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The sun has risen on Election Day 2024, and it's a race to the finish line.
Americans will be following closely to see just how near the predicted margins are in today's Presidential race, and who will inevitably become our new commander-in-chief amid an embattled political environment. There's no guarantee that a winner will be called this evening, but at least one small town's results are already in — it was a 3:3 tie.
SEE ALSO: When will we know who won the 2024 election?Today's political excitement may trickle into Wednesday or beyond, and you may just decide to log off, but here's how to catch an election day livestream if you're sticking close to your devices.
Live election coverage streamsCNNCNN's live coverage will begin at 4 p.m. ET. Viewers can watch online using their TV provider log-in, or follow results on CNN's Presidential results page and Live blog.
CBSThose interested in following CBS' election results coverage can tune in online with CBS News 24/7 or the CBS News app, available for mobile devices and smart TVs.
ABCABC will be updating its Live Election coverage blog with results as they come in, and viewers can tune in to the news channel's live reporting directly on the site. Election coverage is also available for Hulu subscribers via ABC News Live.
NBCCatch NBC's results updates via NBC News Now and their Live Election blog. NBC's "Decision 2024" programming is also available for Peacock subscribers.
FOXFox News will be updating its Live results map as races are called, and viewers can watch online or on the Fox News Go app.
C-SPANC-SPAN will be kicking off 17-hours of non-stop, commercial-free coverage at 7 p.m. ET. Tune in online or download the C-Span Now app.
Other live streaming optionsElection results coverage will also be available to new and existing DirecTV customers on its new Election HQ, which will live feeds from FOX News, CNN, MSNBC, and NewsMax, as well as predictions from the Associated Press.
Fubo and Sling fans can catch all of the major network's election live streams, as well. And Prime Video customers can tune into their own private show, Election Night Live with Brian Williams, starting at 5 p.m. ET.
SAVE 50%: The Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids and Fire HD 8 Kidfs Pro tablets are just $69.99 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $139.99. That's a savings of $70.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids $69.99 at AmazonWe're just a few weeks away from the beginning of holiday travel season. If you're coming up with ways to keep the kids happy while en route to the grandparents, Amazon is here to save the day (or car ride or plane journey.)
As of Nov. 5, both the Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids and the Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablets are just $69.99 at Amazon, down from the typical price of $139.99. That's an impressive 50% discount or a savings of $70.
Both of these Amazon Fire tablets designed for kids are great for keeping minds busy during holiday travel or during school breaks. The Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids is designed for kids between the ages of 3 and 7, and the Amazon Fire HD 8 Pro is meant for older kids that are between the ages of 6 and 12.
Both tablets come with an 8-inch HD screen and 32GB of storage space for plenty of downloaded shows, games, and books. Amazon mentions both models get about 13 hours of battery life with each charge, so you should be good to go for any holiday journey.
Parents get ultimate access to the tablets, with the ability to review activity on the tablet, approve or deny purchases, and manage download requests.
Since a few tablet tumbles are bound to happen, Amazon includes a protective kid-friendly case. Both tablets also come with Amazon's worry free warranty which covers the tablet for two years should it break or get damaged. Within those two years, Amazon will replace the tablet at no charge.
If you'll be heading off on holiday travel soon or you're shopping for a curious kiddo, an Amazon Fire tablet could be the perfect gift. They're not only a great way for kids to watch their favorite shows while traveling, they can be a terrific learning device. Snag either the Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids or the Fire HD 8 Kids Pro for 50% off today at Amazon and beat the holiday shopping rush.
It's almost the end of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour (almost 150 shows later), and dancer Kameron Saunders is still stealing the show every night. This week in Indianapolis, he delighted fans with a sublime TikTok shout out.
That's right friends, "Scram!" made the Eras Tour, the TikTok-viral delight made by comedian, actor, and writer Kel Cripe (@reallygoodimpressions).
SEE ALSO: The 'hear me out' cake TikTok trend, explainedDuring the live version of Swift's GFY anthem "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together," Saunders has carved a fan-favourite moment in the Eras Tour. In particular, it's the part of the song when Swift does her spoken monologue — "Ugh, so he calls me up and he's like, "I still love you" / And I'm like, "I just, I mean, this is exhausting, you know / Like, we are never getting back together, like, ever."
Every night of the Eras Tour, Swift hands the mic over to Saunders for the final "like, ever," which he delivered to script for the U.S. dates. But for the international shows, Saunders has shaken up the line each show, and it's become one of the most anticipated moments for fans.
So this week, at a show at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Saunders used the line to scream one very online word: "Scram!"
TikTok fiends will immediately recognise Saunders' reference, Los Angeles based-comedian Kel Cripe's viral post in which they send "a message to all the guys tryin' to talk to my girl" wearing an outstanding wolf tee and holding raised fist, ready to deliver a freshly made knuckle sandwich.
At the time of writing, the video has 9.3 million views on TikTok. And it rules so hard.
"Scram! Leave her alone! She...she doesn't want to talk to you! Get outta here!" Cripe says in the video, as a piano version of Pixies' "Where Is My Mind?" plays and the camera recedes. Honestly, it's the perfect accompaniment to Swift's song about telling someone to absolutely piss off — or else.
Cripe indeed saw the Eras Tour moment and crafted a lip-synched post to celebrate the occasion.
"scram is also my ringtone. I'm never changing it," commented @mrs.jessi.g.
"This is like, bigger than going viral?! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!" wrote @essmeow.
"My fiance and I can’t stop saying scram to our kids and animals 😂😂😂" wrote mandynvr04.
If their official "Scram" tee wasn't already sold out, it'd be near impossible now.
TL;DR: Live stream Swiatek vs. Gauff in the 2024 WTA Finals for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The WTA Tour is reaching a dramatic conclusion in Riyadh. The best singles and doubles players in the world are battling it out in a round-robin tournament, followed by knockout games to decide the winner. And you can watch the biggest games from this end-of-season showdown without spending anything.
If you want to watch Swiatek vs. Gauff in the 2024 WTA Finals for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Swiatek vs. Gauff in the 2024 WTA Finals for freeFans can live stream the 2024 WTA Finals for free on TVNZ+ in New Zealand.
If you're abroad for this tournament, you might need to use a VPN to unblock TVNZ+. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries, meaning you can unblock TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2024 WTA Finals by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in New Zealand
Visit TVNZ+
Watch Swiatek vs. Gauff in the 2024 WTA Finals for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPNs do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. You can leverage these offers to access free live streams of Swiatek vs. Gauff without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch every WTA Finals match before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the WTA Finals?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the WTA Finals for free, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including New Zealand
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Swiatek vs. Gauff in the 2024 WTA Finals for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
BOGO LG MONITORS: As of Nov. 5, Best Buy has a BOGO offer on select LG monitors. If you buy one select 24-inch or 27-inch LG monitor, you'll get a second for free.
Opens in a new window Credit: LG BOGO on LG Monitors at Best Buy Get DealHaving a dual monitor setup can be incredibly helpful. Whether you use them for gaming or work, it's always nice to have the extra screen space so you aren't squishing everything into one display. However, investing in two monitors can set you back a big chunk of cash. Thankfully, Best Buy has come around with a nice little early Black Friday BOGO deal on select LG monitors that'll help you double your display for less.
Right now, you can buy one select 24-inch or 27-inch LG monitor at the retailer and get a second for free. With this offer, you'll get two of the chosen monitor sizes for just their solo price, which is an incredible offer and a nice way to start upgrading your PC setup for cheaper.
SEE ALSO: Best Buy is offering a "buy one, get one free" promotion on Samsung TVsThese LG monitors have some nice specs as well that make them worthy pickups. If you've been looking for a solid FHD display that can tackle both work and play for you, these have just what you need, complete with 1920x1080 resolution, 100Hz refresh rate, and 5ms response time. They also feature AMD FreeSync for a smoother gaming experience.
This is a nice little holiday deal ahead of the Black Friday sale event. Make sure to take advantage of this BOGO deal on LG monitors at Best Buy before it's gone.
And speaking of Black Friday, Best Buy isn't the only location dropping a few seasonal sales early in the month. Target and Walmart are also celebrating the sales event with their own early offers that are worth checking out. If you're hoping to find even more monitor deals, now's an excellent time to be keeping an eye out for them.
Just a few days ago, we heard rumors that Apple is cautiously looking into launching its own version of smart glasses sometime in the (distant) future.
Now, it appears that the company is getting a bit more serious about the product.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple has launched a new initiative, codenamed "Atlas," with the aim to see where the competition, as well as Apple's own employees, stand on the topic of smart glasses.
SEE ALSO: Apple Intelligence gets ChatGPT Plus upgrade with iOS 18.2 beta: 3 features the paid version gets youIt's unclear whether the company has started building a product yet. For now, the Atlas initiative reportedly consists of "gathering feedback from Apple employees," with additional focus groups planned for the future. Bloomberg's report claims the actual product could be "years away."
This is fairly typical for Apple, which often tests the waters of a new product category with internal focus groups, to get a better understanding of how they use existing products. Keeping it all in-house allows Apple to officially stay silent about the products it plans to develop.
The report has no other details on what Apple's smart glasses might look like, other than the (hypothetical) assumption that the company might combine a simpler form of smart glasses — à la Meta's Ray Bans — with AirPods-like audio capabilities.
Featured Video For You iOS 18: 8 cool new features you can try right now, including Apple IntelligenceBut it's probable that Apple will be taking a good, long look at Orion, Meta's recently unveiled smart glasses which look almost like regular glasses, while allowing the wearer to see and interact with virtual objects overlaid on the real world. Snap also recently introduced a new version of its augmented reality glasses Spectacles, but don't expect to see either model on the market for at least a few more years.
Apple, of course, is not without experience when it comes to mixed reality. Its own Vision Pro has been lauded as the best you can buy, though the high price and lack of truly compelling use cases has kept the user base small. Rumors swirl about the follow-up to the Vision Pro; right now, it appears that we'll get an upgraded version next year, while the rumored cheaper variant has been internally delayed.
Tweet may have been deletedDespite the Atlas initiative, there's no indication that Apple's smart glasses will hit the market any time soon, so it's likely that the Vision Pro — or perhaps an upgraded version with a new chip — will remain the company's only headset for the next couple of years.
Amazon's Prime Video has a new AI-generated tool that will recap TV shows for you — and it's supposed to be "spoiler-free".
Announced on Monday, the streaming service's "X-Ray Recaps" use Amazon's generative AI platform Bedrock to get you up to speed with shows, whether it's a whole season, an episode, or even parts of one episode. The company says these summaries will bring up key plot moments, twists, and cliffhangers somehow without spoilers, and are "personalized down to the exact minute of where you are watching."
Say, if you wanted to catch up on what's happened in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power or The Wheel of Time (because a lot happens in both), you could just pull up the Recap and select specific episodes, the previous season, or the latest season so far. Or, we've got you covered.
SEE ALSO: The 22 best shows on Amazon Prime streaming free right nowThe Recaps, now out in beta, are an extension of Prime Video's existing "X-Ray" feature, which pulls up information about the show or film you're watching when you pause it, like cast details, production facts, songs, and statistics (if you're watching sports). You'll find the new Recaps within the X-Ray feature, or when you select "Details" on a Prime Video title.
Featured Video For You The 'Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' cast debates whether Sauron is "brat"Recaps are powered by Amazon's generative AI platform Bedrock, which runs on both Amazon Web Services (AWS) and custom AI models trained on cloud-based machine-learning platform Amazon SageMaker.
According to Amazon, "X-Ray Recaps analyzes various video segments, combined with subtitles or dialogue, to generate detailed descriptions of key events, places, times, and conversations. Guardrails are also applied to ensure the generation of spoiler-free and concise summaries."
While this tool is undeniably handy, remember while you're watching your latest show to visit your own not AI-generated human pals in online journalism for critical analysis, deep dives, interviews, and reviews. Pretty please.
BOGO SAMSUNG TVS: As of Nov. 5, Best Buy is offering a BOGO deal on select Samsung TVs. If you buy a select Samsung 85-inch or 98-inch class TV, you'll get a 40-inch TV for free.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung BOGO on Samsung TVs at Best Buy Get DealAs we inch closer to Black Friday, numerous retailers are starting to drop some early holiday deals for consumers to check out. Best Buy is one such location getting into the holiday spirit with a few Buy One, Get One offers that are definitely worth checking out ahead of the big shopping event. In particular, they have a great deal right now on Samsung TVs.
If you've been looking to upgrade the screens in your home, this BOGO deal can get you setup with two TVs at once. Best Buy's currently giving away a free 40-inch Samsung class TV with purchase of a select 85-inch or 98-inch Samsung class TV. Their selection of bigger TVs include the 85-inch DU7200 Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV, the 98-inch DU9000 Crystal UHD Smart TV, and the 85-inch DU8000 Crystal UHD Smart TV, while the 40-inch you'll get for free is Samsung's Class 5 Series LED Full HD Smart TV.
SEE ALSO: NordVPN just dropped its bumper Black Friday dealNormally the 40-inch costs $249.99, so you'll get to pocket quite a bit with this offer. Some of the bigger TVs are also on sale, like the massive 98-inch model. That one is currently marked down $1,000, which is a huge discount on top of an already great BOGO deal. The 40-inch is an excellent size for a smaller space as well, or could even double as a computer monitor, if you want.
BOGO deals like this don't pop up very often. If you've been hoping to upgrade your TV setup, there's no better time than now to take advantage of this BOGO offer at Best Buy.
As stated earlier, Black Friday is coming up soon, meaning plenty more TV discounts will be on the way. Alongside Best Buy, Target and Walmart are also starting up the season of savings a bit early in the lead-up to Black Friday. It's worth having a look at them to see what's available before everything officially kicks off.
Meta's ban on new election ads will be extended for a few more days.
The tech company, which owns Facebook and Instagram, will continue to block political adverts until a few days after the polls have closed, per a report from Axios.
SEE ALSO: Here's how OpenAI plans to address election misinformation on ChatGPT and Dall-EMeta's policy, which has been in place since 2020, means that "new social issue, electoral, and political ads" are blocked during the final week of the U.S. general election. The decision to extend this block, according to Axios, will take into account the post-election period when votes may still be being counted.
"While new ads will not be able to run during this restriction period, ads that have served at least one impression prior to the restriction period will be allowed to continue running with limited editing capabilities," reads a Facebook developer blog post. "The rationale behind this restriction period remains the same as previous years — in the final days of an election, we recognize there may not be enough time to contest new claims made in ads."
These are Meta's provided dates and times for ad restriction:
Between Tuesday, October 29, 2024 and Tuesday, November 5, 2024: The ad restriction period will be in effect. We will not allow any new ads to run about social issues, elections or politics in the US starting 12:01 AM PT on Tuesday, October 29th, 2024 through 11:59 PM PT on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
At 12:00 AM PT on Wednesday, November 6, 2024: We will allow new ads about social issues, elections or politics to be published. At this time, you will also be able to start making edits to your ads again.
Misinformation is clearly a hot topic over at Meta right now. Two weeks ago the tech giant's oversight board — which consists of policymakers, academics, and journalists — said it had "serious concerns" about Meta's political content moderation, following a decision by the platform to remove (and later restore) a post comparing Democratic candidates Kamala Harris and Tim Walz to the main characters from Dumb and Dumber.
Beyond Meta, election misinformation continues to be an issue. The FBI recently issued a warning about election disinformation videos, and over on X (formerly Twitter) Community Notes is failing to flag election misinformation.
Netflix's interactive titles were all the rage a few years ago, but the company is set to remove most of them from its platform.
First reported by The Verge, Netflix's "Interactive Specials" will be cut by the company down to four titles: Black Mirror's groundbreaking 2018 choose-your-own-adventure film Bandersnatch, the Daniel Radcliffe-starring special of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Kimmy vs. the Reverend, and two Bear Grylls titles, Ranveer vs. Wild and You vs. Wild. All of these titles, which offer multiple endings determined by plot choices made by the viewer, will remain on the platform.
SEE ALSO: How to get all the endings in Netflix's 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. The Reverend'But it's curtains for the rest of the catalogue after Dec. 1. That means the rest of Grylls' titles, Headspace's Unwind Your Mind (the show Headspace Guide To Meditation is staying), interactive quiz game Triviaverse, and a lot of kids' franchise titles like Carmen Sandiego: To Steal or Not to Steal, Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous: Hidden Adventure, Captain Underpants Epic Choice-o-Rama, Spirit Riding Free: Ride Along Adventure, Johnny Test's Ultimate Meatloaf Quest, and more will be unavailable to play.
Netflix's Interactive Specials page will look less stacked Credit: Netflix / Mashable screenshotNotably, the first ever interactive game Netflix launched seven years ago in 2017, Puss in Book: Trapped in an Epic Tale, will also be removed. At the time, Netflix's press release for the title read:
We’ve done extensive research and talked to lots of kids and parents, collecting qualitative data to better understand if this is something viewers will like. While we’ve gotten positive feedback (for example, parents like the fact their child has the ability to make decisions and take a seat in the director’s chair, if you will), we're eager to learn how our members will engage with the experience.
Netflix spokesperson Chrissy Kelleher told The Verge, "The technology served its purpose, but is now limiting as we focus on technological efforts in other areas."
SAVE $300: As of Nov. 5, the 65-inch Hisense QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV is marked down to $999.99, $300 off its $1,299.99 list price. That's a 23% discount.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-Inch Class QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV $999.99 at Amazon4K TVs come in many different styles and sizes. For those looking to have something that blends in a bit more with a living space, you may have gravitated towards the options that double as frames for art pieces, like The Frame TVs from Samsung. However, those screens can come with quite a hefty price tag. If you want a slightly cheaper alternative that delivers a lot of the same features, the Hisense CanvasTV is here to help.
It's even better when TVs like this are on sale, and Amazon is here to assist. Right now, you can get Hisense's 65-Inch QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV for $999.99, $300 off its list price of $1,299.99. On top of that, according to price tracker camelcamelcamel, this is also its lowest-ever price. So if you've had your eye on getting an artsy TV for your home, now's your chance to scoop one up.
SEE ALSO: Save $170 on this stunning gaming-friendly LG TVAlongside a sleek design with a frame that can blend in as just another piece hung up on your wall, this TV also features 4K QLED for rich, vibrant colors and an anti-glare panel with a hi-matte display that showcases the art pieces without any pesky reflections getting in the way. And the art is where it truly shines. You can show off your favorite pieces or photos when not using it for watching shows, films, or playing games.
It's an excellent two-in-one TV and worth jumping on at this all-time low price. Don't miss out on this deal at Amazon.
And if you're hoping to find even more deals on TVs, you're in luck with Black Friday on the way. The sale event normally boasts discounts on a wide variety of TVs, so there will be plenty of options to pick through. Some retailers are already getting in on the seasonal sale action — like Target, Walmart, and Best Buy — so you can have an early look at what deals they've got up their sleeve.
SAVE $600: As of Nov. 5, the Hisense 65-inch Class U8 TV is on sale at Amazon for $899.99. That's a saving of 40% on list price, and its lowest-ever price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-inch Class U8 TV $899.99 at AmazonThere couldn't be a better time to upgrade your TV than right now. As nights draw in and Christmas movie rewatches approach, check out this great deal on the Hisense 65-inch Class U8 TV.
As of Nov. 5, not only is this fantastic TV reduced to $899.99 (saving you $600) but it's the lowest it has ever been priced at Amazon, a real score. This particular deal is specific to the 65-inch model, but you can find discounts on the 55-inch, 75-inch, and 85-inch options.
SEE ALSO: Save $170 on this stunning gaming-friendly LG TVThis TV benefits from a Google operating system so you can organize movies, shows, live TV, and more from your apps and subscriptions, giving you personalized recommendations based on what you enjoy. It also benefits from 2.1.2 multi-channel sound with Dolby Atmos, surrounding you with a rich, deep, and immersive sound. And the five-speaker setup means don't need to invest in any additional sound systems.
The picture quality is top-notch too, combining Mini-LED Pro+ and QLED technology to deliver sharp, vibrant images with deep contrast and over a billion colors. Perfect for movies and gaming alike.
And as a bonus, with the purchase of this TV you'll also get NBA 2K25 for free.
This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so don't miss out.
The Daily Mini Crossword is one of the many popular daily word games available on Mashable. Powered by Arkadium, the mini crossword offers a speed round of puzzle fun with clues that are sure to challenge experienced crossword enthusiasts.
But there's no need to let the challenge get in the way of your enjoyment! If moments are turning to minutes after getting stuck on a clue, find the answers you need to progress right here.
And when you're done, check out the many other word games you can play on Mashable, including a full-size crossword.
Also, if you get stuck on any other daily word games, such as Wordle, Connections, or Strands — we have you covered.
SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for November 5 SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on MashableHere are the clues and answers to Daily Mini Crossword for Tuesday, November 5, 2024:
Across____ ChiThe answer is Tai.
The answer is Rhine.
The answer is Shards.
The answer is Holdup.
The answer is Emirs.
The answer is Bay.
The answer is Thalia.
The answer is Airdry.
The answer is Indus.
The answer is Rhomb.
The answer is ESP.
The answer is She.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of GamesAre you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.
Astonishing life dwells in the deep sea.
An ongoing ocean expedition to a dynamic marine realm off the little-explored Chilean coast — with seeps and vents emitting nutrients into the water — has spotted a curious, almost alien-looking species. The mission, undertaken by the Schmidt Ocean Institute and its 7,055-pound robotic explorer ROV SuBastian, documented a shimmering species of polychaete crawling on the seafloor. It's a psychedelic marine worm.
"Some polychaetes are bioluminescent; this sassy sparkler has protein structures in the bristles, making them iridescent," the institute posted online.
SEE ALSO: A dominant shark lurks in the deep, dark ocean. Meet the sixgill.You can see this slowly-moving creature's sparkling bristles, or chaetae, in the video below.
Tweet may have been deletedPolychaetes are extremely diverse organisms.
"The visual variety among the more than 10,000 described species means a polychaete enthusiast is never bored," Karen Osborn, the curator of Marine Invertebrates at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, explains. "They come in every imaginable color and pattern, from completely transparent to iridescent to candy-striped. You can find polychaetes of every shape from spherical to sausage-shaped to pencil thin, and every size from microscopic to several feet long. Some are smooth and sleek, others frilly and elaborate."
"They come in every imaginable color and pattern, from completely transparent to iridescent to candy striped."But they're not just wild sights. "Polychaetes are critical members of all ocean food webs," Osborn added. "Some are voracious, jawed predators; others are delicate filter feeders, scavengers, farmers, symbionts, or even bone-eaters. These sometimes beautiful, in many cases tiny, and often abundant animals play a crucial role in structuring and oxygenating the sea floor, much like their earthworm cousins on land."
This ongoing mission, dubbed Chile Margin 2024, focuses on deep sea seeps — where gas from decomposing creatures escapes through the seafloor — allowing methane-munching microbes to flourish and establish alien ecosystems thousands of feet below the ocean surface. The researchers will also examine hydrothermal vents, found near the boundaries of Earth's tectonic plates, which emit hot, chemical-rich fluid into the ocean. These, too, often harbor rare marine communities.
Ocean research 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.
Kids aren't the only ones who get excited about birthday gifts. You can be a full-grown adult and still lose your shit when you open up the gift that topped your wish list. But as you get older, it does become a little more difficult to come up with a list of birthday gift ideas. You can't just ask for all the coolest new toys anymore. Well, you can if you want — we're not going to stop you.
SEE ALSO: Try Gift Lab: Our interactive gift guideIf your birthday is coming up and you're struggling to think of what you want, don't sweat it. We compiled the ultimate birthday wish list, with gifts ranging from tech to outdoor essentials to home goods. To make your search easier, we've separated our gift ideas into categories: Our current favorite birthday gifts, gifts under $25, gifts under $50, gifts $50 to $150, and gifts $150+. Don't forget to make your list soon so everyone shopping for you can take advantage of Black Friday sales and discounts.
Read on for some birthday inspo and start casually dropping hints to your friends and family. And hey, happy birthday!
Our top picksColor-changing smart light bulbs Credit: PhilipsDeputy Shopping and Reviews Editor Miller Kern here. I have put a Hue light bulb in every lamp in my apartment, and it's so rare that I use the Big Light now. These color-changing bulbs let me dim the lights when I want to relax or emit fun colors while I'm watching a movie. And the best part is, I don't have to get out of bed to turn the lights off at night.
Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Bulbs $99.99 at Best BuyI personally don't drink coffee, but my dad is a big coffee guy. I got him and his wife a three-month subscription to Atlas Coffee Club for Christmas and they freakin' loved it. They sent me a text every month to let me know where their coffee came from, and they love trying new roasts from around the world. Each month you get coffee beans and a postcard from different countries, so you get to try beans you can't get from your grocery store. You can select from whole beans, grounds, Keurig pods, and Nespresso pods. Subscriptions can be three, six, or 12 months.
Opens in a new window Credit: Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription Starting at $55 Shop Now A new Kindle Credit: Stan Schroeder / MashableListen, I used to be such a physical books-only kind of person. Then I bought a Kindle Paperwhite and it changed my reading game for good. I'm able to easily take the e-reader on the plane, to the beach, or even in the bathtub (shoutout to the Paperwhite being waterproof). Plus, I can read library books for free from the Libby app. If you're a reader, trust me when I say a Kindle should be at the top of your birthday list this year. (P.s. A new Kindle Paperwhite was released in October 2024.)
Kindle Paperwhite (2024) $159.99 at AmazonThis 2-in-1 oil dispenser pours and sprays so you won't have to buy separate olive oil and Pam cooking spray. This is a practical gift to put on your list whether you're a home chef or use an air fryer for every meal.
Oil dispenser and sprayer $8.77 at AmazonYou’ve successfully completed one more trip around the sun, so to celebrate, develop a new skill or indulge a passion by taking an IRL class on the subject of your choice. Coursehorse partners with real-world instructors and schools in major cities to offer nearly 70,000 classes in subjects such as art, language, music, cooking, self-defense, gardening, and anything else you could possibly want.
Opens in a new window Credit: Coursehorse Coursehorse Gift Card Starting at $5 at Coursehorse Shop Now A tiny bag Credit: NanobagNanobag is a tote bag that can fold up into a pocket-sized ball. It's great for keeping in the car or your bag for those unplanned grocery or Target stops. The standard size starts at $13.95 and comes in 10 different colors and patterns.
Opens in a new window Credit: Nanobag Nanobag $13.95 at NanobagCandles are a timeless gift that you can ask for at every single gift-giving opportunity (and will likely receive anyway if you don't specify what you actually want). We are firm believers that you can never have too many candles. Add some sweet scents from Bonita Fierce, a Latina-owned small business, to your b-day wish list this year and every year. Candles start at $16.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bonita Fierce Bonita Fierce candle Starting at $16 at Bonita Fierce Shop Now A puzzle with a few tricks up its sleeve Credit: Magic Puzzle CompanyMagic Puzzle Company makes incredibly fun 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles that have a secret envelope for you to open when you're done. This surprise envelope unlocks a "magical twist ending," so placing that final piece will be even more exciting. The intricate designs feature tons of little Easter eggs, like puzzle pieces in the shape of items in the scene. The Big Rock City puzzle has a hot dog-shaped piece and music note-shaped piece to name a couple.
Opens in a new window Credit: Magic Puzzle Company Magic Puzzle Company (Big Rock City puzzle) $22.99 at AmazonRather than laying your headphones throughout your home or having them clutter up your desk, ask for a universal headphone stand for your birthday. This one is compatible with almost any pair of over-ear headphones or gaming headsets — and it has a pretty sleek look, too.
Opens in a new window Credit: coreminded Universal headphone stand $24.99 at AmazonBig candle fan? Then a candle warmer should be on your birthday list. It helps your candle last longer and you don't need an open flame burning in your home. And if you're going to ask for a candle warmer, make it a cute one. With a glass lamp shade, this warmer blends seamlessly into your home decor.
Opens in a new window Credit: Geezo Candle warmer lamp $24.99You really can't beat the gift of cold, hard cash — or a gift card. A Visa card is a perfect birthday gift because you can spend it on literally whatever you want; buy yourself something fun or get some help with groceries. Best of all, you don't need to decide exactly what you want before your birthday. The gift card starts at $10.
Opens in a new window Credit: Visa Gift card Starting at $10 at Giftcards.com Shop Now New reading materials Credit: Getty Images / iStock / Extreme-PhotographerSupport independent bookstores from around the country with a gift card to Bookshop. Starting at $10, the gift cards can either be used to buy books from a specific shop you love, or the purchase can feed the site’s profit-sharing pool to benefit all of Bookshop's partner stores.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bookshop.org Bookshop.org Gift Cards Starting at $10 at Bookshop Shop Now Gifts $25 to $50A way to keep track of your keys Credit: AppleIn our opinion, the first thing you add to your keyring should be an AirTag. You can monitor where they are in Apple's Find My app, and you'll get an alert on your phone if you ever leave them behind somewhere.
Apple AirTag $23.99 at AmazonCelebrate your favorite furry creature by eating their face — in a good way. Send in a photo of your best pet friend to this Etsy store and get a four-inch-wide, food-safe PLA cookie cutter of their likeness in return. Whether you’re taking care of the baking or you’re leaving the prep work for the recipient, you’re going to be hailed as an absolute gift-giving wizard. Order these custom birthday gifts for $30 from Etsy seller the FormaCookieCutters.
Opens in a new window Credit: FormaCookieCutters Custom Pet Portrait Cookie Cutter $30.00 at EtsyStep up your take-out game and do right by the environment with a set of elegant, reusable chopsticks. The bundle of six bamboo chopsticks is available in two color palettes and retails for $32.
Opens in a new window Credit: Pingto Pingto Bamboo Chopstick Sets $32.00 at AmazonThis Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug is a great size for both true coffee lovers and beer drinkers. It can also hold two Moscow mules, according to Yeti, if that's more your speed. The Rambler is available in an array of fun and neutral colors. Plus, you can customize it with an etched design or monogram. For just $6 to $10, you can choose designs from Yeti's library or upload your own file. (Mashable's review editor owns the king crab orange mug with a cowboy boot and flowers etched on the side, pictured below.)
Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug $35.00 at YetiAre you a proud Type A over-planner and over-thinker? Or maybe your meticulously organized BFF is having a birthday soon? This spiral-bound planner can be customized with the recipient's name and three personal photos.
Opens in a new window Credit: Papier Personalized Photo Strip 2024 Planner $35.00 at PapierLove to be outside, but can’t fold a map to save your life? Enter AllTrails+, the app designed to get you off your phone and into the wild. Featuring over 400,000 curated trails all over the world, the app allows you to download maps in case of a poor signal, record your hikes, create your own trails, and more. A yearly subscription costs $35.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: AllTrails AllTrails yearly subscription $35.99 at AllTrailsBirthday cake is the standard, but might we suggest this fun alternative: mini cupcakes selected by an astrologer specifically for your zodiac sign. This Baked by Melissa offering comes with 25 cupcakes and the flavors vary depending on your sign — though there are some fan-favorites that show up in each zodiac variation. These also make for a great last-minute ask if you're in Manhattan or Boston, as there's same-day delivery for select locations.
Opens in a new window Credit: Baked by Melissa Baked by Melissa zodiac cupcakes $37.00Sometimes, the best birthday gifts are the ones made just for you. If you're obsessed with your pet, these custom pet portraits need to be on your birthday list. There are many different styles to choose from, each one super freakin' adorable. Prices vary depending on size.
Opens in a new window Credit: LeFlore Studio Custom pet portrait Prices vary at LaFlore Studio on Etsy Shop Now An inconspicuous fanny pack Credit: FlipBeltWhether you’re going for a run or heading to a music festival, keep your necessities at the ready with a FlipBelt Zipper pack. This handy belt can hold your phone, money, credit card, keys, and all sorts of everyday necessities. Coming in multiple sizes, the FlipBelt doesn’t bounce or chafe and is machine washable.
Opens in a new window Credit: FlipBelt FlipBelt Zipper Running Belt $39.00 at AmazonA cast-iron skillet is the true sign that you're graduating from cheap nonstick cookware and all mismatched plates. It's something you probably want, but don't particularly want to spend the money on. Lodge has different sizes depending on what you're wanting to cook.
Opens in a new window Credit: Lodge Lodge cast iron skillet $40.75 at AmazonNot satisfied with supermarket-bought chai? Get the real thing from New York-based chai-preneurs at Kolkata Chai. This small business will send authentic chai straight to your door with the Chai Trio Variety Pack ($62) or the Chai Starter Kit ($45). For devoted chai drinkers, Kolkata Chai offers subscription packages to keep that tea coming.
Opens in a new window Credit: Kolkata Chai Kolkata Chai Starting at $45 at Kolkata Chai Shop Now A reusable water bottle Credit: HydroflaskIt's always a good time to get more serious about hydration. A HydroFlask is a perfect way to make sure you have a cool (or hot) beverage on hand, and they're super durable during outdoorsy activities.
Opens in a new window Credit: HydroFlask Hydroflask $49.95 at AmazonOne of our favorite gifts under $50 is this Lego Orchid that's fun to build and adds a nice touch of greenery to your space that feels more unique than a plastic plant. This set is part of the Lego Icons line, which also features succulents, a bonsai tree, and a bouquet, in case orchids aren't your thing.
Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Orchid $49.99 at AmazonIf you don't have a smart speaker by now, it's time to make a change. The Echo Dot is an affordable voice-controlled companion that'll keep you in the loop on the weather and current events and keep track of your most important reminders. Also, they're great for playing music.
Echo Dot smart speaker $49.99 at AmazonThe Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is one of the best streaming devices we've tested, and it's also one of our favorite birthday gift ideas. If you don't already have a smart TV but want to access Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Disney+, and all the other streaming apps directly from your TV, ask for a Fire TV Stick for your b-day. Amazon's streaming stick has better voice control than similar products from Roku, and the 4K version normally goes for $49.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $49.99 at AmazonIf candles are a no-go, opt for a Bluetooth-enabled diffuser to make any room in your home smell divine. The Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser ($49.99) holds two fragrances and is controlled entirely through the app. Schedule one smell to wake up to and one to fall asleep to with the in-app calendar feature. Pura collaborates with brands like NEST, Anthropologie, Disney, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to source their scents, so whatever the occasion calls for, they’ve got your back.
Opens in a new window Credit: Pura Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser $49.99 at AmazonSpeaking of take-out: if you’ve maxed out your city’s culinary offerings, see what’s available from the rest of the country. Goldbelly makes it possible to order meals and gifts from restaurants around the United States. No matter your craving, a Goldbelly gift card at any price point is bound to satisfy.
Opens in a new window Credit: Goldbelly Goldbelly gift card starting at $50 at Goldbelly Shop Now A custom neon sign Credit: GITM StorePick out a funny phrase, inside joke, or a family name and get a custom sign in as little as one week. It might sound too good to be true, but Mashable editors have ordered from this Amazon storefront before and had a great experience. In fact, this is one of our favorite undiscovered gems on Amazon, and you can buy signs for as little as $53.96.
Opens in a new window Credit: GITM Store Custom Neon Sign $53.96 at AmazonAtlas Coffee Club is a coffee subscription that sends you coffee beans and postcards from a different country each month. So, you get to try roasts you probably can't get from your grocery store and you get to learn about a new place — and maybe get some travel inspo. You can select from whole beans, grounds, Keurig pods, and Nespresso pods. Subscriptions can be three, six, or 12 months.
Opens in a new window Credit: Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription Starting at $55 Shop Now A personal blender for smoothies Credit: NutribulletMake smoothies in your own kitchen with a NutriBullet personal blender — it's fast and easy. The NutriBullet Nutrient Extractor comes with the 600W motor base, blender blade, 24-ounce blending cup, travel lid, and lip ring, plus a recipe book if you're sick of the same old smoothies.
Opens in a new window Credit: NutriBullet NutriBullet $58.00 at WalmartWhy go out for overpriced cocktails when you can make them at home? Shaker & Spoon sends you a new cocktail kit every month with all the ingredients you need to make 12 delicious cocktails. All you need to do is buy the alcohol and follow the recipes to recreate the same cocktails mixed up by award-winning bartenders. The company also makes it easy to give a subscription via email, so no excuses. Subscriptions start at $59 per month.
Opens in a new window Credit: Shaker & Spoon Shaker & Spoon Gift Subscription Starting at $59 per month at Shaker & Spoon Shop Now An endless supply of veggies and herbs Credit: AeroGardenWhether you're an enthusiastic home chef, like a bit of greenery, or simply can't stand running to the grocery store every time a recipe calls for some cilantro, a hydroponic garden is a great way to keep veggies and herbs on hand, even if you don't have a green thumb. We're fans of AeroGarden, which has gardens that start at $60.75.
Opens in a new window Credit: AeroGarden AeroGarden Sprout $60.75 at AmazonFor what seems like an extraneous expense, an extra-heavy blanket can be a total game-changer. Besides providing all the comfort of a partner without the snoring, a weighted blanket can reduce tossing and turning and keep you extra warm. This one at Amazon comes in a bunch of colors, sizes, and weights.
Opens in a new window Credit: quilty Quilty weighted blanket Starting at $63.99 Shop Now A necessary Nintendo Switch upgrade Credit: NintendoIt's never too late to upgrade your Switch set up, and the Pro controller can help you do just that. This controller is perfect for when you connect your device to a larger display, and it has the added bonus of zero Joy-Con drift.
Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch Pro Controller $69.99 at AmazonThere's a certain electric gooseneck kettle that's beloved by design nerds, but that's also a tad overpriced (more than a tad, really). Instead, make the smart choice and opt for the infinitely more practical Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle. It still has plenty of charm — not to mention pre-set buttons for tea, coffee, and boiling water.
Opens in a new window Credit: Cosori Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle $69.99 at AmazonWe have a couple of camera options on this list, but sometimes you really just want that classic disposable camera experience. You'll capture some fun, in-the-moment memories with no do-overs. A three-pack of disposable cameras costs $79.99 (these have become kind of expensive since the invention of digital/phone cameras).
Opens in a new window Credit: Fujifilm Fujifilm disposable cameras $53.99 at AmazonWorried your earbuds will fall out of your ears and be lost forever? Get peace of mind with the affordable Soundcore Sport X10 wireless earbuds. Designed for athletes but great for anyone, these headphones hook around your ears and stay put no matter how sweaty or active you get (a fact we can personally attest to). Keep them in their case for on-the-go charging.
Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Soundcore Sport X10 Earbuds $79.99 at AmazonTurn your bedroom into a party with these color-changing smart light bulbs. You can control the lights from your phone and set whatever mood you're feeling. This kit includes two smart Bluetooth bulbs for $99.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Bulbs $99.99 at Best BuyMaybe a Spotify Premium membership isn't in your budget this year, or maybe it's a monthly bill you'd just rather have someone else foot for you. Whatever the case, add a 12-month Spotify subscription gift card to your bday list. It's especially great if you've got someone shopping for you who notoriously waits until the last minute to buy gifts since it can be delivered via email or text.
Spotify Premium 12-month subscriotoin e-gift card $99.00 at AmazonWhether you're packing your lunch or storing leftovers, using plastic bags should be your last resort. Heck, you should be trying to stay away from all single-use plastics if you're able to. But, if you want to start small, these Stasher bags are a great option to make your daily life more eco-friendly. These silicone bags are secure and completely reusable — either wash them by hand or stuff them in the dishwasher. Grab a starter pack for $99.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Stasher Stasher Bags starter kit $99.99 at StasherWho says ab workouts can’t be fun? (Most people). The Plankpad PRO turns core exercises into games through the specialty balance board and synchronized app. In addition to games, the app also has the standard exercise series if you’d prefer to suffer through it without graphics to distract you.
Opens in a new window Credit: Plankpad Plankpad PRO $129.00 at AmazonThere's a lot of debate about what makes a good gift, but getting something that is a) practical and b) something just extravagant enough that you'd never get it for yourself may be the infallibly perfect combo. We think for coffee and tea drinkers, that combo is found in the Ember Mug 2, which retails for $129.95. This temperature-controlled mug may be unnecessary (and expensive), but boy does it feel good to take a hot sip of coffee after forgetting you poured it an hour ago.
Opens in a new window Credit: Ember Ember Mug 2 $129.95 at AmazonFilm photos are back in a big way, but not all of us have the patience to fill up an entire roll and then wait for it to get developed. Paper Shoot is a really neat camera that takes film-esque photos and stores them on an SD card so you can pull them to your computer or phone and post immediately. The design is super low-profile, making it easy to slip into your purse or pocket on a night out. Plus, there are a bunch of cute designs to choose from for the outside case.
Opens in a new window Credit: Paper Shoot Camera Paper Camera $139.00 at Paper ShootHave some photos on your phone or Instagram that you want to pin to your fridge? Ask for the Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer. This sleek gadget connects to your Android or iPhone through WiFi, SD card, or USB stick and prints out your favorite pics in a layout design of your choosing. The printing isn’t instant (the color ink layers print one at a time), but the quality of the final product makes it worth the wait.
Opens in a new window Credit: Canon Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer $139.99 at AmazonWe know, we know, an air purifier is not the sexiest gift, but it is a practical one. The Levoit Core 300S is a smart air purifier with a companion app that lets you control the device and see real-time stats about your home's air quality. It's suitable for spaces up to 1,095 square feet.
Levoit Core 300S smart air purifier $126.99 at AmazonBeach days and outdoor adventures are made complete with your favorite playlist. The Bose SoundLink Flex is a portable speaker that can handle the elements while still providing stellar sound quality. It's waterproof, rust- and drop-resistant, and even floats. Plus, it comes in five fun colors. For even bigger sound, try the Bose SoundLink Max.
Bose SoundLink Flex $149.00 at AmazonThe Mashable team has tested every Kindle e-reader, and we think the Kindle Paperwhite is the right e-reader for most people. Instead of asking for a book, ask for a Kindle for your birthday and save yourself money and space. Sure, it doesn't smell the same as a new book, but now you'll have no excuses for not keeping up with your yearly reading resolutions. (P.s. A new Kindle Paperwhite was released in October 2024.)
Kindle Paperwhite (2024) $159.99 at AmazonIf you work remotely, you gotta get this portable desk from Logitech. The Casa Pop-Up Desk includes a wireless keyboard, wireless trackpad, and a desk stand that doubles as a discreet and stylish carrying case. It comes in three colors so you can match your aesthetic. This is an especially great tool if you like working from coffee shops or moving around while you work.
Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk $179.99 at AmazonComforters, like a mattress, shouldn't be an item you cheap out on. They're supposed to last you a while, so why not have something a little more luxurious? The Buffy Cloud comforter is a sustainable comforter made from recycled fiber and eucalyptus. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Leah Stodart reviewed it, calling it "the first piece of bedding I've used that actually feels kind of dreamy." Snag a full/queen size comforter for $195 at Buffy.
Opens in a new window Credit: Buffy Buffy Comforter $195.00 at BuffySony released its new ULT Power Sound lineup in April, and we adore the headphones. The ULT Wears have Sony's impressive sound quality and noise cancellation and are made even more impressive by the addition of the ULT button, which punches up the bass two additional levels. These headphones are booming, and the best part is they're relatively budget-friendly.
Opens in a new window Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Sony ULT Wear headphones $198.00 at AmazonTurn traditional jump roping on its head with Crossrope. The weighted jump rope (available in 1/4, 1/2, one, and two-pound weight options) and associated app keep you on your toes and strengthen your entire body through guided workouts. For those with downstairs neighbors or curious pets, the weighted ropeless option provides a silent solution for an otherwise noisy activity. Upgrade to the Bluetooth-connected AMP handles for a more individualized experience.
Opens in a new window Credit: Crossrope AMP Jump Rope Set $199.00 at CrossropeMaybe not quite as heavy duty as a cast-iron skillet but just as useful: a pressure cooker that can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, slow cook, prepare rice, steam, sauté, and more. Impress guests with your culinary skills (that are in fact just throwing all the ingredients listed in the recipe into this thing and then waiting a few hours). The Instant Pot 11-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker will cost your gift-giver $199.99, but they can reap the rewards when you cook for them with it.
Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Pot Instant Pot Duo Crisp $199.95 at AmazonIf you're anything like us, you view your pet like it's your actual child. We support that. Now, you can up your pet parent game by picking up a Furbo pet camera. Not only does it livestream what your pet is up to while you aren't home straight to your phone, but it also has the ability to toss treats and produce two-way audio for quick check-ins.
Opens in a new window Credit: Furbo Furbo pet camera $129.00 at AmazonThere's something to be said for a product that can marry form and function, and this Vitruvi humidifier does just that. Admittedly, $229 is probably a hefty price for a humidifier you're buying for yourself, but it's a great splurge gift if you prefer your household appliances not be eyesores.
Opens in a new window Credit: Vitruvi Vitruvi Cloud Humidifier $229.00 at AmazonIf you're as chronically online as we are, you've likely seen people whipping up frozen treat concoctions with the Ninja Creami. The countertop ice cream maker has presets for gelato, ice cream, sorbet, smoothie bowls, milkshakes, and mix-ins if you want to channel your inner Dairy Queen. You do need to freeze your ingredients beforehand, so it's not an instantaneous sweet treat fix, but you have creative freedom to try out whichever flavors your sweet tooth desires.
Ninja Creami $179.99 at AmazonWhether you're a hardcore camper or you just like unwinding with a few beers by the fire, Solo Stove's Ranger fire pit is a fantastic gift to ask for. It's designed to be smokeless and portable, making it great for balconies, backyards, beach hangs, or camping trips. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel reviewed the larger Solo Stove Bonfire and wrote that it burns "beautiful, clean fires when conditions are right." The best part? The Ranger is typically on sale for $199.99, so whoever gifts it has 30 extra dollars to spend on your birthday.
Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 $199.99 at Solo StoveAre your Spotify playlists just not cutting it anymore? Switch it up and go retro with a vinyl music collection. This turntable connects to Bluetooth speakers and headphones, or you can hook it up to a traditional sound system using cords.
Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony Turntable $248.00 at AmazonWhen you already own a pair of earbuds, it can be hard to justify splurging on a new pair — even if you really, really want to. And that's why the new AirPods Pro (Gen 2) earbuds are an ideal birthday present. For people still using lightning cables (gross), the new USB-C version will be a welcome upgrade. Apple stepped up its audio game with these buds, which feature improved sound quality and active noise cancellation. For a cheaper alternative, ask for the latest 3rd Gen AirPods, which start at $169.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple AirPods Pro 2 $189.00 at AmazonStop manually vacuuming your house every day and let a robot vacuum clean your floors for you. The Roomba 694 has WiFi connectivity for mobile and voice controls and it's tough on pet hair. This robot vacuum costs $274.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Roomba 694 $274.99 at AmazonThis drone is small and super lightweight, but it takes stunning photos and videos. It's great for traveling or for use at home. DJI is one of the top names in drones and the Mini 2 SE costs $279 with a remote control.
Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Magic Mini 2 SE $279.00 at AmazonWhether you're working at a desk all day, running around, or just inexplicably tense, a massage gun will get you limber and relaxed again. What better gift than the gift of painless movement? Our best recommendation? Go for the TheraGun. The Prime model costs $299, but if that's not quite in your budget, then check out our gadget gift guide for more gifting inspiration.
Opens in a new window Credit: Theragun TheraGun $299.00 at AmazonInstead of asking for the $600 Dyson Airwrap, you can get a product that performs nearly identically for half the price in the Shark FlexStyle (trust us, we tested them head to head). Pick up a version for textured hair or straighter hair for $299.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle $299.99 at AmazonAll of your friends will start calling your home the "cool house" if movie nights involve this mini portable projector. Use it to play movies, shows, or games outside on a screen or indoors on a blank wall. The Anker Nebula Capsule in black costs $299.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Nebula Capsule Projector $299.99 at AmazonAn Apple Watch lets you access smartphone features conveniently on your wrist. You can control your music, send and receive texts, monitor your health, and tons more. The Apple Watch Series 9 is $399 at Amazon, but you can usually find it on sale.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 9 $399.00 at AmazonYou can ask for a day at the spa, or you can ask for the gift of getting a facial whenever you want and from the comfort of your home. In her review of the device, Mashable's Deputy Shopping and Reviews Editor Miller Kern wrote the TheraFace Pro is "a hell of a lot cheaper than getting regular professional facials, and I truly feel like I've received a spa treatment every time I use [it]."
Opens in a new window Credit: TheraGun TheraFace Pro $399.00 at TherabodyOur reviewer called the iPad mini 7 the "best choice" if you want a compact tablet, and said it looks better and is a lot more powerful than previous-generation iPad minis. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro and we named it the best tablet for reading.
Apple iPad mini (2024, 7th generation, A17 Pro chip) $481.00 at AmazonOur favorite type of birthday gift is something you want to buy yourself but just can't justify spending your own money on. The Verve chair is a prime example of that. It's super comfy and ergonomic, and it comes in really cute colors, but it's definitely on the luxury end of pricing. If you work from home or just spend a lot of time sitting at a desk, put this at the top of your birthday wish list.
Opens in a new window Credit: Branch Verve Chair $549.00 at BranchHead outdoors with this hybrid bike designed for both leisure and more adventurous rides. It comes in different colors and a couple of different styles for men and women. The 18-inch Schwinn GTX 2.0 bike normally goes for $549.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Schwinn Schwinn GTX bike $549.95 at AmazonWhen giving your friends and family birthday gift ideas, it's usually best to look for gifts under $50. But if you have a partner or parent who really loves you, then it's okay to dream big.
An easy-to-use mirrorless camera designed with creators in mind, the Nikon Z 30 boasts video, camera, and live streaming capabilities at an affordable price. The camera body can be purchased alone or with one or two kit lenses. There’s also the creators’ accessory bundle which comes with a mic, tripod grip, and Bluetooth remote.
Opens in a new window Credit: Nikon Nikon Z 30 Mirrorless Digital Vlogging Camera Bundle $696.95 at AmazonMashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry described the Lenovo Legion Go as "beefier and more powerful" than the Nintendo Switch. It has a huge display, solid performance, and all-around great specs. It's not a one-to-one competitor of the Switch, but rather a portable way into PC gaming that's "really good at running all kinds of games."
Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Legion Go $699.99 at Best BuyThinking of upgrading from an iPhone that has a Lightning port? Don't spend your own money on an expensive phone — have someone who loves you spend their money! The new iPhone 16 starts at $799 while the iPhone 16 Plus starts at $999. (Group gift, anyone?)
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 16 Starting at $799 at Best Buy Shop Now A robot vacuum that also mops Credit: Leah Stodart / MashableSenior Shopping Reporter Leah Stodart called the Eufy X10 Pro Omni the catchall answer to the question, "Which robot vacuum should I get?" It vacuums and mops — and empties its own dust bin, refills its water tank, and washes and dries its mop pads. The Eufy is a true hands-off cleaning device.
Eufy X10 Pro Omni $799.99 at Best BuyMacBook Airs are super nice computers, but they can definitely be a bit pricey... which is what makes them such a great addition to a birthday wish list. Someone who loves you can drop the big bucks for you! A 13.6-inch MacBook Air M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD goes for $1,099 at Best Buy.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple MacBook Air $1,099.00 at Best Buy
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