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Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Teams in an AFC division

• Green: Horse races

• Blue: Icons of Milwaukee

  Purple: Legendary coaching history

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: An AFC South Player

• Green: First Words of Famous Horse Races

• Blue: Milwaukee Sporting Greats

• Purple: Teams Coached by Rick Pitino

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #236 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• An AFC South Player - COLT, JAGUAR, TEXAN, TITAN

• First Words of Famous Horse Races - BELMONT, BREEDERS', KENTUCKY, PEAKNESS

• Milwaukee Sporting Greats - ABDUL-JABBAR, ANTETOKOUNMPO, MOLITOR, YOUNT

• Teams Coached by Rick Pitino - CELTICS, IONA, PANATHINAIKOS, ST. JOHN'S

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

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

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

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

Plenty of beloved arcade genres have experienced recent revivals. Unfortunately, not all of them have been so lucky, and many hit genres that disappeared after the death of arcades have remained dormant ever since.

A healthy body is a healthy mind. That’s why I’ve made a point out of making my self-care routine easier and more fun with these six gadgets.

Are you still typing in IP addresses and port numbers to access your self-hosted services? It's time to stop. You need a domain name for your homelab, as it simply makes it far easier to access your self-hosted services like Scrypted, Calibre, or any other piece of software you use inside your home network.

Lexus has long been a go-to for premium cars in the U.S., and its reputation is well-earned. But in 2025, the price tags are starting to raise eyebrows—especially when many of its models ride on Toyota’s TNGA platform, originally built to cut costs, not inflate them.

You've probably noticed more and more ads entering your Roku TV's menus and popping up where you least expect them. I did too, and I decided to replace them with a less ad-riddled experience. I'll show you how.

President Donald Trump is making bank off of cryptocurrency, and Big Tech wants back in on the action.

Meta is now looking to revisit its cryptocurrency plans as Mark Zuckerberg's company looks to launch a stablecoin to facilitate payouts on its social media platforms, according to a new report from Fortune.

SEE ALSO: President Trump’s memecoin made 58 lucky crypto holders $10 million+

According to sources knowledgeable of these preliminary crypto stages, Meta's new stablecoin plans are being spearheaded by the company's VP of product, Giner Baker, who previously worked in fintech and currently serves on the board of crypto organization Stellar Development Foundation. Meta reportedly held discussions with crypto infrastructure companies earlier this year.

Meta's crypto-related plans seem to center on a stablecoin used to facilitate payouts to creators on its platforms, like Instagram.

Meta's stablecoin history

Back in 2019, before the company changed its name to Meta, Facebook announced a sprawling cryptocurrency project that included a new blockchain and crypto wallet for the social media platform. The centerpiece of Facebook's crypto project, however, was the company's plans to create its own stablecoin called Libra.

A stablecoin is a cryptocurrency token that's meant to maintain a stable price. In the crypto space, where the price of crypto tokens and meme coins is, well, unstable, stablecoins are meant to provide holders with a relatively safe place to store their money. (Although even that doesn't always work out.)

Facebook's Libra project hit some early roadblocks. In fact, President Trump, who was serving his first term in office, even shared a scathing critique of cryptocurrency as a whole, specifically mentioning Facebook's Libra. Regardless, Libra continued on. In late 2020, as cryptocurrency was set to boom, Facebook announced a rebrand for the project.

By early 2022, however, the company now known as Meta seemed ready to give up on the Libra project due to regulator scrutiny. Then, crypto came crashing down by mid-2022 as a slew of major cryptocurrency tokens and companies failed. By that summer, Meta shut down the final remnants of its crypto project.

Things are different for crypto now

Fast forward to 2025, and a lot has changed.

President Trump, now serving his second term, feels very differently about cryptocurrency. Trump launched his own meme coin earlier this year. $TRUMP has already resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in profits for the president and his crypto companies from fees alone.

One of Trump's crypto companies, World Liberty Financial, has also launched its own memecoin, USD1. An Abu Dhabi investment firm has already announced a $2 billion investment in Trump's stablecoin.

Congress and financial regulators under Trump have been singing a different tune about crypto too as neither appear likely to take any action regarding these potentially corrupt dealings involving the sitting President of the United States.

So, the moment is ripe for anyone looking to start a crypto scheme, and Meta is apparently poised to take advantage of it.

This was another busy week in tech. Google revealed its big redesign for Android apps, Sony released its much-anticipated XM6 headphones, we got a better look at Android 16 and Wear OS 6, and much more. Here are the biggest stories you might have missed.

If a user publishes a post with a link to a website or article on Elon Musk's X, very often they'll find that the post receives minimal views, retweets, and likes. Musk has previously confirmed that his social media platform, formerly known as Twitter, deprioritizes links via its algorithm.

X users have complained about this, but Musk wants people to spend the maximum amount of time on his platform. However, it appears one of X's competitors now views this as an opportunity.

SEE ALSO: It's official: Meta's Threads is using 'Threads.com' domain name

Meta's Threads will now prioritize links on the platform in a few major ways.

Share more links in your Threads bio

In an update this week, Meta announced that Threads will now allow users to place up to 5 links in their bio. For comparison, X only allows users to post a single link in the "website" section of a user's profile page. 

Credit: Meta

By allowing multiple links, Threads allows users to share more of their personal websites and projects with people on the platform. This might also help users circumvent the need to use link-in-bio services like Linktree to share multiple links on their Threads profile page.

Threads link analytics

Furthermore, Meta wants its users to know just how much traffic Threads sends from links posted on the platform.

Credit: Meta

The company announced that Threads will now profile users with link analytics that present data regarding the number of clicks that links receive via Threads. The platform will provide users with this information for links posted to both a user's bio and in their posts.

Link recommendations in Threads

While Instagram head Adam Mosseri previously claimed Threads didn't specifically downrank posts with links, Mosseri also said the platform didn't place much value on them either. 

That's about to change, too, according to Engadget. Threads will now start promoting posts that include links at a higher rate than before via its recommendation algorithm.

Meta has started prioritizing content creators on all of its platforms in recent months. Prioritizing links seems like a big step in that direction as creators look to use social media platforms to promote their work, regardless of where it's posted.

We'll soon find out if these changes help Threads win over creators over its competitors like Musk's X and Bluesky.

Netflix offers a wide collection of new original and exclusive movies and TV shows that you can find easily on the "Home" tab. However, this OG streaming platform has many older original shows that you might be missing out on.

Have you been considering starting a homelab? Well, there are quite a few things to consider before you begin filling your rack space out. You did think about a server rack, right? Here are five hidden costs to getting started with your brand-new homelab.

Within the last couple of years, Apple has discontinued its trademark Lightning port, replacing it with the more universally compatible USB-C. Investing in a Lightning to USB-C adapter means you don't need to toss your Lightning cables.

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 Saturday, May 17, 2025:

Across"Link in ___" (promotional catchphrase on social media)

• The answer is Bio.

They're ground in a coffee grinder

• The answer is Beans.

Bike riders' headwear

• The answer is Helmets.

Variety of tomato whose name is also a meat

• The answer is Beefsteak.

Shoe spec that describes this puzzle?

• The answer is Extra wide.

"Cha-ching, nothin' to it!"

• The answer is Easy money.

DownChurch spot where bats hang out

• The answer is Belfry.

The first three words of "Green Eggs and Ham," straight from the narrator

• The answer is I am Sam.

Boxing punch combo

• The answer is One two.

Purple slices in a salad

• The answer is Beets.

Oktoberfest glass

• The answer is Stein.

Prefix with decimal, in coding

• The answer is Hexa.

One-named hit singer with 1985's "Smooth Operator"

• The answer is Sade.

Spelling ___

• The answer is Bee.

Paper with the answers

• The answer is Key.

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.

Want to display the path of an executable Linux file? Several Linux commands, such as which, whereis, type -a, and command -v, can help you locate executable files and understand their origins in a simple and effective way.

TL;DR: Live stream Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City in the FA Cup final for free on BBC iPlayer/ITVX. Access these free live streams from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The FA Cup final is here, with Crystal Palace taking on Manchester City for a chance at glory.

Manchester City have endured a tough season by their exceptionally high standards, but lifting the FA Cup would provide some level of comfort. Crystal Palace have shown real promise this season, culminating in an impressive 3-0 victory over Aston Villa at the semi-final stage. Can they go all the way and lift the FA Cup for the first time? They'll need big performances from the likes of Mateta and Eze to overcome City.

If you want to watch Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City in the FA Cup final for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is the FA Cup final?

Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City in the FA Cup final starts at 4:30 p.m. BST on May 17. This fixture takes place at Wembley Stadium.

How to watch the FA Cup final for free

Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City in the FA Cup final is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer/ITVX.

BBC iPlayer and ITVX are geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access these free streaming platforms with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock BBC iPlayer/ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City 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/ITVX

5. Live stream Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 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 Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the FA Cup final before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for live sport?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

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• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City in the FA Cup final for free with ExpressVPN.

Boman Martinez-Reid always wanted his own TV series. So the Canadian actor and creator made one himself, and another one, and another one, on YouTube, on Instagram, on TikTok, then signed a TV deal and was cast in an A24 show. Each project will leave you in no doubt of one thing: You'll be hard pressed to find someone who understands reality TV as well as Martinez-Reid.

With a combined 3 million followers on social media under the Britney Spears-inspired handle @bomanizer, Martinez-Reid has gone consistently viral online for his hilarious, precise parodies of reality TV — namely 2020's "cough heard round the world" video. But you might have discovered Martinez-Reid's work through his outstandingly accurate, Kardashian-inspired TikTok series The Bodashians, made with his best friend Eden Graham, which has even people who don't watch The Kardashians locked in.

SEE ALSO: How content creators are redefining Hollywood's power structure

Now guest-starring in A24's Overcompensating and the star of his own Crave TV show, quite literally titled Made For TV, Martinez-Reid embodies the new power players in entertainment, creators and actors blurring digital and traditional media and giving multiple formats a try. In Made For TV, he even plays an exaggerated version of himself, trying various reality television genres from dating to competitive drag, attempting to perfect them all.

Boman Martinez-Reid Credit: Simon Pella

Mashable sat down with Martinez-Reid to unpack how he finds comedy in appreciating format, his pop star dreams, how the entertainment industry is finally taking the internet seriously, and exactly how he keeps up with The Bodashians, his TikTok series that now exists within its own universe.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

There's so much to talk about, including your latest project, but I will start where you probably know I'm going to start. Many people will know you from your TikTok series, The Bodashians. It's how I came across your work, and honestly, I didn't watch The Kardashians until I saw your videos. 

I get that a lot, I get that a lot.

Now you've got Ncuti Gatwa singing your praises for it on Fallon, doing impressions of your impressions. When did this all begin, the vocal fry of it all?

I have been doing this now for years. When I was in high school, I wanted my own TV show; that was my dream. I was obsessed with The Real Housewives at the time, and my brother one day was like, 'Well, if you want your own TV show, why don't you just make it?' And I was like, oh my god, that is so genius. I didn't think of it like that. So I created a YouTube series called Reid It and Weep — Reid like my last name, so I was already a genius in marketing at a very young age. I was just making this TV show that was based on The Real Housewives, it was me and my friends, and we would cook up these dramatic storylines. They were 15-minute-long episodes that would span a season, and we made it for four seasons. Absolutely nobody saw it, but that's OK. It planted the seed for what was later to come. 

In 2019, I started making TikToks... I was like, OK, I'm making these videos, what is going to set me aside from everybody else? And I remembered, 'Oh my gosh, Reid It and Weep.' I have this talent for parodying reality TV. How do I take that concept and condense it into a minute and make it shareable for everybody? In 2020, I started making the "but it's reality TV" series. It wasn't quite The Bodashians yet, but it was these videos where I would take these mundane problems and turn them into these dramatic reality TV scenes so everybody could relate to it, and then also everybody understood the joke.

So I started doing that. It got really dramatic, and I started going very viral with it. Two years into it, my friend Eden, who's in many of my videos…

The best! We love Eden!

We love Eden. She was like, 'Why don't we do a Kardashian voice?' This was right when The Kardashians Hulu show had just come out. And I was like, 'Why? I don't watch The Kardashians. I don't care about The Kardashians.' But she was like, 'It could be funny if we just try it.' I was like, OK, because it's fun to try new things, of course! So we started doing that and we've never stopped. At this point, I think we've just posted episode 61, which is crazy.

"Yes, I parody 'The Kardashians,' but 'The Bodashians' now is its own universe. It has its own rules. It makes no sense, but it makes so much sense at the same time."

It's been a very, very interesting experience trying to constantly reinvent the exact same video, but I'm having a lot of fun. Still two, maybe three years later, now into The Bodashians, still having a lot of fun, still exploring what it is. Recently, I posted a video, I was getting a wax figure, and I was just so proud of that video and how it felt like its own thing. It's like, yes, I parody The Kardashians, but The Bodashians now is its own universe. It has its own rules. It makes no sense, but it makes so much sense at the same time. And much like you said, people don't watch The Kardashians, but they watch The Bodashians, and that is what matters to me.

You've perfected this art of parodying formats that people don't actually know is a format yet, like your getting ready for the Met Gala video, your Architectural Digest videos, they're spot on but they're such niche formats. How do you recognize these elements? Is this back to your love of reality TV and format?

Yes, I think it's a format thing for sure. The format is where I find the comedy. A lot of my comedy comes out in the edit. I still edit all of my own videos, and I feel like there's a reason for that, because I feel like that's the comedy. Me and my sister or my mom, or Eden, we will sit down to film a Bodashian video, and I'll explain to them what the video is, and they don't get it. They never get it. And oftentimes I'm just telling them what to say, because I'm the only person that will understand how to manipulate the phrase "there's something to be said" 80 times and make it make sense in a way that people will watch and be like, how do they still understand the narrative of this video? So for me, it is very much a format thing. 

I also really love celebrity culture. I think it's so ridiculous. It's so fun to make fun of the way that celebrities act in these videos. It's just not real. Like, Architectural Digest is really just a home tour. It's like when you go to your friend's house and they give you a tour of their home. But nobody acts like those celebrities act. What I love to point out is that we are all accepting these concepts as a fact. Like, we accept the way that these reality TV shows are edited with just blatant staring for three minutes in between lines as a fact. We don't think about these things, and I love to turn the mirror around and show people this is what you're actually watching.

Yes, that blank pausing is in a lot of your work. It's even back in one of my favorite of your series, which is JayNeigh and Seighdruah and The Girls Room.

Yes, JayNeigh and Seighdruah!

"It's important to write. It's important to use language."

Absolutely, you know what? There's comedy in silence. There's one JayNeigh and Seighdruah Girls Room video where we just stare at each other, and we try to cry. I think I say, 'Should we cry right now?' We try it, and it's one of my favorite moments that we've ever shared. Then she starts crying, and I start making fun of her. It's just so ridiculous. 

And it's a style of comedy that you brought to your own TV series, Made For TV, where you dabble in every style of reality TV format. When you were making this show, which genres did you learn the most about that you didn't already know?

Good question. Well, we did sports, and I am not an athletic person at all. Each genre, each episode, I just want to be the star of the genre, and we were trying to figure out if we do a sports episode, who's the star of sports? When I watch a sports game, all I can hear is the announcer, the caller, or the commentator. So that's what I was trying to get to: how do I do that perfectly? Turns out that it is really hard. And I was calling a children's game, which is an easy game to call, but you have to talk nonstop for, like, two hours. Who can do that? I don't know.

The news episode that we did was also very challenging…because I went to school for radio and television, and news was a big part of that. Growing up, I always thought that being a news anchor would be my fallback if I couldn't make it as an actor; it's like I had to be on camera somehow. My parents were always like, 'Just be a news anchor,' as if that was an easy thing to accomplish. Now looking back, there was no way I was ever gonna get there.

You know, just fall into it!

Just fall into it! But that was more challenging than I thought. 

However, the one that was the hardest to accomplish was the drag episode. That's the episode that when we were creating the show, I was like, 'Oh, I'm gonna ace this. This is gonna be the easiest thing I'll ever do.' I knew that I had that confidence within me for a reason. When you watch the episode, you can tell by the end, it's like, oh, I had that confidence all along. But what you don't see — I mean, I think you see some of it in the episode — is the panic that I was experiencing because what was really happening was I was going to do drag for the first time in front of my mom and dad, which was the scariest thing that I didn't realize I was scared of. But as it turns out, you know what? When drag queens are like, when you put on the makeup and you become a character, it's a real thing. That is a drug. I don't know what type of makeup they put on me, through osmosis, it sunk deep into my skin, and I became a fierce drag queen. Drag is hard. I will say that it's not a walk in the park.

You're pivoting into movies; you're guest starring in A24's comedy drama series Overcompensating created by Benito Skinner. What can you tell me about your role in this, and how did this all come about?

This all came about so fast. I want to act. I think I'm an actor first, and in this industry, it's been an interesting ride as a creator, trying to transition over because I feel like you have to work hard to maintain the image that you're not an influencer. No shade to the influencers, that's a very, very hard job to do every day, but I am a creator and actor first. So over these last few years, I've been hustling and auditioning and grinding, so I think that was part of it. 

The other part of it was Benny [Skinner]. Benny has such an eye for creators, and he wants to platform creators that he appreciates. I'm not going to speak for him and say that he appreciates my work, but we've worked together in the past, and I like to think that when he saw my tape, it felt like there was some sort of like, how do we put Boman in this show that's already done? It all happened very fast. Of course, it's not like a humongous role, but I will say, showing up on that day and filming was so fun. The cast and crew made me feel so at home. I was so, so excited to play the character that I played in that show, and I'm so excited for everybody to see it because I'm not playing a character that anybody would expect me to play. I had a lot of fun with it.

This line is blurring between digital and traditional media. Mashable culture editor Crystal Bell published a feature about how creators are becoming the new power players in entertainment. Have you come across much conversation around this new era of Hollywood and the blurring of the lines between YouTube, Twitch, Netflix, A24?

Much like yourself, I think it's so interesting. I think that, finally, the entertainment industry is meeting people where they are at and respecting what people are watching. Now seeing all of these actors and musicians promoting their music online and prioritizing that is so, so refreshing, because I think it gives validity to so many different mediums.

"Finally the entertainment industry is meeting people where they are at and respecting what people are watching."

Of course, there are the big shows like Hot Ones that have paved the way for that importance in the industry. But then there are also so many people that I know, people that I'm friends with, who have podcasts that have gotten Chappell Roan or huge, huge celebrities to do their podcasts. It's just a testament to, as I said before, now we are finally ready to meet people where they are at, and also, it's a testament to where we are going. With respect to my career, it feels interesting. I've had this dream about being on TV and being an actor, and that is still my dream, but I live in this duality of, well, I'm already doing the thing that people want me to do.

Whoops!

I know! So I feel like I have to navigate both, but I think there's a joy in that. It's so exciting to be on this side of it and be creating in an environment where nine times out of 10 you'll be successful with whatever you're doing, because it's the internet. And that's where everybody wants to be right now.

In my career, I really want to be able to do everything. I told my team the other day, I want to be a pop star. And I'm like, how do we figure it out? How do we get there? Anything feels possible at this point because of where we are on the internet. Last summer, I had a song, "I Have a Thing." Surrounding my song, I had this fake documentary, but now it's becoming like, OK, how do we make that a real thing? Because now with YouTube and longer format and longer videos, you have so much room to play in terms of character work and how you create a character. Like, what does that Bomanizer pop star character look like? How does it exist on Hot Ones? How does it exist in its own documentary or on a podcast? How do we have fun with that type of Andy Sandberg character? So I'm really excited by where we're going in terms of the internet and what's possible because I feel like the rules are slowly being peeled away. 

Congratulations on your song, by the way. I know you've created a character there, but that was all of us.

It's relatable, for sure. 

You just feel like playing it out loud to leave a situation. 

Sometimes you've gotta go, and that's what the song's about.

Well, I don't mean to play your song back to you right now, but I feel like I should let you go into your day.

I think we all have a thing, don't worry.

It's been a whirlwind year for the iPad lineup, with every model getting a refresh within the last year. In 2024, Apple introduced the M4 iPad Pro and M2 iPad Air, and less than a year later, the iPad Air got a M3 chip upgrade. Plus, we finally got a new iPad Mini and the iPad 11th generation. Safe to say, that's a lot of new Apple tablets, and the best iPads have changed.

At this point, iPads can do anything your laptop can do. Whether you want to stream, browse the internet, illustrate, or edit videos, you can do it on the iPad’s HDR display. Recent developments in the Pro and Air models also set them up as gaming devices.

The rapid pace of iPad updates makes shopping for a tablet all the more difficult. We've tested every model in Apple's iPad collection to help you decide which is right for you.

SEE ALSO: Every new Apple product rumored for 2025 Which iPad model should I buy?

The right iPad for you depends purely on your needs. Do you want something that has enough storage and speed for streaming? Do you want to use it to read? Do you want to use a tablet as your primary workstation? Your answers should factor into your decision.

To get you started, we believe the best iPad for most people is the new M3 iPad Air (2025). It has exceptional performance but is also in the middle range for both price and capability.

A Japanese commercial spacecraft is zeroing in on its second attempt at a lunar landing, now flying laps around the moon. 

The company ispace entered lunar orbit more than a week ago, sending its Resilience lander soaring about 62 miles above the surface at its closest approach. For days, fans have asked the company executives to release spacecraft images to show its latest achievement. They finally did on May 16. 

The new image not only captures the spacecraft swooping by the moon in space but showcases Tenacious, its accompanying micro rover, hidden under a cover in the lower right corner. A camera mounted to the top of the lander snapped the photo. 

"Hello from lunar orbit!" the company said in a post on X. 

SEE ALSO: NASA astronauts are proud bedwetters. They even practice. If the Hakuto-R mission aces the landing, it will spend two weeks running experiments on the lunar surface before powering down for the brutally cold lunar night. Credit: ispace infographic

Resilience was one of two spacecraft headed to the moon on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in mid-January. Its travel companion, Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander, took a faster route and touched down on the surface March 2. Though Firefly wasn't the trailblazer — the first private robotic lander to make the journey to the surface occurred last year — it was the first to get its lander there upright and in one piece.

But ispace's lander has taken a longer journey to save on fuel, flying solo through space for the past four months. The so-called Hakuto-R mission is gearing up for a landing near the center of Mare Frigoris at 3:24 p.m. ET on June 5. (It will be June 6 in Japan.) Livestream coverage will begin about one hour earlier, at 2:15 p.m. ET, with English translation. 

The event will mark the company's second try, following a failed landing in April 2023. The spacecraft ran out of fuel and crashed on the moon. 

"We have successfully completed maneuvers so far by leveraging the operational experience gained in Mission 1, and I am very proud of the crew for successfully completing the most critical maneuver and entering lunar orbit," said ispace CEO Takeshi Hakamada in a statement. "We will continue to proceed with careful operations and thorough preparations to ensure the success of the lunar landing." 

Landing on the moon remains onerous — demonstrated by numerous flopped landings. Though Firefly succeeded in March, another U.S. company, Intuitive Machines, didn't fare as well less than a week later, ending up on its side in a crater. 

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The moon's exosphere provides virtually no drag to slow a spacecraft down as it approaches the ground, according to NASA. Furthermore, there are no GPS systems on the moon to help guide a craft to its landing spot. Engineers have to compensate for that from 239,000 miles away.

If the Hakuto-R mission aces the landing, it will spend two weeks running experiments on the lunar surface before powering down for the brutally cold lunar night. Not much can survive the -270 degrees Fahrenheit brought on by darkness — not even robots. 

Right now, Resilience is whizzing between 2,000 and 4,200 mph. As it whips through space, company engineers are performing multiple flight correction maneuvers to reel the spacecraft in and lower its energy. That will allow the team to get the spacecraft oriented toward its landing target. 

After the botched landing attempt two years ago, Yuichi Tsuda, a professor of astronautical science at Tokyo University, gave the flight controllers words of encouragement. 

"History can be made only by those who (face) challenges, and challenges will not be possible without taking a risk," Tsuda said. "The risk can be taken only by those who dream. So ispace teams, you are all excellent dreamers."

UPDATE: May. 19, 2025, 11:46 a.m. EDT An earlier version of this story indicated that the Japanese space agency JAXA was a partner on the development of the Resilience lander. The privately built lander underwent testing at the space agency's facilities, but ispace did not receive any Japanese government funding for the spacecraft, said Andrew Ames, a spokesperson for the company.

I've had a Solawave red light therapy wand in one of my bathroom organizers for probably two years now. I really wanted to love it, but it just didn't provide noticeable enough results for me to remember to use it. So it should say something that I never forgot to use the Shark CryoGlow red light mask in the few months that I was testing it — and beyond.

The Shark CryoGlow mask's $349.99 price tag isn't exactly cheap, but it isn't expensive compared to the other top red light masks on the market. The price feels much fairer when the CryoGlow has a few unique flexes that separate it from popular competitors like the $395 Omnilux mask and $349 Solawave mask.

Shark hair tools like the FlexStyle have cemented themselves as formidable fixtures in the hair care world for years now. But the CryoGlow is Shark's first attempt at esthetics — one carefully designed over time after input from dermatologists, evidence from clinical trials, and customer feedback about other red light devices on the market. I learned all about its lore at SharkBeauty's launch event for the mask in January 2025, then brought one home to test for myself.

What does the Shark CryoGlow mask do?

The Shark face mask targets fine lines, acne, dark circles, and generally uneven skin texture. These are the main benefits of red light therapy (and blue light and infrared light), often yearned for when even the most devout skincare routines aren't doing enough.

The CryoMask is lined with 160 interlocking tri-wick LED bulbs, spanning all corners of the face and even a little under the jaw. Everyone calls it an LED mask, but if you want to get fancy, it's technically iQLED.

The Shark CryoGlow mask weighs around 1.5 pounds. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable The pink glow is achieved when blue and red light are shining simultaneously. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

That 160 beats the 132 LEDs of the Omnilux mask or the 14 LEDs of the Solawave wand, so that's noteworthy on its own — but the "tri-wick" thing is crucial, too. Tri-wick means that every single one of those bulbs can emit each wavelength, so you're getting full-face light coverage regardless of the setting. Scientifically, this would be clocked in terms of irradiance: a measurement of power density at the source of the LED. The Shark CryoGlow hits a maximum radiance of 128mW/cm² compared to the 30mW/cm² of the Omnilux.

(The bulbs in several competing masks can't all illuminate simultaneously because they're either single-wick or bi-wick, meaning half turn off when their designated color isn't being used.)

The nanometer measurement of each wavelength plays a huge role in skin penetration. The Shark CryoGlow uses a 415nm blue light targeting the skin's surface layer and 630nm red light with 830nm infrared to travel to the deeper, cellular layer of skin.

SEE ALSO: How to become a full-time creator, according to makeup influencer Samantha Harvey

So, what's the difference between red light and blue light? All you really need to determine is the skincare concern you'd like to target, then scroll through the CryoGlow remote's settings to choose one. Shark designed the two main settings to be used for an initial eight-week session with daily use.

• Better Aging mode: This mode stimulates collagen production and promotes plumping under the skin, making it the best setting for targeting fine lines and wrinkles. Here, the mask administers a combination of red and infrared light simultaneously for six minutes.

• Blemish Repair mode: This is used to kill acne-causing bacteria and improve skin clarity and texture on the top layer of the skin. Here, the mask administers a consecutive concoction of blue light with infrared for a few minutes, then blue and red light together for a few minutes, then red light + infrared for a few minutes. It takes eight minutes total.

• Skin Sustain mode: This is used to maintain your results and get a daily boost of brightness after your initial eight-week cycle is over. Skin Sustain administers blue light, red light, and infrared light simultaneously for a total of four minutes.

After each session is completed, the Shark mask turns off by itself. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable The remote keeps track of how many sessions you've completed. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

Each cycle's timing was calculated based on the wavelength combination of that setting — it's a much more precise approach than Googling "how long you should use red light therapy for." During the science part of the discussion at the launch event, it clicked for me: The momentary swipe of a red light wand with a one-inch surface is a really small amount of true LED exposure. This cleared up a lot of my confusion about my lack of Solawave wand results when it worked well for other people.

The Shark mask isn't super chill to wear, but it's quick

I doubt there's anyone out there researching the best red light mask to buy and expecting to not look like Dwight in that episode of The Office where he cuts off the CPR dummy's face. It's just part of the game.

Still, the Shark mask definitely isn't the chicest or slimmest mask I've seen. It's not foldable like some other models, and is also a little clunky when it comes to storage. The heavy packer in me could not take this thing in a suitcase, even though it comes with a carrying pouch.

I wish the remote were wireless, but it does have a pants clip. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable My cat isn't scared of the mask. I kind of am. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

There's definitely no answering the door like this, but you know what? The horror fanatic in me does not mind casually walking around the apartment looking like Jason Voorhees for a few minutes (though I am a proud Michael Myers girlie at heart — argue with yourself).

The CryoGlow doesn't necessarily feel heavy if you're just scrolling on your phone while wearing it. But it does start to feel a little bulky if you're performing a real task that requires looking down. I kept trying to feed my cats during morning CryoGlow sessions and had to strain my neck to accurately scoop the wet food into the bowls on the counter.

The mask itself is rechargeable and doesn't need to be plugged into the wall while being used; instead, it needs to be charged about every three days. Though the remote and its cord mostly stay out of the way, it would be sick if it were cordless.

The CryoGlow takes a few hours to fully recharge. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

The thing is, no Shark CryoGlow session lasts longer than eight minutes. You're not really being inconvenienced for long. The fans are whooshing right in your ear, but it's not so loud that you can't hear a conversation or watch TV. Honestly, the hardest part of wearing it is sitting there with air-dried skin without something moisturizing on it — Shark recommends a clean, dry face for light to best penetrate, but the itchy feeling post-cleansing makes me want to tear my whole face off.

Shark CryoGlow results after three months

I kind of stopped giving a shit about how I look without makeup after my frontal lobe developed. But the CryoGlow marks a time in my life when I genuinely feel cute bare-faced. I truly feel like there's more of an inherent glow and evenness to my skin after my full CryoGlow session than I've ever had before.

But I know everyone is most interested in the full transformation, so fine, I'll give you a "before" picture. But before I expose myself like that, I'm entitled to show the "after" picture first.

My skin after completing the full CryoGlow session. (Peep the sticker in the phone case — I TOLD YOU I was a Michael Myers girlie.) Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

I promise my skin is smooth in this photo — the only leftover "spots" are discoloration from previous giant pimples. I've accepted the fact that I need to pay for more microneedling to uproot those.

Does the Shark mask work on acne?

Every little kid dreams of growing up, having a mental breakdown about adult acne at age 30, and publishing a close-up photo of it in an online article for work. But I have to showcase the full transformation to show that yes, the Shark CryoGlow mask really does keep acne formation at bay.

Before: No concealer/foundation combo was hiding these. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable After: No makeup, just morning skincare! Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

For context, I'm 30 years old and never really struggled with acne... up until about four years ago. It's been a battle to keep my chin, jawline, and cheeks clear since then. I was living in fear of waking up with a new pimple cooking after I had just gotten the last one to simmer down. Mine were in areas typically associated with fluctuating hormones.

All of that was happening while never skipping my nighttime skincare routine and attending a few microneedling appointments, my last of which was three months before I started testing the Shark mask. While I do believe my religious Tretinoin use has improved the texture of my skin, it was outnumbered by hellbent acne. The only true slowdown of pimples I experienced started a month into using the CryoGlow. I went from a new painful crater popping up almost every day to maybe one or two every two weeks.

SEE ALSO: The Suri recyclable electric toothbrush is my favorite eco-friendly self-care swap

(The only other changes I recently made were spritzes of hypochlorous acid after waking up or going outside, and taking a Zinc supplement after TikTok suggested that could help with acne.)

The CryoGlow is excellent at fighting bacteria that causes acne and reducing redness of the ones that do exist, it doesn't really reduce acne scars or deep leftover red spots — and doesn't claim to. Those just seem to be stubborn little marks that probably require an in-office facial treatment.

Does the Shark mask work on fine lines?

Yes, the Shark mask made the fine lines in some areas of my face less noticeable.

The needlelike presence of my forehead wrinkles had become increasingly prominent in the last few years of my 20s. Makeup was making the texture even more noticeable, especially when it began creasing after a few hours. I finally started getting occasional forehead Botox about two years ago, and let me tell you: Botox is that girl. But the baby wrinkles soon creep back in, and keeping up with it gets expensive.

I'm fully convinced that the Shark CryoGlow mask was key in mellowing out my forehead lines enough to keep me out of the Botox chair for months longer than I'm "supposed" to. (For context: My last Botox appointment was five months before testing the Shark CryoGlow, and I did not get any Botox treatments while testing the mask.)

SEE ALSO: TikTok is criticizing young girls who shop at Sephora. They're missing the point.

Concealer and powder were blending so much more seamlessly than they previously did when I was overdue. There's nothing like that post-Botox forehead plumpness, but the CryoGlow provided the next best thing for me — a smoothness that no serums in targeted Instagram ads are going to achieve.

Unfortunately, the CryoGlow didn't have the same blurring effect around my crow's feet. God forbid you're someone who LAUGHS.

Does the Shark mask work on under eyes?

I definitely think I look less like a corpse on the days when I use the CryoGlow's under-eye chill pads. This is where the "Cryo" part of the title comes in: the mask is mimics cryotherapy, which can lower inflammation of the tissue using targeted low temperatures. The chill pads can cool at three different levels of chilly during an LED session, or can be used without lights.

SEE ALSO: NIRA Pro review: I used this anti-wrinkle device for 90 days — here are before and after pics

The CryoGlow's de-puffing effects don't feel super long-lasting — keep in mind that this is more of an elevated ice roller routine each morning than a heavy-duty under-eye treatment. You can't expect hollowness to permanently fill out, but I can vouch for the brightening effect. At any rate, the cool metal plates feel amazing when you're a zombie in the morning.

Is the Shark CryoGlow Mask worth it?

Shark's face mask visibly proved its worth in my skincare routine, and I'd recommend it to just about anyone.

The way my acne cleared up during the eight-week period was easily the most palpable result. I'm not saying you'll never get a pimple while using the mask, but I do think the CryoGlow's red, blue, and infrared concoction is extremely effective at mitigating the amount of acne popping up. Similarly, because its wavelengths can dig further into the skin than topical skincare, it's a more powerful tool for dulling fine lines than any retinols or retinoids I've tried. With less-dead under eyes as the cherry on top, I am glowier and more comfortable bare-faced now than I was pre-mask.

The Shark CryoGlow mask may or may not be able to accomplish these exact results for everyone from scratch. It probably depends on the skin you're working with to start, and the consistency of the rest of your skincare routine. The CryoGlow is definitely a slight financial investment up front, but most people deep in skincare mode know that no route to glass skin is cheap. Plus, regular CryoGlow use could end up saving you money over time.

Shark CryoGlow LED face mask $349 at Amazon
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Kids aren't the only ones who get excited about birthday gifts. You can be a full-grown adult and still lose your shit when you open up the gift that topped your wish list. But as you get older, it does become a little more difficult to come up with a list of birthday gift ideas. You can't just ask for all the coolest new toys anymore. Well, you can if you want — we're not going to stop you.

SEE ALSO: Try Gift Lab: Our interactive gift guide

If your birthday is coming up and you're struggling to think of what you want, don't sweat it. We compiled the ultimate birthday wish list, with gifts ranging from tech to outdoor essentials to home goods. To make your search easier, we've separated our gift ideas into categories: Our current favorite birthday gifts, gifts under $25, gifts under $50, gifts $50 to $150, and gifts $150+.

Read on for some birthday inspo and start casually dropping hints to your friends and family. And hey, happy birthday!

Our top picksColor-changing smart light bulbs Credit: Philips

Deputy Shopping and Reviews Editor Miller Kern here. I have put a Hue light bulb in every lamp in my apartment, and it's so rare that I use the Big Light now. These color-changing bulbs let me dim the lights when I want to relax or emit fun colors while I'm watching a movie. And the best part is, I don't have to get out of bed to turn the lights off at night.

Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Bulbs $99.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now A digital camera that captures film-style photos Credit: Camp Snap

I love taking and having film photos, but 1) film is expensive, and 2) all of the film cameras I have are chunky. The Camp Snap camera is an amazing alternative. It's digital and incredibly lightweight — and the pictures truly do look like they were taken on film. They're clear yet stylized enough to give that vintage feel. And you can take multiple versions of the same shot without feeling like you're wasting film.

Opens in a new window Credit: Camp Snap Camp Snap camera $69.95 at Camp Snap
Shop Now Coffee from around the world Credit: Atlas Coffee Club

I personally don't drink coffee, but my dad is a big coffee guy. I got him and his wife a three-month subscription to Atlas Coffee Club for Christmas and they freakin' loved it. They sent me a text every month to let me know where their coffee came from, and they love trying new roasts from around the world. Each month you get coffee beans and a postcard from different countries, so you get to try beans you can't get from your grocery store. You can select from whole beans, grounds, Keurig pods, and Nespresso pods. Subscriptions can be three, six, or 12 months.

Opens in a new window Credit: Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription Starting at $55 Shop Now A new Kindle Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Listen, I used to be such a physical books-only kind of person. Then I bought a Kindle Paperwhite and it changed my reading game for good. I'm able to easily take the e-reader on the plane, to the beach, or even in the bathtub (shoutout to the Paperwhite being waterproof). Plus, I can read library books for free from the Libby app. If you're a reader, trust me when I say a Kindle should be at the top of your birthday list this year. (P.s. A new Kindle Paperwhite was released in October 2024.)

Kindle Paperwhite (2024) $159.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A gorgeous TV that doubles as art Credit: Miller Kern / Mashable

Samsung's The Frame TV made waves when it came out a few years ago, but the price is just not attainable for everyone. The Hisense CanvasTV is an amazing, budget-friendly (well, friendlier) alternative if you want an art TV for your birthday. The Google TV interface is amazing, and the TV truly does blend in with your art and decor. This is a bougie birthday ask, but one that's worth it.

Hisense CanvasTV (55-inch, QLED) $697.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $302 Shop Now Birthday gifts under $25Elevate your cooking game Credit: TrendPlain

This 2-in-1 oil dispenser pours and sprays so you won't have to buy separate olive oil and Pam cooking spray. This is a practical gift to put on your list whether you're a home chef or use an air fryer for every meal.

Oil dispenser and sprayer $8.88 at Amazon
$9.99 Save $1.11 Shop Now Whatever you want from Amazon Credit: Amazon / Mashable composite

If your Amazon wish list is calling your name, ask for an Amazon gift card for your birthday. Get the present you've been dreaming of on someone else's dime.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon e-gift card Shop Now Learn something new Credit: Coursehorse

You’ve successfully completed one more trip around the sun, so to celebrate, develop a new skill or indulge a passion by taking an IRL class on the subject of your choice. Coursehorse partners with real-world instructors and schools in major cities to offer nearly 70,000 classes in subjects such as art, language, music, cooking, self-defense, gardening, and anything else you could possibly want.

Opens in a new window Credit: Coursehorse Coursehorse Gift Card Starting at $5 at Coursehorse Shop Now A tiny bag Credit: Nanobag

Nanobag is a tote bag that can fold up into a pocket-sized ball. It's great for keeping in the car or your bag for those unplanned grocery or Target stops. The standard size starts at $13.95 and comes in 10 different colors and patterns.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nanobag Nanobag $13.95 at Nanobag
Shop Now Simple Lego flowers Credit: Lego

Lego sets can be pretty freakin' expensive, but if you're looking for some more budget-friendly building kits for your birthday list, we've found a fun one. It includes two buildable roses that you can display after you've put them together. Wilting not included!

Lego Roses building kit $9.03 at Amazon
$14.99 Save $5.96 Shop Now A delicious-smelling candle Credit: Bonita Fierce

Candles are a timeless gift that you can ask for at every single gift-giving opportunity (and will likely receive anyway if you don't specify what you actually want). We are firm believers that you can never have too many candles. Add some sweet scents from Bonita Fierce, a Latina-owned small business, to your b-day wish list this year and every year. Candles start at $16. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Bonita Fierce Bonita Fierce candle Starting at $16 at Bonita Fierce Shop Now A puzzle with a few tricks up its sleeve Credit: Magic Puzzle Company

Magic Puzzle Company makes incredibly fun 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles that have a secret envelope for you to open when you're done. This surprise envelope unlocks a "magical twist ending," so placing that final piece will be even more exciting. The intricate designs feature tons of little Easter eggs, like puzzle pieces in the shape of items in the scene. The Big Rock City puzzle has a hot dog-shaped piece and music note-shaped piece to name a couple.

Opens in a new window Credit: Magic Puzzle Company Magic Puzzle Company (Big Rock City puzzle) $22.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Somewhere to put your headphones Credit: Coreminded

Rather than laying your headphones throughout your home or having them clutter up your desk, ask for a universal headphone stand for your birthday. This one is compatible with almost any pair of over-ear headphones or gaming headsets — and it has a pretty sleek look, too.

Opens in a new window Credit: coreminded Universal headphone stand $24.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A stylish candle warmer lamp Credit: Geezo

Big candle fan? Then a candle warmer should be on your birthday list. It helps your candle last longer and you don't need an open flame burning in your home. And if you're going to ask for a candle warmer, make it a cute one. With a glass lamp shade, this warmer blends seamlessly into your home decor.

Opens in a new window Credit: Geezo Candle warmer lamp $24.99
Shop Now Backup battery for your phone Credit: Anker

This portable charger from Anker is great for travel or being out on the town all day. It has enough juice to recharge your phone a couple of times, and it comes in four colors.

Anker portable charger $16.09 at Amazon
$25.99 Save $9.90 See It Cold hard cash Credit: Pixabay

You really can't beat the gift of cold, hard cash — or a gift card. A Visa card is a perfect birthday gift because you can spend it on literally whatever you want; buy yourself something fun or get some help with groceries. Best of all, you don't need to decide exactly what you want before your birthday. The gift card starts at $10.

Opens in a new window Credit: Visa Gift card Starting at $10 at Giftcards.com Shop Now New reading materials Credit: Getty Images / iStock / Extreme-Photographer

Support independent bookstores from around the country with a gift card to Bookshop. Starting at $10, the gift cards can either be used to buy books from a specific shop you love, or the purchase can feed the site’s profit-sharing pool to benefit all of Bookshop's partner stores. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Bookshop.org Bookshop.org Gift Cards Starting at $10 at Bookshop Shop Now Gifts $25 to $50A way to keep track of your keys Credit: Apple

In our opinion, the first thing you add to your keyring should be an AirTag. You can monitor where they are in Apple's Find My app, and you'll get an alert on your phone if you ever leave them behind somewhere.

Apple AirTag $24.95 at Amazon
$29 Save $4.05 Shop Now The viral Owala FreeSip reusable water bottle Credit: Owala

The Owala FreeSip is a fan-favorite and Mashable staff-favorite reusable water bottle. The innovative spout lets you sip like a straw or chug like a cup. Plus, the bottles come in super cute color combinations.

Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip insulated water bottle $29.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A cookie cutter of your pet Credit: FormaCookieCutters

Celebrate your favorite furry creature by eating their face — in a good way. Send in a photo of your best pet friend to this Etsy store and get a four-inch-wide, food-safe PLA cookie cutter of their likeness in return. Whether you’re taking care of the baking or you’re leaving the prep work for the recipient, you’re going to be hailed as an absolute gift-giving wizard. Order these custom birthday gifts for $30 from Etsy seller the FormaCookieCutters.

Opens in a new window Credit: FormaCookieCutters Custom Pet Portrait Cookie Cutter $30 at Etsy
Shop Now Elegant chopsticks Credit: Pingto

Step up your take-out game and do right by the environment with a set of elegant, reusable chopsticks. The bundle of six bamboo chopsticks is available in two color palettes and retails for $32.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pingto Pingto Bamboo Chopstick Sets $32 at Amazon
Shop Now A personalized Yeti mug Credit: Yeti

This Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug is a great size for both true coffee lovers and beer drinkers. It can also hold two Moscow mules, according to Yeti, if that's more your speed. The Rambler is available in an array of fun and neutral colors. Plus, you can customize it with an etched design or monogram. For just $6 to $10, you can choose designs from Yeti's library or upload your own file. (Mashable's review editor owns the king crab orange mug with a cowboy boot and flowers etched on the side, pictured below.)

Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug $35 at Yeti
Shop Now A one-of-a-kind planner Credit: Papier

Are you a proud Type A over-planner and over-thinker? Or maybe your meticulously organized BFF is having a birthday soon? This spiral-bound planner can be customized with the recipient's name and three personal photos.

Opens in a new window Credit: Papier Personalized Photo Strip 2025 Planner $36 at Papier
Shop Now An app for exploring Credit: AllTrails

Love to be outside, but can’t fold a map to save your life? Enter AllTrails+, the app designed to get you off your phone and into the wild. Featuring over 400,000 curated trails all over the world, the app allows you to download maps in case of a poor signal, record your hikes, create your own trails, and more. A yearly subscription costs $35.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: AllTrails AllTrails yearly subscription $35.99 at AllTrails
Shop Now Mini zodiac cupcakes Credit: Baked by Melissa

Birthday cake is the standard, but might we suggest this fun alternative: mini cupcakes selected by an astrologer specifically for your zodiac sign. This Baked by Melissa offering comes with 25 cupcakes and the flavors vary depending on your sign — though there are some fan-favorites that show up in each zodiac variation. These also make for a great last-minute ask if you're in Manhattan or Boston, as there's same-day delivery for select locations.

Opens in a new window Credit: Baked by Melissa Baked by Melissa zodiac cupcakes $37
Shop Now A custom pet portrait Credit: LeFlore Studio

Sometimes, the best birthday gifts are the ones made just for you. If you're obsessed with your pet, these custom pet portraits need to be on your birthday list. There are many different styles to choose from, each one super freakin' adorable. Prices vary depending on size.

Opens in a new window Credit: LeFlore Studio Custom pet portrait Prices vary at LaFlore Studio on Etsy Shop Now An inconspicuous fanny pack Credit: FlipBelt

Whether you’re going for a run or heading to a music festival, keep your necessities at the ready with a FlipBelt Zipper pack. This handy belt can hold your phone, money, credit card, keys, and all sorts of everyday necessities. Coming in multiple sizes, the FlipBelt doesn’t bounce or chafe and is machine washable.

Opens in a new window Credit: FlipBelt FlipBelt Zipper Running Belt $39 at Amazon
Shop Now A cast iron skillet Credit: Lodge

A cast-iron skillet is the true sign that you're graduating from cheap nonstick cookware and all mismatched plates. It's something you probably want, but don't particularly want to spend the money on. Lodge has different sizes depending on what you want to cook.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lodge Lodge cast iron skillet $40.75 at Amazon
Shop Now Authentic chai Credit: Kolkata Chai

Not satisfied with supermarket-bought chai? Get the real thing from New York-based chai-preneurs at Kolkata Chai. This small business will send authentic chai straight to your door with the Chai Trio Variety Pack ($62) or the Chai Starter Kit ($45). For devoted chai drinkers, Kolkata Chai offers subscription packages to keep that tea coming.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kolkata Chai Kolkata Chai Starting at $45 at Kolkata Chai Shop Now A Lego set that doubles as decor Credit: LEGO

One of our favorite gifts under $50 is this Lego Orchid that's fun to build and adds a nice touch of greenery to your space that feels more unique than a plastic plant. This set is part of the Lego Icons line, which also features succulents, a bonsai tree, and a bouquet, in case orchids aren't your thing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Orchid $49.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A smart speaker Credit: Amazon

If you don't have a smart speaker by now, it's time to make a change. The Echo Dot is an affordable voice-controlled companion that'll keep you in the loop on the weather and current events and keep track of your most important reminders. Also, they're great for playing music.

Echo Dot smart speaker $37.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $12 Shop Now A media streaming stick Credit: Amazon

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is one of the best streaming devices we've tested, and it's also one of our favorite birthday gift ideas. If you don't already have a smart TV but want to access Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Disney+, and all the other streaming apps directly from your TV, ask for a Fire TV Stick for your b-day. Amazon's streaming stick has better voice control than similar products from Roku, and the 4K version normally goes for $49.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $49.99 at Amazon
Shop Now The delicious scent without the fire hazard Credit: Pura

If candles are a no-go, opt for a Bluetooth-enabled diffuser to make any room in your home smell divine. The Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser ($49.99) holds two fragrances and is controlled entirely through the app. Schedule one smell to wake up to and one to fall asleep to with the in-app calendar feature. Pura collaborates with brands like NEST, Anthropologie, Disney, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to source their scents, so whatever the occasion calls for, they’ve got your back.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pura Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser $49.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Gifts $50 to $150Local flavors delivered Credit: Goldbelly

Speaking of take-out: if you’ve maxed out your city’s culinary offerings, see what’s available from the rest of the country. Goldbelly makes it possible to order meals and gifts from restaurants around the United States. No matter your craving, a Goldbelly gift card at any price point is bound to satisfy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Goldbelly Goldbelly gift card starting at $50 at Goldbelly Shop Now A custom neon sign Credit: GITM Store

Pick out a funny phrase, inside joke, or a family name and get a custom sign in as little as one week. It might sound too good to be true, but Mashable editors have ordered from this Amazon storefront before and had a great experience. In fact, this is one of our favorite undiscovered gems on Amazon, and you can buy signs for as little as $53.96.

Opens in a new window Credit: GITM Store Custom Neon Sign $53.96 at Amazon
Shop Now Coffee from around the world Credit: Atlas Coffee Club

Atlas Coffee Club is a coffee subscription that sends you coffee beans and postcards from a different country each month. So, you get to try roasts you probably can't get from your grocery store and you get to learn about a new place — and maybe get some travel inspo. You can select from whole beans, grounds, Keurig pods, and Nespresso pods. Subscriptions can be three, six, or 12 months.

Opens in a new window Credit: Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription Starting at $55 Shop Now A personal blender for smoothies Credit: Nutribullet

Make smoothies in your own kitchen with a NutriBullet personal blender — it's fast and easy. The NutriBullet Nutrient Extractor comes with the 600W motor base, blender blade, 24-ounce blending cup, travel lid, and lip ring, plus a recipe book if you're sick of the same old smoothies.

Opens in a new window Credit: NutriBullet NutriBullet $58 at Walmart
Shop Now An endless supply of veggies and herbs Credit: AeroGarden

Whether you're an enthusiastic home chef, like a bit of greenery, or simply can't stand running to the grocery store every time a recipe calls for some cilantro, a hydroponic garden is a great way to keep veggies and herbs on hand, even if you don't have a green thumb. We're fans of AeroGarden, which has gardens that start at $60.75.

Opens in a new window Credit: AeroGarden AeroGarden Sprout $60.75 at Amazon
Shop Now A weighted blanket Credit: Quilty

For what seems like an extraneous expense, an extra-heavy blanket can be a total game-changer. Besides providing all the comfort of a partner without the snoring, a weighted blanket can reduce tossing and turning and keep you extra warm. This one at Amazon comes in a bunch of colors, sizes, and weights.

Opens in a new window Credit: quilty Quilty weighted blanket Starting at $63.99 Shop Now Film vibes from a digital camera Credit: Camp Snap

Film photos are back in a big way, but not all of us have the patience to fill up an entire roll and then wait for it to get developed. Camp Snap is a really neat camera that takes film-esque photos and stores them on an SD card so you can pull them to your computer or phone and post them immediately. It's super lightweight and has a pretty low profile compared to film cameras, making it easy to slip into your purse or pocket on a night out.

Opens in a new window Credit: Camp Snap Camp Snap camera $65 at Camp Snap
Shop Now A necessary Nintendo Switch upgrade Credit: Nintendo

It's never too late to upgrade your Switch set up, and the Pro controller can help you do just that. This controller is perfect for when you connect your device to a larger display, and it has the added bonus of zero Joy-Con drift.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch Pro Controller $69.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A tea and coffee lover's best friend Credit: Cosori

There's a certain electric gooseneck kettle that's beloved by design nerds, but that's also a tad overpriced (more than a tad, really). Instead, make the smart choice and opt for the infinitely more practical Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle. It still has plenty of charm — not to mention pre-set buttons for tea, coffee, and boiling water.

Opens in a new window Credit: Cosori Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle $69.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A pack of disposable cameras Credit: Fujifilm

We have a couple of camera options on this list, but sometimes you really just want that classic disposable camera experience. You'll capture some fun, in-the-moment memories with no do-overs. A three-pack of disposable cameras costs $79.99 (these have become kind of expensive since the invention of digital/phone cameras).

Opens in a new window Credit: Fujifilm Fujifilm disposable cameras $53.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $26.00 Shop Now Affordable no-worry earbuds Credit: Anker

Worried your earbuds will fall out of your ears and be lost forever? Get peace of mind with the affordable Soundcore Sport X10 wireless earbuds. Designed for athletes but great for anyone, these headphones hook around your ears and stay put no matter how sweaty or active you get (a fact we can personally attest to). Keep them in their case for on-the-go charging.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Soundcore Sport X10 Earbuds $79.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Fancy olive oils Credit: Brightland

This is one of our favorite gifts to give someone who's difficult to shop for, so it also makes a great gift to ask for when you aren't sure what you want. Brightland makes infused olive oils that come in super cute bottles. This set includes four mini bottles of chili, garlic, lemon, and basil-flavored olive oils. Your kitchen will feel elevated with these on display and in your cooking rotation.

Opens in a new window Credit: Brightland Brightland olive oil Mini Artist Series $85 at Brightland
Shop Now Color-changing smart light bulbs Credit: Philips

Turn your bedroom into a party with these color-changing smart light bulbs. You can control the lights from your phone and set whatever mood you're feeling. This kit includes two smart Bluetooth bulbs for $99.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Bulbs $99.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now A year of ad-free music Credit: Spotify

Maybe a Spotify Premium membership isn't in your budget this year, or maybe it's a monthly bill you'd just rather have someone else foot for you. Whatever the case, add a 12-month Spotify subscription gift card to your bday list. It's especially great if you've got someone shopping for you who notoriously waits until the last minute to buy gifts since it can be delivered via email or text.

Spotify Premium 12-month subscriotoin e-gift card $99 at Amazon
Shop Now Something to make your life a little more eco-friendly Credit: Stasher

Whether you're packing your lunch or storing leftovers, using plastic bags should be your last resort. Heck, you should be trying to stay away from all single-use plastics if you're able to. But, if you want to start small, these Stasher bags are a great option to make your daily life more eco-friendly. These silicone bags are secure and completely reusable — either wash them by hand or stuff them in the dishwasher. Grab a starter pack for $99.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Stasher Stasher Bags starter kit $99.99 at Stasher
Shop Now A beginner-friendly sewing machine Credit: Singer

Sewing has become a popular hobby amongst TikTokkers, and whether you've never touched a sewing machine in your life or you're just in need of a new one, the Singer M1150 is a solid machine for sewists of all levels. It hits all your basics at a reasonable price point.

Opens in a new window Credit: Singer Singer M1150 sewing machine $119.98 at Amazon
Shop Now The smart temperature-controlled mug Credit: Ember

There's a lot of debate about what makes a good gift, but getting something that is a) practical and b) something just extravagant enough that you'd never get it for yourself may be the infallibly perfect combo. We think for coffee and tea drinkers, that combo is found in the Ember Mug 2, which retails for $129.95. This temperature-controlled mug may be unnecessary (and expensive), but boy does it feel good to take a hot sip of coffee after forgetting you poured it an hour ago.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ember Ember Mug 2 $129.95 at Amazon
Shop Now A photo printer Credit: Canon

Have some photos on your phone or Instagram that you want to pin to your fridge? Ask for the Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer. This sleek gadget connects to your Android or iPhone through WiFi, SD card, or USB stick and prints out your favorite pics in a layout design of your choosing. The printing isn’t instant (the color ink layers print one at a time), but the quality of the final product makes it worth the wait.

Opens in a new window Credit: Canon Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer $139.99 at Amazon
Shop Now The gift of clean air Credit: Levoit

We know, we know, an air purifier is not the sexiest gift, but it is a practical one. The Levoit Core 300S is a smart air purifier with a companion app that lets you control the device and see real-time stats about your home's air quality. It's suitable for spaces up to 1,095 square feet.

Levoit Core 300S smart air purifier $149.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A portable, waterproof speaker Credit: Bose

Beach days and outdoor adventures are made complete with your favorite playlist. The Bose SoundLink Flex is a portable speaker that can handle the elements while still providing stellar sound quality. It's waterproof, rust- and drop-resistant, and even floats. Plus, it comes in five fun colors. For even bigger sound, try the Bose SoundLink Max.

Bose SoundLink Flex $149 at Amazon
Shop Now Gifts $150+A new Kindle Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

The Mashable team has tested every Kindle e-reader, and we think the Kindle Paperwhite is the right e-reader for most people. Instead of asking for a book, ask for a Kindle for your birthday and save yourself money and space. Sure, it doesn't smell the same as a new book, but now you'll have no excuses for not keeping up with your yearly reading resolutions. (P.s. A new Kindle Paperwhite was released in October 2024.)

Kindle Paperwhite (2024) $159.99 at Amazon
Shop Now The viral Hatch alarm clock Credit: Hatch

Intrigued by sleepmaxxing? The Hatch Restore 3 sunrise alarm clock could help you get a better night's rest. It's designed to help you create a bedtime routine to help you fall asleep easier. It's packed with different sleep sounds and light levels to ease you in and out of sleep.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hatch Hatch Restore 3 sunrise alarm clock $169.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Sleep earbuds that also track your sleep Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable

The Anker Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds are our top pick for the best sleep earbuds. Our tester liked their battery life, comfort and fit, reliable performance, and sleep data. The sleep tracking was more accurate than data from a sleep-tracking phone app.

Anker Soundcore SleepA20 sleep earbuds $179.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A desk you can take anywhere Credit: Miller Kern / Mashable

If you work remotely, you gotta get this portable desk from Logitech. The Casa Pop-Up Desk includes a wireless keyboard, wireless trackpad, and a desk stand that doubles as a discreet and stylish carrying case. It comes in three colors so you can match your aesthetic. This is an especially great tool if you like working from coffee shops or moving around while you work.

Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk $179.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A new comforter Credit: Buffy

Comforters, like a mattress, shouldn't be an item you cheap out on. They're supposed to last you a while, so why not have something a little more luxurious? The Buffy Cloud comforter is a sustainable comforter made from recycled fiber and eucalyptus. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Leah Stodart reviewed it, calling it "the first piece of bedding I've used that actually feels kind of dreamy." Snag a full/queen size comforter for $195 at Buffy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Buffy Buffy Comforter $195 at Buffy
Shop Now Sony's latest bass-heavy headphones Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable

Sony released its new ULT Power Sound lineup in April, and we adore the headphones. The ULT Wears have Sony's impressive sound quality and noise cancellation and are made even more impressive by the addition of the ULT button, which punches up the bass two additional levels. These headphones are booming, and the best part is they're relatively budget-friendly.

Opens in a new window Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Sony ULT Wear headphones $198 at Amazon
Shop Now A new kind of jump rope Credit: Crossrope

Turn traditional jump roping on its head with Crossrope. The weighted jump rope (available in 1/4, 1/2, one, and two-pound weight options) and associated app keep you on your toes and strengthen your entire body through guided workouts. For those with downstairs neighbors or curious pets, the weighted ropeless option provides a silent solution for an otherwise noisy activity. Upgrade to the Bluetooth-connected AMP handles for a more individualized experience.

Opens in a new window Credit: Crossrope AMP Jump Rope Set $199 at Crossrope
Shop Now A pressure cooker and air fryer in one Credit: Instant Pot

Maybe not quite as heavy duty as a cast-iron skillet but just as useful: a pressure cooker that can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, slow cook, prepare rice, steam, sauté, and more. Impress guests with your culinary skills (that are in fact just throwing all the ingredients listed in the recipe into this thing and then waiting a few hours). The Instant Pot 11-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker will cost your gift-giver $199.99, but they can reap the rewards when you cook for them with it.

Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Pot Instant Pot Duo Crisp $199.95 at Amazon
Shop Now A trusty pet camera Credit: Furbo

If you're anything like us, you view your pet like it's your actual child. We support that. Now, you can up your pet parent game by picking up a Furbo pet camera. Not only does it livestream what your pet is up to while you aren't home straight to your phone, but it also has the ability to toss treats and produce two-way audio for quick check-ins.

Opens in a new window Credit: Furbo Furbo pet camera $129 at Amazon
$210 Save $81 Shop Now Design-friendly humidifier Credit: Vitruvi

There's something to be said for a product that can marry form and function, and this Vitruvi humidifier does just that. Admittedly, $229 is probably a hefty price for a humidifier you're buying for yourself, but it's a great splurge gift if you prefer your household appliances not be eyesores.

Opens in a new window Credit: Vitruvi Vitruvi Cloud Humidifier $229 at Amazon
Shop Now Your own personal ice cream maker Credit: Ninja

If you're as chronically online as we are, you've likely seen people whipping up frozen treat concoctions with the Ninja Creami. The countertop ice cream maker has presets for gelato, ice cream, sorbet, smoothie bowls, milkshakes, and mix-ins if you want to channel your inner Dairy Queen. You do need to freeze your ingredients beforehand, so it's not an instantaneous sweet treat fix, but you have creative freedom to try out whichever flavors your sweet tooth desires.

Ninja Creami $199.99 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $30 Shop Now A portable, smokeless fire pit Credit: Solo Stove

Whether you're a hardcore camper or you just like unwinding with a few beers by the fire, Solo Stove's Ranger fire pit is a fantastic gift to ask for. It's designed to be smokeless and portable, making it great for balconies, backyards, beach hangs, or camping trips. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel reviewed the larger Solo Stove Bonfire and wrote that it burns "beautiful, clean fires when conditions are right." The best part? The Ranger is typically on sale for $199.99, so whoever gifts it has 30 extra dollars to spend on your birthday.

Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 $199.99 at Solo Stove
$229.99 Save $30 Shop Now A Bluetooth record player Credit: Sony

Are your Spotify playlists just not cutting it anymore? Switch it up and go retro with a vinyl music collection. This turntable connects to Bluetooth speakers and headphones, or you can hook it up to a traditional sound system using cords.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony Turntable $248 at Amazon
Shop Now A pair of AirPods Pro Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

When you already own a pair of earbuds, it can be hard to justify splurging on a new pair — even if you really, really want to. And that's why the new AirPods Pro (Gen 2) earbuds are an ideal birthday present. For people still using lightning cables, the new USB-C version will be a welcome upgrade. Apple stepped up its audio game with these buds, which feature improved sound quality and active noise cancellation. For a cheaper alternative, ask for the latest 4th Gen AirPods, which are $129 without ANC or $179 with ANC.

AirPods Pro 2 $188.56 at Amazon
$249 Save $60.44 Shop Now A robot vacuum Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

Stop manually vacuuming your house every day and let a robot vacuum clean your floors for you. The Shark RV2300 is budget-friendly and tough on dirt. Our robot vacuum expert called it "the most reliable cheap robot vacuum that I've tested."

Shark Matrix RV2300 $249 at Walmart
Shop Now A cool drone with a 12MP camera Credit: DJI

This drone is small and super lightweight, but it takes stunning photos and videos. It's great for traveling or for use at home. DJI is one of the top names in drones and the Mini 2 SE costs $279 with a remote control.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Magic Mini 2 SE $279 at Amazon
Shop Now A massage gun Credit: TheraGun

Whether you're working at a desk all day, running around, or just inexplicably tense, a massage gun will get you limber and relaxed again. What better gift than the gift of painless movement? Our best recommendation? Go for the TheraGun. The Prime model costs $299, but if that's not quite in your budget, then check out our gadget gift guide for more gifting inspiration.

Opens in a new window Credit: Theragun TheraGun $299 at Amazon
Shop Now Five hair tools in one Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable

Instead of asking for the $600 Dyson Airwrap, you can get a product that performs nearly identically for half the price in the Shark FlexStyle (trust us, we tested them head to head). Pick up a version for textured hair or straighter hair for $299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle $299.99 at Amazon
Shop Now A portable projector The portable projector fits in the palm of your hands. Credit: Anker

All of your friends will start calling your home the "cool house" if movie nights involve this mini portable projector. Use it to play movies, shows, or games outside on a screen or indoors on a blank wall. The Anker Nebula Capsule in black costs $299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Nebula Capsule Projector $299.99 at Amazon
Shop Now An Apple Watch Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

An Apple Watch lets you access smartphone features conveniently on your wrist. You can control your music, send and receive texts, monitor your health, and tons more.

Apple Watch Series 10 $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100 Shop Now Year-round spa days Credit: Molly Flores / Mashable

You can ask for a day at the spa, or you can ask for the gift of getting a facial whenever you want and from the comfort of your home. In her review of the device, Mashable's Deputy Shopping and Reviews Editor Miller Kern wrote the TheraFace Pro is "a hell of a lot cheaper than getting regular professional facials, and I truly feel like I've received a spa treatment every time I use [it]."

Opens in a new window Credit: TheraGun TheraFace Pro $399 at Therabody
Shop Now The newest iPad mini Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Our reviewer called the iPad mini 7 the "best choice" if you want a compact tablet, and said it looks better and is a lot more powerful than previous-generation iPad minis. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro and we named it the best tablet for reading.

Apple iPad mini (2024, 7th generation, A17 Pro chip) $659 at Amazon
Shop Now A fancy desk chair Credit: Branch

Our favorite type of birthday gift is something you want to buy yourself but just can't justify spending your own money on. The Verve chair is a prime example of that. It's super comfy and ergonomic, and it comes in really cute colors, but it's definitely on the luxury end of pricing. If you work from home or just spend a lot of time sitting at a desk, put this at the top of your birthday wish list.

Opens in a new window Credit: Branch Verve Chair $549 at Branch
Shop Now A new bike Credit: Schwinn

Head outdoors with this hybrid bike designed for both leisure and more adventurous rides. It comes in different colors and a couple of different styles for men and women. The 18-inch Schwinn GTX 2.0 bike normally goes for $549.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Schwinn Schwinn GTX bike $549.95 at Amazon
Shop Now A camera to rival your phone Credit: Nikon

When giving your friends and family birthday gift ideas, it's usually best to look for gifts under $50. But if you have a partner or parent who really loves you, then it's okay to dream big.

An easy-to-use mirrorless camera designed with creators in mind, the Nikon Z 30 boasts video, camera, and live streaming capabilities at an affordable price. The camera body can be purchased alone or with one or two kit lenses. There’s also the creators’ accessory bundle which comes with a mic, tripod grip, and Bluetooth remote.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nikon Nikon Z 30 Mirrorless Digital Vlogging Camera Bundle $696.95 at Amazon
Shop Now A handheld gaming console that's not a Switch Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Mashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry described the Lenovo Legion Go as "beefier and more powerful" than the Nintendo Switch. It has a huge display, solid performance, and all-around great specs. It's not a one-to-one competitor of the Switch, but rather a portable way into PC gaming that's "really good at running all kinds of games."

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Legion Go $699.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now A new phone Credit: Apple

Thinking of upgrading from an iPhone that has a Lightning port? Don't spend your own money on an expensive phone — have someone who loves you spend their money! The new iPhone 16 starts at $799 while the iPhone 16 Plus starts at $999. (Group gift, anyone?)

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 16 Starting at $799 at Best Buy Shop Now A robot vacuum that also mops Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

Senior Shopping Reporter Leah Stodart called the Eufy X10 Pro Omni the catchall answer to the question, "Which robot vacuum should I get?" It vacuums and mops — and empties its own dust bin, refills its water tank, and washes and dries its mop pads. The Eufy is a true hands-off cleaning device.

Eufy X10 Pro Omni $699.99 at Walmart
$799.99 Save $100 Shop Now A TV that blends into your decor Credit: Miller Kern / Mashable

Samsung's The Frame TV made waves when it came out a few years ago, but the price is just not attainable for everyone. The Hisense CanvasTV is an amazing, budget-friendly (well, friendlier) alternative if you want an art TV for your birthday. The Google TV interface is amazing and the TV truly does blend in with your art and decor. This is a bougie birthday ask, but one that's worth it.

Hisense CanvasTV (55-inch, QLED) $697.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $302 Shop Now A MacBook Air Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

MacBook Airs are super nice computers, but they can definitely be a bit pricey... which is what makes them such a great addition to a birthday wish list. Someone who loves you can drop the big bucks for you! The new 13-inch M4 MacBook Air starts at $999, but we've seen it dip down to $849 on sale.

Apple MacBook Air (M4, 13-inch) $849 at Amazon
$999 Save $150 Shop Now