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Cold, dry, and barren: Mars doesn't look like it could be a haven for life — at least not the kind humans are familiar with. 

Despite the Red Planet's appearance, scientists have wondered for decades about the possibility of microbial life inhabiting Mars in the distant past. Now a new study, based on data collected by NASA's Curiosity rover, is peeling back another layer of the mystery. For the first time, researchers measured the isotopic composition of carbon-rich minerals found in Gale Crater, a region laced with dried rivers and gullies and being explored by the rover.

The findings Curiosity beamed millions of miles back to Earth were not optimistic, at least in terms of the potential for life above ground. 

"Our samples are not consistent with an ancient environment with life (biosphere) on the surface of Mars," said David Burtt, lead author of the study, in a statement, "although this does not rule out the possibility of an underground biosphere or a surface biosphere that began and ended before these carbonates formed."

The new paper, published in the National Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on Monday, suggests two possible ways carbon-rich minerals could have formed at Gale crater: a series of alternating wet and dry periods at the site or salty-ice conditions. These two different ancient climate scenarios could be summed up as bleak and bleaker when it comes to supporting life. 

SEE ALSO: NASA's Mars rovers had a gangbusters summer of rocks NASA's Curiosity rover snaps a selfie image on lower Mount Sharp in Gale crater in August 2015. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / MSSS

In an environment that swings like a pendulum from wet to dry, the region would intermittently shift from more habitable to less habitable, said Jennifer Stern, a co-author. In frigid temperatures near the planet's equator, the environment would be hostile for living things because most water would be frozen and inaccessible for chemistry or biology.

"And what is there is extremely salty and unpleasant for life," she added in a statement.

This isn't the first time scientists have theorized these possible climate scenarios for ancient Mars. Computer modeling of the planet, based on the presence of certain minerals and rock formations, have led scientists down this path before, but this is the first time they've had isotopic evidence from Martian rocks to bolster those ideas. 

An artist interprets what Gale crater on Mars might have looked like during one of its ancient, wet periods. Credit: NASA illustration

Scientists have sought life on Mars since the first spacecraft touched down on its surface in 1976. Mounting evidence from robotic explorers, especially from Curiosity and its twin Perseverance, has shown the Red Planet to have once been warmer and wetter, perhaps more than 3 billion years ago. 

The rover pair had a highly productive summer, including Perseverance's discovery of a spotted rock with the most compelling signs of ancient dead Martian life yet, though a sample would need to be shipped back to Earth for confirmation. A research team also recently published more evidence of a vast ocean of water below the planet’s surface. And where there's water on Earth, there's often life.

Scientists are interested in Mars' carbon-rich rocks because they are like climate time capsules. Their minerals can hold onto clues about the environments in which they formed, such as the temperature and acidity of the water, and the ingredients within the water and air. Curiosity made the isotope measurements by heating the samples to over 1,600 degrees Fahrenheit and analyzing the released gasses. 

Isotopes are versions of an element with different masses. As water evaporates, light versions of carbon and oxygen are more likely to escape into the atmosphere, while heavier versions tend to remain and get incorporated into rocks. 

The isotope values of the sampled materials indicate lots of evaporation, the team says, suggesting that they probably formed in a climate that could only support transient liquid water — that is, water that comes from melted ice when temperatures rise and the surface pressure is right. 

The heavy isotope values in the samples are much higher than what’s seen on Earth for carbonate minerals. Furthermore, they are the heaviest carbon and oxygen isotope values recorded for any Martian materials. Although evaporation can cause oxygen isotope changes on Earth, the changes measured in the Martian samples were two to three times greater, Burtt said. 

Astrobiologists believe caves like this one on Mars could potentially harbor life. Credit: NASA / JPL / Univ. of Arizona

"The fact that these carbon and oxygen isotope values are higher than anything else measured on Earth or Mars points towards a process (or processes) being taken to an extreme," he said. 

But this doesn't discount the possibility of life. The Red Planet appears to have a network of deep caves formed by ancient volcanic vents. Within them could be liquid water, traces of long-deceased bacteria or fungi, or, some scientists believe, perhaps even existing microbial life. 

Caves can host complex ecosystems, inhabited by extremophiles that munch on rocks and convert the material into energy for life. Because of this, many astrobiologists want nothing more than to go spelunking on Mars.

Grief haunts a young boy and his stepmother in Daddy's Head, the second feature from director Benjamin Barfoot (Double Date).

SEE ALSO: Best horror movies to watch tonight: Scary movie picker

The film premiered at 2024's Fantastic Fest, where attendees also celebrated the 10th anniversary of Jennifer Kent's The Babadook, and it's hard not to put the films in conversation. Both deal with grief over losing a father figure and a husband, both center on a woman struggling to raise a troubled boy, and both feature a terrifying creature who might as well have jumped straight out of a child's imagination. Yet Daddy's Head forges its own path too, mixing its Babadook influences with folk horror to create an unsettling portrait of how grief can rip us to shreds.

What's Daddy's Head about? Matthew Allen in "Daddy's Head." Credit: Courtesy of Rob Baker Ashton

Before Daddy's Head launches us into a nightmarish creature feature, it introduces us to a nightmare that's all too real. Young Isaac (Rupert Turnbull) must say goodbye to his father James (Charles Aitken), who's being taken off life support following a devastating car crash.

Isaac has already lost his mother, and since James had no next of kin, his legal guardian is now his stepmother Laura (Julia Brown). While Isaac and Laura aren't close, Daddy's Head sidesteps the evil stepmother trope. Instead, early glimpses of home video from back when James was still alive paint Laura as someone trying to understand Isaac, even as he processes the arrival of a new maternal figure. At one point, seeing how much he loves drawing, Laura gifts him a set of colored pencils. Isaac is less than thrilled. It's a quietly brutal moment, one in which you can empathize with both Laura and Isaac. She hopes for connection, while he is still struggling with massive life changes.

SEE ALSO: 'The Babadook' filmmaker Jennifer Kent on how her character became an LGBTQ+ icon, and why we will never see a sequel

The uneasy distance between Laura and Isaac becomes fraught in the wake of James' death. Laura was certainly not ready to lose her husband, let alone be the mother to his son. Every night, she numbs herself with wine and home videos, all while weighing the option of surrendering Isaac to social services. Unsure of his own fate, Isaac plays games and yearns for his father's return.

You might think that return impossible, given the fact the film opens with flashes of his bloodied, pulverized face. Yet somehow, some aspects of James follow Isaac and Laura back to their sleek, ultra-modern house, turning their grief into a literal horror show.

Daddy's Head finds horror in the grieving process. James Harper-Jones in "Daddy's Head." Credit: Courtesy of Rob Baker Ashton

The spooky occurrences in Daddy's Head start slow and disparate, with flashing lights reminiscent of police cars blasting through Laura and Isaac's windows, and unexplainable fires popping up in the forest that surrounds them. Here, the film falls into a pattern: day scenes that ramp up the tension between Laura and Isaac, then creepy night scenes where a wine-drunk Laura experiences these strange happenings. Between this pattern and a series of rote jump scares, Daddy's Head falls into a bland routine for a time.

Luckily, things pick up with the arrival of the titular monster, a scurrying, smiling replica of James' head. (Or could it even be the real thing?) It lurks in air vents and calls to Isaac from the forest with a raspy voice that, yes, recalls the Babadook. Of course, Laura believes the creature to be a figment of Isaac's imagination, especially given all the grotesque monsters he's drawn around his room. Even its form — and the film's own title — suggest a silly, childish monster.

However, as proof of the creature's existence quickly grows irrefutable, how Laura and Isaac choose to deal with it will define their relationship going forward. Will they give in to the monster? Will they continue to deny its existence? Or will they band together and find common ground in this shared, traumatic experience? In this, the monster becomes a stand-in for grief, and for the emotional limits it pushes us to. Both Brown and Turnbull deliver moving work as two people with very different routes to take through mourning. Brown is all unsureness and numbness, while Turnbull brings a vulnerable rage to Isaac's pain.

Barfoot wrings scares from areas besides grief as well, especially when it comes to atmosphere. James designed the house Laura and Isaac now suffer in, effectively trapping his family in a prison of his presence. An unsettling wooden structure Isaac discovers in the woods makes for a folk horror-tinged counterpoint to the main house, and an ideal lair for the monster that lurks within. The slightest flicker of James' smile in the structure's dark depths is enough to send you cowering back in your chair. Equally chilling is the fact that Isaac appears not frightened by this sight, but instead comforted, his very perception of the world warped by loss. Yes, he may be haunted by a disembodied head, but grief and its impact are the real monsters here.

Daddy's Head was reviewed out of its world premiere at Fantastic Fest. It premieres Oct. 11 on Shudder.

TL;DR: For $39.99, get lifetime access to this CompTIA prep bundle and boost your IT career with courses in security, networking, and cloud computing.

If you’ve been thinking about leveling up your IT skills or diving into new fields like cybersecurity, networking, or cloud computing, this $40 CompTIA online learning package has you covered. With lifetime access to this training package, you can work at your own pace to master the essential skills needed for the most in-demand IT roles.

Start with IT Fundamentals, where you’ll learn the basics of computing, including hardware, software, and operating systems — perfect for building a strong foundation. From there, dive into specialized areas like networking and server administration, where you'll learn how to manage network infrastructures, configure servers, and troubleshoot systems like a pro. Whether you're just starting out or looking to boost your skills, you'll have a solid base to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ certification exam.

Cloud computing continues to transform the way businesses operate. With the CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ course, you'll gain expertise in cloud infrastructure and learn how to design, implement, and manage cloud solutions for modern businesses. This training will help you become a certified Cloud Engineer, one of the most in-demand roles in tech today.

Not to be overlooked, the bundle also includes data analysis training, helping you turn raw data into actionable insights — a key skill for any Data Analyst or business professional. You’ll dive into database structures, learn how to clean and manipulate datasets, and create reports to support better decision-making.

Immerse yourself into the world of IT fundamentals, networking, security, and more with these CompTIA certification prep courses — on sale for $39.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Oak Academy The 2024 All-in-One CompTIA Certification Prep Courses Bundle $39.99
$299.90 Save $259.91 Get Deal

TL;DR: Grab Microsoft Office 2021 for Mac for a one-time payment of $69.97 (reg. $219) and say goodbye to subscriptions.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021: Lifetime License $69.97
$219.99 Save $150.02 Get Deal

Tired of paying for office software subscriptions? With Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021, you get a lifetime license on sale for $69.97, giving you access to all the essential productivity tools you need — without monthly fees.

This suite includes Word, perfect for creating documents, reports, and polished writing projects. Excel helps you manage data and finances with powerful spreadsheets, and PowerPoint makes building professional presentations a breeze. For business users, Outlook is included to streamline your emails, calendars, and contacts in one easy-to-use app.

The software is optimized for macOS and works with Apple’s Retina displays, so everything looks as crisp and clear as you’d expect. Plus, it's a one-time purchase — no subscriptions, no renewals, just lifetime access to the Microsoft programs you know and trust.

Whether you’re managing a small business, working remotely, or just need reliable software for personal projects, this lifetime license is an unbeatable deal.

Get a lifetime license to Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021 today for $69.97 and never worry about subscriptions again.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: VideoProc's family license for Windows, available for $35.99, gives you pro-level video editing tools to make even your phone footage look Hollywood-worthy.

We’ve all got a collection of shaky, underwhelming phone videos sitting on our devices. But why settle for mediocre footage when VideoProc for Windows can give your videos the Hollywood treatment? You don’t need a fancy camera or pricey software to make your content shine — just VideoProc’s easy-to-use converting and editing tools on up to five devices for $35.99 (reg. $119).

VideoProc helps you elevate even the most basic footage with help from AI tools, offering features like stabilization for shaky shots and enhanced color correction to make your clips pop. From home movies to travel vlogs, you can take control of every detail. With VideoProc, you can cut, crop, merge, and transform your videos with just a few clicks.

It’s designed to be super user-friendly, so even if you’re not a pro, you can still create polished, professional-looking content. And if you're dealing with 4K or large file sizes, VideoProc handles it all with ease, so you can edit without worrying about your computer slowing down.

Plus, with the lifetime family license, you get access to all the features forever, no subscription fees attached. That means you can edit as many videos as you want, whenever you want, on up to five devices. Whether you’re a social media creator or just looking to upgrade your family videos, VideoProc has everything you need to take your content to the next level.

Get a pro-level editing suite that ensures even your phone footage looks red-carpet ready — a VideoProc Converter AI lifetime family license is on sale for $35.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Digiarty Software VideoProc Converter AI: Lifetime Family License (For Windows) $35.99
$119.90 Save $83.91 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get this 5-in-1 Multi-Device Power Pack for $54.99 (reg. $119.99) and keep all your gadgets charged simultaneously, anywhere you go.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shenzhen Centralspot Innovation 5-in-1 Multi-Device 10,000mAh Power Pack $54.99
$119.99 Save $65.00 Get Deal

It's a familiar scene: you're on the run, you're about to run out of power, and you have no options. Never face a blackout again with a 5-in-1 charging power pack on sale for 54% off.

For a limited time, score the 5-in-1 Multi-Device 10,000mAh Power Pack on sale for $54.99 and keep your devices charged anytime, anywhere.

What you get with the 5-in-1 Power Pack:

• Charges up to five devices simultaneously, including phones, tablets, and laptops

• USB-C and USB-A compatibility so you can charge a wide range of devices

• Wireless charging for compatible smartphones and accessories

• 10,000mAh high-capacity battery ensures long-lasting power, letting you charge multiple devices without frequent recharges

• Lightweight and portable design that’s perfect for travel, work, or home use

• Equipped with fast-charging technology for quicker power-ups on all your devices

Get the 5-in-1 Multi-Device 10,000mAh Power Pack on sale for $54.99 and stay juiced.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $180: As of Oct. 9, the Beats Studio Pro headphones are on sale for $169.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 51% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Pro $169.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $180.00 Get Deal

We're 24 hours into Amazon's October Prime Day but there's still plenty of time for you to grab a great deal. Everything from tech to home goods are seeing huge discounts, so keep your eye out for a bargain. We've been watching the sales closely, and one of the best deals we've seen so far is on Beats Studio Pro headphones.

A truly well-known name when it comes to high-audio quality, these headphones offer premium sound quality with noise cancellation and spatial audio support. The battery life can last up to 40 hours and it has ideal connectivity with both Android and Apple devices. If you're going to listen to your favorite tunes, you might as well listen to them in great quality, right?

As of Oct. 9, 2024, you can score a huge discount on these Beats headphones at Amazon. Down from £349.99, enjoy a 51% saving and pick them up for just £169.99. There's a range of deals across all colorways, but for this low price, browse the black, sandstone, navy, and deep brown models.

Shop more headphones deals

• Amazon headphones deals

• Best Buy headphones deals

• Walmart headphones deals

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 October 9 SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to Daily Mini Crossword for Wednesday, October 9, 2024:

AcrossDocument type definition

• The answer is DTD.

Suborder for swans, ducks, and geese

• The answer is Anseres.

Home of the Jets and Giants

• The answer is MetLife.

Caffeine Dispenser

• The answer is Barista.

More upright

• The answer is Erecter.

Grids of pixels on an electronic display

• The answer is Rasters.

General ___'s Chicken

• The answer is Tso.

It's October Prime Day: Here's the latest news on the deals
More on Prime Day: Here are all the best deals to shop so far

DownIn flagrante _______

• The answer is Delicto.

Sibelius's "Valse ______"

• The answer is Triste.

More dextrous

• The answer is Defter.

Natural resin

• The answer is Amber.

______ at hand (close by)

• The answer is NearAt.

Anxiety inducer

• The answer is Stress.

Department store chain

• The answer is Sears.

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 Games

Are 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.

Best KitchenAid deals from October Prime Day Best stand mixer deal KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer $349.95 at Amazon (save $110.04) Get Deal Best stand mixer attachment deal KitchenAid Stand Mixer Pasta Roller and Cutter Attachment $134.99 at Amazon (save $15) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is in full swing, and we've been covering all the best deals you can get across various categories. This time, we're looking at the iconic kitchen brand, KitchenAid, as they've showed up to October Prime Day in a big way. We've already found a few great offers on their popular stand mixers, as well as their attachments and a few other miscellaneous items.

Check out our favorite KitchenAid deals below and give your kitchen a serious glow-up.

SEE ALSO: A list of 25+ Ninja kitchen gadgets on sale for October Prime Day Best stand mixer deal Opens in a new window Credit: KitchenAid KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer $349.95 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $110.04 Get Deal Why we like it

Need we even tell you why KitchenAid stand mixers are great? Probably not. If you're looking to pick up one of the iconic kitchen mainstays during the Prime Big Deal Days sale, the Artisan Series 5-Quart version is up for $110.04 off the usual price. There's no better time to buy one than right now (except for maybe Black Friday).

More stand mixer deals

• KitchenAid Artisan Mini 3.5-Quart Stand Mixer — $249.99 $379.99 (save $130)

• KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5-Quart Stand Mixer — $279.99 $329.99 (save $50)

• KitchenAid 7-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer — $529.95 $599.99 (save $70.04)

Best stand mixer attachment deal Opens in a new window Credit: KitchenAid KitchenAid Stand Mixer Pasta Roller and Cutter Attachment $134.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Once you get your stand mixer, the journey isn't quite over yet. Now, you can have fun picking out all the fun attachments you want to add to the mix. This pasta roller and cutter attachment makes crafting homemade pasta way easier, and it's a nice $15 off during October Prime Day. Warning: Once you make pasta from scratch, boxed pasta will never hit the same way again. Bon appétit!

More stand mixer attachment deals

• KitchenAid Flex Edge Beater Attachment — $24.88 $39.99 (save $15.11)

• KitchenAid Shave Ice Attachment — $64.99 $99.99 (save $35)

• KitchenAid Fruit and Vegetable Spiralizer Attachment — $66.49 $129.99 (save $63.50)

• KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment — $69.99 $99.99 (save $30)

• KitchenAid Food Grinder Attachment — $74.95 $99.99 (save $25.04)

• KitchenAid Sifter and Scale Attachment — $99.96 $169.99 (save $70.03)

• KitchenAid Grain Mill Attachment — $114.96 $149.99 (save $35.03)

• KitchenAid Food Processor Attachment — $151.99 $249.99 (save $98)

More KitchenAid deals from October Prime Day

Small appliances

• KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer — $44.95 $59.99 (save $15.04)

• KitchenAid 3.5-Cup Food Chopper — $49.99 $59.99 (save $10)

• KitchenAid Variable Speed Corded Hand Blender — $49.99 $59.99 (save $10)

• KitchenAid 6 Speed Hand Mixer with Flex Edge Beaters — $59.95 $79.99 (save $20.04)

• KitchenAid 1.25-Liter Electric Kettle — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)

• KitchenAid Go Cordless Kitchen Vacuum — $84.99 $129.99 (save $45)

• KitchenAid 9-Speed Digital Hand Mixer with Turbo Beater — $89.99 $109.99 (save $20)

• KitchenAid Go Cordless Hand Blender — $94.99 $129.99 (save $35)

• KitchenAid Go Cordless Hand Mixer — $99.95 $129.99 (save $30.04)

• KitchenAid Burr Coffee Grinder — $139.95 $179.99 (save $40.04)

• KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor — $149.95 $199.99 (save $50.04)

• KitchenAid Grain and Rice Cooker — $219.99 $299.99 (save $80)

Misc.

• KitchenAid Classic Solid Turner — $5.99 $9.99 (save $4)

• KitchenAid Gourmet Multi-Sided Meat Tenderizer — $8.06 $21.99 (save $13.93)

• KitchenAid Nonstick Aluminized Steel Baking Sheet — $8.99 $13.83 (save $4.84)

• KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener — $9.58 $14.99 (save $5.41)

• KitchenAid Gourmet Stainless Steel Wire Masher — $9.96 $17.99 (save $8.03)

• KitchenAid Expandable Stainless Steel Colander — $21.35 $37.99 (save $16.64)

• KitchenAid Classic Tool and Gadget Set, 15-Pieces — $26.49 $59.99 (save $33.50)

• KitchenAid Gourmet Forged Triple Rivet Knife Block Set — $62.70 $119.99 (save $57.29)

• KitchenAid Hard Anodized Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Pots and Pans Set, 9 Pieces — $186.99 $219.99 (save $33)

A quick look at the best Ninja deals during Prime Big Deal Days Best air fryer deal Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 XL Pro Countertop Convection Oven $219.99 at Amazon (save $80) Get Deal Best coffee maker deal Ninja Dual Brew Pro Hot and Iced Single Drip Coffee Maker $149.99 at Amazon (save $90) Get Deal Best dessert maker deal Ninja Creami Deluxe Ice Cream Maker $159.99 at Amazon (save $40) Get Deal

LIVE BLOG: Get the latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Foodi, Creami, Thirsti, you name it — if there's a Ninja appliance that you've been thinking about splurging on, it's probably on sale for Prime Big Deal Days.

After a stellar showing during Prime Day in July, Ninja's section of our October Prime Day kitchen deals list is, once again, huge. Whether you're looking to ditch a few old appliances and consolidate with a multitasking air fry grill and oven, need to replace your nonstick pans that aren't so nonstick anymore, or just need to know if the hype around the Ninja Creami is legit, you can save up to 50% on a new Ninja gadget on Oct. 8 and 9.

SEE ALSO: Testing the Ninja Slushi by making a frozen version of every drink I can think of

Weirdly enough, the only Ninja category not getting a ton of traction for Prime Big Deal days are its Foodi pressure cookers — guess they're letting Instant Pot have this one.

We're keeping a running list of the best October Prime Day Ninja deals below, updating as soon as any new deals drop. Note: All newly added deals are marked with a ✨, while deals with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price. Deals with a strikeout were either sold out or expired at the time of writing.

Best October Prime Day kitchen deals Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 XL Pro Countertop Convection Oven $219.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal Why we like it

One of the juicier discounts we found on any Ninja Foodi so far during Prime Big Deal days was a 43% slash on the 8-in-1 XL air frying oven. It has since sold out, but the 10-in-1 Foodi is also at a decent discount with $80 off. The 10-in-1 oven has buttons for air fry, air roast, bake, whole roast, broil, toast, bagel, dehydrate, reheat, and pizza, and it can do two of those at once. The two-shelf design is seriously spacious, fitting two 12-inch pizzas, a tray of veggies and a five-pound chicken, or a full 12-pound turkey if you remove the shelf.

More Ninja kitchen deals

Pressure cookers, air fryers, and other countertop cookers

• Ninja Foodi 2-in-1 Flip Toaster (ST101) — $89.99 $129.99 (save $40)

• Ninja Air Fryer Pro (AF101) — $79.94 $129.99 (save $50.05)

• Ninja Air Fryer Pro (AF141) — $89.99 $119.99 (save $30) 🔥

• Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 Dual Zone Air Fryer (DZ071) — $99.99 $179.99 (save $70)

• Ninja Sizzle Smokeless Indoor and Outdoor Grill — $99.99 $139.99 (save $40)

• Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven (SP101) — $143.95 $219.99 (save $75.95)

• Ninja Foodi 2-Basket Air Fryer with Dual Zone (DZ201) — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)

• Ninja Foodi 6-in-1 XL Indoor Grill with Air Fry (DG551) — $169.95 $279.99 (save $110.04)

• Ninja Foodi 13-in-1 Dual Heat Countertop Convection Oven (SP351) — $179.99 $329.99 (save $150)

• Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Pizza Oven — $299.95 $399.99 (save $100.05) 🔥

• Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill and Smoker — $299.99 $399.99 (save $100) 🔥

Coffee makers, blenders, and more drink makers

• Ninja Programmable XL Coffee Maker Pro — $69.99 $99.99 (save $30)

• Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker — $99.99 $169.99 (save $70)

• Ninja Mega Kitchen System — $119.99 $199.99 (save $80)

• Ninja Hot and Iced XL Coffee Maker — $119.99 $149.99 (save $30)

• Ninja Thirsti Soda and Sparkling Water Maker — $99.99 $179.99 (save $70) 🔥

• Ninja Dual Brew Pro Hot and Iced Single Drip Coffee Maker — $149.99 $239.99 (save $90) 🔥

• Ninja Foodi Blender and Food Processor — $179.99 $239.99 (save $60)

• Ninja Creami Deluxe Ice Cream Maker — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)

• Ninja Espresso and Coffee Barista System (CFN601) — $189.99 $249.99 (save $60)

Cookware, cooking irons, and accessories

• Ninja Foodi NeverStick 10.25-inch Frypan — $39.99 $49.99 (save $10)

• Ninja Foodi Power Mixer System with immersion blender and hand mixer — $69.99 $99.99 (save $30)

• Ninja Foodi NeverStick 4-quart Possible Pan — $99.99 $129.99 (save $30)

• Ninja Knife Block Set with sharpener (14-piece) — $229.99 $299.99 (save $70)

• Ninja Foodi NeverStick 12-piece Cookware Set — $269.99 $399.99 (save $130)

October Prime Day Dyson deals: Best vacuum deal Dyson V8 Plus cordless vacuum $419 at Amazon (save $50.99) Get Deal Best air treatment deal Dyson Hot+Cool (AM09) $299.23 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $170.76) Get Deal Best hair care deal Dyson Airwrap $499.99 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $100 ) Get Deal

LIVE BLOG: Get the latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Prime Day is the time to score a deal on a vacuum or other high-ticket item, and this October, Amazon’s offering exclusive discounts on Dyson products, including the cult-fave Dyson Airwrap.

SEE ALSO: I tested the best Dyson Airwrap dupes under $300: The Shark FlexStyle is no longer your only option

Here’s all the info you need to know about the Dyson deals happening during the October Prime Day event, including how to get $100 off the Airwrap and where to find the best prices on Dyson vacuums, fans, and more.

Best vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Our pick: Dyson V8 Plus cordless vacuum $299.99 at Amazon
$469.99 Save $170.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Dyson V8 Plus cordless vacuum (silver/nickel) is lightweight and powerful and can handle most daily cleaning tasks. It has a detachable wand for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas, and it converts to a handheld vac for quick cleanups. It comes with four accessories, including a hair screw tool for pet hair.

With a runtime of up to 40 minutes on a single charge, this little vac is ideal for small apartments and quick cleanups.

You can get it at Amazon for a whopping 299.99 in a Big Prime Deal (originally $469.99). It’s out of stock at Dyson.

More Dyson vacuum deals

• Dyson V8 Absolute cordless vacuum — $299.99 $519.99 (save $220)

• Dyson Ball Animal 2 Total Clean upright vacuum — $469.99 $599.99 (save $130)

• Dyson Outsize Origin cordless vacuum — $540 $599.99 (save $59.99)

• Dyson V15 Detect Absolute cordless vacuum — $579.99 $749.99 (save $170)

• Dyson V15 Detect Plus cordless vacuum — $699.99 $749.99 (save $50)

Best air treatment deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Our pick: Dyson Hot+Cool (AM09) $299.23 at Amazon
$469.99 Save $170.76 Get Deal Why we like it

The Dyson Hot+Cool (AM09) is a heater and a fan, so you can use it year-round. Its Jet Focus tech gives you both a diffused airflow for evenly distributed heating or cooling and a concentrated stream of air for targeted cooling. It also has a sleep timer and oscillation for even air distribution.

Prime members can buy it at Amazon for $299.23 (regularly $469.99), or if you’re not interested in signing up for Prime, you can get it at Dyson for $299.99.

More Dyson air treatment deals

• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Gen1 (HP10) — $429.99 $609.99 (save $180)

• Dyson Purifier Cool (TP4B) — $439.99 $549.99 (save $110)

Best hair care deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Our pick: Dyson airwrap $499.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Dyson Airwrap is $100 off for Prime members, bringing it to $499.99. (It's not on sale at Dyson.) That’s still a lot of money to pay for a hair styler, but it’s a cult-fave for a reason. It’s designed to dry and style hair without super-high heat, so it's healthier for your hair and cuts down on styling time. You’ll also get a fancy storage case and multiple styling attachments.

Mashable’s shopping reporter, Bethany Allard, says it best: “If you have the cash to spare, heat style regularly, and don't mind that your curls won't be locked in all day, the Dyson Airwrap is worth the investment.”

More Dyson hair care deals

• Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer — $329.99 $429.99 (save $100)

• Dyson Airstrait Straightener — $449.99 $599.99 (save $150)

October Prime Day luggage deals: Best overall Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX hardside expandable luggage set $208.34 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $280.66) Get Deal Best carry-on deal Travelpro Maxlite 5 softside expandable carry-on $108.79 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $61.20) Get Deal Best budget pick Amazon Basics expandable hardside luggage (30-inch) $68.89 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $41.10) Get Deal

Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean the travel season has to end. And now that Prime Day fall edition is finally here, you can get your hands on discounted luggage that’ll last you a lifetime (depending on the brand and how you treat it, of course).

SEE ALSO: Live Blog: The latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Whether you’re in need of a small carry-on for business trips, a roomy checked bag for your next family vacation, or something in between, Amazon’s got hundreds of options from top brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, Travelpro, and more with price cuts that’ll likely disappear once the big event wraps up.

From hardside to softside spinner sets, durable backpacks, and even kids' luggage, we've done the hard work of rounding up some of the best October Prime Day luggage deals.

Here are our top picks:

Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Samsonite Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX hardside expandable luggage set $208.34 at Amazon
$489.00 Save $280.66 Get Deal Why we like it

The Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX hardside expandable luggage set is one of the best deals we've seen during Prime Day. This durable two-piece set was originally priced at $489, but you can snag it for just $208.34 right now — that's over 50% off. But you have to be a Prime member to get this deal.

The set comes with one 20-inch carry-on and one 24-inch checked bag, both with expandable hardside shells, multi-directional spinner wheels, and a built-in TSA-approved lock. This set also includes a 10-year warranty, so you can literally use it for years to come.

More October Prime Day luggage deals

• Adidas Defender 4 large duffle bag — $33.75 $55 (save $21.25)

• American Tourister Disney hardside carry-on luggage — $89.99 $199.99 (save $110)

• Travelpro Maxlite Air hardside expandable carry-on luggage — $112.19 $169.99 (save $57.80)

• Samsonite Evolve Se hardside expandable two-piece luggage set — $182.96 $289 (save $106.04)

• American Tourister 4 KIX 2.0 softside expandable three-piece luggage set — $209.76 $349.97 (save $140.21)

• American Tourister Stratum 2.0 hardside expandable three-piece luggage set — $221.75 $349.97 (save $128.22)

Best Prime Big Deal Days Xbox deals Best console deal Xbox Series S (512GB) $284.99 at Amazon (save $15) Get Deal Best accessory deal Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller $140 at Amazon (save $39.99) Get Deal Best bundle deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Astral Purple Core controller + 1-month Game Pass Ultimate bundle $79.99 at Amazon (save $61.98) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is finally here, and it's brought with it a bevy of worthwhile gaming deals that you should definitely check out. Xbox fans are particularly lucky when it comes to discounts during the October Prime Day event — we've already found some pretty sweet offers on consoles, accessories, and individual games, and we expect to find more as the sale continues.

SEE ALSO: These are the best October Prime Day deals that cost under $50

Below, find our top Xbox deals from Prime Big Deal Days so far. (If you're looking for an Xbox Series X discount, we couldn't find any at Amazon, but Best Buy has them in stock for $50 off.)

Best console deal Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Xbox Series S (512GB) $284.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

This isn't the best Xbox Series S deal we've ever seen, but it's something! The Xbox Series S is one of the best consoles you can get on a budget — just $284.99 during Prime Big Deal Days, which saves you $15. It's not as powerful as its Series X counterpart, but it's close, and if you also pick up an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, we're certain that you'll be happy with the overall package.

Best accessory deal Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller $140.00
$179.99 Save $39.99 Get Deal Why we like it

There's nothing wrong with the Core controller that comes with your Xbox console, but if you're looking to upgrade, there's no better option than Xbox's Elite line. The Elite Series 2 Core controller comes with a more premium-feeling build-quality, adjustable thumbsticks, a rubberized grip, hair trigger locks, back paddles, and more great customization options. During October Prime Day, you can get one for $140, saving you $39.99.

Best bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox / Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Astral Purple Core controller + 1-month Game Pass Ultimate bundle $79.99
$141.97 Save $61.98 Get Deal Why we like it

This is easily the best gaming bundle we've found during Prime Big Deal Days so far. It comes with an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (which includes the Xbox streaming app), an Xbox Wireless Core controller, and a 1-month membership to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. That's a $141.97 value for just $79.99. If you're into streaming games, this deal is a no-brainer — pick it up and save $61.98.

More October Prime Day Xbox deals

Games:

• Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon — $39.99 $46 (save $6.01)

• Assassin's Creed Mirage — $22.99 $49.99 (save $27)

• EA Sports College Football 25 — $42.99 $69.99 (save $27)

• Elden Ring — $50.40 $59.95 (save $9.55)

• Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth — $47.09 $69.99 (save $22.90)

• Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol.1 — $35.30 $39.99 (save $4.69)

• Madden NFL 25 — $42.99 $69.99 (save $27)

• Minecraft (with 3500 Minecoins) — $23.72 $29.99 (save $6.27)

• Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown — $19.99 $49.99 (save $30)

• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge — $19.93 $34.99 (save $15.06)

• WWE 2K24 — $28.24 $34.99 (save $6.75)

Accessories:

• Razer Universal Quick Charging — $19.99 $39.99 (save $20)

• 8Bitdo M30 Wired Controller — $29.69 $34.99 (save $5.30)

• Xbox Core Wireless Controller — $43.93 $59.99 (save $16.06)

• Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Wired Controller — $66.99 $149.99 (save $83)

• HyperX CloudX Stinger Core Gaming Headset — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)

• SteelSeries Arctis 7X+ Gaming Headset — $99.99 $149.99 (save $50)

• Asus ROG Raikiri Pro Controller — $109.99 $149.99 (save $40)

• Seagate Storage Expansion Card (1TB) — $129.99 $159.99 (save $30)

• HORI Fighting Stick for Xbox Series X|S — $158.99 $199.99 (save $41)

• SCUF Instinct Pro Controller — $194.99 $229.99 (save $35)

• SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Gaming Headset — $218.31 $249.99 (save $31.68)

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A home for many kinds of tropical fish.

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for October 9 Hurdle Word 1 answer

CORAL

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Lifts up a helicopter.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer hints for October 9 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

ROTOR

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A negative kind of responsibility.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for October 9 Hurdle Word 3 answer

BLAME

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Expressing dry humor.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for October 9 Hurdle Word 4 answer

WRYLY

Final Hurdle hint

A floppy-eared dog.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

HOUND

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

October Prime Day board game deals: Best overall Catan $29.99 at Amazon (save $30 ) Get Deal Best runner-up Ticket to Ride $29.99 at Amazon (save $25) Get Deal Best board game for kids Candy Land Kingdom of Sweet Adventures $9.99 at Amazon (sav e $2) Get Deal

Today’s the day: October Prime Day is finally here, and Amazon’s gifting us with hundreds of deals on all sorts of products, from TVs and soundbars to gaming consoles and more. But tech isn’t the only thing getting discounted — we’re also seeing some major deals on top-rated board games.

SEE ALSO: The PlayStation 5 Slim is down to its lowest-ever price on October Prime Day

Whether you’re seriously into board games, want to bulk up your collection, or make family game night a regular thing, October Prime Day is one way to do it on the cheap. From classics like Catan and Monopoly to adult party games like Tipsyland, here are the best October Prime Day board game deals we could find:

Best board game deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Catan Catan $29.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Catan is a classic strategy game that’s perfect for families and game nights. And, at 50% off — down to just $29.99 — it's a steal. (You can get the five-to-six-player extension for $24.49). In this game, you’ll need to collect resources, settle the land, and trade with other players to build the biggest settlements. If you like any of the digital empire-building games, Catan is a great tabletop version that requires tight strategy, some luck, and a good dose of diplomacy to win.

More board game deals

• Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures — $9.99 $11.99 (save $2)

• Guess Who? — $12.99 $17.99 (save $5)

• Azul — $17.09 $39.99 (save $22.90)

• Splendor — $22.49 $39.99 (save $17.50)

• Monopoly Ultimate Banking Edition — $23.49 $37.99 (save $4.50)

• Ticket to Ride — $29.99 $54.99 (save $25)

• the Uzzle — $39.99 $70.99 (save $31)

Best Smartphone Deals Best iPhone deal Apple iPhone 16 with Boost Mobile (128GB, locked) ✨🔥 $0.01 at Amazon (Save $829.98) Get Deal Best Motorola deal Motorola Razr (128GB, unlocked) ✨🔥 $349.99 at Amazon (Save $350) Get Deal Best Google deal Google Pixel 8 (128GB, unlocked)✨🔥 $402.80 at Amazon (Save $296.20) Get Deal Best Samsung Deal Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (256GB, unlocked) ✨🔥 $1,399.99 at Amazon (Save $500) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is here. Running through October 9, the next 48 hours bring a bounty of savings. We're tracking all the deals on brands like Apple, and products including tablets and headphones. There are also some seriously good deals on smartphones.

Whether you use iOS or Android devices, there is a smartphone deal here for everyone. You can find savings on Apple, Samsung, Google, and Motorola. That includes the update Motorola Razr if you're feeling nostalgic for your old pink Motorola Razr flip phone. And these prices are seriously good: all of these smartphones are down to their lowest prices over.

We did the hunting so you don't have to. Here are the best smartphone deals to shop during the October Prime Day event.

Note: All newly added deals are marked with a ✨, while deals with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price. Deals with a strikeout were either sold out or expired at the time of writing.

Best smartphone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 16 (128GB, locked) ✨🔥 $0.01 at Amazon
$829.99 Save $829.98 With signup for a 36-month Boost Mobile plan Get Deal Why we like it

You're probably looking at that single cent price for the iPhone 16 and thinking that can't possibly be true. But Boost Mobile really is offering this incredible deal on a new iPhone — with all the new features including Apple Intelligence, the A18 chip, and new camera controls — during October Prime Day.

There are some stipulations, of course. With this deal, you get the iPhone 16 for just $0.01 (plus the taxes on it's $829.99 retail price) when you sign up for a 36-month Boost Mobile plan. These plans start at $65 per month and include unlimited talk, text, and data. Plus, you can upgrade to a new iPhone every year. These are stellar savings if you're ready to jump over to Boost Mobile.

More smartphone deals

iPhone

• Apple iPhone 16 Plus with Boost Mobile (128GB, Locked) — $0.01 $929.99 (save $929.98) ✨🔥

• Apple iPhone 16 Pro with Boost Mobile (128GB, Locked) — $0.01 $999.99 (save $999.98) ✨🔥

• Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max with Boost Mobile (256GB, Locked) — $0.01 $1,199.99 (save $1,199.98) ✨🔥

Motorola

• Motorola Razr (128GB, Unlocked) — $349.99 $699.99 (save $350) ✨🔥

• Motorola Razr+ (256GB, Unlocked) — $549.99 $999.99 (save $450) ✨🔥

Google

• Google Pixel 8 (128GB, Unlocked) — $402.80 $699 (save $296.20) ✨🔥

Samsung

• Samsung Galaxy A35 (128GB, Unlocked) — $298.28 $399.99 (save $101.71) ✨🔥

• Samsung Galaxy S24 (128GB, Unlocked) — $599.99 $799.99 (save $200) ✨🔥

• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 (512GB, Unlocked) — $913.05 $1,219.99 (save $306.94) ✨🔥

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (256GB, Unlocked) — $1,399.99 $1,899.99 (save $500) ✨🔥

Best 3D printer deals on Prime Big Deal Days Best overall AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer $199.99 at Amazon (Save $100) Get Deal Best multi-color deal Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D Printer $199 at Bambu (Save $100) Get Deal Best for large objects Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus $349.99 at Amazon (Save $70) Get Deal

Not that long ago, a 3D printing hobby wasn't really possible unless you had serious cash to burn. These days, while buying a 3D printer isn't super cheap, there are definitely some affordable options out there, which only become more so during sales like Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days.

None of the below deals from brands like AnkerMake, Sovol, and Anycubic are officially tied to Big Deal Days, but some of them are limited to Prime members only. These printers are also all from third-party sellers, with the Bambu deal coming straight from the brand's website.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's early Prime Day laptop deals are finally ramping up: Shop record lows on Apple, LG, and Acer

While we typically only recommend products shipped and sold by Amazon, we found that 3D printers are mainly sold by third-party sellers. We still vetted the seller pages and brands, but as always, we recommend shopping at your own risk with third-party — if something feels way too good to be true, it probably is.

With all that said, here are the best 3D printer deals ahead of October Prime Day's official start on Oct. 8.

Best 3D printer deal Opens in a new window Credit: AnkerMake AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer $199.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) deemed the AnkerMate M5C the best budget option for folks looking to get a 3D printer. They were fans of how easy the printer was to use, and how quickly it worked without sacrificing quality. It comes without higher end features like real-time video monitoring or an on-device display, but as Senior Analyst Tony Hoffman writes "it has a generous print area for its price, and the prints we produced were of high quality, even with the default settings in the slicer software." In other words, it's a great buy even at full price, so shaving $100 off the price makes it an even better value 3D printer.

More 3D printer deals

• Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo — $159.99 $219.99 (save $60)

• Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D Printer — $199 $299 (save $100)

• Sovol SV06 — $209 $239 (save $30 with on-page coupon)

• Anycubic 3D Printer Kobra 2 Pro — $209.99 $428.99 (save $219 with on-page coupon)

• Flashforge Adventurer 5M — $298.99 $399 (save $100.01)

• Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus — $349.99 $419.99 (save $70)

• Anycubic Kobra 2 Max — $429.99 $579.99 (save $150)

PROMOTED Canon Pixma Wireless Printer $199.00 at Amazon
Shop Now Rollo Wireless Printer X1040 $279.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Canon imageClass D570 $129.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $50.00 Shop Now

Products available for purchase here through affiliate links are selected by our merchandising team. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission or other compensation.

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

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

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

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

October Prime Day: Here's the latest news on the deals
More Prime Day: Here are the best deals to shop so far

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

AcrossSynonym for "close"

• The answer is Shut.

Actor's workshop assignment

• The answer is Scene.

Civic maker

• The answer is Honda.

___ sanctum (private chamber)

• The answer is Inner.

Synonym for "close"

• The answer is Near.

Prime Day deals you can shop right now

• Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $168.99 (List Price $249.00)

• Apple iPad 10.2" 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet (2021 Release) — $199.00 (List Price $329.00)

• TP-Link Tapo C120 2K QHD Security Camera — $24.99 (List Price $39.99)

• 65" Hisense U6 Series 4K Mini-LED ULED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $597.99 (List Price $799.99)

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Black) — $229.00 (List Price $299.00)

• Geekom A8 Ryzen 9 2TB SSD 32GB RAM Mini Desktop — $721.00 (List Price $849.00)

• Asus ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6" 1080p Portable USB-C IPS Monitor — $164.00 (List Price $229.00)

DownPastry often served with tea

• The answer is Scone.

Temporary reddish dye

• The answer is Henna.

Far from over?

• The answer is Under.

Droplet of sorrow

• The answer is Tear.

Vulnerable body part in soccer

• The answer is Shin.

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 Games

Are 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.

We love a good sale, and Amazon offers up some of the best. Amazon kicks off Prime Big Deal Days on Oct. 8, a two-day event that'll offer discounts on Amazon devices, kitchen equipment, tablets, Apple products, robot vacuums, and plenty more.

But if you're aiming to keep your spending as low as possible, Amazon also has some free offers in store during the October Prime Day event. Here are some awesome free deals you can score already.

Prime Day deals that cost $0 Best free reading deal 3-month subscription to Kindle Unlimited $0 at Amazon (save $35.97) Get Deal Best free music deal 4-month subscription to Amazon Music Unlimited $0 at Amazon for Prime members (save $39.96) Get Deal Best free audiobook deal 30-day trial of Audible Premium Plus $0 at Amazon (save $14.95) Get Deal

Free is everyone's favorite price. If you're wondering how you'll pass the time this fall and winter, Amazon has some free entertainment offers in store during October Prime Day including audiobooks, music streaming, and Kindle books. Here's how to score these free deals.

Best free reading deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: 3-month subscription to Kindle Unlimited at Amazon
Get Deal Why we like it

Free access to Kindle books is truly one of life's greatest hacks. If you're new to Kindle Unlimited, sign up today to get three months of free access to millions of Kindle books, saving a total of $35.97 over the three-month period.

Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program includes over 4 million Kindle titles, including some bestsellers and popular series. Not only does the plan include unlimited reading, you also get access to thousands of audiobooks and the pleasure of browsing magazines.

If you don't already have a Kindle, check out the Mashable guide to the best Kindles to help you decide which model will suit you best.

Best free music deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: 4-month subscription to Amazon Music Unlimited at Amazon
Prime member exclusive Get Deal Why we like it

Music with no ads? It doesn't get any better. Amazon typically offers new subscribers a free one-month trail of the ad-free Amazon Music Unlimited, but as a treat during October Prime Day, you can sign up for four months of free access. However, this deal is limited to Prime members only, so you'll want to be signed up and logged in to grab this deal.

Amazon Music Unlimited comes with total control of what music you stream and when, all with no ads. You'll get unlimited access to listening while offline or skipping songs. The subscription also includes access to ad-free podcasts.

Best free audiobook deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: 30-day trial of Audible Premium Plus at Amazon
Get Deal Why we like it

Audiobooks can really save the day. Whether you're stuck sitting in traffic, out walking the dog, or recovering from a cold, tuning into an audiobook can be the perfect way to relax and tune into something other than your own life. During October Prime Day, Amazon is offering a free 30-day trial to Audible Premium Plus, which typically costs $14.95 per month. The trial means you'll have free access to the Audible Plus catalog of audiobook and podcasts, some of which are exclusive to the service. The free trial of Premium Plus also comes with credit to purchase one title from the Audible premium selection.

A glance at the best Prime Big Deal Days gaming laptop deals Best gaming laptop deal under $1,000 Acer Nitro 16 (AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $799.99 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal Best premium gaming laptop deal Acer Predator Triton Neo 16 (Intel Core Ultra 9 185H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,499.99 at Amazon 🔥 (save $400) Get Deal

LIVE BLOG: Get the latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Best Buy is typically a much bigger threat than Amazon when it comes to laptop deals, including gaming ones. But during any Prime event, like Prime Big Deal Days (happening Oct. 8 and 9), there are definitely a few solid options to choose from. These include several Acer Nitro models and our favorite overall gaming laptop, the Alienware M16 R2, down to a new record-low price according to Amazon price history tracker Camelcamelcamel.

SEE ALSO: 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' review in progress: The 'Final Fantasy XV' I've always wanted

We'll be tracking the best gaming laptop deals at Amazon throughout the end of October Prime Day, though we'd definitely recommend taking a peek at Best Buy's conveniently-timed 48-hour Flash Sale before making your final move on your gaming laptop purchase.

Note: All newly added deals are marked with a ✨, while deals with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price. Deals with a strikeout were either sold out or expired at the time of writing.

Best October Prime Day gaming laptop deal Our pick: Acer Nitro 16 (AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $799.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"The Nitro 16 is a big-screened budget gaming laptop that's equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS CPU from early 2023, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics, a flashy RGB backlit keyboard, and a 165Hz display. Its measly 8GB of memory is a drawback, but that's totally workable if you only plan on playing lower-end games like Fortnite and Minecraft. (Otherwise, you can put your savings towards a memory upgrade.)" — Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter

More gaming laptops on sale

• Acer Chromebook 516 Cloud Gaming Laptop (Intel Core i5-12450H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $509.99 $599.99 (save $90) 🔥

• HP Victus 15.6-inch Gaming Laptop (Intel Core i5-12450H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $579.99 $699.99 (save $120)

• Asus TUF Gaming A15 (AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $599 $699.99 (save $100.99)

• Acer Nitro V (AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $649.99 $844.99 (save $195) 🔥

• Acer Nitro 16 (AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $799.99 $999.99 (save $200)

• Asus ROG Strix G17 (AMD Ryzen 7 6800H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $949.99 $1,199.99 (save $250)

• Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 (Intel Core i7-13650HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $949.99 $1,149.99 (save $200)

• Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core i7-13650HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,099.99 $1,399.99 (save $300)

• Acer Predator Triton Neo 16 (Intel Core Ultra 9 185H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,499.99 $1,899.99 (save $400)

• Alienware M16 R2 Gaming Laptop (Intel Core Ultra 7, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,999.99 $1,399.99 (save $400) 🔥

• Alienware M18 R2 Gaming Laptop (Intel Core i9-14900HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,299.99 $2,799.99 (save $500) 🔥