Blogroll

Most messaging apps rely on internet connections, cellular networks, and remote servers to deliver your messages. End-to-end encryption protects message content, but you still depend on a service to handle communication. If you want to exchange messages without relying on conventional messaging infrastructure, inexpensive radio hardware offers another option.

Save 45%: As of Nov. 2, grab the Bose QuietComfort (2nd gen) headphones for just $199 at Amazon, Bose, and Best Buy. This $160 price dip marks a new record low for the headphones, which usually go for $359.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort headphones (2nd gen) $199 at Amazon, Bose, and Best Buy
$359 Save $160   Get Deal at Amazon, Bose, and Best Buy

Going into my sixth year covering Black Friday at Mashable, I knew early headphones deals could be great during the holiday shopping season. I did not expect one of my favorite headphones launches of the year to get a nearly 50% discount over three weeks before the Friday after Thanksgiving.

Here's the situation: the second generation Bose QuietComfort headphones dropped in August as the brand's latest mid-range release (and a pretty impressive one, at that). These headphones saw a modest $40 markdown during October Prime Day, but Black Friday can be a popular time for brands to pull out the first major discount of a product's lifespan. That said, it's pretty unusual for a 45% markdown, which is exactly what the Bose QuietComfort (2nd gen) headphones received at Amazon, Bose, and Best Buy.

SEE ALSO: The 8 best headphones of 2026: We tested the top contenders from Sony, Apple, Bose, and Beats

To put this into context, these headphones are now $50 cheaper than the sale price of the other major new mid-range headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM4C. This is especially notable as the Sony headphones at full price are $60 cheaper than the Bose headphones at full price, which was a significant part of the reason I found the Sonys to have an edge over the Boses in my head to head testing of the two headphones.

They're also just $30 more than the previous generation of QuietComfort headphones' sale price, which have a slightly bulkier design, less plush ear cushioning, no spatial audio, and less sophisticated noise-cancelling tech.

All of this to say, if this was the price that popped up on Black Friday proper for these headphones, I'd be thrilled. The fact that it's here three weeks in advance is the biggest possible cherry on top. If you're shopping for a student, commuter, work from home warrior, or simply yourself this holiday season, these will be one of the best value headphones you can find, especially if you're looking for killer noise cancellation and some of the best comfort money can buy. The deal is limited to the mint, green, and taupe colorways, but if you can live with that, you'll make out like a bandit.

SpaceX is eyeing the possibility of creating a fourth national mobile service carrier in the United States. To better accomplish this, the rocket company is looking into buying or leasing Boost Mobile's current network, according to the Washington Post. This comes on the heels of reports that CEO Elon Musk has been in talks with other cellular carriers so he can add cell phone and related services to his business portfolio.

Druski has spent years building a comedy empire on the internet. Now, he's taking it to Netflix.

On Monday, Nov. 2, Netflix announced a multi-year deal with the comedian and his production company, 4LIFERS Entertainment, to develop original programming exclusively for the streaming platform. The partnership kicks off Dec. 1 with Collect & Praise, a semi-scripted comedy series that expands one of Druski's most popular viral characters into a full-fledged television production.

And if you've ever watched Druski's megachurch pastor sketches, you already know this congregation is about to be a mess.

In Collect & Praise, Druski plays a money-hungry megachurch pastor who, alongside his unpredictable deacon (played by Mike Epps), schemes his way through scandals, chaos, and controversy. The series builds on a character who has already found an online audience, bringing Druski's signature brand of absurd, character-driven comedy to a longer format.

SEE ALSO: Is Druski hosting 'SNL'? Here's why it would be a big deal for internet creators.

It's a natural next step for the Atlanta-born comedian, whose career has been defined by his ability to turn internet jokes into something much bigger. From his viral sketches to his chaotic Coulda Been Records auditions, Druski has developed a recognizable comedic universe with recurring characters, running jokes, and an audience eager to participate in the bit.

It's his ability to turn internet comedy into a cultural phenomenon that earned him a spot on the Mashable 101, our annual list of creators to watch.

And Netflix isn't just interested in what he'll make next. As part of the agreement, the streamer will also license select titles from his existing catalog, including Coulda Been Love, Coulda Been Daddy, Coulda Been Records Auditions, and his comedy sketches.

"I've built my platform by creating characters and comedy that resonate with people," Druski said in a statement. "This partnership with Netflix will give me the resources to build on that comedy foundation and bring my work to a new global audience."

The deal reflects a broader shift in entertainment, as streaming platforms increasingly look to digital creators who have already demonstrated their ability to attract and sustain audiences. Druski isn't arriving at Netflix hoping to find an audience. He's bringing one with him, along with the characters and creative identity that made him successful in the first place.

The announcement also arrives during a particularly big moment in Druski's career. Earlier this year, Rolling Stone named him the most influential creator of 2026. He's also set to host Saturday Night Live on Nov. 7, just weeks before Collect & Praise premieres.

For Druski, the Netflix partnership represents an opportunity to expand what he's already built without necessarily leaving behind the internet comedy that made him famous.

And for Netflix, it's a chance to tap into a creator whose audience has been following his characters long before they had a streaming deal.

Collect & Praise premieres Dec. 1 on Netflix.

Competition in the PC silicon industry has heated up the last few years with the arrival of Apple and Qualcomm on the scene. Now, NVIDIA has joined the fray with its new RTX Spark platform, pairing a beefy Arm64 CPU with NVIDIA's industry-leading Blackwell GPU. It's no wonder the Yoga Pro 9n is among the first to showcase RTX Spark's undeniable power, as Lenovo knows how to make a killer laptop. Between the sky-high pricing and the RTX Spark specializing specifically in artificial intelligence, though, there's only a small group of people that should realistically consider buying this laptop. On the bright side, those people should be happy.

The best early Black Friday toy deals to shop, at a glance: Best Tonies deal Toniebox 2 bundle with Moana figurine $109 (save $40.99) Get Deal Best arts and crafts toy deal Play-Doh Blooming Flower Garden Playset $14 (save $9.99) Get Deal best building toy deal The Original Magna-Tiles Coral Reef $27.99 (save $11.98) Get Deal best Disney deal Huffy 6V Disney Frozen Ride-On Ice Cream Kart $138 (save $91.99) Get Deal

Besides TVs, toys are basically the classic deals you think of when you think of Black Friday. In 2026, Black Friday toy discounts are still some of the most extreme. And thankfully, you no longer need to wait in line at the crack of dawn and fight strangers to score them.

From popular storytelling toys like Tonies, to building toys like Magna-Tiles and Lego, to board game classics like Operation, there are already plenty of early Black Friday toy deals worth adding to your cart at Amazon and Walmart. We've rounded up some of the best ones we've seen so far, but definitely check back as we inch closer to Black Friday proper, which falls on Nov. 27 this year. We'll be adding to this list as the holiday shopping season heats up.

Best early Black Friday toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Tonies Toniebox 2 bundle with Moana figurine $109 at Walmart
$149.99 Save $40.99   Get Deal at Walmart Why we like it

When Mashable's reviewer tested the OG Toniebox, she called it "an intuitively-designed storyteller" and a "screen-less winner for children." It's a great way for kids to control their entertainment without the overstimulation of screens. The Toniebox 2 builds on the popularity of the Toniebox 1, adding more interactive features, expanded storage, a younger age rating, and more. If you snag it from Walmart bundled with the Moana figurine, you'll save $40.99 ahead of Black Friday. The Toniebox 2 on its own usually costs $129.99, so that's basically like getting the Moana figurine for free and an additional discount.

More early Black Friday toy deals

Tonies deals

• Tonies Make Way for Ducklings and Other Stories Figurine — $8.99 $19.99 (save $11 with on-page coupon)

• Tonies Batman Figurine — $9.99 $19.99 (save $10)

• Tonies Willy Wonka Figurine — $11.99 $19.99 (save $8)

• Tonies Diary of a Wimpy Kid Figurine — $11.99 $19.99 (save $8)

• Tonies Hiccup How to Train Your Dragon Figurine — $11.99 $19.99 (save $8)

• Tonies A Christmas Carol Character with Other Classics — $11.99 $19.99 (save $8)

• Tonies Animal World: Animals of Africa 4-Pack Set — $14.99 $24.99 (save $10)

• Tonies Bluey 3-Pack Set — $49.99 $59.99 (save $10)

Arts and crafts deals

• Crayola Spill Proof Paint Set — $8.99 $11.99 (save $3)

• Play-Doh Blooming Flower Garden Playset — $14 $23.99 (save $9.99)

• Cool Maker Charm'd DIY Charm Making Studio Set — $14.99 $20.99 (save $6)

• Crayola Bluey Color Wonder Magic Light Brush — $20.99 $27.99 (save $7)

• Dan + Darci Taba Squishy Making Kit — $25.99 $31.99 (save $6)

Building toy deals

• Lego Bluey Grannies with Bingo and Bluey (11216) — $11.99 $14.99 (save $3)

• The Original MAGNA-TILES Coral Reef — $27.99 $39.97 (save $11.98)

• Lego Editions Olivia Rodrigo's Concert Moon (43029) — $44.99 $49.99 (save $5)

Game deals

• Operation — $13.99 $19.99 (save $6)

• Twister — $14.99 $19.99 (save $5)

Disney deals

• Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Fun Track Set — $39.97 $54.99 (save $15.02)

• Disney Junior Minnie Mouse Flipping Fun Pretend Play Kitchen Set — $55 $68 (save $13)

• Huffy 12-inch Disney Princess Kids' Bike — $88 $129.99 (save $41.99)

• Huffy 6V Disney Frozen Ride-On Ice Cream Kart — $138 $229.99 (save $91.99)

Doll deals

• Bratz Goin’ Out! Cloe Fashion Doll with Accessories — $12.48 $24.99 (save $12.51)

• Bratz Goin’ Out! Yasmin Fashion Doll with Accessories — $12.48 $24.99 (save $12.51)

Black Friday may not be until Nov. 27, but headphones deals — including on AirPods — are already popping up ahead of the year's biggest shopping holiday.

Granted, Black Friday sales start much earlier than the day itself. Though we haven't yet received any official confirmation of sale dates, we are seeing Black Friday-worthy deals: the AirPods Max 2 are $100 off, while the AirPods 4 and Pro 3 both have markdowns as well.

So what's the best way to approach your AirPods purchasing journey this holiday season? In addition to gathering the best deals live now, we also used our deals expertise and years of experience covering shopping holidays and Black Friday deals to give context on which deals we're still holding out on.

Best AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max 2 $449 at Amazon
$549 Save $100   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Admittedly, the AirPods Max 2 aren't Mashable's favorite headphones, especially in comparison to the price and feature set of other premium options. However, we can acknowledge they have a stunning design, are great for Apple users, and do boast solid sound quality and noise cancellation. At $100, they're definitely at a more palatable (if still high) price point. With still weeks to go until Black Friday proper, this is an especially impressive deal, though at the time of writing, it is only live on the blue and purple AirPods.

Read our full review on the AirPods Max 2.

More AirPods deals

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

• Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation — $119.97 $179 (save $59.04)

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

AirPods deals we're waiting on

• AirPods 5: Apple's latest AirPods have yet to properly go on sale. The cheaper model dropped a few bucks in September, while the $149 wireless charging model has never seen even a small price dip. As these are already Apple's best value earbuds at full price, we're hoping to be a more substantial price drop as we inch closer to Black Friday.

• AirPods Pro 3: Yes, they're technically already on sale, but $199 isn't the best price we've seen on Apple's noise-cancelling in-ear buds. They dropped down to $179 during October Prime Day, and have even gone as low as $169 earlier this year. All this to say, $199 isn't a bad deal, but it certainly could be better.

You may have heard that there's a big, shiny new The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake headed to Nintendo Switch 2 this week. In accordance, Google has decided to celebrate with the rest of us.

As spotted by various folks on social media who were surely just looking for information about the remake, which launches on Nov. 5, typing "Ocarina of Time" into Google's search bar produces a fun new Easter egg. Specifically, the franchise's iconic Master Sword weapon appears in the corner of the screen above its pedestal. Clicking the sword places it in the pedestal, which transports the user back to a version of the Google search page that looks as it would have in 1998, the year the game originally came out.

SEE ALSO: Last chance to save $10 on preorders of Nintendo's 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time' remake This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

For reference, if this remake will be your first time playing Ocarina, the game is split between two time periods set seven years apart, and placing the Master Sword back on its pedestal is how players travel back to the past. 28 years is obviously a lot more than seven, but it's still a fun trick.

It also removes all AI features and other search features from the results page. If you want to return to a world where Google is just a list of relevant links, savor this Easter egg before it gets inevitably removed.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters or get Mashable push alerts today.

It's the start of a new month, which means the streamers will be loading up on new movies this week. Some of these movies were released in theaters earlier this year, while others are streaming originals. On Netflix, there are two noteworthy originals coming out this week: one is a heartwarming Christmas adventure, and the other could be a sneaky Oscar dark horse.

I just found out that preordering a physical copy of GTA 6 doesn't come with a game disc. You probably knew this already, but you just get a case with a digital voucher slip, meaning you will still need to clear a monstrous 210GB of SSD storage and wait out a massive download queue before stepping foot in Leonida.

I ditched my console a few years ago (GTA 6 might persuade me to jump back in), so I'm not exactly the most clued-up gamer, but that feels a little silly to me. What is convincing shoppers to buy a plastic case without an actual disc?

Leaks may have provided an answer.

Spotted by the deal-tracking account Nintendeals, Walmart apparently posted a product listing promising a complimentary "surprise and delight bag" bundled with every GTA 6 preorder ($79.99 at Walmart).

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

I guess getting free swag with an $80 purchase that virtually never sees day-one discounts is a harmless win.

Walmart has history here. It offered promotional snack kits featuring Pringles and Coca-Cola bundled with last year's Nintendo Switch 2 preorders. Getting a novelty can of chips and promotional stickers is not really a compelling reason to buy a plastic case with a paper code inside, but maybe I am simply an old man yelling at a cloud.

If you actually want physical collector memorabilia, Rockstar is selling a separate $400 Collector's Box. The 11-piece crate packs custom Oakley sunglasses, a New Era cap, and a physical map of Leonida. But the actual game is sold separately, if you can believe it.

Excel already has plenty of jobs. It organizes information, crunches numbers, and keeps track of things, but there comes a point when trying to make it do everything itself creates more hassle than it saves. So I connected it to four other services and found that I could get much more out of my spreadsheets when I let them handle some of the work around it.

Jackery is back at it with a new portable power station. This time, the brand has gone mini, and it's the most adorable power station I've ever seen. It'll be a great model if you're looking for ultimate portability.

The Jackery Explorer 100D is a 96Wh mini portable power station that can fit in the palm of your hand. It weighs just under two pounds and comes equipped with a convenient carrying strap. Snag the Explorer 100D at Walmart for $99 beginning on Nov. 15 or visit your local Costco to get a two-pack for $179.99.

Recharging earbuds, headphones, fitness trackers, and phones is perfect for the 100D. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

Here's everything to know about the Jackery Explorer 100D before you run out to buy one for yourself.

Highlights of the Jackery Explorer 100D

Yes, it looks cute enough to hang on the Christmas tree as an ornament, but the Explorer 100D is one of the coolest portable power stations I've seen in years in terms of function. For starters, it's tiny. It weighs 1.9 pounds with measurements of 4.7 inches wide, 3.3 inches deep, and 3.4 inches in height. It fits into the palm of my hand easily, and the attached handle makes it easy to carry.

The Explorer 100D has two USB-C ports and one USB-A. The USB-C ports can output a maximum of 140W combined while the USB-A has a maximum 18W output. Overall capacity measures a petite 96Wh. During my quick testing, it's recharging my (ancient) Google Pixel 8 phone about four times before the power station itself needs to recharge.

Credit: Jackery

The 100D doesn't take long to recharge. In my experience, it gets back to 100% in about 100 minutes with standard wall AC power. You can also recharge via solar with up to 100W.

Who should buy the Jackery Explorer 100D

I'm convinced the Jackery 100D will be a great model for a quick camping trip or creators who tend to run out of camera or phone battery on a full-day out. Its small 96Wh capacity means it's not a great model for recharging anything more than small tech gadgets. If you're looking for a model for home backup during a storm, you definitely want something larger or even a fridge-specific portable power station.

How to buy the Jackery Explorer 100D

Getting your own mini Jackery Explorer 100D is unfortunately not a one-click option for the time being. The brand is launching the mini power station at select Costco warehouses and Walmart. If you're a Costco member, head to the Jackery website to find a list of Costco locations where you can buy a two-pack of the Explorer 100D for $179.99.

On Nov. 15, you'll be able to get a standalone 100D at Walmart for $99.

We'll keep this page updated if we see more availability pop up. It'll be a great model to pack along on upcoming holiday travel.

Gift giving is an art form. But picking a truly wonderful gift that the recipient is sure to love for years to come? Now that’s a science. 

Of all the products we’ve tested and loved this year, the following 15 are the ones that we’ve deemed as the best. We love them so much, in fact, that we've assembled our first ever Gift of the Year list. Everything on here was rigorously tested in a real world, at-home setting by a member of the Mashable staff. These are the products that sit at the top of our “best of” lists, the ones we gift to others — or may be coveting for ourselves.

In the world of tech gifts, you’ll find our favorite headphones, a laptop that won’t wipe out your gifting budget, and the season’s must-have gaming device. We have gifts that make your home smarter, your dinner faster, and your music louder. For the kids on your list, we’ve chosen the toys that will evolve and grow with them as they get bigger, and for the smartphone obsessed teen there’s the one piece of tech that will help them find some much-needed balance.

Our sibling tech sites are also hosting their own, unique selections for their own Gift of the Year awards. Check out the winners at CNET, Lifehacker, PCMag, Popular Science, and ZDNET.

Read on to discover which products made the cut for our inaugural Gift of the Year awards and consider this your must-have shopping list when it comes to Christmas gifts, Hanukkah presents, and beyond.

Best Tech for Teens Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Camp Snap Opens in a new window Credit: Camp Snap Camp Snap 2 Digital Camera $69.99 at Camp Snap
  Shop Now at Camp Snap Why we like it

Originally designed for summer campers who want a digital camera to capture camp memories, the Camp Snap is screen-free. However, the Camp Snap has attracted an audience beyond summer campers, thanks to its nostalgic-looking photos. The photos the camera takes are reminiscent of photos from a disposable camera, just digitized. It looks like film, but it has the convenience of digital. Don't expect crisp, detailed photos; everything has a slight fuzz to it, but that's part of the style to just embrace. —Samantha Mangino

Best Audio Player for Kids Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Yoto Opens in a new window Credit: Yoto Yoto Mini (2024 Edition) $79.99 at Yoto
  Shop Now at Yoto Why we like it

There is perhaps no device more universally beloved in my house than the Yoto Mini. Great for a wide range of kids, my 6-year-old and 3-year-old are particularly smitten. The Yoto is a screen-free audio player that puts the power into the hands of the kids. Compatible cards power up everything from chapter books and shorter stories to music and learning-based content and are available to check out at many local libraries. There’s also an ad-free, kid-friendly radio station built-in, as well as a daily podcast, plus others that are accessible via the compatible app. Custom cards allow you to create your own content, including mix tapes, books, family messages — whatever you can come up with. It’s great for little hands, will adapt and grow as kids get bigger, and is both rugged and travel-friendly. We love that this is the kind of device that keeps kids engaged and entertained — without a screen — and will adapt to the whims of our family for years to come. —Nicole Cammorata

Best Toy for Preschoolers Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Tonies Toniebox 2 $149.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Why we like it

As our kids have grown, we’ve noticed that compared to the Yoto Mini (above), the Toniebox is particularly well-suited for preschool-aged kids. We’ve had one in our family for the last couple of years and our kids have loved being able to listen to stories, choose their own content, and be in charge of their own entertainment. As parents, we love that it’s screen-free, keeps them entertained, travels well, and offers a wide library of content to choose from. The Toniebox is powered by a collection of Tonies — small figures preloaded with content from a multitude of beloved movies and TV shows, including those from Disney, Pixar, Bluey, Peppa Pig, National Geographic, and more. Our kids are often just as smitten with the characters as objects as they are with the content itself. —Nicole Cammorata

Best Headphones Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Bose Bose QuietComfort (Gen 2) $199 at Amazon
$359 Save $160   Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Best Buy Shop Now at Bose Why we like it

These headphones are nearly $100 cheaper than the Bose QC Ultra 2 headphones, but offer many of the same features. For starters, the comfort and noise cancellation are nearly on par with the significantly more expensive headphones, which is to say it's very, very good — like easily wearable for a full day of travel. The tactile controls are intuitive and functional, the colors are varied and unique while remaining appealing, and there's an Immersive Audio listening mode for changing up how you hear your music. In a time when most tech prices are rising, it's refreshing to see a brand release a pair of headphones that strive for ultra-premium performance, while sticking to a more mildly premium price. —Bethany Allard

Best Kitchen Gadget Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Ninja Ninja Crispi $159.99 at Best Buy
$179.99 Save $20   Shop Now at Best Buy Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Ninja Kitchen Why we like it

Air fryers are great for anyone, but the Ninja Crispi is made for meal preppers. With its portable design, it stores nicely and can be used on the go. Plus, it actually works. The controls are simple, and the glass baskets come with storage lids for easy food storage. Since we originally tested this device, it's become a favorite of the Mashable shopping team. Not to mention, the Crispi has gotten quite a bit of attention online as folks seek a plastic-free air fryer, and the Crispi is really the best option available. —Samantha Mangino

Best Wellness Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Oura Oura Ring 5 $499 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Why we like it

Oura outdid itself with the Ring 5. Before its release, we rated the Oura Ring 4 the best smart ring available, but the Ring 5 blows it out of the water. It's the most comfortable, accurate, and well-designed smart ring we've tested. The new Oura Ring 5 still offers the same biometric data and in-app experience, but now it's 40 percent smaller. It's thinner and lighter, meaning the battery had to shrink. But it didn't sacrifice battery life, as it still lasts six to seven days on a single charge. The ring contains a red and infrared LED, a green and infrared LED, a movement-tracking accelerometer, and digital temperature monitors that all work together to calculate your biometrics, which are presented in the app. With a slim fit and rounded edges, it looks like a classic band that blends right into your wardrobe but remains comfortable without digging in or pinching your finger. —Samantha Mangino

Best Stocking Stuffer Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Brick Opens in a new window Credit: Brick Brick $59 at Brick
  Shop Now at Brick Why we like it

Sometimes the best tech is the device that helps us take a break from our tech. The Brick is a small, square device that does exactly that — and makes for an excellent stocking stuffer. A quick tap via the app will shut down all the apps you’ve deemed unnecessary, and the phone will stay that way until you re-tap it to the Brick. For anyone looking to break free from a phone addiction, get some mental clarity, or find more digital balance, it’s an incredible device that allows all of us to get a break from that tiny screen without losing the convenience of a mobile phone. I love that the app restrictions are customizable and that accessing the forbidden parts of my phone requires a physical action — a much-appreciated counterpoint to the mindless scrolling that comes with phone addiction. —Nicole Cammorata

Best Laptop Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Apple MacBook Neo $689 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Why we like it

Even after a $100 price bump this summer, the MacBook Neo is still an unrivaled value in the budget category. Most cheap Windows laptops and Chromebooks have plastic components, but this little guy has the same luxe, all-aluminum build quality as any other MacBook. The Neo's A18 Pro processor is technically a pared-down iPhone chip, but don't be fooled: It's extremely impressive for a budget laptop CPU. In simple single-core workloads (web browsing, word processing), the Neo is just as fast as a last-gen M4 MacBook Air. In such scenarios, it feels snappier than most Windows laptops we've tried lately, including 10 that cost $2,000 or more. —Haley Henschel

Best Robot Vacuum Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Eufy Eufy C28 $499.98 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $300.01   Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Eufy Why we like it

The C28 finally answers the call of spill-prone households who need something more heavy-duty (and less likely to smear). The HydroJet system rinses the mop nine times per second as it's mopping to prevent smearing. From catnip flakes to tufts of dryer lint to handfuls of crushed chips, I really had to squint to find a few tiny pieces that the C28 left behind. The Eufy C28 gets bonus points for its slow, deliberate vacuuming when spot-cleaning the tricky area where a rug changes to hardwood — its crumb pickup around rug edges has actually been more reliable than premium Roborock and Dreame models. Its performance on hardwood and tile has been even more stellar. The damp roller presses down firmly to wipe up dust and pet hair on hardwood that would stick to the floor during regular vacuuming. —Leah Stodart

Best Smartwatch Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Apple Apple Watch Series 12 $389.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Best Buy Shop Now at Walmart Why we like it

The Series 12 has a new S11 chip that adds support for Audio Intelligence tools and offers more battery life during workouts (plus faster charging). The Apple Watch Series 12's chip and sensors are the exact same ones you'll find inside the rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4, which costs twice as much. The Ultra 4 is awesome in its own right, especially if you prioritize battery life and durability, but this means you don't need to splash out on Apple's most expensive smartwatch in order to use its most advanced features. The mid-tier option has never been a smarter buy or a more worthwhile upgrade from an older model. —Haley Henschel

Best Smart Home Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Amazon Echo Show 8 $199.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Why we like it

It can act as a sous chef in the kitchen, serving up recipes while keeping your hands free, and it can just as easily make video calls to keep up with friends and family or stay productive while WFH. You can also "Drop-In" on any other Alexa devices in your household, including video chat with other Echo Shows. That's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Echo Show 8's visual feats, though, and the gorgeous display really opens up the door to an incredible amount of enhanced Alexa functionality. The Echo Show 8 can even function as a security camera, and you can check in on what it sees via the Alexa app on your phone while you're away. That said, you can close the camera shutter and shut off the mic for more privacy. —Samantha Mangino

Best Handheld Gaming Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 $499 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Walmart Why we like it

Those who want to stay on the cutting edge of handheld gaming consoles need to get a Nintendo Switch 2 at some point. It's the latest and greatest version of the handheld, with more power, improved features and accessories, and a constantly expanding slate of games that'll almost certainly induce FOMO if you don't hop on the bandwagon. If you're excited about playing the long-awaited The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, love all things Pokémon, or have a kiddo that needs to be introduced to the joys of Mario Kart, then the Switch 2 is a must-have. —Timothy Werth

Best TV Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/TCL TCL 65-inch QM6K Mini LED 4K TV $598 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $201.99   Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Best Buy Why we like it

The TCL QM6K is the quintessential beginner fancy TV between the absolute cheapest and most expensive QLEDs out there. Compared to regular LED TVs, the QM6K is brighter and sharper — better for daytime viewing and watching sports. Compared to more premium mini-LED TVs, the QM6K stays comfortably under the $1,000 mark. —Leah Stodart

Best Outdoor Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Bose Bose SoundLink Plus $179 at Walmart
$269 Save $90   Shop Now at Walmart Shop Now at Amazon Why we like it

Bose's SoundLink line includes an array of excellent speakers, and we've found the Plus to be in that sweet Goldilocks spot between the SoundLink Flex and SoundLink Max. It's incredibly loud with crisp, clear audio. And its size makes it portable and not too heavy (though it does have some heft to it), while still producing room-filling sound. Whether you're at the beach, hosting a pool party, camping, or just hanging out at home, the Bose SoundLink Plus is a stellar Bluetooth speaker. It can also easily pair with other Bose SoundLink speakers for extended sound. —Miller Kern

Best Beauty Tech Gift of the Year Credit: Rene Ramos/Mashable/Shark Shark Cryoglow Mask $349 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Why we like it

It would be hard to argue that any mask is a better value or offers a more premium experience than the Shark CryoGlow. The Shark mask is lined with 160 evenly spaced tri-wick bulbs. Every single bulb can emit red, near-infrared, or blue light, and each bulb can emit all three light types simultaneously for 480 light sources total. That's true full-face coverage for the duration of any setting, compared to other masks that turn red light bulbs off completely if you're on the blue light setting. —Leah Stodart

Everyone needs a few more tools and accessories, right? Milwaukee is a go-to choice for millions and makes some of the best tools, but there's a good chance you're sleeping on its REDLITHIUM line of accessories. If you already have all the tools you want, check out this list of accessories you never knew you needed.

We're officially only weeks away from one of the biggest shopping events of the year: Black Friday.

There's still about a month until the shopping holiday officially starts, but deals start to roll out much sooner than the Friday after Thanksgiving. How much sooner, you ask? Try right now. In fact, our deals experts have already been tracking price drops for the past two weeks.

That doesn't necessarily mean you should start frantically adding deals to your cart, but it does mean that it's good to head into the mega-sale event with a plan. From knowing when sales from retailers like Amazon and Best Buy start to knowing which products will likely go on sale to preparing your own shopping list, we've got you covered on everything you need to know ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

When is Black Friday?

This year, Black Friday falls on Nov. 27. While retailers often start featuring their best markdowns on Black Friday itself, there are plenty of early deals worth shopping in the lead-up. Most retailers' official sales do start before the actual day, so shopping strategically ahead of time can save you from missing out on a deal entirely (or dealing with the chaos the day after Thanksgiving).

Will Amazon have Black Friday deals?

The mega-retailer just wrapped up its October Prime Day sale, but naturally, it's also getting in on the Black Friday action. While Amazon hasn't released official sale dates yet (it's still in the final days of the Holiday Beauty Event), last year's Black Friday sale started over a week before the official day. As soon as we have available dates for Amazon (and other retailers), we'll update this guide. Speaking of...

When do Black Friday 2026 sales start?

• Amazon: While no official dates are available just yet, 2025's Black Friday sale started on Nov. 20 — eight days before Black Friday on Nov. 28.

• Best Buy: Like Amazon, Best Buy hasn't announced any official dates yet, but promised a return of the day after Thanksgiving sale with some of the best tech prices of the year, plus a new batch of deals dropping for Cyber Monday. Most deals will be available online and in-store, with some exclusive to in-store sales. Following past precedent, Best Buy will also drop special deals through November, in the lead-up to the sale.

• Walmart: Walmart has three major sale events throughout November: the early Black Friday sale from Nov. 12 to Nov. 15, the Black Friday sale from Nov. 23 to Nov. 29 (with deals online only from Nov. 23 to Nov. 26), and the online-only Cyber Monday sale from Nov. 30 to Dec. 2.

• Target: Target hasn't released its full Black Friday lineup yet, but we do know its first Early Black Friday sale kicks off Nov. 5 to Nov. 7. From Nov. 1 to Dec. 24, Target's Deal of the Day offer kicks off, featuring new deals every day. Every weekend after Nov. 7, the retailer will also drop new limited-time holiday offers.

SEE ALSO: When is the best time to buy a MacBook? If you want a deal, the countdown is on. Does Apple have Black Friday sales?

Considering prices went up this year on pretty much Apple devices except for AirPods, Black Friday will be the time to pick up new Apple devices. The short answer: Apple products will absolutely be on sale this Black Friday. The slightly longer answer: the best place to pick up Apple products during Black Friday sales will be at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy, which often duke it out to see who will drop a MacBook or pair of AirPods to the record-low price first (or, more impressively, keep it in stock the longest).

SEE ALSO: Apple's new batch of products is live on Amazon: How to buy the new MacBooks, iMacs, and iPad mini

As for Apple itself holding Black Friday sales, the Apple Store features its own Black Friday sale every year: a free gift card for future use with the purchase of select devices. We expect to see the same this year, so we recommend picking up your Apple devices elsewhere if you're looking to save as much cash as possible.

The best Black Friday deals so far

With Black Friday feeling like a month-long (and then some) affair, what are the deals worth shopping now? It's an especially relevant question in 2026, a year that saw many historic price increases across everything from laptops to Kindles. In other words, shopping smart has never been a smarter decision, which is why we've gathered some of the best early Black Friday savings so far.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds (2nd gen) $229 at Amazon
$299 Save $70   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 11 Pro (unlocked) $799 at Amazon
$1,099 Save $300   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Disney Princess Advent Calendar $30 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $14.99   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max 2 $449 at Amazon
$549 Save $100   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, 128GB) $649 at Amazon
$749 Save $100   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Bundle $365.97 at Amaozn
$429.97 Save $64   Get Deal at Amaozn Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle $249.99 at Amazon
$369.99 Save $120   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Supersonic Nural $467.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $82   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Crispi Microwave and Air Fryer $349.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $100   Get Deal at Amazon What else goes on sale during Black Friday?

The more apt question is what doesn't go on sale during Black Friday. That's to say, if there's a product you're looking to grab on sale, whether that be a new TV or paper towels, Black Friday is the time to do it.

SEE ALSO: Google's new holiday shopping guide reveals exactly when prices drop — 10 things every shopper should know

Beyond the deals we have listed above, we expect to see more savings on MacBooks, Windows laptops, video games and consoles, robot vacuums, regular stick vacuums, drones, trading cards, books, board games, and power tools. This list is by no means exhaustive — if there's a good deal worth writing up, you'll likely find it in our deals coverage.

How long do Black Friday sales last?

The best Black Friday deals generally last through Cyber Monday, which falls on Nov. 30 this year. Some deals do linger through the week, and some Cyber Monday sales (such as Walmart's) are scheduled to extend beyond Cyber Monday proper. And as Target's deal-of-the-day sale demonstrates, there are almost always Black Friday-worthy sales through essentially Christmas. That said, for the best shot at scoring big savings (and for catching a deal while it's still available), shopping during Black Friday weekend is typically a good rule of thumb.

Linux kernel developers have spent much of 2026 debating how to deal with AI-assisted code contributions, including whether developers should disclose their use of AI tools and how maintainers should review machine-generated patches. Following an ever-busier Linux 7.3 testing cycle, Linus Torvalds appears to be more at ease with machine-assisted contributions as he released Linux 7.4-rc1.

Ready to try Linux but confused by the hundreds of distros out there? Wondering which one will actually suit your needs without wasting days testing and tinkering? I've narrowed down your search to three distinct distros that cover the needs of most new Linux users.

I dig Android Auto. It's a fun way to use your phone's functions in the car, but it's heavily restricted sometimes. Recently, I found an app that works as a media player and web browser. Well, you know what that means for a nerd like me: monitoring my homelab remotely when I'm parked. I use it for more than that now, too, and it's slowly becoming one of my new favorite Android Auto apps.

This summer, a Lifetime Plex Pass increased in price from $250 to a whopping $750. Over the last year or so, an increasing number of features have either increased in price or become paid features.

Every fresh Ubuntu install feels a bit like moving into a rented, furnished apartment. Everything looks good and works fine, but nothing feels quite like yours yet. One of the nice things about Ubuntu is that you don't have to spend an afternoon tinkering with GNOME extensions to make the desktop your own.