soundcore, we did our research to make sure we left no major headphone stone unturned, and the result is this guide — our favorite vetted and tested headphones of 2024 (so far).

All of the headphones in this guide were hands-on tested. In making our selections, we weighed:

• Sound: Since headphones are first and foremost a way for you to listen to audio, if a pair of headphones didn't sound good, they didn't make the list — that goes for our budget pick, too.

• Noise cancellation: These days, some form of noise cancellation is near-essential for any pair of headphones. We prioritized models that feature solid noise cancellation.

• Comfort: What's the point of a great pair of headphones if they're too uncomfortable to wear?

• Customization: Whether it be for ANC levels, transparency modes, or touch controls, headphones that allow you to adjust the settings will make them feel like they were made for you.

• Battery life: Most wireless headphones on the market rely on Bluetooth connectivity, so having a battery you can rely on for at least a few hours of listening time is key.

• Special features: When testing headphones and earbuds, we also take into consideration any other special features they offer. For headphones in the $200-plus price range, we expect at least a few special features.

You might notice that the Apple AirPods Max are missing from our top picks. It's not that we don't like them — in fact, we think they sound and look great. But when we reviewed them, we found that they didn't have a practical storage option, they never really turn off (thus draining the otherwise long battery life), and are just too expensive to justify a wholehearted recommendation. We understand if you like them regardless, but personally, we think there are better options at lower price points.

Recent testing updates

As of Feb. 2024, two of our former recommendations, the Skullcandy Sesh Evo earbuds and Sennheiser IE 300 have been discontinued. We're in the process of testing new headphones to take their place, and we chose the Marshall Mode earbuds as our new budget pick for earbuds. We also added in the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones as an upgrade recommendation in March 2024.

From April to May 2024, we also tested the Marshall Major V headphones and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones, both of which had excellent sound profiles and easy to navigate custom equalizers on their companion apps. Ultimately, they didn't make the cut on our final list for a couple of reasons. With the Major V headphones, we love that their claim of 100+ hours of battery life held up under our testing, but we found them to get uncomfortable after a couple of hours. We also would have appreciated ANC at their $149 price point.

For the B&W headphones, we loved their design and premium feel in addition to their truly impressive sound, but we found that their ANC was only so-so. If you're willing to spend $399, you can find a better balance of sound and ANC in the Sony XM5 headphones.

As of June 2024, we've removed the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones as they're officially discontinued and unavailable online.

When it comes to shopping for the best cheap laptops, you can do a lot with $1,000. (Heck, even $500 cuts some mustard nowadays.) But you'll probably have to make some compromises along the way to stay below that price point.

That doesn't mean you have to settle for a total clunker that doesn't tick any of the boxes on your must-have specs list. It just means you have to shop a little smarter than someone with unlimited funds.

That's where we come in. The Mashable team is constantly reviewing new laptops, and we can recommend several affordable machines for different budgets, operating system loyalties, and use cases based on our hands-on testing.

SEE ALSO: The best laptops of 2024, tested and reviewed What is the best cheap laptop?

As of mid-2024, we believe the best cheap MacBook is the 13-inch Apple MacBook Air powered by the previous-generation M2 chip. It's speedy enough for most people, it's got a great keyboard, and it starts at $999 (though it's often on sale for less than $900).

Among Windows laptops, the Lenovo Yoga 7i 14 (Gen 9) is currently the best cheap laptop we've tested. It has a newer processor and a good battery life, it doubles as a tablet, and it comes in at a starting price of $899.99.

Read on to learn more about these picks and some other solid options. FYI: We've listed the pricing and specs of our testing units, which may not apply to each laptop's base model.