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Matter is a cross-platform protocol that promises a fuss-free future full of devices that work with major proprietary and open-source smart home systems. So far, the vision has yet to be realized.

As a long-time Windows user who also uses Linux, something that crosses my mind a lot. Why do I not use PowerShell as much as I use the Linux Terminal? It's not like PowerShell is scary or anything. After doing some analysis, I came to understand that it's more because of how I treat Windows and how PowerShell fits into it.

Not quite a tablet and much more compact than a book, e-readers are basically a compact, digital library. And having tested a lot of e-readers and tablets for Mashable, I can tell you the Amazon Kindle lineup comes closest to perfecting the devices.

All over the internet, you'll find TikTok users enthusiastically singing the praises of the Kindle and how to make the most of it. For parents, Kindles are a screen you don't have to feel guilty about. For avid readers, Stuff Your Kindle Day and Libby let you cross every last item off your annual reading list. You can even buy Kindle accessories like remote page-turners and gooseneck stands so you don't have to hold your Kindle while reading.

Ready to buy? Here's our guide to the best Kindles.

2026 Kindle updates

As of May 20, 2026, Amazon will no longer lend software updates or provide web services to devices released in 2012 or earlier, essentially bricking them. Users will still be able to read currently downloaded books on the device, but to add new books, they will need to connect the device to a computer. This is a huge hit, especially to Libby users who need web service access to read borrowed books.

The affected Kindles include:

• Kindle (1st generation)

• Kindle (2nd generation)

• Kindle DX

• Kindle DX Graphite

• Kindle Keyboard

• Kindle 4

• Kindle Touch

• Kindle 5

• Kindle Paperwhite (1st generation)

Owners of these Kindle models are obviously upset, as it means they'll need to purchase a new device to maintain access to all features. While some are considering switching to a different e-reader, like a Kobo, Amazon still makes great e-readers, and it's a testament to the brand that devices that are at least 14 years old are still going strong.

Which Kindle is right for you?

If you're concerned about buying the newest tech, that's not an issue. There are six updated Kindle models for sale, as well as older editions still in stock.

Before you choose a Kindle, you need to ask one question first: Do you want it to be waterproof? If you prefer reading near a body of water — whether in the bath, by the pool, or at the beach — that immediately narrows down your options. Since the Kindle Oasis is no longer available, your waterproof options are the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, and Paperwhite Kids.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature edition settings screen. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Beyond water resistance, here are a few other features to consider:

• Display size: The basic Kindle has a 6-inch display, while the largest has a 10.2-inch display.

• Storage capacity: Kindles range from 16GB to 32GB of storage capacity.

• Battery life: The new Kindles generally have outstanding batteries. On the low end, they last up to six weeks per charge, while others last up to 12 weeks.

• Writing capability: The Kindle Scribe is the only model that allows you to write with the included stylus. 

The latest Kindles all boast a maximum brightness of 94 nits and a 300 ppi, high-resolution display with zero glare, so you can enjoy sharp text and images at any viewing angle. Kindles are also equipped with WiFi connectivity, allowing you to download all the reading material you could ever want. Plus, you can listen to audiobooks on Audible via the built-in Bluetooth connection.

Not to mention, out of all the e-readers I've tested, Kindles have the best compatibility with Libby. I love the digital platform because I can read for free and support my local library. Some other e-readers require you to download your library e-book to a computer and then upload it to an e-reader, but with Kindles, your e-books are sent straight to your device with a click.

And if you were a die-hard Kindle Oasis fan and are attached to page-turning buttons, you may need to stray from the Kindle line-up. Now, your best bet will be the Kobo Libra Colour.

SEE ALSO: I read over 50 books a year. Here are my favorite e-readers. How to get free e-books on Kindle With just a click, transfer your Libby e-book to your Kindle device. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable Your Libby ebook will automatically populate in your Kindle library. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

The best way to read free e-books on a Kindle is with Libby. Libby allows you to borrow e-books through libraries, and all you need is a library card. Through the Libby app, borrow books and then select the "read with Kindle" option, which allows you to send these e-books to your Kindle library.

Another option for finding free e-books is through Stuff Your Kindle events. These are author-driven events that offer limited-time deals on e-books, often making them heavily discounted or totally free.

How to make the most of your Kindle

Through our testing and daily use, we've spent a lot of time with Kindles, learning how to make the most of them. We've written extensively on all the ways to maximize your Kindle, so be sure to browse through our guides and explainers:

• How to make the most of your Kindle: 8 features you need to use

• The best Kindle accessories for reading in luxury

• What is Stuff Your Kindle Day? The best way to fill your e-reader with free books

• I've read hundreds of free Kindle books with Libby. Here's how.

• What is Kindle Rewards? Earn free credits when shopping the Kindle store

• What is Kindle Unlimited? A library of books at your fingertips for just $12 a month

• Where to get free e-books: Load up your e-reader without spending a dime

• Prime members can get a free e-book every month with Amazon First Reads

• How to download EPUB files on your Kindle

• 8 Kindle features you should be using

• How to delete books from Kindle
  

TL;DR: The official Casetify x Tamagotchi collection launches on May 29. The collection features phone cases, plush earbud pouches, phone straps, and customizable carry-on luggage, with prices starting at $36.

If you grew up in the '90s, it felt like every single person had a Tamagotchi clipped to their backpack. They were basically Sims, but cuter and pixelated; you had to feed them, clean up after them, and keep them happy 24/7, or they'd die. Everyone who was anyone had one, except me.

I was never allowed to have one. (The childhood trauma is real.) If your parents also denied you a virtual pet, it's time to pull out your wallet because we finally have adult money now.

SEE ALSO: The best '90s movies on Prime Video for when you want to get nostalgic

Casetify just announced a collaboration with Bandai Namco for an actual Tamagotchi collection, and it drops on May 29. And it's not just phone cases — they're releasing an actual, functional Tamagotchi device with a custom Casetify shell.

They're also offering "Chase Cards" with seven different rarity tiers from "Common" up to "Supreme Ultra Rare." Oh, and you can get a 21-inch carry-on suitcase in pink or blue that you can personalize with your initials in the actual Tamagotchi font.

The customizable 21-inch Casetify Travel Tamagotchi carry-on suitcases are available in Cobalt Blue and Primrose Pink. Credit: Casetify | Bandai Namco

If you feel a little silly about buying toys as a fully grown adult, don't. The "kidult" economy is huge right now. According to a market research report from Circana, global toy sales rose 7 percent last year, and collectibles spiked by 32 percent.

The collection officially goes live on May 29 at casetify.com/colab.

SAVE $500: The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale for $1,099 in Amazon's Memorial Day sale. That's $500 off the list price of $1,599.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo $1,099 at Amazon
$1,599 Save $500   Get Deal

We're busy tracking all the best Memorial Day deals going live over the weekend. Picking our favorite deals isn't easy, but you know what is? Recommending the latest deal on the DJI Mini 5 Pro.

Capturing cinematic 4K landscape footage used to require an expensive commercial flight license and heavy equipment. DJI completely rewrote that rulebook with its ultra-lightweight premium series, and their flagship model is hard to ignore at a heavily discounted price.

Despite all the ongoing conversations surrounding DJI imports in the U.S., current retail stocks are completely clear for consumer purchase — and retailers are clearing shelves with massive incentives ahead of the summer travel rush. For a limited time, the DJI Mini 5 Pro is on sale for $1,099 in Amazon's Memorial Day sale. That's $500 off and really close to the lowest-ever price for this model.

This popular drone tips the scales at exactly 249 grams. Because it sits comfortably under the FAA's strict 250-gram regulatory threshold, you can take it from the box straight into the sky for recreational flights without registering with the government or sitting through a baseline safety course.

Save $500 on the DJI Mini 5 Pro this weekend at Amazon.

TL;DR: T-Mobile has dropped new deals on the iPhone 17e, iPhone 17, and iPhone 17 Pro. Score the latest iPhone lineup for free at T-Mobile.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Free when you switch and trade in an eligible phone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Pro Free when you trade in an eligible phone in any condition on an Experience Beyond plan. Shop Now

Mashable's shopping team is firmly focused on Memorial Day right now. We've lined up the best deals on TVs, power stations, mattresses, and so much more over the Memorial Day weekend.

Did we roundup the best deals on smartphones? No we did not, because T-Mobile is really hard to beat right now.

Whether you're looking to switch networks or simply upgrade a device you’ve been holding onto for years, T-Mobile has dropped a fresh batch of deals to help you take home a premium phone without a monthly charge:

• Apple iPhone 17e — free when you port your number over from a competitor and activate a new line on almost any T-Mobile postpaid service plan (no trade-in required).

• Apple iPhone 17 — free when you switch and trade in an eligible smartphone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.

• Apple iPhone 17 Pro — free when you hand over an eligible smartphone in any condition on an Experience Beyond plan.

Before you rush to claim your new iPhone, it's important to note how T-Mobile structures these offers. T-Mobile won’t just hand you the goods and wish you well. Instead, the total retail cost of your chosen iPhone is offset by 24 consecutive monthly bill credits. Your monthly statement will show a charge for the financing of the phone, immediately followed by an equal credit balancing that charge to $0. That means you are entering a 24-month commitment with the network.

If you decide to cancel your service or jump to a different provider before those two years are up, the remaining unpaid cash balance on the phone will become due immediately.

You will need to pay taxes and a $35 activation charge at checkout to get the new line provisioned on the network, but that's a small price to pay for a new iPhone that offers a "great camera, beautiful display, 256GB of storage, fast performance, and long battery life."

Make the most of this opportunity to score the latest iPhone 17 lineup for free with T-Mobile.

TL;DR: Make your AI workflow less chaotic with this lifetime subscription to the ChatPlayground AI Unlimited Plan, on sale now for $59.97 (reg. $619) through May 31.

Opens in a new window Credit: ChatPlayground AI ChatPlayground AI: Lifetime Subscription (Unlimited Plan) $59.97
$619 Save $559.03   Get Deal

AI is supposed to make life easier, but before you know it, your desktop is overrun with all the different models, and you’re more overwhelmed than you were in the first place. ChatPlayground AI aims to change that, offering a centralized hub for your AI needs.

Right now, you can score a lifetime subscription to the Unlimited Plan for only $59.97 until May 31.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Stop trying to keep up with all the strengths and weaknesses of your go-to AI choices. ChatPlayground AI lets you see responses from over 20 models, all side by side in one spot.

Enter your prompt and compare answers from ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, Llama, Perplexity, and more with ChatPlayground AI. You can pick the best response for your needs, all without having to pay all the individual subscription fees.

From generating code and images to asking simple questions or coding, ChatPlayground AI can handle nearly everything. And if you don’t get the responses you’re looking for, it can even help you build better prompts with prompt engineering tools. Image and PDF chat features are also available to get speedier answers.

If you’re working on an ongoing project or just find yourself wanting to reference past conversations, ChatPlayground AI saves them all for your convenience. Your Unlimited Plan also provides unlimited monthly messages, priority customer service, and priority access to any new features and future models.

Secure your own lifetime subscription to the ChatPlayground AI Unlimited Plan for only $59.97 now through May 31.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: A new operating system modernizes your PC, and right now, Microsoft Windows 11 Pro can be yours for just $9.97 (reg. $199) through May 31.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $9.97
$199 Save $189.03   Get Deal

Is your dusty old PC feeling pretty stale? Upgrading your operating system breathes new life into your device, and Windows 11 Pro was built specifically for today’s workflow.

Right now, you can upgrade your current PC for just $9.97 with this license — on sale through May 31.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

If you primarily use your PC for work, it’s time to make the switch to Windows 11 Pro. This OS was designed for today’s professionals, with a user-friendly interface, improved multitasking capabilities, and advanced security to keep your content secure.

If your PC cannot upgrade through Windows Update, you can use this license. The fresh, user-friendly interface is easy to use, while features like a more powerful search experience, easy redocking, snap layouts, and virtual desktops speed up your workflow.

This Windows 11 Pro license includes Microsoft Teams, which helps you stay connected to family, friends, and coworkers. It also gives you access to Copilot, Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant that can help you complete tasks, change settings, summarize web pages, and open apps.

Enjoy improved cybersecurity with biometric logins, encrypted authentication, and enhanced antivirus protection that all help keep your data safe.

If you’re a gamer, you’ll love DirectX 12 Ultimate‘s impressive graphics, and professionals will appreciate access to Azure AD, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and BitLocker.

Get a Microsoft Windows 11 Pro license for less than the cost of lunch — only $9.97 now through May 31.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

I had a Pokémon card addiction back in 1999.

I used to get £10 a month pocket money from my grandmother and, more often than not, that crisp note would be immediately exchanged for four crinkly blue and silver booster packs that I'd rip straight open. I paid £10 once for a shiny Charizard card to complete the Base set. It's still sat in the binder I placed it in a quarter of a century ago.

Pokémon has been in and out of my life ever since. It made a major comeback in 2016 when Pokémon Go launched, and then again more recently when my young son discovered the TV show. I often watch it with him. I don't recognise all the Pokémon, but I'm pleased to see Ash hasn't aged a day.

Then, a few weeks back, my son came home with some Pokémon cards. They were in a small pack that came free with a magazine. I recognised a couple of the newer ones, Rowlet and Dedenne, along with a Seel I remembered from back in the day. The nostalgia hit me hard, so I decided to buy some boosters that we could open together.

SEE ALSO: 'Pokémon Pokopia' is the cozy escape the internet needed

I fired up Amazon, thinking that would be the quickest way to find some — only to be slightly confused when I saw the site's yellow "Buy" button had been replaced with a button reading "Request an Invite". I clicked it, dug into exactly what it meant, and soon discovered Pokémon card collecting in 2026 is a very, very different hobby to what it was in the late nineties.

Amazon's "Request an Invite" option shows up instead of the "Buy" button for Pokémon cards. Credit: Amazon

The short version? It's currently extremely hard to buy Pokémon card packs for retail price. This probably won't come as a surprise to present-day collectors, but for someone who hasn't bought any since my teenage years, it was unexpected. I managed it in the end, but it took me two weeks, multiple supermarket visits, online lotteries, and a final stroke of luck.

The frustrating quest to find Pokémon cards in stores

Amazon's "Request an Invite" system essentially enters you into a lottery. A couple of times a week invites are sent out, enabling some lucky customers to buy the cards they requested (in two weeks I received no invites). Once I realised the process might be a slow one, I turned my attention to other IRL retailers. Pokemon Trading Card Game has an official site listing stores, and I learned through Reddit's r/PokemonDealsUK sub (I live in the UK) that other people were having some success in supermarkets like Sainsbury's, Tesco, Morrisons and ASDA.

Over the course of about a week I visited 10 of these stores, varying from small Tesco Express shops to Sainbury's superstores. On some days I visited stores that people on Reddit were specifically flagging as having received fresh stock. The shelves were always empty. Every single time, without fail, the Pokémon card section in the toy aisle would look sad and abandoned.

A few times I asked staff about stock, and the answer always came back as some variation of the following: "We don't get them in very often. And when we do, one person normally just buys the whole box."

Featured Video For You Josh Johnson’s formula for the perfect comedy special Why are Pokémon cards so hard to buy at retail prices?

The answer, as I learned, is pretty simple: Demand currently outstrips supply. The price people are willing to pay for Pokémon cards is higher than retail price.

I found this out by looking on second hand markets like eBay and Vinted, where packs and boxes of Pokémon cards are frequently sold for far more than the £4-£5 per 10-card booster pack you can buy in the shops. Some sets, like January's very popular Ascended Heroes, are actually selling for around double the retail price. The rarest cards in that set, like the Mega Gengar Ex Special Illustration Rare, go for over £1,000.

"We're seeing the people that would buy trainers and stuff, to flip for profit, now coming over to Pokémon to do the same thing."

Suddenly, the reason why one person might be going into a store and buying up the entire stock started to make more sense: They're immediately in profit. Pokémon cards now, perhaps more than ever, have become a business.

As part of my research, I reached out to Asmodee and Smiths News, two of the UK's main Pokémon card distributors, as well as three major supermarket chains. Tesco had no on-the-record comment, but acknowledged the high demand while advising that its Express stores will be stocking the new Chaos Rising set and are expecting regular deliveries. Asmodee had no comment. At the time of writing, none of the others have responded (Mashable will update this article if we do hear back).

So how do you actually get Pokémon cards?

As I eventually found out, it is possible to buy Pokémon cards at retail price. It just takes a bit of time and luck. My search quickly took me from Reddit to the OakLabs Poké Alerts Discord server, which a moderator of r/PokemonDealsUK has set up to try and help buyers find stock. So far it's been the most useful resource out there. There are stock alert pings, people sharing successful finds in the wild, and links to lotteries (like the Amazon one) run by other independent shops. Although stock still sells quickly, the Discord is full of people who've managed to beat the odds and buy the packs they want.

My first bit of luck, however, came from somewhere a bit more traditional: a local card shop in South West England. Bath TCG came up when I searched for places to buy cards near me, and I gave them a call without really expecting much. I was pleasantly surprised. They told me that they'd have stock of the new set, Chaos Rising, in for release day, and because they limit pack purchases to two per customer, they were expecting to have enough for everyone.

I headed down for the launch and found that the system worked. As promised, rather than an empty shelf, the card packs were ready and waiting. I was finally able to pick some up.

Success at last! Credit: Sam Haysom

Before I left, I caught up with 35-year-old store owner, Ben Thyer, who described the current boom as a "perfect storm" created by a rise in Pokémon card streamers, flashy celebrity headlines like Logan Paul's $16 million Pikachu Illustrator record auction, and the fact that 2026 is the 30th anniversary of the card game.

"We're seeing the people that would buy trainers and stuff, to flip for profit, now coming over to Pokémon to do the same thing," Thyer told me. "It used to be you could buy Pokémon, everyone would buy it to open and enjoy, some people would keep it sealed but the return would be in four, five, six years. Currently, because of how the market is and how sparse it is, the return is instant."

Unlike many retailers, Bath TCG counters this with a tiered system. Players of the game are in Tier 1, loyal customers — who've already made several purchases — are in Tier 2, and everyone else is in Tier 3. All booster packs are limited to a certain number per customer, depending on the tier they fall into. Seals on booster boxes are broken to discourage resellers. All of this means that the stock doesn't immediately vanish when the doors open, and there are enough packs for everyone.

Seals are broken by staff to put off resellers. Credit: Sam Haysom

When I asked Thyer why distributors aren't simply supplying more cards to meet demand, he said that they are. But demand also means more retailers are ordering from distributors, including stores like Hobbycraft and The Entertainer that didn't used to sell Pokémon cards. This means the likes of Bath TCG aren't able to get any additional stock, despite stock levels in the UK being higher overall.

And as for whether or not this stock scarcity situation will change anytime soon? Thyer wasn't too hopeful.

"This is like a cyclical thing that we see sort of every three to four years, but it normally lasts six to nine months and it's not that intense," he said. "It's not really showing any signs of slowing down at the moment."

Too many AdultFriendFinder users restrict themselves to the more conventional aspects of this otherwise unconventional dating site. They create a profile, search through singles, and maybe browse a webcam or two. But the real meat of the site isn't actually in the one-on-one interactions; it's in the larger community, which exists in the forums, monthly contests, blogs and, perhaps most importantly, the Sex Stories section.

While you can obviously just browse these stories casually, the on-site culture actually encourages greater interaction than that, and many an AFF connection has been made by two adults bonding over their shared love of erotic fiction. 

Here's how you can use their literotica section to not only vet your next sexting partner but actually initiate the conversation. Full disclaimer: while you can absolutely enjoy aspects of the Sex Stories section without a paid membership, getting the most out of it and actually converting your literary admiration into a one-on-one chat will require a site subscription.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder   Learn More Read the stories and find what resonates with you

AFF's Sex Stories section boasts more than a dozen distinct categories or genres, ranging from "first time" experiences to group sex scenes, fetish exploration and even stories with fantasy or sci-fi elements. The more creative writers even try their hand at erotic novels and poetry, and since a lot of effort has been put into these creations, the least you can do is read the stories in full and save those you like.

SEE ALSO: 3 common hookup app profile mistakes: Keep this off your AdultFriendFinder profile

While even free users can save individual stories, only paid members can follow story writers, but if you discover that one particular author keeps catching your interest, following their work is a good way to indicate your interest. 

Leave a comment

What author doesn't appreciate positive feedback? If a story resonates with you, you can interact with it in one of two ways: by leaving a comment or by using the like button to indicate your approval. Because of the site's laidback culture, it's completely common for authors to respond to comments, so put some thought into what you say, shouting out specific aspects of the story or how it was written. Many a private sexting conversation began in the public comment section of an AFF story.

While free AFF users are able to both comment and like stories, paid members unlock even greater emoji reactions, including more salacious and flirty reactions, which helps you take your flirting game up a notch. 

Consider writing your own story

If you're having trouble getting storywriters to respond to you or if you just can't find a piece that really resonates with your needs, it might be time to take up the (digital) pen yourself. If you have a way with words, you can accrue a large following on the site, and even earn badges for your heightened on-site participation.

SEE ALSO: 3 AdultFriendFinder red flags — how to avoid scams on AFF

Best of all, by becoming the writer rather than the reader, you'll put yourself in the position of being able to select which comments (and therefore which commentators) catch your attention. 

Use the #tags feature

While every story written has to be placed into a specific category, each story can also contain multiple tags, and these are a lot more varied and a lot more specific than the story categories. Current "top tags" include #feet, #sub, #teasing and #watching, for example.

If you're looking for a particular type of sexting conversation, or if you have very specific turn-ons, the tag feature is the fastest way to find a like-minded person to explore with in a private conversation. 

By our estimation, Dropout is the best destination online for groundbreaking comedy. But if you're new to Dropout, it might be dizzying to decide where to dive in.

This subscription streaming platform is best-known for its hilarious game shows like Make Some Noise and Game Changer, as well as the tabletop role-playing game series Dimension 20, the kooky talk show parody Very Important People, and the daffy cooking competition series Gastronauts. But with so many seasons, guests, and shows, where to begin? 

Mashable's here to help. Around here, we're big fans of Dropout, but we're also aware that just leaping into these shows with the latest eps could be confusing with no context. So, we asked our own Dropout subscribers where they'd recommend you start watching — not just which shows, but which episodes. 

Here's a rundown on all you need to know to get into Dropout. 

Dimension 20

What's the show's deal?: Launched in 2018, this was one of Dropout's first series. Created by Brennan Lee Mulligan, it began with "Fantasy High," a campaign in which a band of comedians gathered around a table, playing a home-brewed version of Dungeons & Dragons set in a suburban high school straight out of a John Hughes movie. 

This series works kind of like an anthology, with successive seasons featuring new characters in settings like Game of Thrones meets Candyland, a magical New York City, or a high-flying steampunk adventure. Episodes of Dimension 20 regularly run over two hours long, with seasons ranging from four to 20 episodes. So, jumping in at the latest episode would be all kinds of bewildering, especially as some campaigns stretch across non-consecutive seasons. 

Suggested starting point: Dungeons & Drag Queens, Season 1, Episode 1, "Queens on a Quest"

Why you should watch: Technically, this is the 18th season of Dimension 20. But trust us, it's the easiest entry point — in part because it's full of first-time players who all happen to be hilarious drag queens. 

With Mulligan's guidance as Game Master, RuPaul's Drag Race stars Monét X Change, Alaska Thunderfuck, Bob the Drag Queen, and Jujubee created fierce fantasy heroines joining forces in the magical realm of Kelvorda. Together, this quartet sets forth on a quest of spells, battles, and family secrets. Ever adaptable to his players and their wild imaginations, Mulligan helps these questing queens build an adventure that's studded with bonkers pop culture references, outrageous turns, and side-splitting humor.

Plus, at just four episodes, Dungeons & Drag Queens is an easy commitment. 

What to watch next: If you love this season, you can dive into Dungeons & Drag Queens Season 2 for more. However, once you've learned how Dimension 20 rolls, you can scroll through Dropout to find which adventure — or cast of comedians — you'd like to see play next. Or if you're more inclined to board games, check out Parlor Room, hosted by Becca Scott. 

Game Changer 

What's the show's deal?: Dimension 20 and Game Changer are Dropout's most popular shows. And where the former is all about collaborative play, the latter is a competitive game show, where the game itself changes each week. 

Hosted by Dropout CEO Sam Reich, Game Changer sometimes does a unique parody of known shows like Shark Tank, The Bachelor, Survivor, or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Other times, the game revolves around a strange prop, like a giant foam mouth or a roulette wheel full of improvisational prompts. As Reich explains at the start of each episode, "The only way to learn is by playing. The only way to win is by learning." 

Now, this might sound like you can jump in anywhere for a good time. Actually, we'd advise against that, because while Season 7 of Game Changer offers some of the platform's most hilarious and heart-warming moments, they won't make sense without some context. 

Suggested starting point: Season 1, episode 2, "Make Some Noise"

Why you should watch: Sometimes a Game Changer concept becomes so popular that it gets a spin-off series, like Dirty Laundry and Crowd Control. This episode, which features Josh Ruben, Zac Oyama. and Brennan Lee Mulligan — three comedians with a deep arsenal of silly sounds and voices — not only inspired improvisational game show Make Some Noise, but also cemented their reputation as the "Noise Boys." 

This episode is a great intro to Game Changer, as well as to Make Some Noise. You don't need to know a single thing going in to enjoy the jokes. (And you can totally jump into any Make Some Noise ep from here.) 

What to watch next: To get a sense of the mischievousness of Reich in his role as Game Changer host, we'd recommend the "Sam Says" episodes (Season 4, episode 1; Season 5, episode 1; and Season 6, episode 3). It's like Simons Says, but diabolical. And after these, you can properly appreciate Season 7, episode 1, "One Year," featuring Sam Says 3's trio of contestants, Vic Michaelis, Jacob Wysocki, and Lou Wilson, reunited for a series of wild missions. Be warned: This episode will have you scream laughing. Alert your neighbors accordingly. 

Once you've gotten familiar with Game Changer, it's easy to slide into its spin-offs, or other game shows, like the playfully pedantic Um, Actually... and the daffy cooking competition Gastronauts.

Very Important People

What's the show's deal?: Vic Michaelis plays a comical version of themselves in this interview show, which offers a unique opportunity to improv comedians. As Michaelis explains at the top of each episode, a guest blindly submits themselves to a team of professional makeup artists and costumers, who will give them a radical makeover with no clues what it will be. Once they're fully done up, they get to look into a mirror, at which point they must craft a character who will be Vic's guest on their talk show. 

Zombies, aliens, living dolls, witches, worms, wrestlers, and demons have all sat down for an interview. But where should you start? 

Suggested starting point: Season 1, Episode 1, "Princess Emily"

Why you should watch: The debut episode of Very Important People is genuinely a superb place to start. Actress Anna Garcia is transformed into a demanding pop princess from "right in the smack of the dab" of Europe. Her all-over accent and Eurotrash attitude is at once outrageous and weirdly believable. Like, one might think she's not a comedy character but an actual Eurovision contender. (Okay. Me. I thought that based on a promo clip on TikTok.) 

What to watch next: You can certainly leap around to the characters or comedians who most entice you. But our picks for must-see VIP include mental health advocate Tommy Shriggly (Season 1, episode 6), doomsday prepper Pig #2 (Season 1, Episode 10), boy made of rocks Zeke Aaron McKinley (Season 2, episode 1), and randy ambassador Boris Tarshkokan (Season 3, episode 2). 

Now a warning: You will start quoting weird snippets of these interviews, like "my mom hates me because I'm rocks" and "we sucked each other down and talked about our parents." It's just what happens. 

Dimension 20: On a Bus

What's the show's deal?: This one is a deeper cut. But if watching hours of table top role playing seems too much for you, you can still enjoy this two-part parody of all things Dimension 20. 

Created by comedian Katie Marovitch, Dimension 20: On a Bus began as a short spoof of the popular franchise, in which she would purposely annoy Mulligan and his professional colleagues in Game Mastery, Aabria Iyengar, Jasmine Bhullar, and Matthew Mercer. 

Suggested starting point: Season 1 is a five-minute video. So you can marathon Season 1 and Season 2 in about an hour. 

Why you should watch: This began as a bit on the Game Changer episode "Fool's Gold." But the resulting video became such a hit on social media that for April Fool's Day 2026, Dropout released a "Season 2" — which is a full 55-minute-long episode of Marovitch playing the fool to perfection as Mulligan and the others battle to make any sense of her mayhem. It's wildly funny, whether or not you know what a "crit" or "home-brew hack" is. 

What to watch next: For fuller context, you can also check out the Game Changer ep or our interview with Marovitch. 

Demi Adejuyigbe: Is Going to Do One (1) Backflip

What's the show's deal?: Dropout also offers stand-up comedy specials, and this is my personal favorite. Demi Adejuyigbe's humor is a mix of cerebral and silly, but with a thread of vulnerability that transforms this special from straightforward stand-up to something stranger and more rewarding. And yes, that involves his promise to do a backflip. 

Why you should watch: Through a masterfully calibrated show, Adejuyigbe plays with audience expectation for punchlines and even his big promised climax. You'll laugh plenty at his audacious observations and clever turns. But by the end, this comedy special is about a performer revealing his failings and fears. Beyond being profound, Demi Adejuyigbe: Is Going to Do One (1) Backflip becomes a solid example of what makes Dropout special. The sensibility of this subscription service combines subversive comedy and goofy gags with a deeply embedded humanity. So, it's not just cheap laughs but rich wonder that's hitting here. 

What to watch next: Smarty Pants, Season 1, Episode 1

Hosted by Rekha Shankar, this Dropout show seems born from the trend of PowerPoint nights, where folks create slide shows about a personal passion to amuse or annoy their friends. A gaggle of comedians come together to hear out deeply silly speeches about rollercoasters, theater kids, and cryptids. But if you like Adejuyigbe's special, you must see his presentation, "Which Cartoon Characters Are Invited to the Cookout?"

TL;DR: Live stream Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles in the Champions Cup final for free on ITVX. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

On paper, the Champions Cup final is going to be absolutely electric.

Leinster are meeting Bordeaux Bègles at the San Mamès Stadium. Bordeaux Bègles are looking to defend their title. Leinster are aiming to win this competition for the fifth time. It's going to be a fascinating battle between two teams laded with star names. Expect huge performances from the likes of Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Dan Sheehan in front of a passionate stadium. We can't wait.

If you want to watch Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles in the Champions Cup final for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles?

Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles in the Champions Cup final kicks off at 9:45 a.m. ET on May 23. This fixture takes place at the San Mamès Stadium.

How to watch Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles for free

Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles in the Champions Cup final is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock ITVX to stream the Champions Cup final for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit ITVX

5. Watch Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the Champions Cup final before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Watch Leinster vs. Bordeaux Bègles in the Champions Cup final for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Bayern Munich have dominated the domestic season in Germany.

They might have come up short in their quest to secure another Champions League victory, but they comfortably won the Bundesliga and they're in the final of the DFB-Pokal. They face VfB Stuttgart in the showpiece event at the Olympiastadion, a team that finished fourth in the Bundesliga standings. It's not going to be easy for the champions.

If you want to watch Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart?

Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final kicks off at 2 p.m. ET on May 23. This fixture takes place at the Olympiastadion.

How to watch Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart for free

Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final is available to live stream for free on ServusTV.

ServusTV is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can unblock ServusTV to live stream the DFB-Pokal for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit ServusTV

5. Watch Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the DFB-Pokal without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ServusTV?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Austria

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final for free with ExpressVPN.

The best Memorial Day TV deals at a glance: Best TV deal overall Hisense 75-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV $849.99 (save $550) Get Deal Best art TV deal Hisense 65-inch S7 Canvas QLED 4K TV $1,099.99 (save $900) Get Deal Best small TV deal Hisense 43-inch E6 Cinema QLED 4K TV $209.99 (save $140) Get Deal Best splurge Samsung 65-inch S95F OLED 4K TV $2,199.99 (save $400) Get Deal

You probably expect great deals on mattresses and outdoor gear for Memorial Day, but it also happens to be a great time to upgrade your TV. Many of the new releases from CES 2026 are officially on shelves now, and some of those are actually already on sale. If you prefer an even more budget-friendly option, there's also a ton of last-generation models getting the deal treatment to make way for the newer models.

Regardless of your preference, you can bring home a TV from one of our favorite brands — Hisense, Samsung, LG, etc. — in all shapes and sizes for cheaper than usual. I'm tracking all of the best Memorial Day TV deals leading up to and throughout the holiday weekend below, and some of these discounts are massive.

Psst: If you're not sure what to do with your old TV, you can recycle it at most Best Buy stores for free.

Best Memorial Day TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 75-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV $849.99 at Amazon
$1,399.99 Save $550   Get Deal Why we like it

The U6 Pro is one of Hisense's new mid-range models for 2026 and it's a perfect mashup of performance and value. It packs Mini-LED backlighting, quantum-dot color, AI-driven processing, a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 2.1-channel Dolby Atmos audio. Hisense markets it as an easy way to "step into a premium experience without moving into higher-priced tiers." And that's especially true now that the 75-inch model has received its second price drop since its launch earlier this month.

Best Memorial Day Art TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-inch S7 Canvas QLED 4K TV $1,099.99 at Amazon
$1,999.99 Save $900   Get Deal Why we like it

Hisense also launched a new version of the extremely popular CanvasTV for 2026, which features a Hi-QLED display with an AI RGB ambient light sensor. Not only is the display upgraded with deeper color accuracy and richer hues, but it can also adjust brightness and color temperature based on the lighting in the room. A new motion detection feature will also wake your display when you enter the room and fade when you walk away in order to save some energy. It still packs the same 144Hz refresh rate, Hi-Matte design, teak frame, and free digital art library to turn your TV into fancy artwork. Amazon and Best Buy both have the 65-inch model for $900 off this Memorial Day.

More Memorial Day TV deals

43-inch to 50-inch TVs

• Insignia 43-inch F50 LED 4K TV — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)

• Toshiba 43-inch C350 LED 4K TV — $159.99 $299.99 (save $140)

• Hisense 43-inch E6 Cinema QLED 4K TV — $209.99 $349.99 (save $140)

• Amazon 43-inch Ember 4-Series 4K TV — $269.99 $329.99 (save $60)

• Amazon 50-inch Ember 4-Series 4K TV — $309.99 $399.99 (save $90)

• Amazon 50-inch Ember QLED 4K TV — $419.99 $479.99 (save $60)

• Hisense 50-inch S7 Canvas QLED 4K TV — $798.99 $1,299.99 (save $501)

55-inch TVs

• Insignia 55-inch F50 LED 4K TV — $199.99 $349.99 (save $150)

• Hisense 55-inch E6 Cinema QLED 4K TV — $278.99 $429.99 (save $151)

• Hisense 55-inch U6 Mini LED QLED 4K TV — $399.99 $799.99 (save $400)

• Amazon 55-inch Ember Mini-LED QLED 4K TV — $559.99 $819.99 (save $260)

• Hisense 55-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $599.99 $849.99 (save $250)

• LG 55-inch B5 OLED 4K TV — $799.99 $1,499.99 (save $700)

• Samsung 55-inch S95H OLED 4K TV — $2,299.99 $2,499 (save $200)

65-inch TVs

• Toshiba 65-inch C350 LED 4K TV — $264.99 $529.99 (save $265)

• Samsung 65-inch Class QLED Q7F 4K TV — $427.99 $499.99 (save $72)

• LG 65-inch 70A QNED AI 4K TV — $429.99 $579.99 (save $150)

• Roku 65-inch Plus Mini-LED 4K TV — $479.99 $649.99 (save $170)

• Hisense 65-inch U6 Mini LED QLED 4K TV — $547.97 $999.99 (save $452.02)

• Samsung 65-inch Q8F QLED 4K TV — $597.99 $899.99 (save $302)

• Hisense 65-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $949.99 $1,499.99 (save $550)

• Samsung 65-inch The Frame LS03FA QLED 4K TV — $999.99 $1,599.99 (save $600)

• Samsung 65-inch S90F OLED 4K TV — $1,297.99 $2,499.99 (save $1,202)

• Sony 65-inch Bravia XR8B OLED 4K TV — $1,499.99 $1,899.99 (save $400)

• Samsung 65-inch R85H Micro RGB 4K TV — $1,899.99 $2,099.99 (save $200)

• Hisense 65-inch UR9 RGB Mini-LED 4K TV — $1,999.99 $2,199.99 (save $200)

• Samsung 65-inch S95F OLED 4K TV — $2,199.99 $2,599.99 (save $400)

• Sony 65-inch Bravia 8 II QD-OLED 4K TV — $2,598 $3,299.99 (save $701.99)

75-inch TVs and up

• Insignia 75-inch QF QLED 4K TV — $399.99 $649.99 (save $250)

• TCL 75-inch T7 4K QLED TV — $629.99 $899.99 (save $270)

• Insignia 85-inch QF QLED 4K TV — $639.99 $1,099.99 (save $460)

• Hisense 75-inch S7N CanvasTV QLED 4K TV — $999.99 $2,499.99 (save $1,500)

• Hisense 75-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $1,199.99 $1,999.99 (save $800)

• Hisense 85-inch U6 Pro Mini‑LED 4K TV — $1,199.99 $1,999.99 (save $800)

• LG 77-inch B5 OLED 4K TV — $1,499.99 $2,999.99 (save $1,500)

• LG 77-inch C5 OLED 4K TV — $1,899.99 $3,699.99 (save $1,800)

• TCL 75-inch QM8L SQD-Mini LED 4K TV — $1,999.99 $2,999.99 (save $1,000)

• Hisense 100-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $2,299.99 $3,499.99 (save $1,200)

• TCL 98-inch QM8K Mini-LED QLED 4K TV — $2,999.99 $4,999.99 (save $2,000)

The best Memorial Day deals to shop at Amazon: Best TV deal Hisense 75-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV $849.99 (save $550) Get Deal Best portable power station deal Anker Solix C1000 $449.99 (save $50) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Bose QuietComfort Earbuds $149 (save $30) Get Deal Best kitchen deal Ninja Slushi (88 ounce) $259 (save $90.99) Get Deal Best early robot vacuum deal Eufy C28 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $499.98 (save $300.01) Get Deal

The long Memorial Day weekend is almost upon us. And like every other major calendar event, Amazon has jumped on the celebrations with a sale. And — as is often the case with Amazon sales events — the savings are steep and wide-ranging.

To keep the deals seasonal, Amazon's Memorial Day sale has seen prices drop on summer-themed items, including portable power stations, TVs worthy of every MLB and World Cup game, and stacks of camping gear. There are also excellent deals for home upgrades, from the kitchen to the backyard — everything you need to get the summer party going.

As we jump into the holiday weekend, here are the best Amazon Memorial Day deals to shop across all categories. Grab them now and leave the summer open for relaxation and fun.

Best TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 75-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV $849.99 at Amazon
$1,399.99 Save $550   Get Deal Why we like it

Upgraded TV models for 2026 have officially hit shelves this spring and you can already score a sweet deal on one of Hisense's new mid-range options: the U6 Pro.

It packs Mini-LED backlighting, quantum-dot color, a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, 2.1-channel Dolby Atmos audio, and a 144Hz refresh rate, all for a budget-friendly price. It's the perfect mashup of performance and value — particularly now that Amazon has slashed the cost of the 75-inch model by $550 during its Memorial Day sale. At $849.99, its second price drop since its launch earlier this month, it's a total steal.

More TV deals

• Hisense 55-inch U6 Mini LED QLED 4K TV — $399.99 $799.99 (save $400)

• Amazon 50-inch Ember QLED 4K TV — $419.99 $479.99 (save $60)

• Roku 65-inch Plus Mini-LED 4K TV — $479.99 $649.99 (save $170)

• Hisense 65-inch U6 Mini LED QLED 4K TV — $547.97 $999.99 (save $452.02)

• Amazon 55-inch Ember Mini-LED QLED 4K TV — $559.99 $819.99 (save $260)

• Samsung 65-inch Q8F QLED 4K TV — $597.99 $899.99 (save $302)

• Hisense 55-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $599.99 $849.99 (save $250)

• Hisense 50-inch S7 Canvas QLED 4K TV — $798.99 $1,299.99 (save $501)

• Hisense 65-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $949.99 $1,499.99 (save $550)

• Hisense 65-inch S7 Canvas QLED 4K TV — $1,099.99 $1,999.99 (save $900)

• Hisense 75-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $1,199.99 $1,999.99 (save $800)

• Hisense 85-inch U6 Pro Mini‑LED 4K TV — $1,199.99 $1,999.99 (save $800)

Best portable power station deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Solix Anker Solix C1000 $459.99 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $40   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Anker Solix C1000 portable power station here.

I've tested dozens of portable power stations, and the Anker Solix C1000 remains one of the best models for taking along to the campground. Sure, Anker has already launched the Solix C1000 Gen 2 but the original C1000 comes with some features that are excellent for camping. For one, the built-in LED lightbar is fantastic for using around the campsite, which is missing from the new Gen 2.

The Solix C1000 has six AC ports, an impressive amount for a power station with 1,056Wh capacity. There's also the dual USB-A and USB-C ports for plenty of options while camping.

More portable power station deals

• EcoFlow Trail 300 — $146.99 $249 (save $102.01)

• Anker Solix C300 — $169.99 $249.99 (save $80)

• EcoFlow River 3 — $195.99 $239 (save $43.01)

• EcoFlow River 2 Max — $289 $449 (save $160)

• Jackery Explorer 500 — $339 $449 (save $160)

• DJI Power 1000 V2 — $386.10 $429 (save $42.90)

• Jackery Explorer 1000 V2 — $428.99 $799 (save $370.01)

• Bluetti Elite 100 V2 — $429 $569 (save $140)

• Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 — $499.99 $799 (save $299.01)

• DJI Power 2000 — $719.99 $1,299 (save $579.01)

• Jackery Explorer 2000 V2 — $798.99 $1,499 (save $700.01)

• Jackery Explorer 1500 Ultra — $899.10 $999 (save $99.90)

• Bluetti Elite 300 — $1,098.99 $1,449 (save $350.01)

• Jackery HomePower 3000 — $1,169 $2,499 (save $1,330)

• Anker Solix F3800 Plus – $2,294.99 $2,699.99 (save $405)

Best earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Earbuds $149 at Amazon
$179 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort earbuds here.

Summer calls for endless playlists and great earbuds. The playlists are up to you, but we recommend the budget-friendly Bose QuietComfort Earbuds for jamming out. When it comes to the entire lineup of Bose headphones and earbuds, Mashable feels the QuietComfort earbuds have amazing sound quality, especially given their lower price point compared to other Bose earbuds. The noise cancellation is solid and the fit is both secure and comfortable.

Ahead of Memorial Day, Amazon has all colorway options on sale for $149, down from the list price of $179. Since this is the lowest price we've seen at Amazon all year, now's a great time to make the upgrade.

More earbuds deals

• Anker Soundcore P20i — $19.99 $39.99 (save $20)

• JBL Tune Flex — $49.95 $99.95 (save $50)

• Apple AirPods 4 — $99 $129 (save $30)

• Anker Soundcore Sleep A20 — $129.99 $179.99 (save $50)

• Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 — $189.99 $229 (save $39.01)

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199 $249 (save $50)

• Bose Ultra Open — $229 $299 (save $70)

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds — $249 $299 (save $50)

Best kitchen deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Slushi (88 ounce) $259 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $90.99   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Ninja Slushi here.

If you're ready to make this the summer, a slushy machine is bound to make that happen. While there haven't been too many machines that replicate that perfect summer treat we run to the corner store for, the Ninja Slushi is here to save us. Amazon must also recognize how perfect this is for summer because the pre-Memorial Day sale price of $259 matches the rarely-seen record low price at Amazon.

More kitchen deals

• Ninja Blast Portable Blender — $49.99 $69.99 (save $20)

• Mueller Vegetable Chopper — $24.99 $49.99 (save $25)

• Chefman Air Fryer (4-quart) — $57.97 $99.99 (save $42.02)

• Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ — $99 $159.95 (save $59.96)

• Ninja XL Air Fryer (5.5-quart) — $119.99 $179.99 (save $60)

• Chefman Iceman Slush-Ease Max — $179.96 $349.99 (save $170.03)

• De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo — $499.95 $699.95 (save $200)

Best robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy Eufy C28 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $499.98 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $300.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Eufy C28 here.

Unless you especially love vacuuming or mopping, there's not a whole lot of reason to do it manually anymore. We have great robot vacuums that can also take care of mopping and the budget-friendly Eufy C28 combo is already on sale ahead of Memorial Day. Mashable's robot vacuum expert Leah Stodart tested the new Eufy C28 and said, "When it comes to big spills and dried stains, the Eufy C28 is easily the most efficient robot mop in the $600 to $800 price range I've ever tested." Its compact size could also be a benefit for smaller homes or apartments.

More robot vacuum deals

• Roborock Q7 M5 Robot Vacuum and Mop — $149.98 $239.99 (save $90.01)

• Shark AV2501S AI Ultra Robot Vacuum — $299.99 $549.99 (save $150)

• Roborock Qrevo S5V Robot Vacuum and Mop — $549.99 $899.99 (save $250)

• Dreame X50 Ultra Robot Vacuum — $899.98 $1,049.99 (save $150.01)

• Roborock Qrevo CurvX Robot Vacuum and Mop — $899.98 $1,499.99 (save $600.01)

In the age of on-demand everything, it’s no surprise that we can get "dates" (and I use that term loosely) with the tap of a button. Thanks to classic hookup apps like Tinder and newcomers like Pure, finding a sexy new friend can be as straightforward as ordering a pizza. As for the quality? That’s about the same as your pizza — hit or miss, depending on the time of day, where you're located, and how hungry you are.

Fortunately, you’ve got me, your resident dating app expert (though I prefer modern-day Carrie Bradshaw), to guide you to the promised land, aka the best hookup apps.

I’ve spent the past three years (yes, years) researching, downloading, and testing dozens of the top dating apps to find the best ones for all kinds of daters, including the one-night-stand crowd. From discrete sexting apps to dating sites for serious relationships, I've swiped through them all. I also consulted a panel of sex and relationship experts to make sure my picks are solid.

How to get the most out of hookup apps

My number one rule is to be brutally honest about what you’re looking for. You’re here for a good time — so own it. That means staying in your lane; don't go looking for a one-night stand on an app like eharmony.

"Hookup apps help prevent situations where people are on mainstream dating sites with the intention of having a casual hookup but are unclear about these intentions," Suzannah Weiss, resident sexologist for Biird and author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject, tells Mashable. "They also give women a space to be openly sexual creatures without judgment."

And here's a little insider secret I picked up from Alexander Liebisch, the CEO and founder of TinderProfile.ai: Timing is everything. He found that people messaging on Tinder's "free tonight" feature after 10 p.m. on a weekend had a 45 percent higher chance of hooking up.

So, whether you're looking for a one-night stand, a regular FWB situation, or just a space to explore your sexuality, I've got you covered. Based on all my hands-on testing and expert consultations, I’ve broken down the best hookup app for every type of person and mood.

Recent updates to this guide

• Hinge: Hinge just keeps getting better, so I’ve bumped it up higher on my list as of October 2025. Its user base is growing, and my own recent tests on the app have been surprisingly positive.

• Sniffies (added September 2025): I've added Sniffies, the map-based app for queer men, because it's been gaining a lot of traction. (It got a little too spicy for Apple and was pulled from the App Store, so it's now technically a dating site.) Don't say I didn't warn you about the NSFW content.

• FetLife (added September 2025): FetLife is my new favorite "Honorable Mention." It's not your typical hookup app; it's more of a social network for the kink community (and, oddly enough, the best hookup app for gamers). Just remember: it's a community, so don't treat it like Tinder.

• Plenty of Fish (removed January 2025): POF went through a rebrand recently, and honestly, I'm not impressed. My latest tests showed they got rid of key features like free messaging for non-matches, and I kept running into the same old profiles.

• Match (removed August 2025): I know some people say they've found casual hookups on Match, but that's not what it's for. Match is where you go to find a serious, long-term relationship, and I still recommend it for that. But for a hookup? You're just fishing in the wrong pond.

Why some popular hookup apps didn't make the cut

You might notice a few apps that pop up in ads or other lists are missing here. That’s intentional. I swipe through the good, the bad, and the downright sketchy so you don’t have to. For an app to make my list, it has to be effective, safe, and worth your time.

Here's a shortlist of apps that didn't make the cut this year:

• Wild: You’ve probably seen ads for this one. On paper, Wild sounds like the perfect casual dating app. In practice, the paywalls are aggressive, the distance filter doesn't work, and you have to pay for anything that's even remotely useful. Unless you're willing to spend serious cash upfront (and hope for the best), the experience feels limited compared to more open apps like Tinder.

• DOWN: This app (formerly "Bang With Friends") is known for its simple "Get Down" vs. "Get Date" feature. It sounds clever, but in reality, the experience is messy at best. Many users report feeling scammed by subscriptions that don't deliver matches, or finding that the few real people on there are... let's say "odd." It’s hard to recommend an app when the main user complaint is "Is anyone real?" Hard pass.

• Facebook Dating: Yes, Facebook has a dating section, and it’s surprisingly massive (and completely free, which is huge). While it's a decent option for casual dating, the vibe tends to be a bit more "friends of friends" and "relationship-focused" than the anonymous, no-strings energy you get from apps like Pure or Feeld. (For Mashable's Chance Townsend, signing up was "the most uneventful dating experience" of his life.) It's worth a shot if you're already on Facebook, but it didn't quite crack my top tier for hookups specifically.

If you've set up an account and explored what AdultFriendFinder has to offer, you’ll get regular prompts to upgrade your account to a “Premium Gold Plan.” But before you enter your credit card details, it’s good to know and understand the actual benefits of signing up to a paid membership. 

Hey, we get it if you don't want to spend anything. Tight budgets are what they are. And you can absolutely still have fun using AdultFriendFinder's free version, but the site does throw up some annoying barriers that limits the experience for free users. And an awful lot of content and quality-of-life stuff is waiting for you once you upgrade. 

SEE ALSO: The best hookup apps for 2026: I swiped until my thumb hurt

You can test the waters with a one-month membership that will only set you back $25.16. Or you can commit to three months for the price of $20.95 per month. If the trial run goes well, it might be worth committing to a more long-term membership. You can get a one-year membership for a monthly fee of just $14.95. Note, however, that you need to manually cancel your Gold account after each membership period ends, as it does automatically renew your subscription by default. 

Intrigued but still need to know more before you make a commitment? Here are three perks exclusive to paid users that will help justify the monthly cost:

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder   Learn More Discover vastly expanded chatting options

If you’re relying on a free membership, actual chatting options are limited. You can search for individual members based on some limited criteria (Man/Woman/Trans or Couple/Group, for example), and you apply some very limited filters (Online or Near Me), but if you try to click through the profile photo and learn more about the person who has caught your eye, you’re instantly prompted to upgrade your account.

Free members are limited to interacting with others in forums and group chat spaces, which is fun but simultaneously restrictive, since there’s no guarantee the people you chat with actually live anywhere nearby. And while free members can receive regular direct messages from premium users, they will need to upgrade to actually respond and get a back-and-forth DM convo going. 

SEE ALSO: 3 AdultFriendFinder red flags — how to avoid scams on AFF

Gold members, on the other hand, can send and respond to private messages, enter webcam shows, and speak to the host for free. They can also add people to a Friends list to make recurring contact easier, and unlock access to the site’s built-in instant messenger for real-time conversations. 

Unlock AdultFriendFinder’s even naughtier side

One quick visit to the homepage — where nudity filters are turned off by default — and you'll see that AdultFriendFinder doesn’t shy away from sexual content. But free members are missing out on a lot more than they might realize. With a premium membership, for example, you gain access to better quality photos, videos, and streams, so those tiny thumbnails and grainy, low-res webcam feeds — you know, the ones that look like they’re being downloaded straight from the ‘90s — will suddenly come to life in stunning HD. 

But more than that, Gold members can also view and comment on nude photos and videos on profiles that the uploader has restricted to paying members. And while standard members are allowed to watch member webcams, they can only watch one at a time. Gold members, meanwhile, can open multiple streams at once. 

Finally, Gold members can access AdultFriendFinder’s Sex Academy, a massive resource for anyone who wants to learn more about sex and sexual health — not to mention discover new techniques and become more skilled in the bedroom. Topics range from the basics — such as how to correctly put on a condom — to more advanced skills, such as oral sex techniques. Everything's covered in a way that's easy to follow and — in the case of practical sex skills — easy to replicate IRL.

Refine your search for the perfect match

We know that free members can’t really interact with their searches anyway, but we still have to admit that it's frustrating to discover how limited the basic search function is, especially when you consider how much information that users voluntarily provide about themselves.

Of course, it's no surprise that paid members get a far better experience. Signing up for a membership unlocks a more refined search that includes not just basics like gender, sexual orientation, and an age and distance range (Straight, Bisexual, Bicurious, Gay, and Prefer Not To Say are all options), but also marital status, ethnicity, and body type (Average, Slim/Petite, Athletic, Ample, A Little Extra Padding, and BBW/BBM are the options here).

SEE ALSO: AdultFriendFinder vs. Snapchat: Which is better for sexting?

Paid members can get super specific in AFF's My Kinks section, which is exactly what it sounds. Fill this out to let people know exactly what you're into — there's no shaming or judgment here. This will help to attract like-minded people and give you the ability to search through other users who share the same kinks. The list is pretty exhaustive and extremely kink-friendly.

Paid members can also build up a friends list, helping to track their favorite people and chat partners. That makes it easy to slip back into a steamy conversations or keep up with a particular streamer’s schedule. 

If you’re after a naughtier online dating experience, something that prioritises kinky fun and taboo-busting chats that other sites keep hidden behind innuendo and self-censorship, AdultFriendFinder’s paid membership experience is very much worth exploring. 

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.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

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

Handled.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

DEALT

Hurdle Word 2 hint

3D.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for May 23, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

CUBIC

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Household task.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 23 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 23, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answer

CHORE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Colorful flower.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

PANSY

Final Hurdle hint

One of the five senses.

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

TASTE

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

Tonight marks the First Quarter Moon, when roughly half of the Moon’s visible face is illuminated.

What is today’s Moon phase?

As of Saturday, May 23, the Moon phase is First Quarter. Tonight, 48% of the moon will be be lit up, according to NASA's Daily Moon Guide.

Tonight, with just your naked eye you'll be able to spot the Mares Crisium, Tranquillitatis, and Fecunditatis. If you have binoculars you'll also be able to catch a glimpse of the Endymion and Posidonius Craters, and finally, a telescope will reveal the Apollo 11, 16, and 17 landing spots.

When is the next Full Moon?

There are two Full Moons in May, with the next due to take place on May 31.

What are Moon phases?

According to NASA, the Moon takes around 29.5 days to orbit Earth completely, passing through eight phases during that time. While the same side of the Moon always faces Earth, the way sunlight hits its surface changes throughout its orbit, creating the familiar full, half, and crescent appearances we see in the night sky. Altogether, the lunar cycle consists of eight main phases:

New Moon - The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-Moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The Moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-Moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

It's 2026 and times are good for low-effort consumers. Yes, you can get pretty much anything you want by just tapping and swiping of your smartphone: Your shopping, your favourite takeaway, your high-ticket tech, even — our personal favourite — a hot date. And why shouldn't you? Online dating is nothing new. Apps and websites have dominated the dating world for the best part of 20 years. In fact, some sites go all the way back to the mid-1990s. But things are constantly evolving in the world of app-based dating.

According to our favourite sex-perts at Lovehoney — the progressive sex toy brand that sells everything from lingerie to lubricants and dildos — we're living in horny-but-wholesome times. Lovehoney has named 2026 "The Year of Pleasure."

That doesn’t mean quick-and-easy pleasure from one-night stands and flings. It may come as some surprise, but research says that one-night stands are on the out. Would-be daters are now cruising for "purposeful pleasure" and "meaningful connections." That means hookups with substance — flings that mean something. Yes, we're still hooking up, but we're getting more selective about who we hookup with and why. So, it's important to get the right dating app because each app offers something a little different. And you need the right tools to find the right date.

To help you get started, we’ve looked at the top apps and taken advice from sex and relationship experts.

What to know before you swipe

Before you start downloading apps, it’s good know just how to approach online dating. Our advice is to be 100 percent honest about who and what you’re up for. And maybe give a pass to the mainstream dating apps that are more about romance and happily ever afters (the likes of eharmony, in other words). The best hookup apps make chatting quick and easy (messaging, video calls, all that good stuff), and even the best free options will have features like profile verification to keep you safe.

Our main advice though is to stick to apps which are purpose-built for hookups, casual fun, and satisfying your kink (whatever that kink might be). It can be freeing, not to mention productive, to be open about specific desires. The ways in which we understand sex and relationships are changing all the time — just looking at fast-growing "heteroflexible" sexuality — and hookup apps allow you to explore curiosities with no judgement or social anxiety.

SEE ALSO: The best sexting apps for discreet NSFW chats

It doesn’t matter what you’re looking for, whether it's the chance to explore a new sexual frontier, a friends-with-benefits situation on the reg, or an old school one-night stand (the one-night stand might be going out of fashion, but it’s still hella fun as long as it’s safe and on your terms).

Whatever your desire, we’re here to help make it happen. This guide to the best hookups apps is based on Mashable’s own real-world testing, expert input, and general experience. We’ve broken down each of the best hookup apps available right now, with an option for every type of dater and every dating desire.

These are the best hookup apps for 2026.