Feed aggregator

Max has become a streaming service we can't live without.

The library boasts thousands of hours of endless movie magic, from hallowed Hollywood favorites in the Turner Classic Movies collection to nerdy essentials like The Lord of the Rings, not to mention arthouse favorites like Chantal Akerman, Wong Kar-wai, Robert Altman, and Akira Kurosawa... and Barbie.

Picking the best (and distinguishing them from our personal favorites) was no easy task, but we somehow managed.

In no particular order, here are the best movies on Max.

1. Parasite Credit: Curzon Artificial Eye / Kobal / Shutterstock

Four years have passed, and it's still wild that a film like Parasite took home the Best Picture trophy at the Oscars back in 2020. Not only was Bong Joon-ho's black comedy thriller the very first non-English language film to grab Hollywood's highest honor, but it was also by far the most audacious film to do so. The South Korean filmmaker's anti-capitalist parable follows the Kims, a poor family just barely getting by, who decide to infiltrate the lives of the wealthy Park family, who reside in a luxurious modern home. First Ki-woo (Choi Woo-shik) pretends to be a student to get a job tutoring the Parks' daughter. Then he gets his sister Ki-jung, aka "Jessica" (cue air quotes) a job as their son’s art therapist. Eventually, the entire Kim family is on the Parks' payroll, without the Parks realizing they're related. 

But Parasite is so much more than a class-conscious story about a scheming family. Bong has long been a master of genre mash-up filmmaking, and with Parasite, he further blends tingling suspense with biting humor, startling violence, and unforgettable set pieces. Parasite is one of those rare films that was fully deserving of the massive hype around it, and still is.

How to watch: Parasite is now streaming on Max.

2. Love Lies Bleeding

Love Lies Bleeding is the latest addition to the "Be Gay, Do Crime" genre, and we're so lucky to have it. The queer thriller from Saint Maud filmmaker Rose Glass is what you'd get if the Wachowskis' Bound had an affair with the Coen brothers' Blood Simple — a taut crime film with pops of gory violence, a messy criminal scheme, plenty of sex appeal, and a deliciously synth-heavy score.

SEE ALSO: 'Love Lies Bleeding' Interview: Kristen Stewart on the female gaze vs. the male gaze.

Set in New Mexico in the late '80s, Kristen Stewart plays Lou, a quiet gym manager whose whole world changes when a jaw-dropping bodybuilder named Jackie (Katy O'Brian) walks into her gym one night. Jackie is just passing through town on the way to a body-building competition, but once these two fall for each other Jackie decides to stick around. Soon, though, Jackie's muscles and Lou's unchecked temper get the couple wrapped up in some messy family business.

How to watch: Love Lies Bleeding is streaming on Max.

3. Barbie Credit: Warner Bros / Moviestore / Shutterstock

Sweet, smart, and surprisingly subversive for a billion-dollar blockbuster, Barbie is a blast. Movies about toys are not supposed to be this thoughtful or this good, but apparently no one told that to director Greta Gerwig, who wrote Barbie with her long-term partner, Noah Baumbach. The comedy stars Margot Robbie as Barbie, the stereotypical beautiful blonde in a Barbieland populated by every imaginable kind of Barbie, a handful of Kens (led by a delightful Ryan Gosling), and one lone Allan (Michael Cera). She starts having very un-Barbie-like thoughts about, like, death, so she journeys to the real world, where she discovers things are not as idyllic as they were back in female-led Barbieland. 

In addition to being 2023's top-grossing film, Barbie earned eight Oscar nods and one win. However, many believed it didn't get the nominations it deserved for either Robbie as lead actress or Gerwig as director, who perhaps made their hard work look effortless. Some viewers also complained that it was too revolutionary in its feminism, while others found it too moderate, echoing the monologue from America Ferrara's character that undoubtedly got the actress an Oscar nomination. Yet despite its small number of detractors, Barbie remains a crowd-pleasing winner, brimming with intelligence, optimism, and so much pink paint. — Kimber Myers, Freelance Contributor

How to watch: Barbie is now streaming on Max.

4. In the Mood for Love

In the Mood for Love is a favorite among many cinephiles (including this one!) for a reason — it's one of the most sublime examples of how to tell an emotional story through the language of cinema. But you don't need to be a film scholar or know anything at all about filmmaking or foreign movies to enjoy this romance, which relies on the power of showing over telling. 

It's a simple story about two neighbors who soon discover a secret about their respective spouses. Set in 1960s Hong Kong, Tony Leung's Chow Mo-Wan and Maggie Cheung's Su Li-Zhen hardly speak more than a few words to each other, but through their encounters in the hallway of their apartment building and the staircase of a local noodle shop, something begins to blossom — a longing, a sadness, a desire to be seen. The incredible thing about In the Mood for Love is how filmmaker Wong Kar-wai captures these universal emotions and tells a relatable story about love and yearning through visuals, sound, and performances using minimal exposition. Bursting with a radiant red and golden color scheme, stunning '60s womens' fashion, and a soundtrack of multinational music, In the Mood for Love is more of an experience than a traditional romance, and one that grows more beautiful with each rewatch.

How to watch: In the Mood for Love is now streaming on Max.

5. I Saw the TV Glow Credit: A24

I Saw the TV Glow is a movie that will resonate with anyone who's experienced a lifelong struggle of feeling like an outsider, or has struggled to come to terms with their identity. But Jane Schoenbrun's surrealist horror drama has also become an especially powerful film for trans audiences in particular with the gender allegory at its center. 

It tells the story of two lonely teens, Owen (Justice Smith) and Maddy (Brigette Lundy-Paine), who bond over their obsession with a '90s late-night TV show called The Pink Opaque. While it's not explicitly about gender identity, I Saw the TV Glow hauntingly captures the feeling of growing up with a painful discordance between who you know you truly are and the life and body you've been born into, and how burying ourselves in fiction can feel like the only escape. With notes of surrealism reminiscent of David Lynch and Charlie Kaufman, I Saw the TV Glow is a film more interested in giving you an emotional experience than explaining things for you. It's a hard and incredibly heart-breaking watch, but well worth it.

How to watch: I Saw the TV Glow is streaming on Max.

6. Paris, Texas

Paris, Texas opens on a man named Travis (Harry Dean Stanton) wandering through the Texas desert wearing a red ball cap and an old dusty suit, carrying nothing but a jug of water. Travis doesn't speak much, but in time we learn bits and pieces of the happy life he once had with a young son and a wife who's gone missing, and of the future he's dreaming of. Wim Wenders' film is a difficult one to categorize, but probably best described as a road movie about dreamers and wanderers. We spend lots of time in cars and dingy motels with Travis and his brother, Walt (Dean Stockwell), as they drive from Texas back to Los Angeles, and later, as Travis searches for his wife. It's a slow, meditative film about loneliness and uncertainty, brimming with sun-soaked landscape shots and images lit by neon signs. Once you tune into its wavelength, Paris, Texas is a film that will smack you right in the heart. 

How to watch: Paris, Texas is now streaming on Max.

7. Mad Max: Fury Road

If a movie could feel like getting a shot of adrenaline injected straight into your eyeballs — again, and again, and again — then that movie would be Mad Max: Fury Road. George Miller's road warrior action epic is an absolutely bonkers ride from the very first scene to the last. After Tom Hardy's apocalypse survivor Max escapes from the white-haired and pasty-skinned baddie Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne), he teams up with Charlize Theron's brutal-as-hell Furiosa to outrun the evil warlord. Really, Fury Road is just one continual chase sequence filled with tricked-out apocalyptic cars and semi-trucks, flame-throwing and guitar-playing sickos, a crew of badass female survivors, and some of the most gorgeous desert battles you've ever seen. With its eye-popping production design, blazing orange desert look, roaring sound design, and unrelenting suspense, Mad Mad: Fury Road remains an action spectacle like no other. 

How to watch: Mad Max: Fury Road is now streaming on Max.

8. The Devil Wears Prada Credit: Moviestore / Shutterstock

Need I waste time explaining why The Devil Wears Prada continues to be one of the most rewatchable and quotable comedies? Meryl Streep never misses a note as the scathing Anna Wintour-esque Miranda Priestly. Stanley Tucci is at his Tucci-est as a fashion magazine art director who comedically balances pity and concern for Anne Hathaway's Andy. Emily Blunt is delightfully unlikable as Miranda's vicious personal assistant. And, of course there's the joyous Hathaway, whose Andy we can't help but root for. The Devil Wears Prada has given us so much, from the perfect needle drop of Madonna's "Vogue" for Andy's makeover montage to gifting the internet with the Chanel boots meme. It's also the film that pops into your mind every time you pass a brick of Jarlsberg in the cheese aisle and think, "Good god, $8 worth is a lot of cheese for a sandwich."

How to watch: The Devil Wears Prada is now streaming on Max.

9. Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles

You may have never heard of the 1975 Belgian-French film Jeanne Dielman until recently, when the magazine Sight and Sound named it the greatest film of all time. "But wait, don't film people consider Citizen Kane the best movie ever?" you may be thinking. For 40 years, that Orson Welles classic dominated the list, soon followed by Hitchcock's Vertigo. Not anymore. The boys got bumped down for Chantal Akerman's radically feminist, avant-garde marvel to reign, and deservingly so. 

So what makes Jeanne Dielman so incredible? On paper it admittedly doesn't sound like much, but the act of watching it is almost hypnotic. Throughout the movie we slowly see a lonely widow and mother (Delphine Seyrig) meticulously do housework, like peel potatoes, grocery shop, and make the bed. Jeanne also earns money through sex work, hosting men at her home before her son returns from school. Throughout the monotony of it all, a palpable dread grows until Akerman's character study culminates in one of the most shocking endings of all time. If a film could somehow be tedious and enthralling at the same time, Jeanne Dielman is it.

How to watch: Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles is now streaming on Max.

10. Blood Simple Credit: © Circle Films / Courtesy Everett Collection

The Coen brothers' very first film is a must-see for fans of the versatile filmmakers, or just anyone who loves Fargo. Blood Simple is a lean crime thriller that's oozing with style, taut with suspense, and features an early taste of the duo's signature dark humor. It has all the makings of a slick neo-noir with a simple story involving a secret affair, a murder plot, and a private eye.

SEE ALSO: Every single Coen brothers movie, ranked from 'Blood Simple' to 'Drive-Away Dolls'

Frances McDormand, in her feature film debut, plays Abby, a Texas housewife who begins an affair with a bartender named Ray (John Getz). But Abby's husband, Marty (Dan Hedaya), is Ray's boss, and when he starts to suspect her of infidelity, he hires a private detective (an incredible M. Emmet Walsh) to snoop around and spy on the new couple. The neon and blood-drenched visuals paired with an eerie electronic score from beloved composer Carter Burwell and killer performances all around make Blood Simple one of the all-time best first films. Fun fact: This is also the film where McDormand met now-husband Joel Coen.

How to watch: Blood Simple is now streaming on Max.

11. Gloria Bell

Movies about middle-aged women finding themselves and looking for true love later in life are, undeniably, some of the best kinds of movies. Gloria Bell is no exception.

The film from Chilean director Sebastián Lelio — a near-identical American remake to his 2013 film Gloria, which is also a must-see — stars Julianne Moore as a divorcée living in Los Angeles. With her two grown children starting families of their own, the free-spirited Gloria fights her loneliness by going out dancing and grooving alone to disco classics. Then she meets Arnold (John Turturro), a divorced father who she begins to date but has reservations about. Gloria Bell tells a simple story that's guaranteed to make you feel all the things and leave you with a teary-eyed smile.

How to watch: Gloria Bell is streaming on Max.

12. 20th Century Women

Set in 1979, 20th Century Women is a coming-of-age film told through the eyes of a young teenage boy raised by women. 15-year-old Jamie (Lucas Jade Zumann) lives with his single mother, Dorothea (Annette Bening, playing the kinda cool mom you wish was your own), who runs a boarding house for women out of their old Santa Barbara home. Twentysomething photographer Abbie (Greta Gerwig) lives there, and 17-year-old Julie (Elle Fanning) slips in and out of Jamie's window to tell him about the boys she's hooked up with. Surrounded by these women, Jamie's introduced to books on feminism and conversations about birth control, cervical cancer, heartbreak, and menstruation. He goes to his first punk concert, jams out to The Strokes records, and gets drunk for the first time. 

20th Century Woman isn't just any run-of-the-mill coming-of-age movie, though. Filmmaker Mike Mills constructs the film like a cinematic scrapbook, using voiceover montage sequences full of archival footage, found photos, and object portraits to tell each woman's story. It's a unique artistic approach that lends a stylish edge to a story bursting with sweetness.

How to watch: 20th Century Women is now streaming on Max.

13. Climax

If you ever wondered what it would be like to have a really bad acid trip with a group of professional dancers, then watch Climax. The vibes will be bad, but the dancing will be oh, so good.

This French horror film comes from the demented mind of Gaspar Noé, the guy behind Irreversible and Enter the Void, so you know right away that things are going to get really freaking bad and disturbing. It all begins at an afterparty inside an abandoned school where a French dance troupe is celebrating. They down glasses of sangria and jump onto the dance floor to let loose in a dance-off that is so dazzling to watch you might think you're actually high. But wait, someone spiked the sangria, and now everyone is high — and tripping on LSD! What follows is an unrelenting nightmare that will either be the most thrilling ride of your life, or the most terrible, or maybe both. Watch to find out.

How to watch: Climax is streaming on Max.

14. The Player Credit: Spelling International / Kobal / Shutterstock

The Player opens with an eight-minute tracking shot across a Hollywood movie studio as executives and assistants panic over a Variety headline, hear a terrible pitch about a sequel, and chat about the decline in quality filmmaking. "The pictures these days are all cut, cut, cut," one character laments as he praises classic film tracking shots… during a literal tracking shot. 

Robert Altman's 1992 film isn't just a meta film about Hollywood, it's one of the best, funniest, and smartest satires about the movie business. Tim Robbins plays the vice president of a major studio who's been getting threatening postcards from a scorned screenwriter he never called back. Paranoia builds as his life starts to mirror the plot of a classic crime thriller — there's a murder, a mysterious girl, and probing detectives — all while he greets celebs at elite restaurants at his day job. It's all hilarious and perfectly meta, poking fun at the state of Hollywood and modern blockbusters in commentary that remains relatable even today. Come for the sharp sardonic humor, stay for the 65 cameos of celebrities playing themselves, which are some of the film's best punchlines.

How to watch: The Player is now streaming on Max.

15. Brooklyn

If you're a sucker for tender period romances that lead to wholesome cries, Brooklyn is the film. Saoirse Ronan is as Irish as ever as Eilis Lace, a young girl from a small town in southeast Ireland. It's the early 1950s, and after struggling to find stable work at home, Eilis decides to emigrate to New York City. She gets a job at a department store and moves into a Brooklyn boarding house, but she can't help missing home and feeling so alone in her new world. Then she meets Tony (Emory Cohen), a charming Italian guy, and a sweet love story takes hold. But back home, there's another great guy (Domhnall Gleeson) who may stir things up a bit. While on first glance, Brooklyn could easily be mistaken as any mid-rate period drama, it's elevated by its trio of strong performances (most notably Ronan, who is nothing short of wonderful in a role that earned her a second Oscar nom), an excellent screenplay by author Nick Hornby (About a Boy), and its stunning cinematography that glows with warmth.

How to watch: Brooklyn is now streaming on Max.

16. A Woman Under the Influence

In A Woman Under the Influence, Gena Rowlands gives what many have rightfully deemed one of the greatest performances in film. She plays Mabel Longhetti, a mother and housewife who's known to exhibit some rather erratic behavior. Mabel is often giddy and bursting with childish excitement one moment, then erupts into angry outbursts or desperately clings to affection the next. Perhaps she struggles with bipolar or borderline personality disorder. Or maybe her troubled marriage to Nick (Peter Falk) and the housewife box she's been confined to are ushering her into a full-on nervous breakdown. That's essentially what the John Cassavetes film is — a harrowing portrait of a woman, and a marriage, falling apart at the seams. 

A Woman Under the Influence is a prime example of what makes Cassavetes' filmmaking so riveting, and it's a great introduction for anyone interested in exploring the filmmaker who's known for laying the foundation for American independent cinema. But still, this is Rowlands' film. She captivates every moment she's on screen with a performance that feels so real, off-the-cuff, and lived in that you may mistake it for improvisation. It isn't, and it proves why Rowlands was one of the best of her generation.

How to watch: A Woman Under the Influence is now streaming on Max.

17. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed Credit: HBO

The worlds of art and activism collide in this Oscar–nominated documentary from Laura Poitras (Citizenfour). All the Beauty and the Bloodshed is about the life and work of Nan Goldin, the acclaimed photographer most known for her raw, intimate photos of gay, trans, and underground artist communities in 1980s New York City during the HIV/AIDS crisis. Told with the help of her photographs, the documentary weaves Goldin's personal story as a young artist with her present-day activism around the opioid epidemic.

The doc shows that in recent years Goldin has been involved in fighting against the Sacklers, the billionaire pharma family behind Oxycontin who've played a major role in opioid overdoses. The Sacklers are also major donors in the art world, and All the Beauty and the Bloodshed follows Goldin and other activists as they stage protests everywhere from The Met to the Louvre. It's a captivating story whether you're familiar with Goldin's work or not.

How to watch: All the Beauty and the Bloodshed is streaming on Max.

18. The Dark Knight

It's daunting to pick just one Batman movie from the literal dozens available on Max, but in the end the top spot could only go to 2008's The Dark Knight, written and directed by Christopher Nolan (Mask of the Phantasm, we will avenge you — someday).

The Dark Knight is more than the obvious peak of Nolan's Batman trilogy and the final, mesmerizing performance that won Heath Ledger an Oscar. Over a decade later, the film's exploration of nuance within the poles of good and evil remains as prescient as ever. We're drawn to the chaos and fury of Ledger's Joker, yes, but we are just as compelled by Bruce's struggle (Christian Bale) and Harvey's (Aaron Eckhart) fall from grace. You don't get a line like "You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain" without seriously contemplating its meaning. — Proma Khosla, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: The Dark Knight is now streaming on Max.

19. Singin' in the Rain

Easily one of the greatest movie musicals ever made, Singin' in the Rain tells the story of Hollywood's shift from silent films to talking pictures. Caught in this transition is leading man Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly), whose leading lady Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen) has the most grating voice imaginable. With the help of his best friend Cosmo Brown (Donald O'Connor) and aspiring actor Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds), he plans to make a movie musical. What follows are some of the best musical numbers in history, with show-stopping choreography accompanying catchy tunes. The title number is an absolute joy, as are "Good Morning" and the comedic masterpiece "Make 'Em Laugh." But it's the 13-minute "Broadway Melody" sequence in all its Technicolor glory that solidifies Singin' in the Rain as one of the all-time greats. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Singin' in the Rain is now streaming on Max.

20. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Credit: Pierre Vinet / New Line / Saul Zaentz / Wing Nut / Kobal / Shutterstock

Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy remains the gold standard for fantasy adaptations: It's epic in scope and full of memorable characters and performances. Most impressively, the trilogy is consistently great. Choosing the best movie from the three is tricky, but I've got to give the edge to The Two Towers. The battle of Helm's Deep is still the best fantasy battle put to film, and the introduction of Rohan, the Ents, and Gollum (Andy Serkis) deepens the already well-established world of Middle Earth. Gollum in particular elevates the movie to a whole new level, with Serkis and the visual effects team nailing one of the most iconic characters of the books. Max has the entire trilogy in its library, as well as the extended editions if you want even more Middle Earth goodness. — B.E.

How to watch: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is now streaming on Max.

21. Police Story

There's nothing like watching Jackie Chan in action, and Police Story features some of the all-time greatest stunts from the martial arts icon. The first film in the still-ongoing franchise stars Chan as Kevin, a Hong Kong police sergeant trying to take down a criminal gang and protect the key witness of the case (Brigitte Lin). Needing to protect a random woman while fighting bad guys poses some problems for Kevin's personal life when his girlfriend (a young Maggie Cheung) gets the wrong idea and becomes jealous.

But the plot matters less than the action and fight choreography in Police Story. From the jaw-dropping opening sequence of cars plunging through a hillside village to one of Chan's most iconic scenes hanging off a speeding bus — plus plenty of parkour-infused fight and chase scenes — Police Story will never leave you bored.

How to watch: Police Story is streaming on Max.

22. Rashomon Credit: Daiei / Kobal / Shutterstock

Akira Kurosawa is rightly considered one of Japan's greatest filmmakers, and Rashomon is his best-known film in the United States. When it premiered in 1950, its unique storytelling device in which the same events are told from the perspective of four different witnesses (one of whom is actually dead) was such a revelation in filmic structure that the movie became eponymous with the concept — hence, the Rashomon Effect. Through this effect, the relatively simple tale of a priest, a bandit, a samurai, a woodcutter, and a woman becomes a complex analysis of truth and perspective that earns its place as a keystone of 20th century filmmaking. — Alexis Nedd, Senior Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Rashomon is now streaming on Max.

23. Grey Gardens Credit: Archive photos / Getty Images

In their famed 1976 film Grey Gardens, brothers and documentary team Albert and David Maysles pay a visit to a dilapidated mansion in the Hamptons. There, they profile the intriguing and tragic lives of a reclusive mother and daughter, both named Edith Beale, in a strange and winding character study unlike any other.

Relatives of First Lady Jackie Kennedy, the life stories of "Little Edie" and "Big Edie" are sensationalized in the documentary, and many argue that the film takes an inherently exploitative view of its subjects and their apparent mental health conditions. But as far as fascinating footage goes, Grey Gardens is a must-watch — capturing a unique family at the heart of a broader dialogue about the decline of political royalty and '60s-era Americana. — Alison Foreman, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Grey Gardens is now streaming on Max.

24. Spirited Away

If you want to get into the beautiful, captivating films of Studio Ghibli, the vast majority of which are on Max, Spirited Away is a great place to start. It's the story of Chihiro, a young girl trapped in a spirit world who must work to free her parents from a witch's curse — and it's also a perfect movie. Everything about it, from the visuals to the characters to the score, grabs you tightly and immerses you in director Hayao Miyazaki's imaginative world of spirit bathhouses, soot sprites, dragons, and more. There's beauty in Spirited Away's most elaborate sequences, but also in its quiet moments too, like a train ride or a meal shared between friends. These are the moments when you'll find yourself crying without fully knowing why. All you'll know for sure is that Spirited Away is amazing, and you never want it to end. — B.E.

How to watch: Spirited Away is now streaming on Max.

25. Dune: Part 2 Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

With 2021's Dune, director Denis Villeneuve proved he could do justice to Frank Herbert's sci-fi masterwork. Three years later, he topped himself with Dune: Part Two, which will go down in history as one of the greatest sci-fi films and sequels ever made.

Dune: Part Two continues the story of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), who finds himself among the planet Arrakis's indigenous Fremen. There he becomes entangled in the impossible position of hoping to avenge the Harkonnens' attack on his house, while also trying to avoid a future in which he unleashes holy war upon the universe. As Dune: Part Two moves closer and closer to that violent inevitability, Villeneuve and co-writer Jon Spaihts don't shy away from the darkness of Paul's story. They build his relationship with Chani (an extraordinary Zendaya) into an immaculate tragedy. More sandworms and Austin Butler's gleefully evil Feyd-Rautha only add to Dune: Part Two's excellence — now bring on Dune Messiah! — B.E.

How to watch: Dune: Part Two is now streaming on Max.

UPDATE: Dec. 12, 2024, 5:30 p.m. EST This article has been updated to reflect the latest streaming options.

* denotes that this blurb appeared in a previous Mashable list.

Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Get Deal

SAVE $110: As of Dec. 16, the Dyson Airwrap is on sale for $489.99 at Amazon. That's an 18% discount off the original price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Airwrap Special Edition $489.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $110.00 Get Deal

With Christmas fast approaching, Amazon's Daily Deals are the place to find great prices on gifts for your loved ones. And if a Dyson Airwrap is on your list, you'll be pleased to hear that this product is still at its lowest-ever price.

Reduced at the beginning of the month, the Dyson Airwrap Special Edition is still priced at $489.99, saving you $110. This deal is specific to the "special edition — long for straight to wavy hair" model.

SEE ALSO: Get the Beats Solo 4 for half off at Amazon

Years after its release, the Airwrap is still very much one of the top hair products in the game. Just check out our review to see how much we love it.

Famed for its incredible styling techniques using Dyson air-powered technology, such incredible technology is hard to come by without salon expertise. However, this iconic hair tool features a range of attachments to curl, wave, smooth, and add volume to your hair without extreme heat. It offers versatility for all types of hairstyles, from natural waves to polished looks, all while minimizing the risk of heat damage.

This "long for straight to wavy hair" dryer is a tailored version of the Airwrap, specifically designed for people with longer hair who want to create different styles ranging from straight looks to bouncy waves.

Head to Amazon now to grab this great deal.

SAVE $50: As of Dec. 16, the Beats Fit Pro are on sale for $149 at Amazon. That's a saving of 25% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Fit Pro $149.00 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $50.95 Get Deal

Beats are undeniably some of the best headphones and earbuds on the market and have long been known for their incredible sound. Pair this with impeccable design and you really have one of the most reliable names in the audio field. As of Dec. 16, my favorite pair of Beats (the Beats Fit Pro), and earbuds overall, are on sale at Amazon for $149.

This isn't just a great deal, it's the lowest these earbuds have been priced and have only been this low one other time — during Black Friday sales.

SEE ALSO: Get the Beats Solo 4 for half off at Amazon

They may be little, but they are a powerhouse of sound. With an immersive sound quality and incredible noise cancellation, they are an excellent choice for sound connoisseurs. There is also the option of varying degrees of sound cancellation, with modes to help keep you aware of your surroundings — perfect for exercising outdoors.

The Beats Fit Pro also boast a seriously impressive battery life, with a single charge lasting days. Speaking from experience, if you're often on the go and forget to charge your devices, you want these earbuds in your pocket.

But the big plus for me is the fit. The silicon tip slides into your ear seamlessly, lodging in your ear and staying put for all types of activity and all intensities. I've tested these during marathons, HIIT workouts, and stretching routines and they have always remained in place.

Head to Amazon now to grab this great deal.

SAVE $75: As of Dec. 16, the PS5 Slim Digital Edition is on sale for $374 at Amazon. That's a 17% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: PlayStation PlayStation 5 Digital Edition (Slim) $374.00 at Amazon
$449.00 Save $75.00 Get Deal

Christmas is fast approaching, and if a console would make the perfect gift for a loved one (or a treat for yourself), you'll love this Amazon discount on the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition (Slim). As of Dec.16 , you can find it reduced by 17%, now just $374.

This is the price it was reduced to during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday, however, unlike most deals, this one decided to stick around.

SEE ALSO: Get the Beats Solo 4 for half off at Amazon

The PS5 Slim is a sleek, compact version of the full-size console. It offers the same high-performance gaming but in a smaller, more space-efficient design. The Slim still has the same powerful hardware as the original PS5, including ray tracing capabilities and speedy load times thanks to its SSD, and sharp 4K visuals.

The PS5 Slim Digital Edition is ideal for those with reduced space, or who want to cut down on clutter. It's also a disc-free version of the PS5. It exclusively supports digital downloads, letting you purchase and store games directly from the PlayStation Store, rather than through physical disks.

The PS5 Slim also boasts improved energy efficiency, consuming less power during use. It even includes subtle tweaks to its cooling system for a quieter performance. It supports all existing PS5 games, accessories, and PS VR2, ensuring full compatibility with Sony’s gaming ecosystem.

Get this deal from Amazon before the price goes back up.

SAVE $100: As of Dec. 16, Beats Solo 4 are on sale for $99.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 50% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Solo 4 $99.99 at Amazon
$195.99 Save $96.00 Get Deal

If you’ve been eyeing up new headphones, the Beats Solo 4 might be exactly what you’re looking for. Released earlier this year, these headphones bring major upgrades to the Solo lineup — and as of Dec. 16, you can grab these headphones for just $99.99, saving $100 on the list price.

This deal is available across all colorways at Amazon: black/gold, cloud pink, matte black, and state blue. However, this price is only available when purchasing without the power adapter. You can add this on for a price of $116.99 (reduced from $218.95).

SEE ALSO: Apple Intelligence appears to have falsely claimed that Luigi Mangione shot himself

This latest model in the Solo range boasts a battery life of up to 50 hours and a super-quick 10-minute charge time. The Solo 4 also introduces new, personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking. This is a technology that creates a 3D surround sound, and a more immersive listening experience by adjusting sound based on your head movements, so music, movies, and calls feel more lifelike.

And as with all Beats devices, the sound quality is stellar for all types of listening. Enjoy a punchy bass and balanced sound, whether you’re listening to music, podcasts, or watching videos.

This is a limited-time offer at Amazon, so don’t miss out on snagging these stellar headphones at a reduced rate.

TL;DR: Live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Utah Jazz head to Intuit Dome to face the Los Angeles Clippers in a Western Conference matchup. The Jazz are having a tough season so far, with a 5-18 record in 14th place. The Clippers are hoping to overtake the Warriors in the Western Conference with a 14-11 record in fourth place.

The Jazz have lost four of their last five games, including their most recent game against the Sacramento Kings. The Clippers are hoping to snag a two-game skid and move up on the Warriors. Los Angeles has lost three of their last five games.

When is Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers?

Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA starts at 10:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 16. This game takes place at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.

How to watch Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Jazz vs. Clippers basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Jazz vs. Clippers from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers for free 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers 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 gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Utah Jazz head to Intuit Dome to face the Los Angeles Clippers in a Western Conference matchup. The Jazz are having a tough season so far, with a 5-18 record in 14th place. The Clippers are hoping to overtake the Warriors in the Western Conference with a 14-11 record in fourth place.

The Jazz have lost four of their last five games, including their most recent game against the Sacramento Kings. The Clippers are hoping to snag a two-game skid and move up on the Warriors. Los Angeles has lost three of their last five games.

When is Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers?

Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA starts at 10:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 16. This game takes place at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.

How to watch Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Jazz vs. Clippers basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Jazz vs. Clippers from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers for free 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers 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 gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Chicago Bulls head to Scotiabank Arena to face the Toronto Raptors in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Bulls are in tenth place in the Eastern Conference with a 10-15 record. The Raptors are having a tough season so far, in 14th place with a 7-19 record.

The Bulls have won only two of their last five games and head to Toronto hoping to break a two-game skid. The Raptors have lost four in a row, but have the better part of their record at home, where they've earned six of their seven wins this season.

When is Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors?

Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors in the NBA starts at 7:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 16. This game takes place at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.

How to watch Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Bulls vs. Raptors basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Bulls vs. Raptors from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors for free 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors 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 gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Miami Heat head to Little Caesars Arena to face the Detroit Pistons in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Heat are working their way to the top of the Eastern Conference. The team is currently in fifth place with a 13-10 record. The Pistons are not faring quite as well in 11th place with a 10-16 record.

The Heat have won four of their last five games and are heading into Detroit with a lot of momentum behind four straight wins. The Pistons are the complete opposite, having lost four of their last five games. They will host Miami coming off a loss to the Boston Celtics.

When is Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons?

Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Dec. 16. This game takes place at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

How to watch Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Heat vs. Pistons basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Heat vs. Pistons from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons for free 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons 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 gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Miami Heat vs. Detroit Pistons in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Philadelphia 76ers head to Spectrum Center to face the Charlotte Hornets in an Eastern Conference matchup. Both teams are struggling in the early young 2024-25 season, landing them near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The 76ers are in 12th place with a 7-15 record, while the Hornets are in 13th place with a 7-17 record.

The 76ers are working their way up, despite their current record. Philadelphia has won four of their last five games and the team is coming off back-to-back wins over the Orlando Magic and Chicago Bulls. The Hornets are coming off a win over the Indiana Pacers, but lost eight straight games before that.

When is Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets?

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Dec. 16. This game takes place at Spectrum Center in Charlotte.

How to watch Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the 76ers vs. Hornets basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch 76ers vs. Hornets from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets for free 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets 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 gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Philadelphia 76ers vs. Charlotte Hornets in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TikTok's emergency injunction against its U.S. ban has been denied. This means its deadline to leave the country still stands firm at Jan. 19, with the company now hoping a Supreme Court appeal will save it.

In an order filed on Friday, the District of Columbia Court of Appeals found that granting a temporary injunction to pause TikTok's U.S. ban was "unwarranted." It considered that doing so would not merely delay the execution of a legal ruling, but entirely suspend a law which was deliberately enacted by Congress and upheld as constitutional by the court.

SEE ALSO: When will TikTok be banned in the U.S.? And what can stop it from happening?

"The petitioners have not identified any case in which a court, after rejecting a constitutional challenge to an Act of Congress, has enjoined the Act from going into effect while review is sought in the Supreme Court," the order stated.

The court further noted that TikTok's injunction request relied upon its claim that the ban violates the First Amendment right to free speech. In its petition last Monday, TikTok argued that the Supreme Court would be likely to review the ban, as "[free] speech restrictions have survived strict scrutiny only in rare and narrow circumstances."

Unfortunately, the Court of Appeals' judgement had already rejected TikTok's argument, Friday's order reiterating that it "unanimously concluded the Act satisfies the requirements of the First Amendment under heightened scrutiny." 

Laws which restrict free speech are subject to strict scrutiny, which requires they be narrowly tailored to advance a compelling governmental interest. They must also be the least restrictive method to achieve the government's goal.

"[T]he Government offers two national security justifications for the Act: to counter (1) the [People's Republic of China]’s efforts to collect data of and about persons in the United States, and (2) the risk of the PRC covertly manipulating content on TikTok," the Court of Appeals wrote in its judgement on Dec. 6.

"[TikTok and parent company ByteDance] suggest an array of options none of which comes close to serving either, much less both, the Government’s goals as effectively as does divestiture. Each consequently fails to qualify as a less restrictive alternative for purposes of the First Amendment."

TikTok has consistently denied allegations of links to the Chinese government. The company has also publicly invested $1.5 billion to quarantine U.S. users' data in the U.S. with American company Oracle, an initiative dubbed Project Texas. Even so, U.S. lawmakers remain unconvinced. 

Though Friday's decision is an undeniable setback for TikTok, the company has reiterated its intention to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. If the Supreme Court does not rule in TikTok's favour, the only way Americans will retain access to TikTok is if ByteDance sells off its U.S. operations.

"As we have previously stated, we plan on taking this case to the Supreme Court, which has an established historical record of protecting Americans' right to free speech," said TikTok in a statement on X. "The voices of over 170 million Americans here in the US and around the world will be silenced on January 19th, 2025 unless the TikTok ban is halted."

TL;DR: Access millions of free movies, TV shows, channels, videos, and music for life when you sign up for BitMar Streaming Content Finder at the Mashable Shop. Use the code SAVE25 at checkout and pay just £11.86 (reg. £118.69) for a lifetime membership.

Opens in a new window Credit: BitMar BitMar Streaming Content-Finder: Lifetime Subscription £11.86 at the Mashable Shop
£118.69 Save £106.83 Use code 'SAVE25' Get Deal

Tired of endlessly scrolling through streaming platforms only to realise there’s nothing new to watch? Say goodbye to decision fatigue and let BitMar do the work for you.

With BitMar Streaming Content-Finder, you can access millions of free movies, TV shows, channels, videos, and music, all gathered into one convenient platform. At just £11.86 (reg. £118.69), this lifetime subscription is your ticket to unlimited entertainment without the time wasted and frustration of switching between apps and websites.

BitMar is more than just a streaming platform. Unlike other services that require subscriptions, BitMar is a streaming content finder that pulls together legal, free content from various sources on the web. 

This service uses advanced algorithms to find and filter content from across the world, bringing you a seamless streaming experience. Simply search for the type of content you want, and BitMar will deliver results tailored to your preferences. And the best part? There’s no commitment to a single platform; BitMar pulls from multiple sources, so you’re always connected to fresh, free content.

Powered by Bing’s search technology, BitMar filters content based on your preferences and presents you with a curated library of options. Whether you’re looking for blockbuster movies, international TV shows, or niche videos, BitMar has something for everyone.

No more searching for hours. BitMar aggregates free content so you can find what you want without the headache. And you can rest assured that all content is accessed legally, so you never have to worry about sketchy websites or questionable downloads.

If you enjoy watching YouTube, you can use BitMar to enjoy YouTube content without ads, saving you the cost of a YouTube Premium subscription.

Don't miss this fantastic service that can save you lots of time. Get lifetime access to the BitMar Streaming Content Finder for £11.86 (reg. £118.69) when you use the code SAVE25 at the Mashable Shop. Don't wait too long — this discount code is only available for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get over 130 hours of expert ethical hacking training across 18 courses for just £31.63 for a limited time.

Are you feeling stagnant at your current job? Here's a fact that might finally inspire you to switch to cybersecurity: there are about 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs out there, and some of those companies are willing to pay thousands of pounds for experts who can protect their businesses from cyber threats.

You may think you need to return to university for a formal degree, but you could learn the same cybersecurity skills with this online learning package. Priced at £31.63 (reg. £868.82) at the Mashable Shop, this online learning bundle includes 18 courses and over 130 hours of instruction, with courses covering foundational hacking practices, PenTesting, Python, and so much more. You can gain valuable new skills as you prep for a new job as a white-hat hacker, security analyst, or systems administrator.

With 18 courses, you may want to start with mastering Python programming. You'll begin with an overview of Python 3 ethical hacking before moving onto coding your own penetration testing tools, creating projects within Python, and using PyCharm.

From there, you can dive into WiFi hacking, social engineering, BitNinja, Burp Suite, and advanced tools like Metasploit and NMAP, which might just make your CV stand out to hiring managers. Learning to use tools like Metasploit effectively could make a difference if you're interested in landing a job as a penetration tester.

Your journey to joining the cybersecurity industry can start with this training bundle.

Enroll in this ethical hacking training bundle for just £1.75 per course at the Mashable Shop.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Aleksa Tamburkovski The All-in-One Super-Sized Ethical Hacking Bundle £31.63
£868.82 Save £837.19 Get Deal

TL;DR: Unblock porn sites like xHamster with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

It might not always seem like it, but the online world is full of restrictions.

Access to your favorites sites is not guaranteed. There will be many locations around the world that will restrict your access to certain sites, including porn sites like xHamster. There is probably a good reason for that, but there is also something to be said for online freedom. When the time is right, you should be able to navigate the online world without hassle.

If you're looking for the best way to unblock porn sites like xHamster from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock xHamster for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure servers in other locations. This process bypasses geo-restrictions to secure access to porn sites like xHamster from anywhere in the world.

Unblock xHamster by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a 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 a location that supports access to xHamster

4. Access xHamster 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 unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're traveling to a location without access to your favorite sites.

If you want to retain permanent access to everything the online world has to offer, you might need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking content is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking porn sites like xHamster, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming 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.

Unblock xHamster for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: A wide range of free online courses from the University of Michigan are available to take on edX.

Have you every wished you could become a student of a famous school, but don't have the time or money to apply? Well look no further than edX. This popular hub for online courses offers free lessons on a wide range of subjects from some of the biggest and best educational institutions in the world, including the University of Michigan.

You can find free online courses from the University of Michigan on Python programming, JavaScript, and so much more. We have checked out everything on offer and lined up a standout selection of courses to get you started.

These are the best free online courses from the University of Michigan this month:

• Advanced Literature Searching in the Health Sciences

• Building Web Applications in Django

• Community Engagement: Collaborating for Change

• Database Design and Basic SQL in PostgreSQL

• Data Science Ethics

• Django Features and Libraries

• Finance for Everyone: Smart Tools for Decision-Making

• Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries

• Inspiring and Motivating Arts and Culture Teams

• Intermediate PostgreSQL

• Introduction to Data Analytics for Managers

• JSON and Natural Language Processing in PostgreSQL

• Leading Change: Go Beyond Gamification with Gameful Learning

• Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)

• Public Library Marketing and Public Relations

• Python Data Structures

• Storytelling for Social Change

• Successful Negotiation: Essential Strategies and Skills

• Using JavaScript and JSON in Django

• Web Application Technologies and Django

The catch is that these free courses do not come with a certificate of completion, but you can still learn at your own pace with unrestricted access to all the course materials. So what's stopping you from enrolling?

Find the best free online courses from the University of Michigan on edX.

Opens in a new window Credit: University of Michigan University of Michigan Online Courses Free at edX Get Deal

TL;DR: Live stream Atlanta Falcons vs. Las Vegas Raiders on YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV.

NFL Week 15 action continues with a matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and Las Vegas Raiders. The Atlanta Falcons are at 6-7 and the Las Vegas Raiders are at 2-11 for the season.

During their last game, the Atlanta Falcons lost 21-42 against the Minnesota Vikings. The Las Vegas Raiders lost 13-38 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

When is Falcons vs. Raiders?

Falcons vs. Raiders takes place at 8:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 16. The two teams will play at the Allegiant Stadium in Paradise.

The game will air on ESPN, where Chris Fowler is expected to do the play-by-play. Louis Riddick and Dan Orlovsky will join him in the booth. Laura Rutledge will be the sideline reporter.

How to stream Falcons vs. Raiders

We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for Falcons vs. Raiders:

Most live sport: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

Falcons vs. Raiders is available to live stream via YouTube TV or the NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV (including other NFL fixtures).

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and the NFL Network.

The NFL Sunday Ticket is an add-on for $209 per year, or four non-cancellable payments of $52.99. Sunday Ticket provides access to all NFL games, including out-of-market games and split-screen viewing.

Most popular: Hulu + Live TV Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV Fro $82.99/month Get Deal

Hulu + Live TV offers three plans that support ESPN+. The lowest plan that includes ESPN+ is $82.99 per month. To stream more networks without ads, such as Disney+, you can also choose a plan that's $87.99 per month or $95.99 per month.

Hulu + Live TV's sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, ESPN, BTN, FOX, FS1, CBS, ACC Network, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Falcons vs. Raiders from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of the NFL from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Falcons vs. Raiders from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

5. Watch Falcons vs. Raiders from anywhere in the world

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

• 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

TL;DR: Live stream Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings on YouTube TV or Sling TV.

During NFL Week 15, the Chicago Bears play the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday afternoon. The Chicago Bears are at 4-9 for the season and the Minnesota Vikings are at 11-2.

On Sunday, Dec. 8, the Minnesota Vikings won their game against the Atlanta Falcons at 21-42, while the Chicago Bears lost against the San Francisco 49ers at 13-38.

When is Bears vs. Vikings?

The Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings takes place at 8 p.m. ET on Dec. 16. The two teams will face off at the Soldier Field in Chicago.

The game will air on ABC, where Joe Buck is expected to do the play-by-play. Troy Aikman will join him in the booth. Lisa Salters will be the sideline reporter.

How to stream Bears vs. Vikings

We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for Bears vs. Vikings:

Most live sport: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Watch Now

The Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings is available to live stream via YouTube TV or the NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV, as well as other NFL fixtures.

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and the NFL Network.

The NFL Sunday Ticket is an add-on for $209 per year, or four non-cancellable payments of $52.99. Sunday Ticket provides access to all NFL games, including out-of-market games and split-screen viewing.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling TV Sports Plan Watch Now

Sling TV offers its Orange & Blue package of 48 channels at $55 per month that would serve your needs for locally available NFL games. Sign up to enjoy a first-month discounted rate of $27.50.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Bears vs. Vikings from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of the NFL from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Bears vs. Vikings from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

5. Watch Bears vs. Vikings from anywhere in the world

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

• 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

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 today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable 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.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 16 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: Radios

• Green: Kid fights

• Blue: Snacks that are also sounds

• Purple: Corny joke openers

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: Types of Radio

• Green: Kinds of Play Fights

• Blue: Snack Cakes

• Purple: Classic Joke Staples

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 #554 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Types of Radio: AM, HAM, SATELLITE, WALKIE-TALKIE

• Kinds of Play Fights: FOOD, PILLOW, SNOWBALL, WATER BALLON

• Snack Cakes: DEVIL DOG, DING DONG, HOHO, YODEL

• Classic Joke Staples: BAR, CHICKEN, KNOCK-KNOCK, LIGHT BULB

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 16

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, 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 the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. 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.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 16 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Extra man on different sports teams

• Green: Where to sit

• Blue: Creators of collectibles

• Purple: Played by comedian & singer behind 'Eight Crazy Nights'

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

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

• Yellow: Bench player

• Green: Stadium seating sections

• Blue: Sports card brands

• Purple: Adam Sandler characters in sports films

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 Sports Edition #84 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Bench player - PINCH HITTER, RESERVE, SIXTH MAN, SUB

• Stadium seating sections - BLEACHERS, MEZZANINE, SUITE, UPPER DECK

• Sports card brands - BOWMAN, LEAF, PANINI, TOPPS

• Adam Sandler characters in sports films - BOUCHER, CREWE, GILMORE, SUGARMAN

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.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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

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 today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for December 16 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.

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 was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 16 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Loud and excessively prideful.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

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 is...

BOAST.

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.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 16

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

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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