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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More streaming dealsDigital movie deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Best Prime Big Deal Days deals under $50 available now

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More deals under $50

Streaming deals:

Echo device deals:

Headphone and earbud deals:

Blink security device deals:

Gaming deals:

Lego deals:

Boring but essential deals:

Speaker deals:

Categories: IT General, Technology

4 New Microsoft Excel Features to Try in October 2025

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Octobuddy phone case Credit: Octobuddy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More MacBook Pro deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pokémon deals at Best BuyPokémon TCGPokémon TCG cheaper at TCGPlayerFunko Pop! dealsVideo GamesGift ideasDVDsDVD MoviesClothing
Categories: IT General, Technology

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Here's the Easiest Way to Speed Up Your Old Smart TV

How-To Geek - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 22:00

If your smart TV is starting to feel sluggish, like apps taking forever to load, those frustrating menu lags, and generally acting like it needs a long nap, you're not alone. Before you start planning a weekend trip to the big box store or just resign yourself to a painfully slow browsing experience, take a moment to work on the TV yourself.

Categories: IT General, Technology

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

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 21:53

This year has felt nothing like normal for countless reasons. But one thing is always reliable: Amazon Prime Day events. Several times a year, Amazon consistently shows up with some staple discounts that we've come to rely on.

Maybe there's some methodology to the classic Prime Day discounts, or maybe it's just throwing darts at a board, but we all save regardless.

And as a Prime Day veteran, I can assure you the 2025 October Prime Day deals are wild, and in a good way. Amazon clearly understood that we could all use something nice while dealing with life these days. October Prime Day has record-low prices on portable power stations, Ninja appliances, Kindles, TVs, outdoor gear, and even Lego Advent calendars. Mashable is busy tracking all the latest drops live, of course. But if you're in the mood to shop some tried and true deals, here are some staples that tend to show up for each and every Prime Day sale.

Apple AirTags Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTags (4-pack) $64.99
$99 Save $34.01 Get Deal

Initially marked down to $67.99, Amazon went even lower, and you can now pick up a 4-pack of Apple AirTags for just $64.99. Whether you use these Bluetooth trackers to keep track of your personal belongings or your toddler, it's time to restock.

Crest 3D WhiteStrips Opens in a new window Credit: Crest Crest 3D WhiteStrips teeth whitening treatment $27.86 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $22.13 Get Deal

My teeth definitely aren't whiter than they were in 2019, when I started covering Prime Day. At least I quit smoking.

Coleman camping tents Opens in a new window Credit: Coleman Coleman Sundome Camping Tent $84.99
$117.99 Save $33 Get Deal

As sure as the sun rises in the sky, Coleman will mark down their four-person tents to under $85 during an Amazon sale. This Prime Day is no exception.

LifeStraw emergency water filters Opens in a new window Credit: LifeStraw LifeStraw Peak Series Personal Water Filter Straw $18.71
$24.95 Save $6.24 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: LifeStraw LifeStraw Personal Water Filter Straw $9.45 at Amazon
$17.49 Save $8.04 Get Deal

In keeping with the outdoor theme, LifeStraw also has big discounts across the board come Prime Day. Their deals start cheap — for less than $10, you can grab their original personal water filter. And for a little bit more, their updated Peak Series straw is on sale for $18.

Kindles Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (ad-supported) $124.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal

Of course, Amazon marks down its own products for big shopping events, and Prime Day brings the best Kindle prices of the year. These e-readers typically go on sale but twice a year (Black Friday is your other chance to save), so don't miss your chance.

Apple AirPods Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $89 at Amazon
$129 Save $40 Get Deal

For at least the last couple of years, Amazon has used Black Friday and Prime Day as an excuse to drop the AirPods Pro down to a new record-low price. But they're being stingy during October Prime Day. Instead, snag the AirPods 4 for $89, which matches the all-time low.

Bissell Little Green Opens in a new window Credit: Bissell Bissell Little Green $99.99 at Amazon
$123.59 Save $23.60 Get Deal

The upholstery cleaning powerhouse otherwise known as the Bissell Little Green can be found on sale year-round, but reliably, Prime Day brings it down to a decent, if not always fantastic, price point. Still, getting cleaner carpets for less than full price never hurts.

Echo speakers Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Pop $24.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal

Amazon Echo speakers provide the cheapest entry fee for smart speaker life. Just like with Kindles, Amazon doesn't miss a chance to mark them down during the big sale — the cheapest one you can grab is the Echo Pop at just $24.99.

SEE ALSO: Echo Dot vs. Echo Pop: Which Alexa speaker should you buy during Prime Day 2025? Therabody massage guns Opens in a new window Credit: Therabody Theragun Mini (2nd Gen) $149.99
$199.99 Save $50 Get Deal

The massage gun craze has died down considerably since COVID times, when we were all really bored and really stressed. But these percussion massagers are still beloved by athletes, and they're still classic Prime Day deals. The sale price of $149.99 matches the record low that we haven't seen since the spring.

Reusable water bottles Opens in a new window Credit: Stanley Stanley Quencher H2.0 Tumbler (40 ounce) $25.64 at Amazon
$45 Save $19.36 Get Deal

Hydration is in big time in 2025. Maybe because it's something we can actually control? Whatever the reason, water is good for us and the Stanley Quencher deals are coming in hot this Prime Day, but be warned they tend to sell out on the first day. Alternatively, you can grab similar bottles like Yeti Rambler Straw Mug which are also on sale.

Awesome Lego sets Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar $31.49 at Amazon
$44.49 Save $13.00 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Classic Creative Brick Box $17.99 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $17.00 Get Deal

The best-selling Lego sets for Prime Day 2025? The seasonal Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar and the classic Lego Brick Box are both on a major discount. Of course, you can find tons more Lego sets on sale this time of year, as per always.

Pro tip: Don't sleep on Walmart's Lego deals!

Cheap Beats headphones Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Solo 4 Headphones $129.95
$199.95 Save $70 Get Deal

Look, we love AirPods, but do you really have $429 to spare on AirPods Max headphones? For Prime Day, you can count on Beats and Amazon to deliver deals on noise-cancelling headphones and earbuds for about or under $100.

Instant Pots Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Pot Instant Pot Pro Crisp (8-quart) $229.95 at Amazon
$269.99 Save $40.04 Get Deal

Instant Pots may not really have the cultural cachet of a few years ago, but they're still a mainstay on the Prime Day deals page. This Pro Crisp model is a hybrid, serving as both a pressure cooker and an air fryer.

UltimateEars speakers Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $66.49 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $33.50 Get Deal

These tiny speakers are the best Bluetooth speakers under $100, even at full price, but Prime Day often brings them to a much, much lower price point. This year, you can grab them for as low as $66.49.

Philips Hue Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Light Starter Kit $89.99 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

Philips Hue color-changing bulbs may not be cheap, but they definitely set a vibe. Prime Day is an excellent time to find them on sale — this bundle in particular gets you two bulbs and a Hue Bridge, so you can unlock these bulbs' full functionality.

Anker chargers Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Laptop Power Bank $89.99 at Amazon
$134.99 Save $45.00 Get Deal

Prime Day just wouldn't be the same without Anker marking down essentially its entire product line. The brand is especially known for its chargers, which can power up multiple devices at once with impressive speed. If you want to go all out, this power bank can charge up to four devices at once and includes its own retractable cables.

Bose headphones Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra $329 at Amazon
$429 Save $100 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort $199 at Amazon
$349 Save $150 Get Deal

Bose's flagship QuietComfort Ultra are included in Prime Day this year and so are the more affordable Bose QuietComfort. In either case, you'll be in great shape for holiday travel with the ability to drown out the noise.

DeWalt drills Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill and Impact Driver $159
$259 Save $100 Get Deal

If you've always wanted to be handy around the house, then you need the proper tools. And DeWalt deals are always popular on Prime Day.

Cheap Fire TVs Opens in a new window Credit: Insignia Insignia 40-inch Class F40 Series Fire TV $94.97
$149.99 Save $55.02 Get Deal

Somehow, in the tariff era, TV prices keep getting lower. Why should TVs prove to be so immune to tariffs? Hey, don't look a gift horse in the mouth. This year, you can even grab a 40-inch smart Fire TV from Insignia for just $95.

Samsung's The Frame Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung The Frame TV (55 inch) $797.99 at Amazon
$1,497.99 Save $700 Get Deal

Prime Day is full of cheap TV deals, but if you're interested in a more elevated experience, Samsung's The Frame TVs double as artwork when you're not binging horror films. The Frame TVs are notorious for costing thousands, but you can save a massive 47% by shopping during October Prime Day.

A fancy espresso machine Opens in a new window Credit: Breville Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine $549.95
$749.95 Save $200 Get Deal

This is a newcomer in the category, but for the last few years, Breville's brushed stainless steel espresso machines have always gotten a sizable discount for Prime Day and Black Friday. With dark winter mornings ahead, now is a great time to buy a reason to stop hitting the snooze button.

Flagship Roborock robot vacuums Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock roborock Saros 10R $1,199.99 at Amazon
$1,599.99 Save $400 Get Deal

This is less so one product we see year over year, thanks to how often new robot vacuums hit the market year after year. Still, that paves the way for Prime Day to serve as the debut of many first-time discounts, including this one on the Roborock Saros 10R, Mashable's newly crowned best robot vacuum.

Samsonite luggage sets Opens in a new window Credit: Samsonite Samsonite Omni 2 hardside luggage set (2 piece) $195.50 at Amazon
$409.79 Save $214.29 Get Deal

You never realize how expensive good luggage is until it comes time to replace yours. Conveniently timed just ahead of holiday travel, Samsonite typically offers solid discounts on its luggage for Prime Day — like this two-piece Omni 2 hardside set. Usually $410, it's down to just $195.50, saving you over 50%.

Dyson products Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Airwrap Origin $399.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $150 Get Deal

We all know Dyson isn't known for its affordability. If you've been eyeing a Dyson gadget, whether it's a new vacuum or the fancy Dyson Airwrap, there's a good chance you'll see it on sale during Prime Day. The brand is a Prime Day staple year after year.

Fitbit trackers Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Versa 4 $132.95 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $67 Get Deal

Fitbit fitness trackers and smartwatches always get big price drops this time of year. If you like the sound of deeply discounted Fitbits, then it's always a good idea to wait until Prime Day, when you can score one for up to 38% off.

Free offers from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: kindle unlimited Kindle Unlimited $0
3-Month Free Trial Learn More Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Music Unlimited $0
4-Month Free Trial Get Deal

Amazon tries to tempt Prime Day shoppers with extended free trials on its most popular services, including Amazon Music Unlimited, Audible, and Kindle Unlimited. Just don't forget to make a calendar event to remind you to cancel the subscription before the free period expires!

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to find a good drone deal for Prime Day (and avoid sketchy ones)

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 21:38
Best Prime Day drone deals Best drone deal overall Potensic ATOM SE $249.99 (save $70) Get Deal Best DJI drone deal DJI Neo Mini Drone 159 (Save $40 ) Get Deal Best drone deal for kids Contixo F19 Drone $49.99 (save $30) Get Deal

Prime Day (and its fall spinoff, Prime Big Deal Days) is usually one of the best times of the year to buy a drone. This year, however, things are a little bit complicated. As you might have heard, there’s a potential U.S. ban on DJI drones due to growing concerns over national security and a required risk assessment that all DJI products must undergo before they can be sold in the United States. This, of course, has caused issues with the availability and pricing of popular models, with many being listed as “out of stock” on the DJI website.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's October Prime Day is coming on October 7 — here are 30+ early deals to shop now

The good news is that Amazon has a ton of drones, including DJI, on sale for Prime Day. But there’s a catch: many of these deals are on drones sold from sketchy, third-party sellers with ridiculously jacked-up prices. With our help, you can find the deals that are actually worth it.

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

Here are the best Prime Big Deal Days drone deals we could find as of Oct. 7:

Best drone deal overall Potensic ATOM SE $229.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $70 Get Deal Why we like it

For under $250, getting a drone with this many features is pretty rare. The Potensic ATOM SE shoots stable 4K video, takes 12MP photos, and has an impressive 62-minute flight time thanks to the two batteries included in this kit. It's a great middle-ground for people who want to move beyond a basic beginner drone without shelling out for a DJI.

With this deal, you get the drone itself (which weighs less than 249g, so no need to register it with the FAA), a remote controller, two batteries, and a carrying bag. It’s a complete kit that has everything you need to start flying right out of the box.

Best DJI drone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Neo Mini Drone $159 at Amazon
$199 Save $40 Get Deal Why we like it

The DJI Neo Mini Drone is 20% off at Amazon, making it just $159, down from $199. This lightweight drone is just 135 grams, and it comes with a wide range of features, including a 4K camera with palm takeoff and landing. You don't even need a controller to get it up into the air if you'd rather not use one, but it's still simple to use and maneuver around in the air. It's perfect for tossing into a backpack and heading out, especially since it can take off with the push of a button. That makes it a much simpler prospect for just about any user. So if you're looking for a first-time drone or just something compact to take out and about, this is it and then some, all for under $200 while it's still in stock.

SEE ALSO: DJI drones are going out of stock, but this incredible alternative has never been cheaper Best drone deal for kids Opens in a new window Credit: Contixo Contixo F19 Drone $49.99 at Target
$79.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

It’s actually really hard to find a decent drone for kids on Amazon that isn’t sold by a sketchy third-party vendor. But other retailers, like Target, have a wider selection of child-friendly drones that you can trust for a reasonable price.

The Contixo F19 Drone looks like a “real drone” instead of a toy and comes with all the things your kid needs to get started, including a remote control, beginner-friendly features, and an integrated camera for aerial photography and videography. It’s also foldable and comes with a carrying case, so they can take it wherever they go.

More Prime Day drone deals you can trust
Categories: IT General, Technology

Build a Plex Media Server With These October Prime Day Deals

How-To Geek - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 21:32

Tired of paying for streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max? Maybe it's time to set up a Plex media server. The price of entry is somewhat steep, but there are plenty of great home server deals during Prime Big Deals Day (October 7th and 8th), so now's a good time to spend a couple hundred bucks and decouple yourself from all those monthly streaming fees.

Categories: IT General, Technology

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

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 21:24
Best October Prime Day Dyson deals Best cordless vacuum deal Dyson V12 Detect Slim $429.99 (save $300) Get Deal Best upright vacuum deal Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum $659.99 (save $260) Get Deal Best hair tool deal Dyson Supersonic Origin $299.99 (save $120) Get Deal

Whether you’re a Dyson stan or not, you’d probably still agree that Dyson products have become somewhat of a “gold standard” within the industry. (I mean, that 2023 New York Times article on how Dyson’s cordless stick vacuum became a “status symbol” still lives rent-free in my head.) But premium quality usually comes with a premium price tag to match. That's why we recommend waiting for a major sales event to splurge.

SEE ALSO: Will the laser-equipped Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai solve Dyson's robot vacuum problem?

Amazon’s October Prime Day (officially “Prime Big Deal Days”) kicked off Oct. 7, and a bunch of Dyson deals are live across the internet. We're tracking the prices across Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Dyson's own online storefront to find the absolute best savings. Here are the top Prime Day Dyson deals you can shop right now:

Best cordless vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V12 Detect Slim $429.99 at Walmart
$729.99 Save $300 Get Deal Why we like it

If you’re trying to get into the Dyson fam for less than $500, the Dyson V12 Detect Slim is undoubtedly the best way to do that. This is the cheapest Dyson vacuum with the laser that illuminates invisible dust and hair on hard floors — Mashable’s vacuum cleaner queen and senior shopping reporter, Leah Stodart, says it's the best Dyson vacuum for most people for this reason.

The Dyson V12 Detect Slim can run for up to 60 minutes on one charge and weighs just over five pounds, making it a great compact vacuum choice for small spaces. Aside from the fluffy laser cleaning head, you'll also find a Motorbar cleaning head, a motorized mini pet tool, and a few other attachments in the box.

The best price on this model is currently at Walmart, where you can get it for $429.99 (a savings of $300). That's just $30 over Amazon's sale price on the Dyson V11 that doesn't have the laser. It's easily the best $30 you'll spend this year.

  • Amazon: $599.99 (Note: This is technically slightly on sale, but not officially "on sale" on Amazon's website.)

  • Dyson: $429.99 $729.99 (save $300)

  • Target: Unavailable

More Dyson cordless vacuum dealsBest upright vacuum deal Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum $409.99 at Amazon
$659.99 Save $250 Get Deal Why we like it

If you need the kind of deep clean that only an upright vacuum can provide, the Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum is the way to go. It's especially ideal for pet owners or anyone with a larger home, and it comes with eight different accessories to tackle any job. The vacuum features a self-adjusting cleaner head, a motorized brush bar, and whole-machine filtration to catch and destroy allergens on site. You’ll also get a five-year limited warranty and lifetime support when you register your vacuum on the MyDyson app.

The best price on this model is currently at Amazon. As of Oct. 7, you can get it for $399.99, down from the $409.99 sale price seen before the sale officially started.

Best hair tool deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Supersonic Origin $299.99 at Amazon
$419.99 Save $120 Get Deal Why we like it

Mashable's hair tool expert and lead shopping reporter, Bethany Allard, would probably recommend just getting a Dyson Supersonic dupe over the real thing in just about any situation. The outlier? Any time you can snag a variation of the Supersonic for less than $300, like the $299.99 sale price on the Supersonic Origin during Prime Big Deal Days.

The only difference between the Supersonic Origin and other versions lies in attachments: The Origin only comes with the Styling Concentrator Nozzle. Other than that, it has the same motor for high-speed drying without frying wet hair with heat.

The best price on this model is currently at Amazon. As of Oct. 7, you can get it for $299.99, a 29% drop from its original $419.99.

More Dyson hair dealsEven more October Prime Day Dyson deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

LeBron James Second Decision is another example of pervasive celebrity ad culture

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 21:21

Some would say postmodernism is ruining the things we love. It’s certainly crept into the offices of ad executives, who now use our goodwill to trick us into watching ad campaigns for mediocre cognac.

After LeBron James teased a "second decision" on Monday — a nod to his 2010 announcement in which he announced he'd be leaving the Cavaliers to take his "talents to South Beach" and join the Miami Heat. However, the big reveal on Oct. 7 turned out to be nothing more than an ad for Hennessy.

In the end, it was corny, somehow even cornier than anything James has done before. Even the original The Decision was a cheesy spectacle. In the years after, it was remembered as Cleveland’s second-greatest betrayal after Art Modell moved the Browns to Baltimore.

Is nothing sacred anymore?

That's rhetorical. The answer's no. Every cultural artifact from the past 15 years is now fair game to sell something.

SEE ALSO: Has social media taken 'Clanker' too far?

Remember earlier this year when Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan reunited to tease "something iconic," dressed like their When Harry Met Sally characters? That "something iconic" was a Hellmann's mayonnaise ad. Or when Dolly Parton rewrote "9 to 5" for Squarespace. Or when Sydney Sweeney and American Eagle managed to turn an already creepy Brooke Shields Calvin Klein homage into an even weirder piece of propaganda.

Like James, racing legend Lewis Hamilton, one of the greatest drivers in F1 history, was thought to be teasing a retirement with a slow-burning match video on Instagram. It was an ad for a “smoky” non-alcoholic tequila. Womp, womp.

Scroll through the comments on James' fake-out video, and you’ll find plenty of relief. At 40 (soon to be 41), James has become an institution, set to play a record-breaking 23rd season. He's the league's all-time leading scorer, and there are players entering the NBA who were born, grew up, went to school, and got drafted all while LeBron James was winning titles with the Cavs, Heat, and Lakers.

But age catches up to everyone. Maybe that’s what inspired this sad little ad stunt — holding our nostalgia hostage, hoping to stir up enough outrage to hit whatever engagement target the ad team dreamed up.

Somehow, as the previous generation of sports icons edges toward the finish line, it’s almost surprising WWE’s John Cena hasn’t pulled his own retirement fake-out — though his real farewell tour is already slogging through its share of low points and controversy.

Even worse, these all seem to exist purely as social media stunts. This is not exactly shocking, especially in an era when brands have started killing off their own mascots. In a Marketplace.org piece, Linda Ferrell of Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business explained that companies do this to move away from mascots that make it harder to connect with diverse audiences.

Earlier this year, Duolingo "killed" its creepy little bird. Planters did the same with Mr. Peanut back in 2020, only to resurrect him as Baby Nut after the Kool-Aid Man cried on his grave. The takeaway from these bizarre, morbid campaigns is simple: they grab attention. Mr. Peanut had been around for over a century — of course, people were going to react when the brand staged his death. Even Duolingo got pop stars like Dua Lipa "mourning" its mascot online.

In the same way, The Decision drew over ten million viewers when it aired, according to Nielsen. Fifteen years later, LeBron has been the subject of nonstop retirement rumors, setting the stage for a marketing ploy practically guaranteed to go viral. The teaser for his "second decision" racked up 1.4 million likes and more than 52,000 comments on Instagram. The actual reveal —posted today — sits at 458,000 likes and 23,000 comments as of this writing.

Viral stunts don’t last, but 1.8 million combined likes isn’t a bad day’s work for a cognac brand with fewer than a million followers. One can only imagine what ayahuasca supplement 41-year-old NFL QB Aaron Rodgers will shill in the near future.

This article reflects the opinions of the writer.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazons October Prime Day book deals are off the charts

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 21:02
The best October Prime Day book deals at a glance: Best hardcover book deal Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez $10.98 (save $17.02) Get Deal Best paperback book deal Deep End by Ali Hazelwood $8.09 (save $11.91) Get Deal Best Kindle book deal The Perfect Divorce by Jeneva Rose $1.69 (save $8.30) Get Deal

Amazon's October Prime Day event is here (officially running from Oct. 7 through 8), and we've been blessed with deals galore. Book deals, in particular, are outrageously good. So if you're looking to stack your TBR list for cozy season, it's time to get going.

This Prime Big Deal Days event is shaping up to be an excellent shopping holiday for book lovers. Not only is Amazon offering its annual Kindle Unlimited Prime Day deal (three months for free) and 99-cent Audible subscriptions to new members, but we're also seeing some of the best discounts on hardcovers, paperbacks, and Kindle books we've seen all year — up to 65% off. And that includes some of 2025's bestsellers. Whether you hope to load up your Kindle with e-books or hold a physical stack of crispy new pages in your hands, there's definitely a deal waiting for you. If you're interested in more Kindle user deals, specifically, be sure to check out our expert's favorite deals.

We'll be tracking all the best October Prime Day book deals below and updating the list with the latest and greatest price drops throughout the event.

Best October Prime Day paperback book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Berkley Publishing "Deep End" by Ali Hazelwood $8.09 at Amazon
$20 Save $11.91 Get Deal Why we like it

One of Goodreads' top 10 books of 2025, Ali Hazelwood's latest romance follows a competitive diver and an ace swimmer as they tread forbidden waters. It's a steamy yet thoughtfully written love story with character chemistry that's off the charts. This edition features a glistening cover and illustrated four-color interior art. Typically $20, you can grab the paperback for only $8.09 during October Prime Day.

Best October Prime Day hardcover book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Forever Publishing "Say You'll Remember Me" by Abby Jimenez $10.98 at Amazon
$28 Save $17.02 Get Deal Why we like it

The queen of contemporary romance, Abby Jimenez has done it again with Say You'll Remember Me, published earlier this year. It has an average of over 4 stars on Good Reads and is currently number six on the list of the most popular 2025 releases. A feel-good read, it follows veterinarian Dr. Xavier Rush and social media manager Samantha Diaz, who fall in love but are separated when Samantha moves to care for her mother with dementia. The hardcover version is currently just $10.98 at Amazon for October Prime Day — a total steal.

Best October Prime Day Kindle book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Blackstone Publishing "The Perfect Divorce" by Jeneva Rose $1.69 at Amazon
$9.99 Save $8.30 Get Deal Why we like it

The Perfect Divorce is another Goodreads favorite of 2025. From Jeneva Rose, the author of the multimillion-copy bestselling thriller The Perfect Marriage, it's the second in the series and picks up eleven years after high-powered attorney Sarah Morgan defended her husband, Adam, against murder charges. It's filled with page-turning suspense and plenty of twists and turns, which is hardly surprising if you read the first book. If you have a Kindle device — or don't mind reading on your phone or tablet — you can pick up a digital copy for less than $2 during the Prime Big Deal Days sale.

Physical book dealsPaperbackHardcoverKindle book deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

It's Hurricane Season, Here's How I Protect My Computer from Power Outages and Surges

How-To Geek - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 21:00

Has your power ever gone out for days (or weeks) at a time? Mine has, and I learned a lot during that time. Here’s how I keep all of my technology safe when the power flashes or goes out completely due to crazy weather.

Categories: IT General, Technology

55 deals from Best Buys Techtober Sale that match or beat Amazons Prime Day offers

Mashable - Tue, 10/07/2025 - 20:56

Amazon can never run a sale all by itself. As the retail giant hosts its annual Prime Big Deal Days event from Oct. 7 to 8, Best Buy is having a competing "Techtober Sale" that's live through Oct. 12.

A Best Buy representative tells me via email that the weeklong event includes "some of the hottest deals this fall on tech like laptops, TVs, headphones, video games, electric bikes and more." New markdowns get added to the sale every day, and all featured deals are available online, in the Best Buy mobile app, and in stores.

Best Buy's best anti-Prime Day deals at a glance: Best Apple deal Apple AirTag $19.99 (save $9.01) Get Deal Best Windows laptop deal Asus Zenbook A14 (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $579.99 (save $420) Get Deal Best TV deal TCL 75-inch QM5K 4K QD-Mini LED TV $599.99 (save $600) Get Deal Best streaming device deal Roku Streaming Stick 4K $29.99 (save $20) Get Deal Best vacuum deal iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max + AutoWash Dock $599.99 (save $800) Get Deal

Amazon has been hosting a two-day fall savings event for members of its Prime program every year since 2022 — and every year since 2022, Best Buy has held its own concurrent sale. (Previously, it came in the form of a 48-Hour Flash Sale.) Best Buy also times a savings event to run alongside Amazon's big flagship Prime Day sale in July, so this sort of counter-programming is par for the course.

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

Best Buy isn't the only retailer giving Amazon a run for its money this month. Walmart is having a "Walmart Deals" event from Oct. 7 to 12, and Target is hosting one of its Circle Week sales from Oct. 5 to 11. Notably, Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days is the only event that locks its deals behind a paid membership.

I've spent several hours combing through the Techtober Sale to find the deals worth buying from Best Buy instead of Amazon this week. So far, I've identified over five dozen products that are either price-matched or cheaper at Best Buy, or only available on sale there. That's either because Amazon doesn't carry the item (see: my beloved Asus Zenbook A14, now just $580) or because it sold out on Amazon (see: the iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max + AutoWash Dock, now just $600).

I've listed my Techtober Sale findings below, and I'm planning on refreshing them as new deals pop up throughout the week; check back soon. As of Oct. 7, Amazon is now undercutting its rival on most AirPods, Apple Watches, Microsoft Surface devices (save for a keyboard bundle), and a couple of Hisense and Samsung TVs. However, Best Buy has lowered the prices of a couple iPads to match their Prime Day deals, and I still like its selection of Windows laptop deals better overall.

Best Apple deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTag $19.99 at Best Buy
$29 Save $9.01 Get Deal Why I like it

Apple's coin-shaped Bluetooth tracker seamlessly connects with iOS devices and lasts up to a year on a single charge. Amazon put individual AirTags on sale for the record-low price of $19.99 mid-Monday morning, before Prime Big Deal Days began, but only because Best Buy offered that deal first at the onset of its Techtober Sale. (Trendsetter!) I'll also note that a four-pack of AirTags is marked down to $64.99 at both retailers, making them $16.25 apiece if you'd rather buy some in bulk.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirTag.

Apple Watch dealsiPad dealsMacBook dealsBest Windows laptop deal

Note: Paid My Best Buy members (Plus and Total) get a $50 bonus reward when they spend at least $499 on select Windows laptops.

Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus Zenbook A14 (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $579.99 at Best Buy
$999.99 Save $420 Get Deal Why I like it

The ultrathin and feathery light Asus Zenbook A14 is my favorite ultraportable. It's the fastest sub-$1,000 Windows laptop I've tried, and its svelte 2.4-pound frame (0.3 pounds lighter than a 13-inch M4 MacBook Air!) houses a good mix of ports and a vibrant OLED display. Plus, it lasts almost 22 hours per charge. Best Buy's massive Techtober discount turns it into a great option for budget buyers: The Zabriskie beige base model with a Snapdragon X Plus chip, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage is only $579.99, or 42% off. It's never been cheaper.

More Windows laptop deals2-in-1 laptop dealsGaming laptop dealsChromebook dealsBest TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 75-inch QM5K 4K QD-Mini LED TV $599.99 at Best Buy
$1,199.99 Save $600 Get Deal Why I like it

At 50% off, Best Buy's discount on this oversized mini-LED TV with a variable 144Hz refresh rate is the kind of deal I wouldn't expect to see until Black Friday really gets underway. Mini-LED TVs are great if you care about stark contrast but don’t have an OLED-level budget. The variety of dimming zones you get from a mini-LED TV make it better at showing deep blacks and sharp, dark details than your average QLED display. This particular TCL model comes with built-in Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, and it's not sold on Amazon (though a newer model is $749.99 there, down from $999.99).

43-inch TV deals50- to 58-inch TV deals65-inch TV dealsDeals on 75-inch TVs and biggerStreaming device dealsBest vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max + AutoWash Dock $599.99 at Best Buy
$1,399.99 Save $800 Get Deal Why I like it

The Roomba Combo 10 Max is the fanciest mopping robovac in iRobot's lineup, and the one my colleague Leah Stodart recommends for pet owners. Its small obstacle avoidance technology works like a charm, it recleans stubborn stains, and it can wash and dry its own mopping pad. It's expensive at full price, which is why Stodart says to "absolutely wait until it goes on sale for $999." Thanks to Best Buy, it's far cheaper right now — only $599.99 (usually $1,399.99), or a whopping 57% off. Meanwhile, it's out of stock on Amazon.

More robot vacuum dealsStick vacuum deals
Categories: IT General, Technology
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