Technology

When you're starting a homelab full of self-hosted services, it's hard to pick just one. I've tried several, but these three have been my mainstays for a few months or more, and I'll show you how I'm using them too.

There's a lot we can agree on that goes into making an attractive phone. When a phone comes along that does something different, many of us are put off—but the more I think about it, the more I start to feel that these phones, for better or worse, are the best-looking ones.

Too often, the most powerful features of an operating system are tucked away in the accessibility settings. But what if those features could revolutionize how everyone interacts with their devices?

The latest update to the Home Assistant smart home powerhouse has introduced a new feature called the Ask Question action. The feature allows you to get your local voice satellite to ask you a question without you needing to speak to it first.

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Sunday, July 20, 2025:

AcrossThe heart of summer?

• The answer is EMS.

Emotional request

• The answer is Plea.

Word before aching or dancing

• The answer is Belly.

Many fans of Premier League clubs

• The answer is Brits.

Nacho topping that rhymes with 3-Down

• The answer is Queso.

DownLeading role on "The Last of Us"

• The answer is Ellie.

Gooey diner sandwiches

• The answer is Melt.

Authoritative approval

• The answer is Say so.

Country on one side of Lake Titicaca

• The answer is Peru.

Orange-and-brown chip flavor, for short

• The answer is BBQ.

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

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

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

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Mini Crossword.

While watching a show week-to-week or year-to-year can make you love a show more, the wait can be agonizing. We’ve all been there; you fall in love with a show but must wait until new episodes are released. The wait can be hard, especially if you’re waiting several years for that new season.

There’s no anime franchise quite like Gundam, the iconic king of the giant robot genre. Since debuting in 1979, Gundam has become incredibly prolific with several TV shows, movies, comics, and model kits. The distinct robot design made cameos in Hollywood movies like Ready Player One and Pacific Rim: Uprising.

Americans are obsessed with SUVs. They’ve taken over the roads—and the car lots—while small sedans have quietly disappeared.

Gaming is loads of fun. The engagement and immersion go far beyond what you get from a movie or a good book. However, with so much busywork, what starts as a fun pastime can quickly turn into an annoying chore. I found myself doing things I didn’t want to do, simply because I felt compelled by the fear of missing out (FOMO). I was so caught up in that fear that I didn’t even realize I was missing the whole point of playing.

July 20 is National Ice Cream Day. So, what's the best ice cream maker for delicious frozen desserts at home? I picked the top options based on Mashable reviews, recommendations, and our shopping expertise.

Best ice cream makers on Amazon Ninja Creami $229.99 at Amazon Shop Now Ninja Swirl $348 at Amazon Shop Now Cuisinart ice cream maker $69.95 at Amazon Shop Now Dash My Mug ice cream maker $30.22 at Amazon Shop Now KitchenAid ice cream attachment $79.95 at Amazon Shop Now

We all have the option to buy ice cream at the grocery store every time we're there. And sometimes, tiny Jimmy Fallon's unwavering eye contact from the pint of The Tonight Dough works like mind control. But other times, the store-bought route feels tired. The option to make ice cream at home whenever you want, though... now that's a never-ending supply of serotonin with never-ending recipe possibilities.

Plus, with a countertop ice cream machine, you get to be in full control of the ingredients you're using. Instead of staring down an unnervingly long list of ingredients, your own strawberry ice cream could literally just consist of milk, heavy cream, and the strawberries that you trust from the farmers market.

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

When you think of at-home ice cream makers, the Ninja Creami or Ninja Swirl probably come to mind — and yes, of course, they'll be on this list. But there are other great ice cream makers for home use out there (that are more affordable, too). I'm comparing the top no-ice ice cream makers you can get at Amazon below.

Ninja Creami and Ninja Swirl The Ninja Creami. Credit: Ninja The Ninja Swirl. Credit: Ninja

Yes, the viral Ninja ice cream makers are actually as worthwhile as the internet makes them sound — Mashable shopping reporter and resident Ninja appliance expert, Samantha Mangino, tested both the Creami and Swirl at home and thoroughly enjoyed both experiences. But there was a favorite between the two.

Either of these will probably give you the most "professional" at-home ice cream-making experience from this list. The main difference between the Ninja Creami and Swirl is that the Creami produces that classic hand-scooped texture, while the Swirl can do that, plus soft serve ice cream (homemade McFlurry loading). Both come with two pint containers, in which you'll pre-mix your base ingredients like milk, yogurt, or fruit ahead of freezing for 24 hours. After freezing, you "re-spin" the pints to create the ideal hard serve or creamy texture. From there, you can add mix-ins or toppings. Both are loud as hell.

Though the premise of frozen desserts on command was a treat with both, Mangino simply enjoyed the Swirl more. "Having tested both the standard Ninja Creami and the Ninja Swirl, the Swirl is the better investment as an ice cream maker. It has improved performance, requiring fewer re-spins to achieve a creamy consistency. Soft serve or froyo fiends will love the new dispensing feature, which is exceptionally easy to use and, not to mention, really fun."

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Creami $229.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Swirl $348 at Amazon
Shop Now Cuisinart ice cream maker Credit: Cuisinart

For an alternative that's less than $100, Cuisinart's ice cream maker has garnered nearly 4,500 five-star reviews at Amazon. Instead of having to fully pre-mix your base before freezing it, the Cuisinart just requires you to freeze the bowl for at least 16 hours. When it's ice cream time, you can add your concoction to the cold bowl and let it churn for around 20 minutes. (You can keep an eye on the consistency through the top to ensure you're getting your desired ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet texture.) There's even a spout to feed mix-ins without fully stopping the process.

Cuisinart also makes a slightly bigger, stainless steel 2-quart version of its ice cream maker.

Cuisinart ice cream maker $69.95 at Amazon
$89.95 Save $20 Shop Now Dash My Mug ice cream maker Credit: Dash

If you just need a personal batch or two, Dash's cute mug-based ice cream maker is actually genius — and under $40. The Dash My Mug comes with two one-cup ice cream bowls (with mug handles) that need to be frozen for 24 hours ahead of ice cream time. You'll also mix your batch of ingredients separately, chill those for two hours, and then pour them into the frozen mug. Unlike the Cuisinart, which turns the container around the motor, the Dash My Mug uses a lid with a hand mixer-like beater to churn the ice cream. You can achieve a soft serve-like consistency after 15 or 20 minutes, or you can put the mug back in the freezer after churning to thicken it up.

Dash My Mug ice cream maker $30.22 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $9.77 Shop Now KitchenAid ice cream attachment Credit: KitchenAid

Anyone who's already in the KitchenAid mixer universe basically has half of an ice cream maker already. The KitchenAid ice cream maker attachment just involves swapping the mixing head for the dasher attachment and using a special bowl. The bowl's freezable liquid insulation needs to sit in the freezer for about 15 hours — it gets so cold that some users don't even feel the need to chill their liquid contents before pouring them into the bowl, though it's technically advised to do so. From there, your KitchenAid's "stir" setting will start thickening your mixture into legit ice cream, taking 20 to 30 minutes to hit that optimal creamy texture. Then, you can mix in any toppings and let the KitchenAid stir them in on the slowest speed.

KitchenAid ice cream attachment $79.95 at Amazon
$119.99 Save $40.04 Shop Now

The new Insta360 Flow 2 is not just designed to steady your phone; it also aims to incorporate AI into the process for professional-looking videos. It’s a great device for burgeoning creators or adventurers, but it might be a little too complicated for casual users and not enough for people at the next level.

I'm a sweaty guy — it's just who I am. This summer, a birthday gift from my dad has been saving my sheets, which would otherwise be suffering from the relentless heat waves that have gripped Brooklyn lately.

This popular globe fan is also a huge hit among college students. My college-aged cousins all say it's a favorite in the dorms, and I can see why. It's quiet, comes with a remote, and doesn't take up much space.

Over at Amazon, price gougers are jacking up prices on this fan as high as $69.99, quite a bit higher than the retail price of $49.99. But we're not shopping at Amazon today.

If you want to pick up this oscillating fan on sale, head to Walmart, where it's marked down to $39.97. (That's a whole two cents cheaper than the sale price at Best Buy.) For obvious reasons, fans are extremely popular at the moment, and it's always nice to catch one on sale in the peak of the summer heat.

Opens in a new window Credit: Iris Iris Woozoo 3-Speed Oscillating Fan $39.97
$49.99 Save $10.02 Get Deal SEE ALSO: We tested bladeless fans during a heat wave. These are the best to keep cool.

The fan can be adjusted vertically and horizontally, letting you direct air exactly where you want it. Oscillating also creates a consistent flow throughout the room, and you can cycle between three speeds. There's an additional breeze setting that's supposed to simulate the variable speed of wind. I've found this setting is nice but not particularly cooling, but I could see it being useful if you just want to feel some fresh air on your face.

Additional features include a remote control and a timer feature, which will shut the fan off automatically after a set period of time. I've found it to be surprisingly powerful given its compact size and quiet operation. I can leave the fan on during online meetings, whereas my air conditioner creates a distracting noise.

And if you prefer a bladeless fan (or if you're a ride or die Amazon shopper), one of our favorite bladeless tower fans is also on sale.

"Buy it for life," or BIFL, is a shopping movement whose doctrine is thus: Make one financial investment in a durable, well-made item upfront, and you won't have to purchase a replacement down the road, if ever.

BIFL is a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to shopping in our current era of fast fashion, mass production, and rife consumerism. It's also almost certainly a response to it. Down with cheap particle board couches from Amazon and polyester Shein shirts that disintegrate after one wash, say BIFL apostles.

BIFL isn't a new concept — the r/buyitforlife subreddit was founded in 2011 — but it's now more popular than ever. Google Trends data for the phrase "buy it for life" hit an all-time peak in December 2024. r/buyitforlife now counts over three million members, and many of its recommendations have spilled over to TikTok amid the rise of the "underconsumption core" trend.

SEE ALSO: The 2025 guide to recycling electronics, beauty empties, and clothing

Buying stuff for life ultimately means buying less stuff. To that end, being a BIFL-er doesn't necessarily mean swapping all of your current possessions for higher-quality versions. It can just mean taking better care of the stuff you already own via regular maintenance and repairs, doing your part to make it last for life.

But what if you are in the market for a new item? Shopping for BIFL products can be tricky, since you won't officially know if something is capable of lasting years until you've actually used it for years. r/BIFLfails exists for a reason. Complicating things further is the fact that the quality of most goods has been steadily decreasing as manufacturers concede to fleeting trend cycles and consumer demand for cheap prices. 

Such is the importance of doing your research. Don't just take manufacturers' word for it: Talk to people who can vouch for the longevity of certain products and brands.

After chatting amongst ourselves and polling other Mashable staffers, we've come up with a list of 10 buy it for life products that we can vouch for. (We've either used them regularly or thoroughly tested them as part of a "best of" guide.) These recommendations come based on the products' durability and build quality, their ease of repairability, and/or the extent of their warranties, including the ability to return items or find a similar model if needed. And we're thinking outside of the usual suggestions of a cast iron skillet or Darn Tough socks.

In the long run, building the muscle that is evidence-based shopping is the ultimate money-saving hack — and you can apply it to just about any category you're perusing at the time. From home goods to beauty to traveling, let us put you onto the products we feel are in it for the long haul.

Patagonia Black Hole bags Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable ; Patagonia

If there’s one Patagonia product that’s reached true icon status, it’s the brand’s famous Black Hole bags. Patagonia released a new version of these backpacks and duffel bags in 2024 (I reviewed them for GQ at the time), making them even more eco-friendly and repairable. There’s a reason gorpcore nerds are obsessed with them. They’re tough, stylish, and equally useful trekking through a national park and LaGuardia Airport. Personally, I prefer the duffel bags over the backpack, as the more spacious duffels come with backpack straps that you can take on and off as needed. With a reasonable price tag, tons of versatility, and genuine legend status in the outdoor world, Black Hole bags won’t just last for 50 years; we think they’ll still be in fashion 50 years from now.

Durability: The newest version of the Black Hole bags use a ripstop polyester fabric (recycled polyester, of course) with a laminated finish for extra protection. I attacked my bags with a pair of scissors, and I had to attack pretty hard just to get scratches to appear. (Patagonia bags scratch where other bags rip.) All of the handles and hardware also hold up well.

Repairability: Few products are as repairable as Patagonia bags. The company will even help you fix older products, no matter how old. So, if your Black Hole bag gets damaged, Patagonia will replace the damaged panels, though not necessarily with the same color fabric. The idea is that a patched and color-mismatched Patagonia bag would be a source of pride for customers who appreciate the brand’s stand against fast fashion and consumerism.

Warranty: Patagonia doesn’t just have a lifetime warranty; they have a famous "Ironclad Guarantee." The brand promises that if anything goes wrong with your Patagonia gear, they’ll make it right. "We guarantee everything we make. If you are not satisfied with one of our products at the time you receive it, or if one of our products does not perform to your satisfaction, return it to the store you bought it from or to Patagonia for a repair, replacement, or refund."

—Timothy Beck Werth, Tech Editor

Opens in a new window Credit: Patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L $159 at Patagonia
Shop Now A Yeti cooler Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable ; Yeti

What do Yeti and Dyson have in common? Their products have both become surprise status symbols, with diehard partisans who follow their every launch. Of course, only one of these brands regularly tests its products against actual grizzly bears. Sure, Yeti coolers might be a bit overpriced. Actually, scratch that, they are overpriced, especially since you can get similar quality from brands like RTIC. But there's just something about a Yeti, and these coolers really are as tough as advertised. Add to that a range of stylish colors and a magic-like ability to keep ice frozen, and it's easy to see why people love these coolers so damn much.

Durability: What part of tough enough to withstand a grizzly bear don't you understand? While the exterior of the cooler may suffer some wear and tear over the years, that only adds to its charm, and it won't affect its functionality one bit. In our testing, all the internal and external components are well constructed and sturdy, too.

Repairability: Yeti will generally replace products or components that break down within the warranty period (and sometimes even out of warranty). That said, scratches, punctures, and wear and tear are not covered.

Warranty: Yeti Tundra coolers are covered under a five-year warranty.

—TBW

Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Tundra 65 Cooler $375 at Yeti
Shop Now A Husqvarna Viking Emerald sewing machine Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable composite ; Husqvarna

My grandma has been sewing since well before I was born, and she’s only had two sewing machines in my 29 years of life. She’s had a Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116 sewing machine for around 20 years. My grandma now lives in a memory care facility, but her sewing machine is still kicking with my mom, who sews almost daily.

There are newer, more advanced sewing machines with digital screens and detachable embroidery functions. I used a Singer 50T8 in high school and college, then took a sewing hiatus, and recently bought a Brother SE700 sewing and embroidery combo machine. Some Redditors have noted a drop in quality in entry-level Singer and Brother machines in recent years. For what it’s worth, I never had issues with my Singer, and my Brother machine is working perfectly about seven months in.

Durability: My mom said that every part of the Viking machine still feels sturdy. The dials to change the stitching are smooth, the pedal and machine sound in great working order, and it sews well. Nothing shakes or feels like it’s going to break while sewing.

Repairability: Sewing machines are inherently pretty repairable on a small scale. If your presser foot or needle breaks, you can buy new ones from Amazon or craft sellers. For bigger repairs, you can likely find a local shop that will service Husqvarna Viking machines (as well as Singer, Brother, Janome, and other big sewing machine brands).

Warranty: The Emerald 116 sewing machine has a 10/2/1 warranty, which means the product frame has a 10-year limited warranty, the electrical parts have a two-year limited warranty, and the mechanical parts have a limited one-year warranty. This doesn’t cover normal wear and tear that may come with using the sewing machine, but it covers manufacturing defects. For the product frame, SVP Worldwide (the maker of Viking, Singer, and Pfaff machines) will provide free replacement parts, but the buyer pays for labor costs. For electrical parts, the company will provide free replacement parts, but it will only cover labor for the first year. And for mechanical parts and adjustments, the company will replace parts without charging for parts or labor.

—Miller Kern, Deputy Shopping Editor

Opens in a new window Credit: Husqvarna Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116 $549 at Singer
Shop Now A KitchenAid stand mixer Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable composite ; KitchenAid

When we moved my grandma to the memory care facility, I received her KitchenAid stand mixer that I’ve been baking with at her house since I was a child. I used the serial number to look up exactly how old the KitchenAid is, and it was made in 1991. This stand mixer is older than I am. It’s the KSM90 model, which KitchenAid no longer makes, but even the newer models are reliable and will likely last for years. The KSM90 is most comparable to the Classic and Artisan series mixers.

Durability: My stand mixer still feels incredibly sturdy and doesn’t shake while in use. I’ve also never had any issues with burning smells or overheating. The only wear I see is that the rubber feet that keep it stabilized on the counter have started to corrode a bit, but that’s not too shocking considering they’re 34 years old. And that’s something I could easily replace myself.

Repairability: I have not personally had to replace or repair any part of my KitchenAid, but as one Redditor said, "Pretty much every part is replaceable." You can likely find a repair service near you, and KitchenAid provides repair services out of its Greenville, Ohio, factory — and even offers shipping kits so you can safely transport your mixer to and from the factory. 

Warranty: KitchenAid has a one-year limited warranty, under which the brand will arrange to deliver an identical or comparable replacement to the buyer’s door and arrange a pickup of the defective mixer. One year is not that long, considering my stand mixer has been in the family for more than three decades, but it is nice that KitchenAid will fully replace the mixer for free. And the repairability should have you covered in many cases.

—MK

Opens in a new window Credit: KitchenAid KitchenAid 4.5-quart Artisan Stand Mixer $449.95 at Amazon
Shop Now A Jansport backpack Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable composite ; JanSport

My dad gave me his JanSport backpack when I was a little kid because I told him I thought it was cool, and I still use it to this very day. I think it’s from the early '90s? It isn’t in the same shape as it used to be, but after decades of heavy use, it’s still going strong. I think that really speaks to the craftsmanship of these bags — if you take care of them, they can last you a lifetime (or at least a really long time). They definitely don’t make this exact model anymore, which is a shame because I personally don’t think it’s gone out of style. Thankfully, they still make one that’s pretty similar!

Durability: JanSport backpacks are definitely made to last. Or, at least this one from the '90s was. There isn’t much wear and tear after many years of use, and the materials feel just as strong as they did when I was first given the bag. I really like the thick canvas on the front part of the bag, which feels nearly impossible to puncture, as well as the ripstop-like material on the back and the straps. The adjustment buckles are still intact, as well as the zippers and mesh pockets on the sides. It has certainly withstood the test of time.

Repairability: If this backpack did rip or break in some way, there’s not much I could do to repair it. I would recommend against DIY’ing, because that could void out the limited lifetime warranty that the brand offers. I think it’d be a better idea to submit a claim with them to see if they’d repair it.

Warranty: JanSport offers a decent limited lifetime warranty that covers "manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the product…" If there are any defects, JanSport offers free repairs and, in some cases, replacements.

—Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

Opens in a new window Credit: JanSport JanSport Cool Student Backpack $60 at JanSport
Shop Now A Yeti stainless steel water bottle Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable composite ; Yeti

One sign that someone's a hydration freak is a cabinet strictly dedicated to a mass of drinking water vessels: bottles of various materials, themed tumblers with peeling decorative stickers, and others. I was regularly rotating between all of mine up until I got my Yeti Rambler in 2018. Then, I ignored everything else but that Yeti for two years straight. Seven years later, I'd still choose the Yeti if I could only keep one bottle.

Pre-Yeti, I had tried so many cheap stainless steel options that couldn't keep water cold for shit. So, most notably, my trusty 26-ounce Yeti Rambler has reliably kept water cold and ice frozen for countless long days at the beach or on a boat. I'm not going to the beach nearly as often since I moved, so it isn't my everyday bottle at the moment. But it's still my natural instinct to grab my Yeti ahead of any road trip or long day at the pool.

Durability: Yetis are incredibly heavy-duty. Any Yeti owner probably has an anecdote about a time they accidentally put their Yeti through hell, and it survived. My Rambler is virtually unscathed after being crushed in the back of a truck, rolling around on the floor during bumpy boat rides, and falling off tables onto pavement and porches. There may be a surface nick or two, but no dents.

Repairability: If I were in a situation where a stainless steel water bottle literally snapped in half or something, fixing the water bottle would probably be the least of my worries. However, Yeti's customer service is known for being quick to send replacements for blips like broken lids.

Warranty: Yeti drinkware comes with a five-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects like leaks or exterior color chipping. One of my family friends once received a Rambler with weirdly short ice retention. All she had to do was start a claim with the number that came with her Yeti, and they sent her a new one that day.

—Leah Stodart, Senior Shopping Reporter

Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Rambler (26-ounce) $40 at Yeti
Shop Now A Nutribullet 900 Series blender Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable ; NutriBullet

I don’t know what they put in this Nutribullet blender, but it’s lasted me a decade and still works like the day I got it. I got the Nutribullet 900 Series as a freshman in college for dorm room smoothies. It has since survived multiple moves and the occasional kitchen accident.

The Nutribullet 900 is a workhorse in my kitchen. I use it for quick morning smoothies, blending sauces and soups, and grinding spices or flour. And that’s not to say things have always gone perfectly with the Nutribullet. 

Durability: I’ve dealt with my fair share of mishaps. It leaks if I overfill it, and I’m guilty of overheating the machine while blending soup. Plus, the blade attachment has even gotten stuck in the machine. That being said, the Nutribullet always comes back. Despite the accidents, the machine is sort of indestructible and bounces back after a thorough cleaning.

Repairability: Buying replacement parts for the Nutribullet is an easy option if the extractor blade or cups break. For issues regarding the mechanics and motor, there is the possibility of repair with resources online on how to do a fix. However, if you’re not feeling particularly handy, a local appliance repair service may be able to help you out.

Warranty: Nutribullet offers a one-year warranty that covers defects in the materials and workmanship of the device. To use the warranty, you must register your product. The warranty can be extended for three years for an additional fee.

—Samantha Mangino, Shopping Reporter

Opens in a new window Credit: Nutribullet Nutribullet Pro 900 $99.99 at Nutribullet
Shop Now The Thuma Bed Credit: Thuma

The allure of the Instagram product is inevitable. That was the case of the Thuma bed. It was aggressively advertised on my feed until eventually, when I was looking for a new bed frame, I was reeled in by its promise of a tool-free build and exceptionally sturdy, real wood design. In a world full of wood pulp and particleboard, the Thuma bed stands out with its 100 percent upcycled wood construction. When I pulled it out of the box and built the frame, my first thought was, "Wow, I never have to buy another bed frame again." After two years of sleeping on the Thuma bed, that still stands true. Thanks to its durable materials, it’s heavy so it doesn’t move around, nor has it gone squeaky with loose screws. The slotted Japanese joinery design is extremely stable, creating a piece of furniture with integrity.

Durability: The bed is made from 100 percent upcycled wood, plywood slats covered in recycled plastic felt, and two hand-tightened screws slot each piece into each other. Not only does this negate the need for screws and Allen wrenches, but it creates a more secure construction that doesn’t wiggle or wobble when you apply the weight of mattresses or bodies.

Repairability + Warranty: Thuma's repairability and warranty go hand in hand. It’s rare these days, but Thuma has a lifetime warranty. Throughout your lifetime with the bed, if a piece is broken or damaged through regular use, Thuma will replace it free of charge. The warranty does exclude damage caused by natural disasters or moving.

At a glance, people’s experience with Thuma’s concierge, which handles warranty issues, seems to be overwhelmingly positive. Some people remarked that pieces of the frame arrived broken, but the brand sent a replacement part free of charge. If a piece breaks and isn’t covered under the warranty, the bed could fairly easily be repaired with some minor woodworking skills.

—SM

Opens in a new window Credit: Thuma Thuma Bed $1,395 at Thuma
Shop Now A Framework Laptop Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable composite ; Framework

Consumer tech is the antithesis of BIFL, so this might be more of an honorable mention, but Framework Laptops are as close as you'll get among the PCs I've tested. They're designed to be serviced, upgraded, and customized by their owners, with swappable mainboards, memory, storage, keyboards, displays, bezels, and even ports. Consumers can purchase a pre-built Framework Laptop that's ready to use right out of the box, or opt for a slightly cheaper "DIY Edition" that you assemble from scratch with your preferred operating system. The laptop world is generally pretty hostile to any sort of at-home modifications, so Framework's schtick is a big "right to repair" win for the little guy. 

I've specifically tried the $899 Framework Laptop 13 (Intel Core Ultra Series) DIY Edition, but Framework also makes a 16-inch AMD laptop (starting from $1,399) and a cute 12.2-inch convertible with a touchscreen (starting from $549).

SEE ALSO: Framework Laptop 13 review: A good laptop and an even better concept

Durability: The Framework Laptop 13 features a strong and smooth aluminum chassis that doesn't cling to fingerprints, which gives it a premium, MacBook-y look that'll never go out of style. There is a slight give to the top of its lid, but it's nothing of concern. All of its internal components are well-made and easily snap or screw into place, so setup took me no more than 10 minutes. Overall, I was blown away by the precision and sophistication of its design. It definitely didn't feel like a laptop I put together myself with no prior PC-building experience.

Repairability: There's a reason why all current Framework Laptops have a 10/10 iFixit score. You don't have to haul them to a Genius Bar or a Geek Squad counter to repair or replace a broken part. Framework is constantly adding new components to its website, and it also maintains a marketplace of refurbished parts that you can buy at a discount.

Warranty: Framework Laptops come with a one-year limited warranty (with no option to extend) that covers "defects in materials and workmanship." It doesn't cover everyday wear and tear, accidental damage, or any issues that arise from non-Framework components the user might install. This could obviously be a lot better, but it's very standard for PCs.

—Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter

Opens in a new window Credit: Framework Framework Laptop 13 (Pre-built) $1,099 at Framework
Shop Now A Chi hair straightener Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable composite ; Chi

My mom still owns the original Chi straightener I used the first time I heat-styled my hair at age 11. (I achieved pin-straight, completely flat hair and felt like a million bucks.) At age 27, I’ve now owned my own version of the straightener for about five years — and though I’ve ditched the flat look for enhancing my waves or adding some curls instead, it works just as well, with zero signs that it will give out on me anytime soon. There’s nothing too fancy about it: It’s a one-inch ceramic-plated flat iron with a single on/off switch that brings the straightener to a max of 392 degrees Fahrenheit. It may not have a ton of attachments or special heat settings, but as someone who’s tried her share of fancy hair tech, I can confidently say the Chi straightener covers most styling needs — and for way less. At full price, it costs $100, but it’s often on sale for about $50.

Durability: This straightener can definitely withstand some accidental slips off the bathroom counter, but it’s not something you should be putting its plastic case through regularly. With proper care, it can last for years. That includes not wrapping the cord around it as tightly as you can. Instead, you’ll want to use the velcro loop attached the the cord when storing — and be sure to leave some slack where the cord meets the straightener, to give the wires their best chance at being functional for as long as possible.

Reparability: This is likely a product you’d have to send into Chi to repair, and even then, it looks like your options are limited (based on the warranty below). For regular maintenance, if you need to clean the straightener, Chi recommends using a damp cloth while the straightener is unplugged.

Warranty: The Chi straightener comes with a two-year limited warranty when purchased directly from Chi (where it’s priced at $119.99) or from an authorized salon or salon chain. If you don’t want to pay the inflated price on Chi’s website but still want the warranty, you can grab it from Ulta for $99.99. However, it’s likely worth it just to grab the cheaper option from Amazon: the warranty only covers replacements if Chi sent you a faulty straightener, and doesn’t cover steel or plastic parts, including the cord, any damages caused by misuse, or normal wear and tear.

—Bethany Allard, Lead Shopping Reporter

Chi Original Ceramic Hair Straightening Flat Iron (1-inch) $45.95 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $54.04 Shop Now

TL;DR: Score a refurbished 2017 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage for just $324.97 (reg. $1,499) — it’s fast, sleek, and ready to work.

If your current laptop wheezes like it’s allergic to multitasking, it might be time for a serious upgrade — without the serious price tag. Whether you’re juggling spreadsheets, design files, or 43 Chrome tabs, this 2017 13-inch MacBook Pro for $324.97 has the muscle and memory to keep up. And because it’s refurbished to a grade “A” rating, it looks just about brand new — but doesn’t cost anything close to it.

You’re getting a speedy 3.1GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor (with Turbo Boost up to 3.5GHz), 8GB of RAM, and a roomy 512GB SSD — which is enough space for your files, projects, and a million screenshots you forgot to delete. The Retina display is sharp and bright, the Touch Bar adds swipe-happy shortcuts, and the Touch ID keeps everything secure.

It’s got four Thunderbolt 3 ports — that’s serious connectivity for charging, displays, and accessories — plus a buttery backlit keyboard and Force Touch trackpad for all-day comfort. At just over 3 pounds, it’s light enough for your commute and stylish enough for any client meeting.

With this deal, you’re getting a reliable, good-looking workhorse with Apple’s signature style and power. Not too shabby for a laptop that still runs macOS Ventura and looks great doing it.

On sale for a limited time, check out this 2017 refurbished MacBook Pro with a Touch Bar for just $324.97.

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StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro 13" Touchbar (2017) 3.1GHz i5 8GB RAM 512GB SSD Space Gray (Refurbished) $324.97
$1,499 Save $1,174.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: For $29.97 (reg. $234), you can get lifetime access to an all-in-one AI tool that handles everything from writing and image editing to audio, video, and PDF analysis.

Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1min.AI: Lifetime Subscription $29.97
$234 Save $204.03 Get Deal

Whether you love AI or you’re cautiously circling it like a cat near a new toy, one thing’s for sure: it’s not going anywhere. So why not get comfortable with it, without breaking the bank or drowning in separate tools?

1min.AI is a powerful all-in-one platform that brings together your favorite AI models (like GPT-4o, Claude 3, Gemini, and more) into one sleek, do-it-all workspace. And right now, you can grab a lifetime subscription for just $29.97 (reg. $234).

Let that sink in for a sec. This isn’t just a chat tool. It’s the multi-tool of AI. That means if you need blog content, you got it.
Want to generate images or clean up old ones? Easy-peasy. Have a PDF you’d like to summarize, translate, or interrogate like a digital detective? It can do that too. Plus, it offers text-to-speech, audio translation, keyword research, video edits, grammar fixes, brand voice generation, and on and on and on.

All powered by top AI models from OpenAI, Google, Anthropic, Meta, Mistral, and Cohere. And because it’s constantly evolving, you’ll get weekly feature updates delivered through their newsletter and public roadmap. This isn’t a one-and-done product — it’s a growing toolset that moves as fast as AI itself.

If you’re a creator, freelancer, business owner, student, or really anyone trying to do more in less time, 1min.AI is the tool that’ll quietly make your life easier.

Just don’t wait too long — the $29.97 offer (reg. $234) for a lifetime of 1min.AI access ends August 3.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: For today only, you can upgrade your OS to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro and all its modern features for just $9.97 (reg. $199).

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

Some offers are too good to ignore. This is one of them.

For today only, you can grab a lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $9.97. That’s not a typo. That’s also not a subscription. That’s a full upgrade to the latest Windows OS for the price of a sandwich, without any recurring fees.

And it’s not just any old upgrade. Windows 11 Pro introduces a sleek, modern interface that makes everything from multitasking to managing apps a smoother experience. It’s faster, more intuitive, and packed with features designed for real-world productivity.

This version also includes Windows Copilot, an AI assistant built right into the OS. Need to tweak settings? Summarize a page? Draft something? Copilot’s right there to help — no separate app required.

You’ll also get advanced tools like BitLocker, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox — ideal for professionals and power users who want a secure and flexible operating system. Add in better gaming performance, improved virtual desktop management, and snappy Snap Layouts, and suddenly your old setup starts looking kind of ancient.

And it’s a one-time payment. This means no annual fees or monthly nagging. You own it forever.

So if your PC meets the requirements, and you’re ready for a seriously affordable upgrade, it’s go time.

Get Windows 11 Pro for just $9.97 (reg. $199) through July 20 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Ah, tariffs. President Donald Trump’s signature economic policy has been on, off, on again, off again, possibly AI-generated, weirdly specific, overly broad, and on and off again. Honestly, it's been hard to track tariff rates ever since the president began his second term several years ago. (Or, at least, it feels like years.)

While the president’s tariffs have had wide-ranging effects, perhaps the most constant consequence has been a sense of uncertainty. With the president once again threatening new tariff rates on the European Union, Mexico, Canada, and many countries in Southeast Asia, consumers are bracing for impact.

You may welcome these tariffs as a necessary remedy to global trade imbalances. You may see them as a disastrous constitutional overreach. Or maybe you don’t know what to think. It’s not my place to tell you.

What I can tell you: If you need to make a big purchase — laptops, smartphones, gaming consoles, electric cars, smart home gadgets, or home appliances — we may see price increases in the months ahead. 

Where could we see price increases? Here's what the experts say.

Dr. Tinglong Dai, a professor with the Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School, told Mashable that the tariff situation is extremely “dynamic.”

“A lot of tariffs we are talking about are really threats. When they actually materialize, or if they actually do, how long they are going to sustain could be super, super dynamic,” Dai said. He added, “I think if history was any indicator, you know, we have this TACO thing, right? So [the] 'Trump Always Chickens Out' thing we repeat. I think that [there's a] high chance the cycle will repeat.”

In addition to the products mentioned above, the experts we spoke to specifically warned about potential price increases on drones, wooden furniture, car parts, clothing and accessories, and even Christmas lights. However, Dai also said that potential price increases won’t be as high as the tariffs themselves, at least, not in the short term. “Even when you look at a 50-percent tariff rate, it would not have translated to a 50-percent increase in prices. Most likely, you're looking at 5 percent or 10 percent. It's unlikely to be 50 percent,” Dai said.

Worryingly, Professor Brett House with the Columbia Business School warned that consumer tech products could see average price increases of 20 percent in the short term. He added that large companies will be less vulnerable to supply chain issues, but that no tech business will be immune.

“Large tech companies have some capacity to reorganize their global production chains to dampen the impact of U.S. import taxes on their goods, but they can't avoid them entirely. As a result, the prices Americans face for these products are set to increase,” House said.

Finally, Rick Kowalski, Senior Director of Business Intelligence at the Consumer Technology Association, had a blunt warning for shoppers. He said that new tariffs on semiconductors “really could hit things like smartphones, laptops, tablets, PC monitors — which are big-ticket items.” He concluded, “Given this information, I'd say consumers may want to consider purchasing sooner than later. In a few months, your dollar may not buy you as much tech as it once did.”

The product categories to watch if you're worried about tariffs

As before, tech products manufactured in China and Southeast Asia could be hardest hit. Unfortunately, that includes countless products. And in the last wave of tariffs, we reported on tariff-related price increases at Nintendo, Microsoft, and Walmart, and on specific products like Asus laptops, Anker chargers, and Xbox games.

Smartphones Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S25 Smartphone $859
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While the newest foldable Samsung phones released in July didn't see big increases, that may not be the case for the yet-to-be-released Galaxy S26 series of phones. Trump has threatened tariffs on smartphones in particular. This product category was a big focus of his even before the announcement of Trump Mobile.

Home security products Opens in a new window Credit: Wyze WYZE Cam Pan and Tilt v3 Indoor/Outdoor Security Camera $29.98 at Amazon
$39.98 Save $10.00 Get Deal

You may remember when the smart home brand Wyze revealed a massive $255,000 tariff bill on a single shipment from China valued at $167,000.

Drones Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Neo Mini Drone $199 at Amazon
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One of the experts we talked to specifically mentioned drones as a consumer tech gadget that will be vulnerable to tariffs. Most of these flying machines are made overseas, and popular drone companies like DJI are based in China. Many popular DJI drones are already sold out, low in stock, or only available via third-party storefronts at retailers like Amazon.

Christmas lights Opens in a new window Credit: Govee Govee Smart Color-Changing Christmas Lights, 66 feet $71.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $8 Get Deal A new car Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Autos New 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL Check Prices Learn More

A lot of cars are manufactured (in part) in Canada and Mexico, which Trump has threatened with a new wave of tariffs. Because cars contain so many components manufactured all over the world, they're particularly vulnerable to tariffs and supply chain disruptions.

Video games and consoles Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Xbox Series X – 1TB Digital Edition $499 at Amazon
$549 Save $50 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Asus ROG Ally 7-inch 120Hz Gaming Handheld $649
Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Electronic Arts "Split Fiction" $43.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $6 Get Deal

Already, Microsoft has raised prices on its Xbox consoles, with tariffs as one cause. The company also plans to raise prices on its video games for the holidays, so this is one product category where we can safely say prices will go up. Nintendo has also reported tariff-related problems, so if you can find a Switch 2 in stock, don't delay.

Noise-cancelling headphones Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Soundcore by Anker Q20i Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones $48.99
$69.99 Save $21.00 Get Deal

Anker has previously raised prices because of tariffs, and this Chinese company is likely to be affected by any additional tariffs. Many other popular headphones are also manufactured in Southeast Asia, and new headphones like the Sony XM6 landed with higher prices than the previous generation. Basically, if you're waiting for Christmas to buy new noise-cancelling headphones, you could regret it.

Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel contributed additional reporting to this article.

TL;DR: Own Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows for life — just $39.97 (reg. $219.99) through July 20.

If you’re tired of renting your software month after month, it might be time to switch to a more permanent option. For a limited time, you can grab Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows for just $39.97 — a lifetime license that gives you access to all the essential apps you need to get things done easier.

That means Word for writing, Excel for spreadsheets, PowerPoint for presentations, and Outlook for email — all permanently yours. You also get OneNote for organizing all your amazing ideas, Publisher for design projects, Access for database management, and even the free version of Teams for collaboration. No monthly payments, no annual renewals, just a one-and-done price that makes productivity way more affordable.

It’s a full professional-grade suite designed for Windows users, whether you’re working from a home office, managing your side hustle, or just need reliable tools to keep everything in order. This version is the same powerful set of apps trusted by businesses worldwide.

What makes this deal even better? You don’t need a Microsoft 365 subscription to use it. Once installed on your Windows PC, it’s yours for good. That’s especially handy for anyone who doesn’t want to be tied to recurring charges or cloud-based plans they can’t use while offline.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to upgrade, this is it. A full suite of Microsoft tools for this price is a software win.

Get a lifetime license to MS Office Professional 2021 for Windows for just $39.97 (reg. $219.99) when you order through July 20 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

See Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License $39.97
$219.99 Save $180.02 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get a 1-Year Costco Executive Gold Star Membership for $130 and receive a $40 Digital Costco Shop Card* — plus exclusive perks, early warehouse access, and more.

If you’re ready to get more out of your shopping runs, Costco’s Executive Gold Star Membership might be the move you’ve been waiting for. For $130, you’ll get a full year of access to everything Costco offers — plus a $40 Digital Costco Shop Card* to get you started. And it’s not just access. This membership includes some serious perks that go beyond the bulk groceries and unbelievable savings.

Costco Executive Gold Star Members now receive early warehouse access, allowing you to start shopping an hour earlier than Gold Star Members on weekdays and Sundays, and half an hour earlier on Saturdays (check your Costco’s hours to confirm). That extra time might not seem like a huge deal, but it can certainly help streamline your shopping experience and give you exclusive time to shop.

This tier also opens the door to extra savings on Costco Services*, which cover everything from travel promotions to insurance programs — home, auto, pet, and even life insurance**. If you’re already a Costco Member for your everyday essentials, stepping up to Executive Gold Star Membership means your everyday essentials can start working harder for you.

There’s a 2 percent annual reward on qualified Costco purchases, capped at $1,000 per year. That’s not a coupon — it’s a reward check you can spend like cash when you receive it. Even if you only shop for groceries, gas, and the occasional pair of jeans, that 2 percent adds up pretty fast.

You also receive a free Household Card for another adult (18 years or older) living at your address. So whether you’re tag-teaming grocery runs or sharing the savings on big-ticket items, it’s easy to make the membership go further.

From access to the Costco Tire Center and Costco Gas Station to added savings on big purchases and everyday items alike, this is a smart move for anyone who shops at Costco (or wants to) more than once or twice a year. And with the $40 Digital Costco Shop Card* included, you’ll see even more value.

Get a 1-year Costco Executive Gold Star Membership plus a $40 Digital Costco Shop Card* for just $130.

Costco 1-Year Executive Gold Star Membership + $40 Digital Costco Shop Card

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StackSocial prices subject to change. Services are provided to Costco members by third parties. *Costco Wholesale, Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not underwrite insurance, pay claims or guarantee any of the products or services offered by third parties. Specific products, features, rates and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and applicable law. Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. is not licensed in New York state. Insurance products are not obtained through the Costco Insurance Agency in New York. Costco Insurance Agency, Inc.’s California license number is 0D08407.

*To receive a Digital Costco Shop Card, you must provide a valid email address and set up auto renewal of your Costco membership on a Visa® card at the time of sign-up. If you elect not to enroll in auto renewal at the time of sign-up, incentives will not be emailed.

Valid only for new members and those whose memberships (Primary and Household) have expired at least 18 months or more. Valid only for nonmembers for their first year of membership. Not valid for renewal or upgrade of an existing membership. Promotion may not be combined with any other promotion. Digital Costco Shop Card will be emailed to the email address provided by the Primary Member at time of sign-up within 2 weeks to qualifying members. Digital Costco Shop Card is not redeemable for cash, except as required by law. Costco is not liable for incentives not received due to entry of an invalid address during sign-up. Digital Costco Shop Cards are not accepted at U.S. or Canada Food Court. Neither Costco Wholesale Corporation nor its affiliates are responsible for use of the card without your permission.Use the provided single-use promo code when entering your payment information. A Costco Gold Star Membership is $65 a year. An Executive Membership is an additional $65 upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes one free Household Card. May be subject to sales tax. Costco accepts all Visa cards, as well as cash, checks, debit/ATM cards, EBT and Costco Shop Cards. Departments and product selection may vary. (Note: You will see a $0.01 deduction on your membership cost after the promo code is entered. This indicates that your promo code has been successfully applied).

Opens in a new window Credit: Costco Costco 1-Year Executive Gold Star Membership + $40 Digital Costco Shop Card $130
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TL;DR: Live stream Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees (July 20) for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The new MLB season has started with a number of high-profile matchups, including Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees. The final game in this opening-round series is available to live stream for free, if you're familiar with a clever hack that everyone should know about.

If you want to watch Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees?

Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees starts at 12:35 p.m. ET on July 20. This fixture takes place at Truist Park.

How to watch Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees for free

Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to live stream Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees 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 BBC iPlayer

5. Stream Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees 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 Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream a wide range of MLB games before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for live streaming sport for free on platforms like BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also 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 $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees for free with ExpressVPN.