Technology

The DJI Mic Mini is down to its lowest price ever for Prime Big Deal Days

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 02:05

Save 41%: The DJI Mic Mini is on sale for $99 at Amazon as of Oct. 7, bringing its $169 list price down by $70.

DJI Mic Mini $99 at Amazon
$169 Save $70 Get Deal

Good audio quality is a deceptively straightforward way to elevate content, but the process of choosing a mic can be decidedly less so.

Before you hit add to cart on a cheap $20 mini mic or $400 XLR microphone, allow me to plead the case for the DJI Mic Mini. After seeing this portable mic all over TikTok, I decided to test it out for myself — now, I officially get the hype. And to sweeten the deal, it's on sale for its lowest price ever during Amazon's October Prime Day sale, going for just $99 instead of its full price of $169.

Note: This deal is available from a third-party seller — DJI has been facing stock issues in the U.S., both on existing products and new releases.

SEE ALSO: We tracked down five content creator-approved deals currently live during October Prime Day

While I get the appeal of buying a $20 mic, there is a considerable jump in quality to the Mic Mini, from the level controls on the receiver that you can monitor in real time, to the noise-cancellation features. I used the mic on a windy day near a busy street, and the background noise barely picked up on the set. Mashable's social team also tested the mics in an echoey convention center hall, in a press line of other interviewers — but you'd never know by the way the audio turned out.

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The $99 kit also comes with what most people would need for a basic setup, including two transmitters, one receiver, a charging case, two clip magnetics, four windscreens, and a carrying case. The mics themselves have up to 48 hours of battery per charge — I never had it run out on me during use. Compared to the $349 DJI Mic 2 or $199 Rode Wireless Go system, the Mic Mini is an exceptional value.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Scarlet review: Mamoru Hosodas latest is the craziest Hamlet adaptation youll ever see

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 02:00

If the first five minutes of Scarlet had been the entire movie, I would have been happy.

In these opening moments, director Mamoru Hosoda (Belle) transports viewers to a fantastic realm, one where the past and future intertwine. Here, a red-haired young woman wanders a desert wasteland filled with discarded armor and slow-creeping magma flows. The clouds in the sky above ripple like ocean waves. A gargantuan dragon swims through the air, leaving crackles of lightning in its wake.

SEE ALSO: NYFF 2025 preview: 14 films you'll want to see for yourself (and how)

The scene is disorienting and dazzling in equal measure, especially as Hosoda toggles between the desert and a glowing, liminal space where the young woman wears not the cloaked garb of a hardened wasteland survivor, but the brilliant white gown of a princess. It's while wearing this gown that the young woman remembers who she is and why she's in the desert. At that point, Scarlet goes from fascinating fantasy to an absolutely gonzo epic.

That's because the woman's memories reveal that Scarlet isn't solely a surreal fantasy tale. It's also an adaptation of Hamlet. And while a high-concept, animated adaptation of Hamlet can be great — look no further than The Lion King for proof — Scarlet mostly chafes strangely against its source material. The result is a film that's confounding in its adaptation ambitions, yet still manages to be showstopping.

How does Scarlet tie to Hamlet? Credit: Studio Chizu

The young woman we first meet in the wasteland is Scarlet (voiced by Mana Ashida), the princess of Denmark. As a young child, she witnessed her Uncle Claudius (voiced by Kôji Yakusho) commit a violent coup against her father (voiced by Masachika Ichimura), executing him right in front of her. (A far cry from Hamlet's Claudius stealthily slipping poison in the king's ear.)

That Scarlet's take on Claudius has him so obviously and visibly responsible for her father's murder means that Scarlet doesn't have to pull from Hamlet's bag of tricks to assess her uncle's guilt. No pretending to be mad or putting on calculated plays for her! Instead, she jumps straight into battle training to take Claudius down. Unfortunately for her, Claudius is two steps ahead and simply has her killed.

SEE ALSO: 'Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere' review: Jeremy Allen White can't escape 'The Bear' in Bruce Springsteen biopic

But death is not the end for Scarlet like it is for Hamlet. She awakens in the Otherworld, the strange afterlife on display in Scarlet's first scenes. Since the past and future are one in the Otherworld, every dead soul winds up here — including Claudius'. Now, Scarlet has one more chance at vengeance, but even the afterlife comes with peril. Die here, and you vanish into nothingness. And with armies of dead soldiers and Claudius' henchmen standing between her and her goal, Scarlet will have to accomplish the impossible if she is to see her goal through to the end.

Why is Scarlet even an adaptation of Hamlet in the first place? Credit: Studio Chizu

From here, Scarlet essentially becomes several different movies. It's partly a fantasy adventure in which Scarlet must fight hordes of soldiers from various time periods. The action sequences are riveting: just the right amount of brutal, while pushing Scarlet's considerable prowess to its limits.

Scarlet is also partly an anti-war treatise, with heaps of pro-immigration and pro-refugee messaging. The former manifests itself in the arrival of Hijiri (voiced by Masaki Okada), a present-day nurse who wants nothing more than to heal the suffering citizens of the Otherworld. He's staunchly anti-conflict, a counterpoint to Scarlet's bloodthirsty nature.

Don’t miss out on our latest stories: Add Mashable as a trusted news source in Google.

Scarlet's nature is echoed in the rest of the war-torn Otherworld, which runs rampant with bandits preying on caravans of innocent souls simply trying to make it to Eternity. That promised heaven lies at the top of a mountain range, but Claudius has set up shop in a nearby fortress and walled off the path to Eternity from the Otherworld's masses. The wall imagery draws a clear parallel to current anti-immigration and anti-refugee policies, echoing Trumpian philosophies of exclusion. Subtlety, thy name isn't Hosoda.

SEE ALSO: 'A House of Dynamite' review: Idris Elba leads an all-star ensemble nuclear-war thriller

The pairing of these big, if simplistic, ideas with Scarlet's Otherworld odyssey is already a lot to take in, and that's without the Hamlet adaptation element. Following Scarlet's death, the story ceases to become the Hamlet you know. Yet Hosoda still puts twists on familiar Hamlet elements. Scarlet must face down minor Hamlet characters like Cornelius (voiced by Yutaka Matsushige) and Voltemand (voiced by Kôtarô Yoshida), with Hosoda turning these bit parts into video game mini-bosses. (Shakespeare's major female characters get far less to do: Ophelia is entirely absent, and Queen Gertrude steals the show in one scene only to disappear otherwise.) Characters regularly speak in lines from the play, prompting me to jolt up and gasp at the screen like a Marvel fan spotting a key Easter egg in an MCU movie.

Then of course, there's the death of it all. As a character, Hamlet is fascinated by death, hence his classic query of "to be, or not to be." Scarlet strands its Hamlet stand-in in death, causing her to fight past the bounds of her own mortality. It's an interesting juxtaposition, yet one Scarlet rarely ponders. Instead, it focuses on Scarlet's choice between vengeance or breaking the cycle of violence. At that point, all the Hamlet references begin to feel more like window dressing than story elements with deeper thematic resonance, and Scarlet's cohesion suffers wildly as a result.

Scarlet is still a gorgeous, unforgettable ride. Credit: Studio Chizu

With all these moving pieces, there's no doubt that Scarlet is as maximalist as can be. And that level of boldness, of throwing everything at the wall and hoping it sticks, makes even Scarlet's most bizarre moments exciting. Sure, "Hamlet, but make it warrior princess" doesn't completely hold together over the course of Scarlet's two-hour runtime, but it is undeniably thrilling to watch something so unexpected play out.

Where Scarlet excels the most is the world-building of the Otherworld, which Hosoda renders in an intriguing blend of 3D and 2D animation. At times, the mixture of 2D facial expressions against a more photorealistic 3D landscape can be jarring, yet the effect only adds to the strangeness of the Otherworld.

The Otherworld offers up a rich background where Scarlet and Hijiri's quest can unfold. Its inhabitants come from a blend of cultures and time periods, creating a wonderful aesthetic clash. Elsewhere, small details in the landscape, like a quarry full of cairns, speak to the many, many dead souls who've passed through.

However, the true standout of the Otherworld is its dragon, a massive beast whose hide is peppered with the weapons of those who have tried to slay it. It roars into view during scenes of carnage, bringing earth-shattering lightning and thunder along with it. The dragon's fearsome appearance, combined with composer Taisei Iwasaki's thrumming score, makes for an unforgettable theatrical viewing experience. Truly, I felt like I was levitating out of my seat.

Now, does Scarlet ever dive deeper into the lore around the dragon, or its role in the Otherworld? Not really. But did I care? Not that much!

That mentality sums up the best way to approach Scarlet as a whole. There's no doubting it's messy, but there's also no doubting its capacity to astonish.

Scarlet was reviewed out of the New York Film Festival. It hits theaters Dec. 12.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ninjas best kitchen gadgets are on sale for Prime Day — heres what to buy now

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 01:54
Best Prime Day Ninja deals Best Ninja deal overall Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer $159.95 (save $20.04) Get Deal Best 'Prime Exclusive' deal Ninja CREAMi $179.95 (save $50.04 + get a free $9.96 Amazon credit) Get Deal Best runner-up deal Ninja Air Fryer & Toaster Oven (DT501​) $199.99 (save $150) Get Deal Best splurge deal Ninja Slushi $299.99 (save $70) Get Deal Best Ninja coffee and espresso deal Ninja Luxe Café Premier Series Espresso Machine and Drip Coffee Maker $498.99 (save $101) Get Deal

We’ve been testing Ninja products for a long time now, and one thing we can confidently say is that it’s always a treat to see what pops up on sale during major retail events like Prime Day and Black Friday. And, as you’ve probably gathered by now, October Prime Day (officially known as Prime Big Deal Days) kicked off on Oct. 7, and the deals are here.

Here are the best Prime Day Ninja deals we could find to get your kitchen equipped for upcoming holiday hosting.

Best Ninja deal overall Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer $159.95 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $20.04 Get Deal Why we like it

The Ninja Crispi is currently on sale for $159.95. This means if you missed out during July’s Prime Day event, you can get it for the same price once again. The Crispi is a Mashable favorite for its innovative tech and portability. Shopping reporter, Samantha Mangino, says it’s “made for meal preppers” and “stores nicely and can be used on the go.” During her French fry trial, the Ninja Crispi “made every fry perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside,” which is definitely something anyone who’s on a tight schedule would appreciate.

More Prime Day Ninja deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Best AirPods deals to buy now for October Prime Day, including AirPods 4 and Max

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 01:31

Amazon's October Prime Day (Prime Big Deal Days) is in full swing, and after a very slow start, the Apple AirPods deals we were waiting for have finally arrived.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day 2025: Live updates on the top deals

We're now seeing a few significant, record-low prices on some of the most popular models, including the AirPods 4. Although we were initially disappointed to see the AirPods Pro 2 holding steady at their usual $199 price this morning, they've officially dropped to $169.99. This is the deal to grab if you're looking for active noise cancellation.

The AirPods Max also dropped in price from $549 to $429. That's the biggest discount we've seen since Prime Day proper in July. Fingers crossed the price drops even further once the shopping event officially kicks off.

The AirPods Pro 3, on the other hand, aren't on sale yet — though we have already seen a minor price dip following their recent release.

Below, find all the Apple AirPods deals available ahead of October Prime Day 2025.

Best AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $89 at Amazon
$129 Save $40 Get Deal Why we like it

A great value for the price, the AirPods 4 feature personalized spatial audio, voice isolation, Siri interactions, improved bass, mids, and highs, a comfortable and snug fit, and a more compact charging case that's easier to find. They come in two options: with or without active noise cancellation. Regardless of the option you choose, Mashable's reviewer noted that "they sound like honey." Not to mention, they actually stay put in your ears when sprinting on a treadmill, which is no easy feat.

Both options last up to five hours per charge (30 with the charging case), making them excellent daily drivers. If noise cancellation doesn't matter to you, the entry-level AirPods 4 are the best option for your wallet at just $89, their best price on record. If you upgrade to the pair with ANC, it'll cost you an extra $30.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC.

More October Prime Day Apple AirPods deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Samsungs Frame TV is half off for October Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 01:30

SAVE $700: Samsung's 55-inch The Frame TV is $797.99 on Amazon, a 47% discount from its $1,497.99 sticker price for October Prime Day. This discount matches the biggest price cut we've seen for the Frame TV.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung/Amazon Samsung The Frame TV 55-inch model $797.99 at Amazon
$1,497.99 Save $700 Get Deal

If you've ever wanted a big, thin Samsung TV that blends into your living room decor and classes up the joint when it's turned off, the 55-inch model of the Frame TV is deeply discounted as part of Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days for October. It's just $797.99, a nearly 50% discount from the $1,497.99 list price.

For those who don't know, Samsung's Frame series is pretty distinct in the world of TVs. These are thin TVs that are ideal for wall-mounting and display famous works of art on the screen when turned off. The point is to make something that fits in the living room nicely without just looking like a big, reflective black rectangle when it's not in use. It's a QLED panel with HDR support, a 4K resolution, and a 120Hz refresh rate, so it'll work nicely with all your modern gaming and home theater hardware, too.

Obviously $797 is not a small amount of money, by any means, but a 4K/120Hz TV that looks this classy when it's not in active use doesn't drop down to this price level very often. This deal matches the lowest price we've seen for the Frame TV, so hop on it if it calls to you.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Prime Day deals under $25 to treat yourself (without feeling guilty)

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 01:25
Best October Prime Day deals under $25 Best deal overall Amazon Echo Pop (newest model) $24.99 (save $15) Get Deal Best streaming deal under $25 Roku Streaming Stick Plus (2025) $24 (save $15.99) Get Deal Best smart home deal under $25 Kasa Smart Plug Mini 15A (4-Pack) $21.99 (save $8) Get Deal

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event is in full swing, and while there are plenty of big-ticket items on sale, you don't have to drop hundreds of dollars to score a great deal. Some of the best finds are actually in the under-$25 category.

SEE ALSO: 200+ October Prime Day deals: Save on Apple, Sony, Samsung, and Lego

Here, we're rounding up the best affordable deals that are perfect for stocking stuffers, small home upgrades, or just a little "treat yourself" moment. We’ll be updating this page through Oct. 8, so check back for more discounts.

Be the first to know about the best October Prime Day deals. Follow Mashable's Prime Big Deal Days live blog and keep checking back for the latest discounts, stock alerts, and deal drops.

Best deal under $25 Amazon Echo Pop (newest model) $24.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Echo Pop is a compact speaker that can accomplish a lot, from playing your favorite music or podcasts aloud to using Alexa voice to set reminders, timers, read the news, or even check the weather for the day. If it's been on your shopping list, all available colors are currently marked down to $24.99 from their original list price of $39.99, saving you a cool $15.

There are plenty more deals like this available for under $25 right now. Here are more of the best deals under $25 we've found so far:

Best October Prime Day streaming deals under $25 Roku Streaming Stick Plus (2025) $24 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $15.99 Get Deal Best October Prime Day Echo device deals under $25 Amazon Echo Pop Kids (newest model) $24.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $25.00 Get Deal Best October Prime Day security device deals under $25 Blink Mini 2 (newest model) $19.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Best October Prime Day smart home deals under $25 Kasa Smart Plug Mini 15A (4-Pack) $21.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $8 Get Deal Best October Prime Day portable charger deals under $25 Anker Nano 2-Port Charger $17.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $12 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

October Prime Day just added some awesome gift card deals

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 01:03
Best October Prime Day gift card deals Best entertainment gift card deal $50 Fandango eGift card $40 (save $10) Get Deal Best treat gift card $50 Cold Stone gift card $40 (save $10) Get Deal Best self-care gift card deal $50 Spafinder gift card $40 (save $10) Get Deal Best clothing gift card deal $50 Eddie Bauer gift card $40 (save $10) Get Deal

October Prime Day is not messing around with the deals. We've seen record-low prices on everything from top-of-the-line Bose headphones to portable power stations and plenty in between. But if you're shopping the sale for gift-worthy items, Amazon just added a new category for gift card deals, and there are some real gems in the mix. We're seeing plenty of $50 gift cards being sold for $40 on everything from clothing to treats to movie tickets. Here are some of the best on offer.

Be the first to know about the best October Prime Day deals. Follow Mashable's Prime Big Deal Days live blog and keep checking back for the latest discounts, stock alerts, and deal drops.

Best gift card deal Opens in a new window Credit: Fandango $50 Fandango eGift card $40 at Amazon
$50 Save $10 Get Deal Why we like it

We're just days away from the release of Tron: Ares and if you're not in the mood to pay full price of a movie ticket, snag this October Prime Day deal on a Fandango e-gift card. The $50 e-gift card is on sale for only $40 for Amazon Prime members. Plus, since it lands in your email, you won't have to wait around for a doorstep delivery. Remember, gift cards don't expire so if a probably not-so-great Disney sequel isn't your thing, save the gift card for another new release.

More $50 gift cards on sale for $40More gift card deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The 35 best Christmas gifts for the 2025 holiday season, hand-picked by our product reviewers

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 00:55

Choosing the best Christmas gifts for the ones you love is either an epic quest that you look forward to every year — or one you dread. Luckily, we spend our days testing all the latest gadgets and gear, and we know exactly what to recommend.

For 2025, our Christmas wishlist is simple: It's all of the awesome stuff we loved the most this year. That includes the newest gadgets we put to the test every week, the swoonworthy items we just had to take home and keep for ourselves, and some classic all-time favorites. With input from Mashable's own tech reporters and shopping editors, every item on our list is something we use, love, or have gifted to others ourselves.

So whether you're searching for Christmas gifts for your mom and dad, or just in need of a good stocking stuffers, this may truly be the only Christmas gift guide you'll need.

Nintendo Switch 2 Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable

The new Nintendo console was beloved by reviewer Alex Perry, who wrote that the new release is "a fabulous follow-up to an all-time legend" and that he "can't stop playing" the handheld gaming device. The Nintendo Switch 2 is also a Mashable Choice product, thanks in large part to "massively improved system software" and "wonderful online social features with GameChat."

Opens in a new window Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Nintendo Switch 2 $449.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now Kindle Paperwhite Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

"I love mine so much, and I think it's the best thing I've ever bought," says Deputy Shopping Editor Miller Kern. The Kindle Paperwhite is well-loved across much of Mashable, in fact, and was given a coveted Mashable Choice award for "its responsive interface, quick-turning pages, and lightweight design." Read the full review of the Kindle Paperwhite.

Kindle Paperwhite $124.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $35.00 Shop Now Mario Kart Legos Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

These Mario Kart Legos, which actually fire turtle shells, can be built quickly and are relatively cheap (compared to other Lego sets). They're also just super fun to play with, as Mashable Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth recently discovered during a playdate with his nieces and nephews. The "turtle shell-firing mechanism" provides endless fun, no matter your age, just like the video game franchise itself.

Mario Kart Legos $29.49 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $5.50 Shop Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Credit: CNET

Apple finally refreshed its AirPods Pro line this year, and it was well worth the wait. The new AirPods Pro 3 have incredible ANC and a much-improved fit. Our reviewer says they're also more comfortable, and the heart-rate monitoring and other upgrades set them apart from most other wireless earbuds. We expect these new earbuds to top a lot of Christmas wishlists in 2025.

Opens in a new window Credit: apple Apple AirPods Pro 3 $249 at Amazon
Get Deal Sony XM6 Headphones Credit: Alex Humphreys / Mashable

We loved the new flagship Sony headphones, and our appreciation has only grown since the release. "If you want best-in-class noise-cancelling headphones and pristine audio quality, the headphones deliver," our tech editor wrote in his review. With some of the best ANC in the industry and an improved folding design, we expect these cans to top many Christmas wishlists in 2025.

Sony XM6 Headphones $428 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $21.99 Shop Now DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal Stabilizer Credit: DJI / Amazon

Creators, TikTokkers, and aspiring influencers will adore unwrapping this gimbal stabilizer on Christmas morning. Our tech editor calls it "the best gimbal I've tested so far." This high praise is due to the gimbal's ease of use, stability, and 10-hour battery life.

DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal Stabilizer $126 at Amazon
$149 Save $23 Shop Now Anker Nano MagSafe Power bank Credit: Anker

This ultra-thin Anker powerbank attaches to your phone magnetically. It's also Qi2-certified which means it will charger your phone faster and more efficiently. Don't overthink this one — just add it to your family's stockings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Nano MagSafe Power bank $34.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $25 Get Deal

Panasonic Technics AZ100 Earbuds Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

For audiophiles and music lovers, no other earbuds come close to matching the Panasonic Technics AZ100 wireless earbuds. Another recommendation from our tech editor, these wireless earbuds are a Mashable Choice award winner and "easily beat the likes of Sony and Bose." They pair easily with up to three devices at once, are comfortable to wear, and sound fantastic. "If you're looking for earbuds with the best possible sound quality, these are now the buds to beat," says Werth.

Technics AZ100 Earbuds $286.49 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $13.50 Shop Now Igloo KoolTunes Bluetooth Cooler Credit: Haley Henschel / Mashable

It's a cooler. It's a Bluetooth speaker. It's both! We love this highly giftable item for its retro design and exceptionally good sound quality. Mashable's Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel owns this herself, saying, "I'm obsessed with it. I think it should go on every gift guide." Read the full review of the Igloo KoolTunes Bluetooth Cooler.

Igloo KoolTunes Bluetooth Cooler $139.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Octobuddy Suction Phone Mount Credit: Octobuddy

This is more of a stocking stuffer, but it's a great one for wannabe influencers or anyone who's dreamed of going viral. Recommended by Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel, Octobuddy is simply a silicone phone case with a series of suction cups on the back. TikTok-obsessed teens will especially appreciate the simple design that makes filming GRWM videos way easier — we frequently see the Octobuddy mentioned in our In My Bag series.

Octobuddy Suction Phone Mount $14.99 at Amazon
Shop Now

Loop Earplugs Credit: Loop

Multiple editors and writers on Mashable swear by these noise reduction earplugs, saying they've worn them to concerts, while traveling, and more as a way to cut back on excess sound without missing out on what's going on. One of our senior shopping reporters even brought them to the Beyonce Cowboy Carter tour — the ultimate test. The best Loop earplugs a great stocking stuffer, well-priced, and come in a range of styles and colors.

Loop Earplugs $38.95 at Amazon
Shop Now

Mesa Gas Grill Credit: Mesa

One of the more frustrating parts of cooking on a grill is that it's hard to know what's going on in there without living the cover. Of course, doing so lets out heat and can slow cook times. Enter the Monument Mesa Grill, which has a clear viewing window built into the top. Werth says that both his father-in-law and uncle are obsessed with it. So, if you're searching for the best Christmas gifts for men, dads, or any pitmasters in the family, this will make you a Christmas hero.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesa Mesa Gas Grill with Clear View Lid $499 at Home Depot
Shop Now

Brooklinen Towels Credit: Brooklinen

There is something so luxurious about a brand-new set of bath towels that all match and feel wonderful. It's like a warm hug each time you get out of the shower. The ones from Brooklinen are particularly loved by our staff — our tech editor says, "I firmly believe that Brooklinen's Super-Plush towels are the best towels in the world, period. They're insanely fluffy yet dry faster than you expect."

Opens in a new window Credit: Brooklinen Brooklinen Towels Shop Now Loftie Alarm Clock Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable

What's old is new again with the famous Loftie smart alarm clock, which our staff loves for allowing them to ditch the screens while in bed. Lead Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard owns this and says it's "a very pleasant alarm clock to wake up to." It's customizable, with nice-sounding alarm options and a built-in night light.

Loftie Alarm Clock $169.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Ninja Luxe Café Credit: Ninja

After testing Ninja appliances for weeks, this is the one that Shopping Reporter Sam Mangino has made her own. The 3-in-1 machine can tackle espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew, and even has a built-in bean grinder. Mangino says she really loved this one because it "streamlines the process and cuts down on the learning curve." See how the Ninja Luxe Café fared on our list of the best Ninja appliances.

Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine $498.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $101 Shop Now Owala FreeSip Water Bottle Credit: Owala

Hydro Flask had her moment. We have now entered the Owala era. Almost everyone on Mashable's Shopping team has the Owala FreeSip, which reporter Sam Mangino dubbed the "best water bottle ever." The 24-ounce insulated stainless steel bottle is designed to accommodate both sipping (via straw) and good, ol' fashioned gulp when tipped back. For college students, athletes, teenagers, or anyone who drinks water, we think a colorful Owala is one of the best Christmas gift ideas of the year.

Owala FreeSip $29.99 at Amazon
Shop Now

John Boos & Co. Cutting Board Credit: John Boos & Co.

"I love it so much," says Shopping Reporter Sam Mangino, who owns this cult-favorite maple cutting board. Made in the USA, each cutting board is a thing of beauty. It's no wonder Mangino keeps hers out on the counter at all times, as if it was a piece of artwork — because it is.

John Boos RA-Board Series Rectangular Wooden Maple Cutting Board 18”x12” – 2.25” Thick, 13-lb Reversible Butcher Block with Edge-Grain & Finger Grips – Made in the USA $133.95 at Amazon
Shop Now Kobo Libra Colour Credit: Kobo

Our staff loved the Kobo Libra Colour during testing, saying that it makes a really great alternative to the Amazon suite of products. The e-reader allows you to interact with the text and highlight passages in color (thus the name), making things like comic books and graphic novels a bit more enjoyable. Our reviewer said the ergonomics of the color e-reader are particularly good too, especially if you like to read in bed.

Kobo Libra Colour $229.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $20 Shop Now Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Credit: RJ Andersen / Mashable

We spend a lot of time testing headphones and earbuds, and we have no shortage of recommendations when it comes to this great stocking stuffer. Our staff swears by these Bose Ultra Open earbuds, saying they're really great for working out or going on walks while remaining aware of the world around you. Read more about the best open earbuds.

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds $249 at Amazon
$299 Save $50 Shop Now Solawave Wand Credit: RJ Andersen / Mashable

We're obsessed with this skincare wand, and after vigorous testing, have deemed it to be a Mashable Choice award winner. Our staff says that as far as beauty tools go, it's a great introduction to tech-powered skincare. It's not as effective as a red light mask and you have to be more diligent with the wand, but it will deliver that same experience at a fraction of the price. For all these reasons, we think it's one of the best Christmas gifts for women and teens in 2025.

Piecework Puzzles Credit: Piecework

If you only gift one puzzle this year, let it be one of these. "I'm a huge puzzle nerd, and I adore Piecework puzzles," says Deputy Shopping Editor Miller Kern. "All of the designs are super cute, and I have considered framing the ones I have." Others on the team agree. We love these puzzle for their bright photography and extra-thick pieces, which top out at 1,000.

Piecework Puzzles $40 at Amazon
Shop Now KitchenAid Mixer Credit: KitchenAid

This countertop icon is a workhorse for at-home bakers and cooks. We're obsessed. I have one, and love that it takes the muscle out of things like mixing, whisking, and kneading. One of the best parts about owning a KitchenAid Mixer are all the attachments, allowing you to utilize that powerful little motor in new ways, like grinding meat and making pasta. There's a reason why it landed on our list of the best products you'll buy once and own for life.

KitchenAid Mixer $379 at Amazon
$499 Save $120 Shop Now

Canon Ivy 2 Mini Printer Credit: Canon

Deputy Shopping Editor Miller Kern owns this and loves it, and after hearing her rave about it, it's now on the top of my very own Christmas wishlist. The portable printer works with any compatible iOS and Android device, allowing you to print photos on demand directly from your smartphone. The best part is the sticky photo paper, making this a great Christmas gift for anyone who likes to journal or scrapbook.

Opens in a new window Credit: Canon Canon Ivy 2 Mini Photo Printer $129.98 at Amazon
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DJI Mic Mini Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable

This super small and ultralight wireless microphone would make a great Christmas gift for the creator, aspiring filmmaker, and podcast host in the family. Compatible with both iPhones and Androids (plus a host of cameras), these are the exact microphones that the Mashable social team used at VidCon. Highly recommend.

DJI Mic Mini $99 at Amazon
$169 Save $70 Shop Now Rolling Garden Stool Credit: Pure Garden

Don't tell our moms, but at least one of them will be getting this for Christmas: a rolling garden cart with storage inside and a seat, so she can bop along weeding her garden without bending over so much. I feel pretty confident that she's gonna love it.

Rolling Garden Cart With Seat $39.95 at Amazon
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Personalized Family Member Sign Post Credit: Uncommon Goods

A member of our staff asserts that this is "probably the best gift I've ever given my mom." We can see why. For those with family members scattered all over the globe, this simple visual reminder of their whereabouts can make everyone feel just a little bit closer. Plus, personalized Christmas presents are always so thoughtful.

Opens in a new window Credit: Uncommon Goods Personalized Family Member Sign Post $200 at Uncommon Goods
Shop Now Bird Buddy Credit: Bird Buddy

We have a feeling this might actually be the best ever Christmas gift for dads. Here's why: This bird feeder with a built-in camera takes birdwatching to a whole new level. The compatible app even includes AI-powered bird identification, a livestream, and alerts for when there's a visitor on the feeder. We're obsessed, and we have a feeling your dad will be too.

Bird Buddy Smart Feeder Pro $269 at Amazon
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Moonbuddy Meditation Device for Kids Credit: Moonbird

Anyone with kids knows that sleep can be hard to come by. We fell in love with this little gadget during testing, and now we're putting it at the top of our best Christmas gift ideas for kids. While Moonbird is designed for adults, Moonbuddy helps kids learn self-regulation, and it can be part of a calming bedtime routine and help ease stress. The secret is to have them match their breath to the handheld device.

Moonbuddy $99 at Amazon
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The Charger by Counterpart Credit: Counterpart

One of the year's best stocking stuffers, Counterpart's USB-C charger is made for anyone who juggles a lot of tech, likes to travel, or works remotely. The Charger "features a retractable cable that snakes up inside the device when it's not in use. That means no annoying cable cluttering up your desk, countertops, or bedroom. It's one of those ingenious product innovations that makes you wonder, 'Why aren't all chargers like this?'" Read our full review of The Charger.

Opens in a new window Credit: Counterpart The Charger $44 at Counterpart
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Ninja Swirl Credit: Ninja

Our reporters maintain that the Ninja Swirl is "way more fun" than the more basic Creami, thanks in large part to the inclusion of a soft serve function. When Sam Mangino reviewed the Swirl, she loved it so much that she awarded it a coveted Mashable Choice, declaring, you'll "never have to leave the house for soft serve again." Read the full review of the Ninja Swirl.

Ninja Swirl $299.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $50 Shop Now

Belkin Nintendo Switch 2 Charging Case Credit: Belkin

Our team loves this as an add-on to the popular Nintendo Switch 2, with one reporter calling it their favorite gaming accessory. The case makes it easier to take the Switch 2 on the road, since the hard shell exterior keeps it protected in the event of a drop. The best part, though, is being able to quickly charge the device anywhere you are. Read our full take on the Belkin Nintendo Switch 2 Charging Case.

Belkin Nintendo Switch 2 Case $139.98 at Amazon
Shop Now Big Rock City from The Magic Puzzle Company Credit: The Magic Puzzle Company

This puzzle brand was huge on TikTok this year, thanks in large part to the hidden Easter eggs and fun puzzle piece shapes. Each 1,000-piece puzzle comes with a secret envelope full of more pieces that you open once you've finished the puzzle. "It's a super fun concept and I have two, and bought one as a gift for my dad, who is also super into puzzles," says Kern.

Big Rock City from The Magic Puzzle Company $24.99 at Amazon
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Brightland Olive Oil Flight Credit: Brightland

Named one of Oprah's Favorite Things, we love these infused olive oils from Brightland for their yummy flavors and the aesthetically pleasing bottle designs. Specialty food items are such a great gift for people who love to cook, because it's the kind of thing they'll never splurge on for themselves (but secretly covet.) This set includes cold-pressed olive oils infused with chili, garlic, lemon, and basil.

Opens in a new window Credit: Brightland Brightland Olive Oil $150 at Brightland
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Petlibro Polar automatic wet cat food feeder Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

Such a great smart home device for cat owners — and an incredible gift for the person who has a cat and also likes to take the occasional weekend getaway. The Petlibro Polar automatic wet cat food feeder keeps three days worth of wet food chilled and fresh, rotating its serving day on a set schedule. Shopping reporter and resident cat girlie Leah Stodart sang the praises of her Petlibro, writing that the "automatic wet cat food feeder is so comforting when I'm gone overnight." It's truly the gift that keeps on giving.

Petlibro Polar $127 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $22.99 Shop Now Rain Drum Credit: MENGBEI

We test (and love) all the latest gadgets and tech products, but sometimes it's nice to take a step back from all of that and tune into nature. This steel drum sits in the garden and plays a series of 11 notes each time it's hit with rain. (Pro tip: You could also bring it into the shower.) It's soothing, it's unique, and it makes for a great Christmas gift.

Steel Tongue Rain Drum $19.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Apple Watch Series 11 Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Apple always releases new products in the fall, and they always dominate guides to the best Christmas gifts of the year. This year, we're recommending the upgraded Apple Watch Series 11, which offers critical improvements to the battery life.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 11 $399 at Amazon
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Categories: IT General, Technology

The iconic Amazon beauty bundle is back: Get the Shark CryoGlow and FlexFusion together for $500

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 00:53

SAVE $200: As of Oct. 7, you can get the Shark CryoGlow red light mask and Shark FlexFusion hair styler together for $499.99 at Amazon. Both regularly cost $349.99 each, so you're saving almost 30% by bundling during Prime Big Deal Days.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark CryoGlow Lilac Chill LED Face Mask + FlexFusion Hair Dryer Bundle $499.99 at Amazon
$699.98 Save $199.99 Get Deal

The Shark CryoGlow face mask and Shark FlexFusion hair styler are two of the most coveted beauty devices on the market. Coincidentally and inconveniently, they're also two items that are almost impossible to find on sale. That is, unless you're in the market for both and shopping during October Prime Day — in that case, you can snag 'em both together for $499.99 total.

Yes, Amazon has officially revived the Shark beauty bundle deal that blew our minds during Prime Day in July. While each of these Shark devices cost $349.99 each on a regular day, this $500 Prime deal essentially lets you score them for $249.99 each. My fellow shopping reporter Bethany Allard and I have tested several Shark beauty products at home and consistently back Shark tools even when they're at full price — so this is a pretty incredible price point for the versatility you're adding to your beauty armory.

Every bulb in the CryoGlow mask can emit red, blue, or infrared light. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable The FlexFusion adds wet hair styling to everything the FlexStyle can do. Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable

First up, the one half of the bundle that's never on sale: The Shark CryoGlow mask hasn't seen a single discount since it came out in Feb. 2025. But it's not like I haven't told a ton of people to pay the full $349.99 for it — I actually stan the Shark mask even harder after spending two months with the $469.99 CurrentBody mask. I can sum up the Shark vs. CurrentBody debate with a single anecdotal sentiment: I was counting down the days during my CurrentBody testing window until I could go back to daily CryoGlow wearing.

Unfortunately for CurrentBody, trying the Shark mask first set my expectations unbeatably high. After trying a ton of hit-or-miss salycilic acid serums, pimple patches, and the Solawave wand, the CryoGlow mask is really the only skincare step that has reliably gotten my relentless adult acne to chill TF out. When I paused Shark usage to fairly assess the CurrentBody mask's results, pimples started popping back up. Now that I'm using the CryoGlow on a daily basis again, my skin has stayed clear. I don't think the timing is a coincidence.

That's not surprising, considering the CurrentBody mask doesn't have acne-fighting blue light bulbs at all. The Shark CryoGlow mask has three different settings that use a combination of red, blue, and infrared light, depending on whether you're trying to target zits, fine lines, or both. You can choose your setting via a handy little screen on the remote, which is an other leg up on the CurrentBody. The Shark's hardshell design is also just a more comfortable and elevated experience overall than the flimsy wrap-around design of competitors.

SEE ALSO: There are solid Dyson deals during October Prime Day, but not all are at Amazon

Finding any type of deal on the FlexFusion isn't as rare, but the indirect $249.99 sale price still looks a whole lot better than the $449.99 price point on Shark's latest launch, the Shark Glam. The Glam tool has a few upgrades, but it shares the same core value as the FlexFusion: safe styling on wet hair. My coworker Bethany Allard was seriously impressed by that feat — and it's definitely welcomed flexibility on top of the dry hair styling possibilities that the FlexFusion borrows from the classic Shark FlexStyle.

The version of the FlexFusion in this bundle comes with a Wet-or-Dry Fusion Brush, styling concentrator, 1.25-inch Auto-Wrap curlers, and the FrizzFighter finishing tool.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best streaming deals live for October Prime Day: Criterion Channel, Starz, and more

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 00:18
The best October Prime Day streaming deals at a glance: BEST Overall Starz annual subscription $11.99/year for your first year (save $58) Get Deal Best for movie lovers The Criterion Channel annual subscription $79.99/year for your first year (save $20) Get Deal Best Prime Video add-on deal AMC+ and MGM+ ad-free bundle $5.99/month for two months (save $12) Get Deal

Amazon's Prime Day events are no longer just a time to score TVs and laptops at a discount. Back in July, Amazon also dropped a ton of streaming deals. Now, during October Prime Day — formally dubbed Prime Big Deal Days — we're seeing some sweet discounts on streaming services once again. So it's safe to say that Prime events are now a good time to diversify your streaming lineup.

There's a bit of fine print, however, when it comes to Prime Day streaming deals. Typically, most of the deals you'll find during these shopping events are in the form of Prime Video add-ons. In other words, you need to be a Prime member or a Prime Video subscriber to take advantage of them. (Not a member? Sign up here.) Add-ons still give you full access to the streaming service you choose; they just happen to live inside the Prime Video app, keeping all of your content under one roof.

Lucky for us, some other streaming services outside of the Prime Video umbrella have also tossed their hats in the ring for October Prime Day, which officially runs Oct. 7 and 8. While we're not expecting Black Friday-level streaming deals, we'll certainly be keeping our eyes peeled for anything that pops up during the event.

Below, we've rounded up all the best options so far, but stay tuned as Prime Big Deal Days plays out.

Best October Prime Day streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Starz Starz annual subscription $11.99/year for your first year (save $58) Get Deal Why we like it

While it may not be the most popular streaming service, Starz is still stacked with some excellent content, including originals like the female serial killer story Sweetpea, the historical drama Outlander, and the Lisa Taddeo book adaptation Three Women. It's also where you'll find Lionsgate films like From the World of John Wick: Ballerina and Americana right out of the theater. For an unspecified limited time, you can sign up for an entire year of the streamer for $1 per month. That's an outrageous 83% in savings — easily the best streaming deal this season. FWIW, that's less than a single month of ad-free streaming on Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, or HBO Max.

Best streaming deal for movie lovers Opens in a new window Credit: The Criterion Channel The Criterion Channel annual subscription $79.99/year for your first year (save $20) Get Deal Why we like it

The best streaming subscription for movie buffs, a Criterion Channel annual plan gives you access to the films in the Criterion Collection and Janus Films' library of more than 1,500 films. Instead of a fixed library with algorithmic programming, it hosts constantly rotating thematic programming, which ranges from mass-market to niche indie films. Subscribers can also enjoy over 500 shorts and 5,000 supplementary features, like trailers, introductions, behind-the-scenes documentaries, interviews, commentary, and rare archival footage. It's a cinephile's paradise, and it's typically just $100 for a full year. Through Oct. 5, however, you can sign up for your first year for just $79.99, saving you 20%.

Best Prime Video add-on streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: AMC+ / MGM+ MGM+ and AMC+ ad-free bundle (Prime Video add-on) $5.99/month for 2 months (save $12) Get Deal Why we like it

Two streaming services for less than the price of one? That's unheard of in the streaming world, but that's exactly what Amazon is offering with this Prime Video add-on deal. For a limited time (likely through the end of Prime Big Deal Days), you can sign up for two months of ad-free MGM+ and AMC+ for just $5.99 per month. That's a grand total of $11.98 for two months of streaming on two different platforms. Actually, since AMC+ includes the Shudder library, it's technically three streaming services.

MGM+ is home to lots of movies we love, like Challengers, Better Man, Blink Twice, and Nickel Boys, as well as its own original series, like Godfather of Harlem, From, and Hotel Cocaine. Meanwhile, AMC+ is home to The Walking Dead universe, as well as Mad Men, Killing Eve, and Portlandia. It also includes full access to the entire Shudder, Sundance Now, and IFC Films catalogs as well, making it a must-have for horror fanatics this fall.

More streaming dealsDigital movie deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Take $10 off a $20+ Grubhub order during October Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 00:09

SAVE $10: Amazon Prime members can place a Grubhub order for $20 or more through Oct. 8 and save $10 with code DEALS10.

Opens in a new window Credit: Grubhub Take $10 off a $20 Grubhub order use code DEALS10 at checkout Get Deal

An Amazon Prime membership comes with plenty of perks, aside from the free two-day shipping. During Prime Day sale events, members get exclusive discounts, and signing up also puts you in line for getting discounts on food delivery. For October Prime Day, Amazon has added a special treat.

Through Oct. 8, Amazon Prime members who are signed up for their free access to Grubhub+ can save $10 on any order of $20 or more with code DEALS10.

Shopping is tiring. Take a break and order something delicious to your doorstep with Grubhub. To snag the $10 off an order of $20 or more deal, you'll need to follow a few simple steps.

First, you need to be an Amazon Prime member. Next, you'll need to sign up for Prime members' free access to Grubhub+, which waives all delivery fees and lowers service fees. Lastly, you'll want to enter code DEALS10 at checkout to save $10.

SEE ALSO: Ninja, Keurig, and more Prime Big Deal Days kitchen items you can shop now

Before the clock strikes midnight PT on the morning of Oct. 9, cash in on this free Grubhub savings. During a time when food prices keep soaring, getting a discount tastes pretty great.

Be the first to know about the best October Prime Day deals. Follow Mashable's Prime Big Deal Days live blog and keep checking back for the latest discounts, stock alerts, and deal drops.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Don't Limit Yourself to One Type of Switch on Your Mechanical Keyboard

How-To Geek - Wed, 10/08/2025 - 00:00

Most mechanical keyboard enthusiasts stick to just one type of switch per board. While that’s perfectly reasonable, why limit yourself? Mixing and matching switches can create a more fun, unique typing experience and make your keyboard truly your own.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Best Prime Big Deal Days deals under $50 available now

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:55

The October Prime Day event, known as Prime Big Deal Days, is here. Running Oct. 7-8, this is a nice opportunity to check out some discounts on items ahead of the big holiday sale events in November, and Amazon has some deals available that are worth checking out.

If you're not looking to spend above a certain amount during this sale event, we've rounded up some of the best offers currently available for under $50. There's some good stuff to look through right now, too, including Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K down to $24.99 and JLab JBuds Lux ANC Wireless Headphones for $48.99.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Prime Big Deal Days

We'll continue to update this with more deals available for under $50 as they pop up over the next few days. Make sure to check back to see what else is new for Prime Big Deal Days.

Best deal under $50 Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $24.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $25.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Considering how much there is to watch on streaming services right now, it's worth having a streaming setup that can bring you a high-quality picture to enjoy it all. The Fire TV Stick 4K is a great pick that supports 4K Ultra HD resolution (with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio, too), and is currently on sale for $24.99 at Amazon. This saves you 50% off its list price, and considering how close it is to its lowest-ever price of $21.99, it's well worth it to pick up now.

This deal just scratches the surface of what's currently available, though. Have a look below at even more great deals available on Amazon for under $50.

More deals under $50

Streaming deals:

Echo device deals:

Headphone and earbud deals:

Blink security device deals:

Gaming deals:

Lego deals:

Boring but essential deals:

Speaker deals:

Categories: IT General, Technology

4 New Microsoft Excel Features to Try in October 2025

How-To Geek - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:44

Excel is constantly changing, and this month, you can use the enhanced capabilities of Copilot and Python to speed up your workflow, focus on data analysis, and tailor the program to your requirements. Here are four new features to look out for this October.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save big on Coleman, Jackery, and more with these October Prime Day outdoor deals

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:33
Best Prime Day outdoor gear deals Best tent deal Coleman Skydome Camping Tent (four person) $84.99 (save $65) Get Deal Best power station deal Anker Solix C1000 $379 (save $420) Get Deal Best action camera deal DJI Osmo Action 4 $229 (save $70) Get Deal Best hydration deal LifeStraw Personal Water Filter $9.45 (save $5.50) Get Deal

If your gear barely made it through the summer, Amazon's October Prime Day event has tons of deals on offer for all your outdoor gear and camping essentials. You'll be able to fully gear up for cold(er) weather adventures or stock up for next spring and summer. Plus, it's an ideal time to grab holiday gifts before chaos descends during Black Friday.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day 2025: Live updates on the top deals

We've spotted deals on portable power stations, coolers, Bluetooth speakers, outdoor cooking supplies, a DJI camera, and more. As expected, two mainstays of Amazon sales are already discounted: Coleman tents are on sale, and the classic LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is now 37% off.

Below are the best outdoor gear deals from the Prime Big Deal Days event, which runs from Oct. 7 to 8. We'll be updating this page with fresh deals as they go live.

Best October Prime Day outdoor gear deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix C1000 $379 at Amazon
$799 Save $420 Get Deal Why we like it

Going camping with a portable power station in tow is arguably more important than the hot dogs or the firewood. A portable power station gives you the ability to keep your phones charged, the mood-setting lights on, and even power a coffee maker if you brought one along. The Prime Day sale price of $379 is a new record-low, beating the previous all-time low of $429.

In our testing, the Anker Solix C1000 is the best overall portable power station, packing in a nice 1,056Wh of capacity. That's enough to keep everyone happily charged up for several days. Plus, it only takes 58 minutes of charging time to get back to full capacity on the power station.

Best hydration deal Opens in a new window Credit: LifeStraw LifeStraw Personal Water Filter $9.45 at Amazon
$14.95 Save $5.50 Get Deal Why we like it

A LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is an essential if you're heading out on a hike. Even if you pack along an Owala water bottle, you never know what might happen, and the LifeStraw ensures you'll be able to filter and drink clean water from practically any water source. It's also a great idea to add one to your emergency kit at home. LifeStraw is a classic Prime Day item that's always worth scoring.

Best October Prime Day cooler dealsBest October Prime Day power station dealsBest October Prime Day outdoor cooking gear dealsBest October Prime Day tent dealsMore October Prime Day outdoor gear deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

We tracked down 5 content creator-approved deals currently live during October Prime Day

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:26

These days, all you really need to create content is a phone.

That said, investing in your setup can upgrade the quality of your content. While that doesn't necessarily require spending hundreds of dollars — you can grab an Octobuddy phone case for under $20 — costs can add up quickly.

That's what makes sales like October Prime Day an opportune time to pick up new gear, whether it be an upgraded mic, new light, or camera. Admittedly, sorting through the mountain of deals that are live can get overwhelming, which is why we used our combined expertise of deals and what gadgets creators use to track down five of the best creator-approved deals live during Prime Big Deal Days. Check them out below:

Octobuddy phone case Credit: Octobuddy

Chances are, you've probably already seen the phone accessory that The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' Whitney Leavitt and TikTok creator Tess Gigone both cited as an essential tool in their content creation kit. The Octobuddy's popularity makes sense — the suction cups basically give you the option to turn anything into a phone stand. While the classic model isn't on sale (yet), the slightly larger MAX Octobuddy is a few bucks off.

Octobuddy Classic MAX $13.59 at Amazon
$16.99 Save $3.40 Get Deal DJI Mic Mini Credit: DJI

If you've been on TikTok lately, you've almost certainly seen DJI's tiny mic, aptly named the DJI Mic Mini. We tested it out for ourselves, and were impressed by the jump in audio quality, range of customization, and ease of use (our social media team even used it to interview VidCon's Hall of Fame inductees). Great audio can elevate content, and though that can be pricey, this deal drops this mic (which comes with two transmitters and one receiver) to just $79 — its lowest price ever.

DJI Mic Mini $79 at Amazon
$119 Save $40 Get Deal A comfortable pair of headphones Credit: Bose

YouTuber Nicole Rafiee told Mashable the Bose QuietComfort headphones are her "true ride or die." While she uses the older model (the QuietComfort 45), the QuietComfort headphones retain the excellent padding, great sound quality, and impressive ANC found on the older headphones. And on sale, they're just $230.

Bose QuietComfort headphones $199 at Best Buy
$359 Save $160 Get Deal The Alix Earle light

TikTok creator Sa Nguyen and creator Brooke Ashley Hall both told Mashable they use the clip-on found light made famous by Alix Earle in 2022. Hall said to Mashable, "We've had it forever, but it's the one that clips on the front of your phone. It's great that [Alix Earle] made it so popular." Though the light is already relatively affordable at full price, its Prime Big Deal Day price brings it down to just $20.39.

Newmowa LED light clip $20.39 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $9.60 Get Deal A camera with a great built-in mic

A good camera can easily cost over $1,000, but one of the two cameras creator Nicole Laneo uses (outside of her phone) sits just under that price point at full price. Thankfully, it's also on sale during October Prime Day, putting it at a slightly more accessible $899. It's not an upgrade for the casual creator, but if you're serious about having some high-quality footage — and are interested in the built-in three-microphone array Laneo cites as one of her favorite specs, this deal could be worth checking out.

Canon PowerShot V1 $899 at Amazon
$979.99 Save $80.99 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazons October Prime Day MacBook deals are even better than they were in July

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:16

As Mashable's resident laptop expert, I'm in charge of sniffing out the best deals on Apple MacBooks during Amazon Prime Big Deal Days this week. The 48-hour sale is officially live through Wednesday, Oct. 8, and so far, I like what I'm seeing: Lots of M4-era models are cheaper now than they were during Amazon's main Prime Day sale in July.

The best October Prime Day MacBook deals at a glance: Best MacBook Air deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $799 (save $200) Get Deal Best MacBook Pro deal Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,330 (save $269 with on-page coupon) Get Deal

Most notably, Amazon is offering record-low prices on the 13- and 15-inch M4 MacBook Airs, bringing their base models down to just $799 and $999, respectively. That's a whole $50 better than their summer Prime Day deals, which were already impressive. (The M4 MacBook Airs are honestly a great value even at full price.)

None of the M4 MacBook Pros have returned to their previous all-time lows, but some have matched or surpassed their previous Prime Day deals by up to $18.50. The three that haven't are M4 Pro models, which are still $200 to $300 off each.

The MacBook Pro I'd be most tempted to buy right now is the base configuration of the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro, which is going for $1,330 in space black thanks to a sneaky on-page coupon. That's $99 better than its July Prime Day price and $31 away from its best-ever price of $1,299. At the same time, I'd consider waiting to see if Amazon revives that record low for the second half of Prime Big Deal Days: It was last available there as recently as late September.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day 2025: Live updates on the top deals

Below, I've outlined the details of all the October Prime Day MacBook deals I'm tracking, including my top picks. (Record lows are marked with a 🔥.) For what it's worth, I'm also keeping a close eye on Best Buy's concurrent Techtober Sale in case it decides to one-up any of Amazon's deals later in the week. It's only price-matching a few at present.

Be the first to know about the best October Prime Day deals. Follow Mashable's Prime Big Deal Days live blog and keep checking back for the latest discounts, stock alerts, and deal drops.

Best MacBook Air deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) 🔥 $799 at Amazon
$999 Save $200 Get Deal Why I like it

Apple's latest MacBook Air offers quiet, Pro-level performance in an ultrathin form factor. It was 24% faster than its M3 predecessor in our CPU benchmark, and it features a new 12MP Center Stage camera in addition to open-lid support for two monitors. The 13-inch model is my top pick for students, and right now, it's a great option for budget shoppers, too: The 256GB base model has returned to its record-low price of only $799 during Prime Big Deal Days — a $200 savings. Best Buy is matching that deal, FYI.

Read Mashable's full review of the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air (M4).

More MacBook Air dealsBest MacBook Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,399 at Amazon
$1,599 Save $200 Requires on-page coupon Get Deal Why I like it

If you have some wiggle room in your budget, the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro gets you cooler multitasking performance, better speakers, a better mix of ports (including an HDMI port), and a nicer 120Hz display compared to the MacBook Air. It's a little bit thicker and heavier, but only slightly. Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days discount shaves 17% off the space black base model's list price; again, don't forget to apply its on-page coupon before heading to checkout.

Read Mashable's full review of the 14-inch Apple MacBook Pro (M4).

More MacBook Pro deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazons famous LifeStraw Prime Day deals are back: Grab $9 personal water filters

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:10

CLASSIC PRIME DAY DEAL: as of October 7, LIfeStraw is selling their cult-favorite personal water filter straws starting at $9.45. The new Peak series model starts at $18.71.

Opens in a new window Credit: LifeStraw LifeStraw Personal Water Filter $9.45 at Amazon
$17.49 Save $8.04 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: LifeStraw LifeStraw Peak Series Personal Water Filter $18.71 at Amazon
$24.99 Save $6.28 Get Deal

The wildly popular and groundbreaking portable water filtration device, LifeStraw, is among the all-time great Prime Day deals. Year after year, LifeStraw portable water filters go on sale for 50% off or more, and we love to see it. These water filters could be potentially life-saving, allowing you to drink even the grossest water safely during emergencies, or simply because you’re thirsty. The water filtration brand also has water pitchers, dispensers, and water bottles. 

For Prime Day, LifeStraw has reduced the prices of both its original model and its deluxe model. LifeStraw claims to remove 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, and 99.999% of waterborne parasites, including Giardia and Cryptosporidium. The brand even promises to remove microplastics from your drinking water.

SEE ALSO: I wait all year for these 25+ classic Prime Day deals

LifeStraw is beloved by hikers, wildfire fighters, and campers alike. It can come in handy, and its small size makes it perfect for packing into your hiking pack or emergency bug-out bag. The LifeStraw original model lasts for up to 1,000 gallons of water. The brand also donates some of its products to people without access to safe drinking water with each purchase. 

The peak model has an enhanced microfilter, which reduces clogging in the straw, which can speed up the rate at which you can drink from it. It also has an unlimited shelf life, so it can live in your go-back for as long as it needs to. This model can also screw onto hoses or water bottles.

It just wouldn't be Prime Day without these LifeStraw deals.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Catch all of these Pokémon deals during October Prime Day before they disappear

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:01
Best Pokémon deals at Amazon Best Pokémon card deal Pokémon TCG Black Bolt Binder Box $59.99 (save $7.90) Get Deal Best Pokémon Switch deal Pokémon Shining Pearl $47.02 (save $12.97) Get Deal Best Pokémon merch deal Loungefly Holiday Pikachu Mini Backpack $45.49 (save $44.51) Get Deal

Amazon’s October Prime Day (also known as Prime Big Deal Days) is upon us, officially running Oct. 7 and 8. For Pokémon people, that just reads as a chance to find Pokémon merch on sale. Whether you’re a seasoned Pokémon TCG collector, a nostalgic anime fan, or someone just looking to add a bit of Pikachu sparkle to your wardrobe, there are plenty of ways to save. Not unlike the rush of an in-store expansion set drop, online Pokémon deals tend to disappear faster than an Abra’s Teleport.

Right now, amidst the chaos of October Prime Day deals across those big categories like TVs and kitchen gadgets, Amazon has quietly rolled out a surprising range of Pokémon discounts — covering everything from trading card booster bundles and plush toys to coveted Loungefly backpacks and official binders to keep your rare pulls pristine. There's something for all kinds of trainers, whether you’re a competitive card collector seeking the latest Scarlet & Violet expansions, a parent hunting for kid-friendly toys, or an anime enthusiast looking to complete your DVD collection with Ash & Pikachu’s classic adventures.

SEE ALSO: We handpicked some of the best October Prime Day Lego deals

Mashable has spotted a handful of stand-out offers that blend genuine value with collector appeal, and we’ll continue to update this list as more Pokémon products go on sale (or sell out) at Amazon, Best Buy, and beyond. So, keep an eye on this space as more Poké-savings evolve over the next few days.

Best Pokémon deal Opens in a new window Credit: Pokémon Pokémon TCG Black Bolt Binder Box $59.99 at Amazon
$67.89 Save $7.90 Get Deal Why we like it

Packs of Black Bolt & White Flare cards have been in short supply in the world of the Pokémon TCG lately, so even a 12% discount on this Black Bolt Binder Box is a pretty solid Prime Day deal involving booster packs. You can potentially get some solid pulls and store your special rares all in one go.

The $47.99 sale price we saw on this box a few days ago was expectedly fleeting, but the current $59.99 sale price is still a few bucks off of the usual $67.89 — we're surprised it's still in stock at all. This premium bundle combines both functionality and Gen-V fun: Inside, you’ll find a themed 9-pocket binder capable of holding hundreds of cards, plus five Black Bolt booster packs from the Scarlet & Violet expansion and a code card for Pokémon TCG Live.

Each pack gives you the chance to pull striking cards, including rare Zekrom variants worth hundreds of dollars, a practically priceless Victini, and a picturesque Special Illustration Rare of N’s plan. While pull rates vary, fans of the Pokémon Black and White games will still love even the common cards from this set, dedicated to the franchise’s fifth generation. 

The binder’s tight-fit sleeves and elastic closure add an extra layer of polish too — making this a tidy, display-ready set that’s great value for collectors and gift-givers alike.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

I’m a Writer and Creative, and These Are the AI Tools I Actually Use on PC

How-To Geek - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 23:00

I didn't use AI tools until someone told me, as a writer and creative, I should learn to work alongside them. Since embracing AI, I've enhanced my workflow, boosted my creativity, and optimized my time. Here are the tools I actually use daily.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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