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Steve may not be the movie you'd expect, as it certainly wasn't what I anticipated.

An exciting element of film festivals is seeing movies before the barrage of trailers, talk show appearances, character posters, and all other manner of spoiler-y promotions. So, for a critic planning their screening schedule, you're piecing together few clues.

Not familiar with the best-selling novella on which Steve is based, I expected a tearjerking drama that might leave me rattled and heart-aching, like RaMell Ross' soul-scorching Nickel Boys. After all, Steve is not only a drama set a reform school, but also a film starring Murphy, who has played a long line of intense characters facing horrid circumstances, from zombies (26 Days Later) to a dying sun (Sunshine) to a world at war (Oppenheimer). Plus, Murphy and Mielants' last movie together was Small Things Like These, a harrowing tale of the sins committed and covered up by an Irish convent. 

SEE ALSO: 'Steve' trailer: Cillian Murphy is a 'very, very tired' headmaster at an English reform school

For all of these reasons, I braced for violence, trauma, and abuse. But while there are dark moments in Steve, it's chiefly an energetic and even at times joyful film about hope and community.

Novelist Max Porter adapted his novella Shy into the screenplay for Steve, which offers complicated portraits of the troubled youth in a reform school and the grown-ups assigned to their care. The resulting film is an emotional roller coaster and a call to action, demanding its audience rethink their views of such schools and those within them. 

Steve is set over one very bad day at work.  Students gather around Steve in "Steve." Credit: Robert Viglasky / Neflix

A propulsive energy drives Steve forward, from a mellow opening scene in which the titular lead teacher is dictating notes into a recorder, mapping out his strategy to help each of the boys in his care. Then, Steve (Murphy) is driving into a rural area on a long, winding dirt road, when he sees a teen boy smoking and dancing with headphones on in a field. Here, Porter's script introduces us to Shy (Jay Lycurgo), a mercurial young man capable of joy, anger, depression, and compassion. In this moment, he is giddy, playing with Steve and gossiping about the news crew set to arrive on campus this very day. 

By setting the film over the course of this day, Porter smartly condenses the action to make every choice feel urgent. By introducing a camera crew to the mix, he adds additional conflict and stress for Steve and his team to put forth a good face to a public all too willing to misunderstand their spirited students. So, Steve's battered vehicle pulls up to the school, a hundred-year old estate called Stanton Wood that's steadily falling into disrepair. A well chosen location begins to tell the story even before a newscaster's scripted introduction confirms it. 

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This grand building once had money flowing to it for upkeep of the place itself and its students. But as giving a second chance to impoverished young men with criminal records became politically unfashionable, funding has dried up. Stanton Wood now operates with a skeleton crew, caring for one class of very rowdy boys who are all too willing to act up in front of the cameras. 

Steve must not only manage his staff, counsel the boys fired up by the arrival of an audience, and keep an eye on the nosy news crew (who is too eager to invade the boys' privacy for good B-roll), but also fawn over a visiting politician in hopes of securing some more funding. He's being pulled in every direction, and yet the film is more of an ensemble than the title might suggest. 

Steve delivers a walloping group performance.  Jay Lycurgo as Shy and Simbi Ajikawo as Shola in "Steve." Credit: Robert Viglasky / Neflix

Murphy is the eye of the storm of Steve, exuding an intense focus whether talking to students or venting with his colleagues. His sharp blue eyes ache with the awareness of his responsibilities and the powerlessness an apathetic government gives teachers like him in place of support. 

His frustrations are echoed by fellow educators, like his second in command, the outspoken Amanda (Tracey Ullman in a rare dramatic turn), a very patient therapist called Jenny (Emily Watson), and new teacher Shola (Simbi Ajikawo, aka rapper Little Simz). Each of these women brings a different energy to Stanton Wood. Amanda, vibrant and frank, has a grandmotherly tough-love approach, telling the camera crew about how each of these boys is complex and that she "fucking loves" them for it. Jenny has a cool facade, but once the boys leave — sometimes after vandalizing her wood-paneled office — she shrinks into a pose of radiating disappointment. Shola, as the youngest and the only Black woman working there, faces the additional challenge of receiving unwanted sexual attention from some of the boys, and having to preserve a professional front even in such uncomfortable and unfair predicaments. While each of these roles is slimly written, they're given proper depth from these sensational actresses. 

Then there's the boys: Shy (a mesmerizing Lycurgo), Riley (a chaotic Joshua J. Parker), Jamie (a brash Luke Ayres), Ash (Joshua Barry), Nabz (Ahmed Ismail), and Tarone (Tut Nyuot), to name a few. In a clever device by Porter, the youths are introduced in interviews with the news crew, who ask their names and three words they'd use to describe themselves. Among the batch are braggarts, button-pushers, aspiring moguls, and heartsick lost boys. The sharp contrast between one interview and the next not only sets up the dynamic between this group, but also suggests the highs and lows that each of them are experiencing in the challenge of growing up and succeeding in reform school. 

The staff here doesn't beat or abuse them. In a number of scenes, Steve carefully approaches heart-to-hearts with a mix of psychological tools and frank slang. ("This is the thing, you can't just casually call me a dick," he patiently explains to one student.) It's clear the boys are given patience, understanding, and second chances. But still, there are explosions, because within these boys is both brilliance and pain, kindness and rage. It's a constant dance that erupts into fights, shouting, impromptu soccer matches, and a suicide attempt.

Steve grapples with teen suicide. Tracey Ullman as Amanda and Cillian Murphy as Steve in "Steve." Credit: Robert Viglasky / Neflix

Not so much a spoiler as a warning, Steve involves one student's suicidal ideation playing out into a prolonged and painful sequence. His eyes are wide and scared as he considers his next move. Sitting at the center of the theater, I was looking directly into his eyes, and the boy seemed to look directly into mine. He didn't cry, but I did. I wept, worried for him as my thoughts wandered to those in my own life who've had such moments. In reflection, I'm awed that Steve doesn't make a spectacle of a suicide attempt, but instead dwells on the decision, not the act. 

Making this sequence even more impactful is the film's cinematography. Much of the movie's sequences are shot in handheld, allowing for fluid, even frantic movement as cinematographer Robrecht Heyvaert chases the boys as they barrel down hallways, throw punches against steel lockers, bound over countertops, and race through a soccer pitch. But in this moment, quiet and dark, a boy alone with his thoughts and this big choice, the camera is still and unblinking. Through this simple framing, head-on and unmoving, we are with him, waiting for his decision and feeling powerless (like Steve, who is in a frenzied search for the boy), as we can't make it for him. 

That brings us back to Steve. The film named for him might seem preachy or sentimental to some. But Porter's earnest script and Mielants' kinetic approach urges audiences to look beyond the outraged op-eds about tax dollars being wasted on bad eggs (a sentiment spoken directly by the cynical news crew). With each young actor throwing himself full-bodied and furious into the roles of these students, a tableaux is painted of a moment in time, where they full of life, trouble, and possibility. Then, beyond that, Steve looks to the people who are underpaid and underappreciated as they do the work to make such youth feel truly heard, respected, and loved. They aren't saints anymore than their charges are devils. 

Steve talks with a Stanton Wood student in "Steve." Credit: Robert Viglasky / Neflix

In this mindful and dynamic portrait, Steve presents a message deeply humane, that all of these folks, from the students to the teachers to the news crew and even the smug politician looking for a good photo op are just people — people helping people. It might seem an obscenely simple message. Yet, as the film's climax makes clear, it's one worth repeating, even if it seems cringe or simplistic. "Why do you fucking give a shit?" one boy challenges the Stanton Wood staff. And the answer to that is not simple, but it is powerful. 

Steve is now streaming on Netflix.

If you're feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please talk to somebody. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can reach the Trans Lifeline by calling 877-565-8860 or the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Text "START" to Crisis Text Line at 741-741. Contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET, or email info@nami.org. If you don't like the phone, consider using the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat. Here is a list of international resources

UPDATE: Oct. 2, 2025, 2:20 p.m. EDT "Steve" was reviewed out of its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, in this article, originally published Sept. 15, 2025. The article has been updated to include current viewing options.

The true story behind The Lost Bus is stranger than fiction. More specifically, its premise feels like something dreamed up by a screenwriter in the late '90s, when disaster movies like Twister, Volcano, and Deep Impact were all the rage. An average Joe with problems of his own heroically uses his blue-collar skills and homegrown gumption to rescue a bus full of children stranded by a ravenous wildfire. And the cherry on top? This community that's ablaze is called Paradise. 

Yet The Lost Bus is based on the true story of school bus driver Kevin McKay, who on Nov. 8, 2018, rescued 22 grade school students from the Camp Fire, the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California history to date. In the movie version of McKay's life, details will be tweaked for dramatic effect. And this brave everyman gets the Hollywood glow-up, being played by Matthew McConaughey. However, director Paul Greengrass, who co-wrote the screenplay with Brad Ingelsby, battles back against a full-fledged glossy disaster movie. 

So, what might have been a spectacle, channeling real-world heroism into the dynamic derring-do of an American action hero, instead becomes a rocky ride, taking turns into the maudlin one moment and the theatrically threatening the next. The result is a movie that is gripping, but only in gasps. 

The Lost Bus cherry-picks grit and glamor.  Credit: Apple TV+

When a wildfire spreads faster than the firefighters can handle, school evacuations are called so quickly that some parents can't get to their kids in time. So the bus depot sends in Kevin (McConaughey), who's got open seats and determination to get these kids — and Mary Ludwig (America Ferrera), the teacher looking after them — to safety, whether that means traversing troubled routes or carving out daring detours. 

When it comes to the film's depiction of fire, Greengrass is devoted to instilling terror. Scenes of a California town burning are depicted like a war zone. Smoke turns a sunny day dark as night. Fire rages, making a once cozy street unrecognizable. Civilians flee, screaming and even trying to hijack vehicles through violence. This same attention to the gravity and griminess of wildfires extends to the faces of the children on Kevin's bus. While Mary and Kevin warn them to stay away from the windows, their cheeks are smudged with soot. Their eyes are weary from tears and exhaustion. 

Most effective in getting across the fear fire should instill is cinematographer Pal Ulvik Rokseth's use of POV shots for the fire. Beginning low to the ground in brush, these initially recall the POV shots of slashers like Michael Myers, peeping on their unaware victims. But as the intensity grows, so does the height and speed, suggesting the rushing of the wind and how it carries the flames farther and farther. Until finally, the fire's POV soars into the air, swooping down like a descending dragon. It's a flourish well used, as this device establishes the position of power the fire possesses over people, who can only run or burn.

By contrast, Greengrass tries to ground the infrastructural drama of the rescue crews by repeatedly cutting from the flame-afflicted bus of children to a conference room, flanked with firefighters and other municipal authorities. These scenes are so heavy on exposition that they bring tension to a dead stop. And the fumbling of the actors' lines in these scenes might be meant to feel naturalistic, but comes off as clumsy — especially in contrast to Ferrera and McConaughey.

Even dressed down in casual wear with some make-up to make them look less debonair and more haggard, they have the capable screen presence of movie stars — and the teeth, too. This is actually distracting on McConaughey, as the film goes to such lengths to stress the poverty and lack of self-care his character practices, yet he has perfectly straight pearly whites.

This might be overlooked were The Lost Bus a movie like Armageddon or Independence Day, where everything is heightened — including the appearance of average Americans. But here, every flash of those pearly whites is a reminder that The Lost Bus aims to be grounded in its heroics... while maintaining a Hollywood glossiness. It feels like two movies at battle with each other, and the conflict kills engagement.

The Lost Bus is slyly misogynistic. 

Before the fire, Greengrass and Ingelsby take great pains to show just how hard Kevin has it. Within the first act, he faces conflicts with his mother, his ex-wife, his boss, a pharmacist, and his son —and all but the last of these people are women.

Through casting, Greengrass sets up that this traditionally manly man, who is trying to provide for his family, must contend with emasculation at every turn. His mother is a burden. His ex-wife is a nag. His boss, Ruby (Ashlie Atkinson), won't give him the overtime he needs to make ends meet (even though she explains rationally why that's not possible), and the pharmacist at a small convenience store dares to be on the phone when he rushes in demanding help. If I recall correctly, even the veterinarian who calls to tell him his beloved dog must be put down is a woman. 

Aside from proving Kevin's got a lot (of bad) going on, this also establishes Kevin as a man in need of proving himself, proving he is a man who can push back on all these female forces that overwhelm him. So, when he arrives at the school and meets Mary, he diminishes her by calling her "ma'am" and "teach" — anything but the name she's given him.

Over the course of their dangerous journey, Kevin's attitude softens to Mary, as she wins his respect through her composure and endurance. The film even briefly seems to flirt with a romantic subplot (Speed 3: Fire in Paradise), though that cliché is dropped as half-heartedly as it's suggested. However, this framing of Kevin vs. every woman in Paradise (and beyond, as his ex is a phone call away), positions The Lost Bus as a tale of redemption on strictly machismo terms. 

In the movie's start, Kevin fears he's a failure as a son, husband, and father. But this rescue — which relates to none of those roles — is meant to redeem him? It's a bit confounding. What the real-life McKay did is incredibly heroic. What the onscreen Kevin does is too, but is tainted by chauvinist politics that see value in bravery chiefly if it validates a man's identity as protector. And yet the most compelling performance is from one of Kevin's supposed antagonists. 

Ashlie Atkinson runs away with The Lost Bus. 

I'm ashamed to admit I'm unfamiliar with Atkinson's work on The Gilded Age as Mamie Fish. But in The Lost Bus, she carries so much dramatic weight with every breath that I might need to start a binge-watch. On paper, Ruby's role is thin. She's the director of the Paradise bus depot, responsible for assigning routes and overtime, as well as organizing maintenance checks and — apparently — evacuations when the need arises. 

When Kevin approaches her, it's with a facade of gentility, pleading a sob story to convince her to bend the rules on overtime to benefit him. Her answer is delivered gently, but firmly. Her eyes are open, but reflecting a thinly veiled warning: Not today. His response is fury, but one he takes with him out the door.

In one scene, Atkinson represents a woman I've seen over and over. Ruby is in a male-dominated workforce, often regarded with feigned politeness that's actually kind of infantilizing! And when she comes back into the movie, again and again trying to make order out of chaos, I was invested every time. While Kevin is battling a fight against furious nature, Ruby battles the emotional warfare of comforting the awaiting parents without providing false hope. Between this and Mary's role in keeping the children on the bus calm and alive, Greengrass must have some awareness that barreling through hard times with lock-eyed determination and grit isn't all it takes to save the day.

Now, in the end, Greengrass does offer some recompense, with Kevin making brief amends with some of the women who'd been painted as his antagonists. But as title cards reveal the facts about what followed, the misogynistic slant to the story feels even more out of place. 

The Lost Bus is an odd film. At times, Greengrass embraces the '90s disaster movie theatrics that can give an audience catharsis through the hero's survival over seemingly impossible odds. At times, he's inexplicably fascinated by control room strategies that play out with all the excitement of a business meeting.

In some moments, he clearly values the incredible character work of supporting actress Ashlie Atkinson, whose dynamic portrait of a blue-collar woman doing her part (and her damndest!) is so moving that it almost single-handedly saves this movie from its regressive sexist messaging. But in the end, Greengrass favors a sentimentality for an old-school brand of macho identity that is toxic. So, The Lost Bus — despite its best efforts to celebrate an everyday hero — becomes a messy journey of rancid masculinity. 

The Lost Bus is now streaming on Apple TV+.  

UPDATE: Oct. 2, 2025, 2:22 p.m. EDT This review was first published on Sept. 6, 2025, out of the film's premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. It has been updated to reflect current viewing options.

In the Venn diagram of tablets and books, our favorite e-readers fall perfectly in the middle. They're thin and portable like a tablet, but without the distraction of the internet. The best Kindles and e-readers stuff thousands of books — a full library, really — into a tiny frame.

And having tested a lot of e-readers for Mashable, I can tell you the Amazon Kindle lineup comes closest to perfecting the devices. All over the internet, you'll find TikTok users enthusiastically singing the praises of the Kindle. For parents, Kindles are a screen you don't have to feel guilty about. For avid readers, Stuff Your Kindle Day lets you fill up your summer reading list. You can even buy Kindle accessories like remote page-turners and gooseneck stands so you don't have to hold your Kindle while reading.

Amazon has revamped its entire line-up over the past year, and as of Sept 30. 2025, the company introduced a new batch of Kindle Scribes, less than a year after the previous generation launched. The updated line-up includes an upgraded front light as well as the addition of the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft.

Plus, another big Amazon sales event is about to start. The retailer's Prime Big Deal Days, otherwise known as October Prime Day is coming Oct. 7 and 8, which typically brings some decent savings on the Amazon Kindle. But temper your expectations. Kindles are wildly popular devices, meaning they don't get the biggest discounts during these sales.

Meet the newest generation of Kindle e-readers Can't decide between the Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite? We put them head-to-head.. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable SEE ALSO: I read over 50 books a year. Here are my favorite e-readers.

A lot has changed since the Kindle first debuted in 2007. While it was released just a few months after the first iPhone, the Amazon Kindle has received fewer updates. As of 2025, we're on the 12th generation of Kindles; the latest arrived in October 2024. Every model — the basic Kindle, the Paperwhite, Signature Edition, Scribe, and Kids models — all got upgrades. And unfortunately, the Kindle Oasis, a waterproof model with page-turning buttons, was discontinued.

Kindle's first color e-reader arrived in late 2024, and as of July 2025, the Colorsoft lineup includes three models. The Colorsoft is the second most expensive option among Kindles, and after finally getting our hands on a model, we've added it to this guide.

As of Sept. 30, 2025, Amazon also announced a revamped Kindle Scribe. The new model is exceptionally thin and has a front light for a brighter display. Plus, the new Colorsoft edition of the Scribe lets you annotate, journal, or sketch in color. Neither the Kindle Scribe nor Kindle Scribe Colorsoft are available for preorder yet, but we'll update this guide once we've fully tested the devices.

No matter which model you choose, all of the latest Kindles are lightweight, easy to use, and compatible with Libby, so you can support your local library (and get free books, of course). Basically, it's hard to make a bad decision in this product category.

So, what's the best Kindle for you? Let me help you decide.

Which Kindle is right for you?

If you're concerned about buying the newest tech, that's not an issue. There are six updated Kindle models for sale, as well as older editions still in stock.

Before you choose a Kindle, you need to ask one question first: Do you want it to be waterproof? If you prefer reading near a body of water — whether in the bath, by the pool, or at the beach — that immediately narrows down your options. Since the Kindle Oasis is no longer available, your waterproof options are the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, and Paperwhite Kids.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature edition settings screen. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Beyond water resistance, here are a few other features to consider:

• Display size: The basic Kindle has a 6-inch display, while the largest has a 10.2-inch display.

• Storage capacity: Kindles range from 16GB to 32GB of storage capacity.

• Battery life: The new Kindles generally have outstanding batteries. On the low end, they last up to six weeks per charge, while others last up to 12 weeks.

• Writing capability: The Kindle Scribe is the only model that allows you to write with the included stylus. 

The latest Kindles all boast a maximum brightness of 94 nits and a 300 ppi, high-resolution display with zero glare, so you can enjoy sharp text and images at any viewing angle. Kindles are also equipped with WiFi connectivity, allowing you to download all the reading material you could ever want. Plus, you can listen to audiobooks on Audible via the built-in Bluetooth connection.

Not to mention, out of all the e-readers I've tested, Kindles have the best compatibility with Libby. I love the digital platform because I can read for free and support my local library. Some other e-readers require you to download your library e-book to a computer and then upload it to an e-reader, but with Kindles, your e-books are sent straight to your device with a click.

And if you were a die-hard Kindle Oasis fan and are attached to page-turning buttons, you may need to stray from the Kindle line-up. Now, your best bet will be the Kobo Libra Colour.

How to get free e-books on Kindle With just a click, transfer your Libby e-book to your Kindle device. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable Your Libby ebook will automatically populate in your Kindle library. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

The best way to read free e-books on a Kindle is with Libby. Libby allows you to borrow e-books through libraries, and all you need is a library card. Through the Libby app, borrow books and then select the "read with Kindle" option, which allows you to send these e-books to your Kindle library.

Another option for finding free e-books is through Stuff Your Kindle events. These are author-driven events that offer limited-time deals on e-books, often making them heavily discounted or totally free.

How to make the most of your Kindle

Through our testing and daily use, we've spent a lot of time with Kindles, learning how to make the most of them. We've written extensively on all the ways to maximize your Kindle, so be sure to browse through our guides and explainers:

• The best Kindle accessories for reading in luxury

• What is Stuff Your Kindle Day? The best way to fill your e-reader with free books

• I've read hundreds of free Kindle books with Libby. Here's how.

• What is Kindle Rewards? Earn free credits when shopping the Kindle store

• What is Kindle Unlimited? A library of books at your fingertips for just $12 a month

• Where to get free e-books: Load up your e-reader without spending a dime

• Prime members can get a free e-book every month with Amazon First Reads

• How to download EPUB files on your Kindle

• 8 Kindle features you should be using

• How to delete books from Kindle
  

The NYT Connections puzzle today shouldn't be hard to solve if you're a theater kid.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

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

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

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for September 2, 2025 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: A partition

• Green: They spin

• Blue: They can be found on Broadway

• Purple: A popular nickname

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

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

• Yellow: Boundary

• Green: They move in a spiral

• Blue: Songs from musicals

• Purple: What "Ed" might indicate

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

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

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #846 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Boundary: BORDER, EDGE, EXTREMITY, LIMIT

• They move in a spiral: EDDY, FOOTBALL, TASMANIAN DEVIL, TORNADO

• Songs from musicals: CABARET, EDELWEISS, MAMMA MIA, MEMORY

• What "Ed" might indicate: EDITOR, EDUCATION, EDWARD, PAST TENSE

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for September 29, 2025

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

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

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

Today's NYT Strands hints are all about the big cheese.

Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game, requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

Today's NYT Strands puzzle should be easy to solve, provided that you're in charge.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for September 29, 2025 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for September 29, 2025 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Who's in charge?

The words are related to guidance.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe authority figures.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Leadership.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for October 3

• Manager

• Head

• Director

• Leadership

• Boss

• Chief

• Supervisor

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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

Today's Wordle answer can be a real pain, but we're here to help!

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

Today's NYT Wordle puzzle shouldn't be difficult to solve if you're a runner.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for September 29, 2025 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for September 29, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A convulsion.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter S appears twice.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

SPASM

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for September 2, 2025

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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

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

For me, every weekend is a binge weekend. And there’s nothing I love more than unplugging and settling in on my couch to escape into another world of a great TV show for a while.

Vice President JD Vance has defended a racist AI-generated video that President Donald Trump posted to social media, stating that he considers the mocking depiction of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries wearing a sombrero to be a funny joke. Now Stephen Colbert has countered with an offer of his own, accompanied with his own "joking" video.

When asked about the video on Wednesday, Vance said, "I'll tell Hakeem Jeffries right now: I make this solemn promise to you that if you help us reopen the government, the sombrero memes will stop."

"If that's how we're doing it, JD, then we here at the Late Show also enjoy humor," said Colbert. "We've created our own funny good time animation based on something that isn't real to help end the shutdown. Enjoy!"

The Late Show host then proceeded to show an animation of Vance having sex with a couch while wearing a sombrero on his butt. A viral rumour claimed that Vance admitted to masturbating between two couch cushions in his memoir Hillbilly Elegy, however the book does not contain any such admission. Even so, Vance's supposed sexual inclination toward furniture has become a pervasive joke online.

"We're joking!" said Colbert. "I'll tell you what, here's the deal. If you resign as VP, I won't keep showing that every chance I get. And I definitely won't put it on all of our socials so people can share it and maybe roll it on a loop during their holiday parties this year."

I'm still discovering new things to watch on Paramount+, which is a good sign. Of course, there are all kinds of Star Trek movies and series I can sink my teeth into, but many of them are more long-term commitments than what I'm suggesting here—nice, bingeable TV shows you can get through in a weekend.

Many companies falter when their early leaders step away—not because their vision was wrong, but because it wasn’t built to endure. If you want your organization to outlast you, your convictions must shape the culture, not just strategy. Here’s how to lead using principles that stick. Ensure every decision reinforces your value proposition. Don’t chase […]

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We're slowly making our way through the lunar cycle, and we're just a few days away from the full moon.

The lunar cycle is a 29.5-day cycle of eight distinct phases of the moon. According to NASA, these phases happen as the Sun lights up different portions of the moon while it orbits Earth.

Keep reading to find out what you can spot in the night sky tonight, October 3.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Friday, Oct. 3, the moon phase is Waxing Gibbous, and according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, 83% of its surface is illuminated tonight.

You won't need any visual aids to spot features on the moon's surface tonight; with your naked eye alone, you can see the Kepler Crater, the Mare Fecunditatis, and the Tycho Crater. With binoculars, you can also see the Archimedes Crater, Clavius Crater, and the Mare Nectaris.

If you have a telescope, you can also spot the Apollo 11 and 17 landing spots, as well as the Rima Hyginus.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Oct. 7. The last full moon was on Sept. 7.

What are moon phases?

NASA explains that the moon goes through phases as it completes its 29.5-day orbit around Earth. The changing angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth cause the different phases we observe. From Earth, the moon can look full, partially lit, or even disappear entirely, but we always see the same side. What changes is the amount of sunlight reflected from its surface, depending on its position in orbit.

This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side.

Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

We're slowly crawling to the end of the 2025 MotoGP season, so fans need to stop and really appreciate every remaining race weekend. So we're suggesting you cancel all your plans, block out the world, and follow all the action from the Grand Prix of Indonesia. And better yet, do it for free.

If you're interested in watching the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia?

The MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia takes place at the Pertamina Mandalika Circuit. The 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia race starts at 3 a.m. ET on Oct. 5.

How to watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia for free

The MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia is available to live stream for free on ServusTV.

ServusTV is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to access ServusTV from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ServusTV by following this simple process:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Austria

4. Connect to ServusTV

5. Watch MotoGP for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access MotoGP live streams without fully committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for MotoGP?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking ServusTV, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Austria

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is protected

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Indonesia for free with ExpressVPN.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

We all want our homes to be safe and secure. That's part of what makes it a home, after all. In the 21st Century, being safe and secure home means upgrading your home the latest and best smart tech around. In other words, a smart security camera.

Security cameras work as an effective deterrent against break-ins and unwanted visitors, but they're also great for monitoring your home at all times. It's little wonder that smart security cameras are very popular, as evidenced by the always advancing smart tech and range of available models.

But how do you know which home security camera is the best for you and your family? Selecting any technology for your home is hard. It's easy to get blindsided by specifications, complicated by the fact that everyone's home and daily routine is different. But don't fret: We're here to help secure your home. Here's some helpful information and a roundup of the best security cameras currently available.

What is a smart security camera?

A smart security camera connects to an app or to your WiFi. They tend to stream live video directly to your smart device (such as a phone or tablet) and will generally have features that can be controlled remotely or via a voice assistant, They may even be powered by AI technology, with features such as automatic motion detection. You don't have to choose a smart security camera, of course, though all of the cameras on this roundup have smart tech capabilities. It's pretty much the standard now.

What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor security cameras?

Outdoor cameras must be robust enough to withstand changes in temperature and a variety of weather conditions. And when it comes to indoor cameras, most people prefer devices that easily blend into their home/decor. You don’t want anyone to be aware that they’re being recorded. After all, intruders are notoriously camera shy!

Are wireless security cameras reliable?

It’s important to consider what kind of “juice” a camera needs to operate. Does it rely on batteries or does it require a power source? You might face constraints as to where you can place a camera that needs a power source. Conversely, batteries obviously have a limited life. We can say with some degree of confidence that a dead camera isn’t incredibly useful. It’s not a case of which is best, but which type better suits you.

Do security cameras have audio?

Some cameras do indeed offer audio surveillance as well as imagery. Some options will simply have a microphone that allows them to capture sound. Others can both capture and emit sound, turning them into a sort-of intercom with two-way audio.

Do security cameras require WiFi?

Like the vast majority of technology today, many security cameras available have WiFi capability. This is great for a handful of reasons including the fact that it's harder to disable them. Moreover, most cameras with WiFi allow you to turn your house into a smart home. They can integrate with Amazon and Google and allow you to remotely lock your door and control your lights, as well as sending you texts/alerts.

How do you access your video footage?

Though some cameras come with microSD cards, most models rely on cloud services for storage and offer you remote access. Keep in mind that not all storage is alike. Some might save footage for a month, others only a week. Additionally, you may have to pay a subscription fee for the cloud service.

What is the best security camera?

It’s all about which security camera suits you and your home. Your lifestyle or comings and goings may require a particular set of features. What you need are options. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and pulled together some of the top picks.

These are the best security cameras in 2025.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

If you're reading this, you almost certainly own a laptop. And if you do own a laptop, you need a practical bag for carrying it around. After all, the point of a laptop is portability — to take your work, games, and pretty much your whole life on-the-go.

But it's so much trickier than just grabbing the first backpack off the peg. Backpacks are like life partners. We all need one to get through the day, but it's about finding one that perfectly suits you. There are loads of different factors to consider: your daily routine, functionality vs. comfort, and how much stuff you have to cram inside.

Indeed, there's plenty to think about. Choosing a backpack depends entirely on your lifestyle and day-to-day activities. Almost as much as when choosing the laptop itself. Here are some helpful pointers and a round-up of the best backpacks for laptops.

How big is a laptop backpack?

If only it was as easy as simply picking a backpack that fits your laptop. As for overall size, think about how you most commonly use your backpack. If you use it while commuting, you might want a slimmer size for saving space on busy trains or buses — or maybe you need it to store away easily in the office or at home, or under the desk.

Conversely, maybe you double-up and take your everyday laptop backpack on hiking or weekend excursions, in which case you may want a bigger bag for packing in extra belongings and accessories. A smaller bag is around 15 litres and larger capacities are somewhere around the 30-litre mark.

What size laptop can a backpack carry?

Different laptop bags are built to fit different laptop sizes, from 13 to 17-inches. But the size of the backpack's laptop sleeve will vary from brand to brand. To make sure your laptop fits, look at the manufacturer’s specific measurements. The size of other compartments will also be a factor.

What other features do laptop backpacks have?

A laptop sleeve is your base requirement, of course. As opposed to a general bag compartment that will hold your laptop but won’t keep it secure, which means your laptop will be banging about. Commuters or frequent fliers can look for backpacks that have a USB port, which eliminates the issue of needing to find a seat next to a powerpoint. They should also seek out secure locking functions.

Hikers may want features such as handy water bottle pockets, extra padding on the straps, or an attachment for a torch. Easy-to-reach front pockets for holding your phone or other necessary items are useful too. If you’re dedicated to fitness, look for a compartment that's similarly dedicated to holding your gym gear or trainers.

What types of laptop backpack can you buy?

The backpack is not the only option, of course. There are also tote, messenger, duffel, and briefcase-style bags available. But if it’s a backpack that you’re after — and the backpack is the best all-rounder — there are still style variations to consider:

• Business — These bags will include a high-end style, such as laptop bags made by Samsonite, or a business casual style that will look good with a suit but shrug off the formality. Look out for brands such as Bellroy or Lily & Drew.

• Classic — These bags will look like an upgrade on your school bag and will accompany timeless, no-frills fashion. See brands such as Herschel, Jansport, or Fjallraven.

• Sports — These bags will likely come from well-known sports brands like Nike or outdoors brands like Osprey and North Face, and will accommodate gym gear, or offer features suitable for active and outdoors lifestyles.

• Technology — These are well suited to anyone whose job or day-to-day activities includes carrying lots of gadgets, devices, leads, and accessories. They typically feature lots of compartments for good organisation.

How much does a laptop backpack cost?

It’s one of the big questions. As ever, you get what you pay for. Most people aren't willing to drop more than £100 on a backpack — but if you want one that’s robust and big on features, you might need to invest a little extra.

What is the best backpack for your laptop?

Whether you're looking for a basic option for the commute or a heavy-duty backpack with all the bells and whistles, we've got the best bags to fit your needs. We have lined up a selection of the very best laptop backpacks from all the biggest brands. There is something for everyone in this list.

These are the best laptop backpacks for 2025.

Happy Friday and welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

Today's games make heavy use of "less than" and "greater than" areas, but we have all the tips you need to navigate them.

Released in August 2025, the Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 3, 2025

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for October 3, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 3 Pips

Number (2): Everything in this space must add to 2. The answer is 2-4, placed horizontally

Equal (4): Everything in this green space must be equal to 4. The answer is 2-4, placed horizontally; 0-4, placed vertically.

Equal (1): Everything in this green space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-5, placed horizontally; 1-0, placed vertically; 1-1, placed horizontally.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add to 0. The answer is 1-0, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 3 Pips

Equal (3): Everything in this green space must be equal to 3. The answer is 3-3, placed horizontally; 3-4, placed horizontally.

Equal (1): Everything in this green space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-0, placed vertically; 1-4, placed horizontally.

Equal (4): Everything in this green space must be equal to 4. The answer is 3-4, placed horizontally; 1-4, placed horizontally; 4-4, placed vertically; 4-2, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add to 0. The answer is 1-0, placed vertically; 0-6, placed vertically.

Number (12): Everything in this space must add to 12. The answer is 0-6, placed vertically; 6-1, placed vertically.

Number (15): Everything in this space must add to 15. The answer is 5-1, placed vertically; 5-2, placed horizontally; 5-3, placed horizontally.

Equal (2): Everything in this green space must be equal to 2. The answer is 4-2, placed vertically; 5-2, placed horizontally.

Equal (1): Everything in this green space must be equal to 1. The answer is 6-1, placed vertically; 5-1, placed vertically.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 3 Pips

Greater Than (9): Everything in this space must be greater than 9. The answer is 3-5, placed horizontally; 5-1, placed vertically.

Less Than (3): Everything in this space must be less than 3. The answer is 5-1, placed vertically.

Greater Than (11): Everything in this space must be greater than 11. The answer is 4-6, placed vertically; 6-5, placed horizontally.

Number (7): Everything in this space must add to 7. The answer is 2-0, placed horizontally; 6-5, placed horizontally.

Less Than (1): Everything in this space must be less than 1. The answer is 2-0, placed horizontally; 1-0, placed vertically.

Equal (2): Everything in this green space must be equal to 2. The answer is 2-2, placed vertically; 2-3, placed horizontally; 1-2, placed horizontally; 2-6, placed horizontally.

Less Than (5): Everything in this space must be less than 5. The answer is 4-3, placed horizontally.

Equal (3): Everything in this green space must be equal to 3. The answer is 2-3, placed horizontally; 4-3, placed horizontally

Number (3): Everything in this space must add to 3. The answer is 1-1, placed horizontally; 1-2, placed horizontally.

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

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A flat dish.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

PLATE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Fire.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

BLAZE

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Royal.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

REGAL

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A heavy steel tool.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for August 4 Hurdle Word 4 answer

ANVIL

Final Hurdle hint

Often used to describe a cranky baby.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

FUSSY

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

Bad news. Android, which has for years been pretty democratic when it comes to sideloading, is locking things down a lot starting next year. The company has now gone into detail on how this will work, and while there's some silver linings, it might still be bleak for some of you.

While you can't replace the feel of paper — the beauty of bound hardcovers and the ritual of turning the page — an e-reader brings convenience and portability that a physical book just can't beat. Sure, you can throw a book in your tote bag, but what about an entire library?

When you think of the best e-readers, your first thought is likely an Amazon Kindle, however this isn't a list of the best Kindles, although we do have a list of those, too. While Kindles are great — there's certainly no denying that — you can find a couple of equally wonderful alternatives.

Amazon's October Prime Day is on Oct. 7 and 8, and with it comes the potential for e-reader deals. We expect to see some discounts on Kindle devices (right now, you can just find a discount on Kindle Unlimited), but we hope to see savings on Kobos and the iPad mini, too.

SEE ALSO: From the basic to the Paperwhite, these are Amazon's best Kindles

So, what is the best e-reader for 2025? I'm regularly testing new e-readers (and tablets) and cycling through different models to stay up to date on the best options available. So, if you're gearing up to read more books this summer or fall, I can recommend a model you'll love.

Featured Video For You Other e-readers we've tested From left to right: Kindle Paperwhite, Nook GlowLight 4 Plus, Kindle Scribe Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

Most recently, we've tested the Remarkable PaperPro and Onyx Boox Go 7 as contenders for this list. After several weeks of testing, both devices proved to be pretty good but not quite list-worthy. While I was able to test most of Amazon's 2024 Kindle models, I've yet to test the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition.

Whenever you search for e-readers, Remarkable's tablets will always pop up in the search results, but unfortunately, it's hard to obtain ePUB files on the Remarkable. With Remarkable, you can access files within Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. If you have any locked ePUB files — like from Libby — you won't be able to access them on a Remarkable tablet. So, after testing the Remarkable tablet myself, it proved to be a better document reader or digital journal than an e-reader.

The Onyx Boox Go 7 is a better e-reader option than the Remarkable. It's the same as the Kobo Libra or Amazon Kindle, but it really lags on processing speed. To read ePUB files from Libby required downloading the Adobe Digital Editions app onto the Boox Go 7, and there was so much lag while opening and closing the app. While it was an easier process than getting library books on a Nook, it was still a major pain compared to Kindle or Kobo's integrations. The Boox Go 7 lagged and took ages to load files. I was most looking forward to testing this Boox because of its page-turning buttons, but unfortunately, I found that they didn't work on my device.

An e-reader we haven't gotten around to testing is the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, which just debuted on Sept. 30, 2025. It's not available for preorder yet, but once we get a model to test, we'll update this guide with our recommendations.

What about the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition?

If you're familiar with the Kindle lineup, it may come as a surprise that the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition isn't on this list. Don't get me wrong, it's great, but I think there are better options. The Signature Edition is an upgraded version of the Paperwhite, and we've compared the devices head-to-head. The short version? The Paperwhite is a better value, even with the SE's added features like auto-adjusting brightness and 32GB of storage.

If you are prepared to spend $200 on an e-reader, though, I say skip the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition and go for the Kobo Libra Colour.

Where's the Nook on this list?

In terms of big-name e-readers, you might notice one omission from this list: the Barnes & Noble Nook. I have tested this e-reader, and it was previously featured on this list. However, after testing more devices, it no longer makes the cut. In comparison to any of the Kindles or the Kobo Libra, the Nook has sloth-like performance, making it frustrating to use.

Plus, getting my library books onto the Nook was a nightmare, as it was a multi-step process that required downloading to a computer before uploading to a Nook. Its only redeeming quality was the buttons on either side of the device, which made page turning a breeze. However, unless you are a loyal buyer of Barnes & Noble books, I recommend steering clear of the Nook.

Where to get e-reader books for free

Once you get an e-reader, it's time to fill it up with books, and that doesn't necessarily mean spending money. In fact, you can load up your e-reader without spending a dime; you just need to be a bit resourceful.

The best way to read nearly any book — a classic or hot new release — is with Libby. I have read hundreds of free books with the Libby app — I wouldn't have been able to test for this guide without it. It connects with your library card, allowing you to borrow from your local library's digital collection. Plus, both Kobo and Kindle have exceptional Libby integrations.

Another way to build your library is through Stuff Your Kindle Day events. These are 24-hour opportunities led by authors that make books discounted or free.

If you're a fan of the classics or looking to discover a treasure lost to time, an online resource like Project Gutenberg has more than 75,000 books in the public domain that you can download and read on an e-reader.

Mid-range headphones aren’t popular right now. That’s because consumers are finding more value in budget and high-end models. In the case of the Sony WH-CH720N, you’re looking at mid-range headphones that offer the best of both worlds — premium hallmarks at an attainable price point.

The Sony WH-CH720N have been fluctuating in price recently. At retail, they go for $179.99, which is still a great price, but in the past week, we've seen them as low as $128. As of publication, the black colorway is now $149. These price drops have bargain shoppers questioning whether to pick up a pair or hold out for the brand’s pricier entries. I won’t lie, the slightly upgraded WH-1000xM4 are absurdly enticing at the current sale price of $228. The critically acclaimed WH-1000xM5 and WH-1000xM6 also deserve serious consideration, though their steep MSRPs ($399.99 and $449.99, respectively) will likely have frugal spenders doing an about-face.

Well, if your funds are tight and you need a headphone upgrade, I adamantly recommend the WH-CH720N for many reasons. Scroll down to get the full deets on these special cans. 

Sony WH-CH720N headphones specs and setup

The Sony WH-CH720N have a bigger spec sheet than most competitors. This includes:

• Speaker Driver Unit: 30mm

• Frequency Response: 7 Hz – 20,000 Hz

• Active noise cancellation with 20-level ambient listening

• Sony’s proprietary technologies (e.g., 360 Reality Audio, DSEE)

• Compatible with Sony Sound Connect app (Android/iOS)

• Google Fast Pair and Find My Device support 

• 35 hours with ANC on and 50 hours with ANC off

• 3-minute quick charging equals 3 hours of listening time

• Colors: Black, pink, white

All Sony headphones and earbuds pair seamlessly to Android and iOS/macOS devices; the former grants users convenient Google wireless features like Find My Device and one-tap Fast Pair. Downloading the Sony Sound Connect app will let you personalize the headphones in various ways. Their Bluetooth range extends up to 50 feet before dropout occurs, and multipoint technology can be enabled to pair the WH-CH720N with two media devices simultaneously. 

With the Sony Sound Connect app, you can personalize the WH-CH720N headphones. Credit: Alex Bracetti

The headphones come with motion, physical, and voice controls. Each button produces solid tactility to employ assigned functions. Wear detection works reasonably well for auto-pausing music when removing the headphones. Google Assistant and Siri can also execute hands-free voice commands with ease.

Everything the Sony WH-CH720N headphones get right

Noise cancellation on the WH-CH720N doesn’t measure up to Sony’s latest version on the WH-1000xM6. However, it suppresses a heavy amount of ambient noise. It helped silence chatty pedestrians, construction tools, household appliances, and my loud toddler. High-frequency sounds (e.g., crying babies, sirens) occasionally entered the soundscape, though none were distracting. Sony’s 20-level transparency mode was terrific for increasing situational awareness. Wearing the headphones outside kept me alert to emergency vehicles and runners, plus it allowed me to have clear-sounding conversations.

Audio was exactly how I remembered it during my first test run: crisp and vibrant. Drums and synths have an impactful presence that doesn’t muddy up the soundstage, leaving room for mids and highs to shine. Vocals and high-frequency instruments sound rich. You have the option to customize sound via the adjustable EQ with well-engineered presets. The Find Your EQ setting is also available to create a sound profile tailored to your hearing needs. Both features work well. Turning on DSEE upscales audio by raising fidelity on tracks stored in your media player or streamed on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify. The difference in clarity is huge. Sony’s spatial audio format, 360 Reality Audio, does a decent job of making music and movies more immersive.

A full battery generates up to 50 hours of listening time, with noise cancellation decreasing it to 35 hours. That is higher than some luxury ANC headphones; the AirPods Max (20 hours) and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (24 hours) come to mind. A 3-minute charge nets you 1 hour of playtime. I used the headphones moderately (3 to 5 hours daily) for a week before recharging. 

The Sony WH-CH720N headphones have up to 50 hours of listening time on a full charge. Credit: Alex Bracetti What the Sony WH-CH720N headphones get wrong

A non-foldable design means less protection and more bulk in your everyday bag. It’s worth buying a third-party case to keep these headphones from breaking (we found one for $4 at Walmart). Sony’s smart controls — Quick Attention and Speak-to-Chat — didn’t make the cut in this model, which is disappointing because they would have enhanced usability. 

Omissions like hi-res LDAC codec support, real-time ANC, and touch controls are understandable when factoring in price. 

Are the Sony WH-CH720N headphones worth it?

Much of the WH-CH720N’s functionality is anchored by the company’s advanced technologies, which blend dynamic audio output with effective noise cancellation. Playtimes surpass many of the best noise-canceling headphones out there. Then there is the extensive feature suite that’s missing a few prime perks, but hosts essentials like Aware Sound Control and DSEE. 

My only serious complaint is their design. The headphones lack flair and require a carry case for optimal protection. Thankfully, the pros outweigh the cons by a 3:1 ratio.

The Sony WH-CH720N deliver much of the same performance as the WH-1000xM6, and for $270 less, at retail. You can purchase the Sony WH-CH720N at online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy (which has a blue colorway we haven't found elsewhere) or directly from Sony.

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Sony WH-CH720N

$149 at Amazon (Black) ($30.99 off)

$179.99 at Amazon (Pink) (MSRP)

$179.99 at Amazon (White) (MSRP)

Earlier this week, I attended the Amazon fall hardware event, where the company introduced the newest members of its Kindle lineup — the new Kindle Scribe and Kindle Scribe Colorsoft. Alongside these e-readers, the company also introduced new Echo devices, new Fire TV products, and new Blink and Ring security cameras.

As a big reader (I literally collect books, and currently own the Kindle Paperwhite), I was excited to get a little bit of hands-on demo time with the new Kindles, which are the sequel to the original Kindle Scribe. The Scribe was the first Kindle with a stylus, enabling readers to take notes, doodle in the margins of books, and highlight passages, among other features.

The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft also adds color to the product, though it comes at a steep cost of $629.99. So far, there's no release date (the Amazon product listing just says "Coming Soon!"), but I'd be shocked if this product doesn't arrive in time to make its way onto Christmas gift guides.

So, what's the new e-reader like up close? Check it out for yourself:

New Kindle Scribe and Kindle Scribe Colorsoft: My first impressions

I'll be honest: The original Kindle Scribe was a tough sell, and it squeaked into our guide to the best Kindles. I expect that will still be the case with the new editions, which are even pricier. But this isn't a full review.

In the launch event, Amazon leaders promised the new Kindle Scribe would be 40 percent faster thanks to a new custom chip. (In our review of last year's Kindle Scribe, we criticized its slow performance, and we weren't the only ones.) They said it would instantly react to the stylus, which proved true in my limited time with the device. The stylus and touchscreen provided a smooth, lag-free drawing experience, and it was similar to writing in a notebook, which is the whole point.

I was also very impressed with the updated design. The new Kindle Scribes are very thin and lightweight, and they look pretty damn slick in the hand.

Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable SEE ALSO: I'm digging the Death Star-like design on the new Echo speakers

Amazon redesigned the Kindle Scribe with a precision-machined aluminum body, and it's just 5.4mm thick. The color e-reader looks great, and the stylus feels great in the hand.

Amazon company reps also showed off some cool new features, including a redesigned home screen for your library, notes, and files. Crucially, you can now import and export files to your Kindle from Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive. There's also a Quick Notes tool for jotting down notes on the fly, which is something I do all the time as a writer.

There's one more new cool feature I want to call out. On Prime Video, you can get AI-generated summaries of series and movies you're watching. So, if you stop a series halfway through and come back months later, the "Story so far" tool will create a custom summary of the key plot points and characters. That feature is now coming to Kindle, and I think readers will love it. It's a smart use of AI.

Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

Until our reviewers can take the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft home with us and see how it performs outside of a demo environment, I'm going to reserve judgment.

But there's no denying the updated e-reader has a much-improved design. It almost looks like the kind of e-reader Apple might design.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (32GB) $629.99 at Amazon
Learn More Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Scribe (16GB) $429.99 at Amazon
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