From a space heater that saves a marriage to sunscreen that saves a surfer’s skin, Wirecutter’s staff opens up about the best things they bought in 2024.

Guests: We heard voicemails from Wirecutter staffers including Mel Plaut, Ingela Amundson, Annemarie Conte, Jackie Reeve, Brent Butterworth, Katie Okamoto, Zoe Vanderweide, Liam McCabe, Elissa Sanci, Alex Aciman, Kathleen Squires, Julia Bush, Claire Wilcox,  Jon Chase,  Lauren Dragan, and Dorie Chevlan. 

Products We Recommend: 

• Mel Plaut likes: Vornado AVH10 space heater
• Ingela Amundson likes: Sterilite Stacking Laundry Basket
• Annemarie Conte likes: Garmin Forerunner 165 watch
• Jackie Reeve likes: Donner DUC-1 Concert Ukulele
• Brent Butterworth likes: JBL Go 4 Bluetooth Speaker
• Katie Okamoto likes: HAY Matin Table Lamp 
• Zoe Vanderweide likes: Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette
• Liam McCabe likes: Gordon 20-in-1 Multi-Tool
• Elissa Sanci likes: Trtl Pillow
• Alex Aciman likes: Comfort Colors 1717 Adult Heavyweight Tee
• Kathleen Squires likes: The New York Times Premium Birthday Edition book
• Julia Bush likes: Adizero Adios Pro 3 super shoes
• Claire Wilcox likes: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Jon Chase likes: Channel Master FLATenna
• Lauren Dragon likes: WhiteBark Workwear Full Cross-Back Apron
• Dorie Chevlen likes: Cuisinart Round Flip Belgian Waffle Maker WAF-F30
• Christine Cyr Clisset likes: Technivorm Moccamaster KBT coffee maker
• Caira Blackwell likes: Lilysilk 25 Momme Oxford Envelope Luxury Pillowcase
• Rosie Guerin likes: ViscoSoft 3 inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Additional Reading: 

• The Best T-Shirt I Ever Bought Came From a Midwest Strip Mall. I Tracked It Down on Amazon.
• I Test Bras for a Living. The Harper Wilde Triangle Bralette Is the Only One I Actually Wear. 
• Super Shoes Aren’t Just for Olympians. But Do Casual Runners Really Need Them?
• The Silly-Looking Trtl Travel Pillow Is the Only Way I Can Sleep on Flights

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Homes burn crazy fast these days. Are you prepared? We’re covering everything you need, from the newest smoke alarms to the right fire extinguishers. 

Guests: Wirecutter senior staff writer Doug Mahoney and senior editor for smart home coverage Jon Chase 

Additional reading: 

• The 4 Best Basic Smoke Alarms of 2024 
• The 2 Best Smart Smoke Alarms of 2024 
• The Best Fire Extinguisher
• The Best Fire Escape Ladder 
• UL video of room burning test: New Comparison of Natural and Synthetic Home Furnishings

Products we recommend: 

• The best smoke alarm: First Alert SM500V Interconnected Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm with Voice Alerts
• The best smart smoke alarm: Google Nest Protect
• The best fire extinguisher: First Alert Pro5
• The best fire ladder: X-It 2-Story Emergency Escape Ladder
• Doug recommends: Veto Pro Pac XL Extra Large Compact Tool Bag

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

We’re fielding listener questions with pro tips for delighting picky friends, impossible relatives, and other challenging recipients on your holiday list.

Guest:  Staff writer Samantha Schoech

Products we recommend:

Beautiful Utilitarian Upgrades:

• Brushed Stainless Steel French Press
• Rough Linen Robe

Personalized Gifts: 

• Handwriting Cuff bracelet
• Personalized retro view finder
• Customizable drinking straw 

Experiential Gifts: 

• Teas to try together
• Bokksu Japanese Snack Box

Great for Dads: 

• Yeti Cooler
• LL Bean Wicked Good Slippers

Digital gifts that don’t clutter: 

• MasterClass subscription
• Libro FM  audiobook subscription
• Met Opera subscription
• BritBox British movies and TV subscription

For a brother who buys himself what we wants: 

• Williams Sonoma Monogrammed Steak Brand
• The best growler
• The best home brewing kit
• Happy Tooned Print

For people you don’t know that well: 

• Fast Growing Trees Citrus Trees

Sam loves:

• Italian loafers

Additional Reading: 

• Most Gift Baskets Are Terrible. These Are Great.
• 36 Gifts for People Who Have Everything 2024
• 28 Best Personalized Gifts of 2024 
• 15 Aesthetic Gift Picks (for Those With Impeccable Taste) 
• The 48 Best Gifts for Dads 2024

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

This week, we dive into our gift team’s best-in-class tips for finding awesome affordable gifts for everyone on your list.

Guest: Wirecutter editor Hannah Morrill

Additional Reading

• The 45 Best Gifts for Teens in 2024 
• 43 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers of 2024 
• 25 Best Gifts for Plant Lovers of 2024 
• The 39 Absolute Best White Elephant Gifts Under $25
• 31 Best Secret Santa Gifts of 2024 
• 50 Wirecutter-Approved Stocking Stuffers for Adults

Products We Recommend

Great value:

• Baggu Small Cloud Carry-On

Playing with shape & size:

• Bonilla a La Vista Potato Chips
• Maldon Sea Salt Flakes (3 pounds)
• World's smallest Uno 

Novelty:

• Lazy Duck, Lying Flat LED Duck Lamp
• Puebco Empty Book
• Kikkerland Solar-Powered Rainbow Maker
• Emile Henry Salt Pig
• GurglePot Fish Pitcher

Utilitarian upgrades:

• TravelCard Plus
• MoMA Self-Watering Wet Pot Planter
• Heirloom Art Co. Larissa White Nightgowns

Tech ideas:

• Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Google Chromecast with Google TV

Cooking ideas:

• The New York Times Cooking Page-A-Day Calendar 2025
• Mosser Glass Jade 3 Piece Mixing Bowl Set

Beauty/Luxe ideas

• Dr. Singha’s Mustard Bath Salts
• Senteurs d’Orient Fleurs d’Oasis L’Huile

Secret Santa or White Elephant:

• 101 Pooping Puppies Jigsaw Puzzle
• LEGO Cherry Blossom
• Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When
• Retro Point & Shoot Camera Phone Converter

Hannah recommends:

• Dorsey Kate Riviere in Silver

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Most of the deals you’ll see for Black Friday and Cyber Week aren’t worth your time. This week, we reveal how to actually get a deal that’s worth your money.

Guest: Wirecutter senior deals editor Nathan Burrow 

Products we recommend:

• The best bluetooth speaker: Bluetooth Speaker: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4
• Nathan Recommends: Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO 

Additional reading links:

• Best Black Friday Deals 2024
• Daily Deals - Wirecutter
• Wirecutter Deals, Explained

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Thanksgiving is (almost) here, and this week Wirecutter experts share their best last-minute tips to make your holiday a success.

Guests: Wirecutter staffers Hannah Morrill, Rose Lorre, Lee Neikirk, Lauren Dragan, Ellen Airhart, James Austin, Phil Ryan, Michael Sullivan, Ben Frumin

Products we recommend: 

• Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Taza Mexican-Style Chocolate Sampler
• Tony’s Chocolonely Super Milk Bundle
• Bananagrams
• Tide Pen
• Korky 99-4A Max Performance Plunger

Podcasts that are great for families

• Wow in the world
• Brains On
• Once Upon a Beat
• Radiolab for Kids 
• 99% Invisible 
• The Good Whale

Audiobooks for families

• Mouse and the Motorcycle
• Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum

Website recommendation for learning new card games

• Pagat

Additional Reading: 

• Taking better iPhone photos 
• The Best Fake Christmas Tree
• Rose Lorre's article about what to bring to Thanksgiving as a guest 

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Few ingredients are as loved (and villainized) as butter. We discuss how to pick a great butter, and the best ones for eating, cooking, and baking. 

Guest: Wirecutter staff writer Lesley Stockton

Additional Reading: 

• The 7 Best Butters of 2024
• The Best Vegan Butter

Products We Recommend:

•  Kerrygold Salted Butter
• Isigny Ste Mère Salted Butter
• Finlandia Imported Salted Butter Bar
• Kirkland Signature Grass-Fed Butter Salted
• Kirkland Signature Butter Unsalted

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

NYT’s Sam Sifton and Wirecutter's Lesley Stockton reveal their pro tips for Thanksgiving success—from menu planning and hosting to the essential kitchen gear.

Guests: Wirecutter senior staff writer Lesley Stockton and assistant managing editor of The New York Times Sam Sifton

Additional Reading: 

• Thanksgiving: How to Cook It Well by Sam Sifton
• The Best Roasting Pan
• The Best Instant Read Thermometer
• The Best Chef’s Knife
• The Best Gas Grills
• The Best Gas Grill Tools 

Products We Recommend: 

• The best chef’s knife: Mac MTH-80
• The best instant-read thermometer: ThermoWorks ThermoPop 2

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Making dinner every night can be a challenge. This week, we talk with Emily Weinstein, of New York Times Cooking, about how to overcome the monotony.

Additional Reading: 

• Easy Weeknight Dinners 100 Fast, Flavor-Packed Meals for Busy People Who Still Want Something Good to Eat by Emily Weinstein and New York Times Cooking
• When You Love To Cook But Also Have a Kid, Embrace the Microwave
• The Best Sheet Pans
• The Best Air Fryer 
• Best Electric Pressure Cooker
• Best Slow Cooker 

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Many people unknowingly put their pet in danger while driving or flying. This week, we talk about how to keep your furry friends safe and calm when traveling.

Guest: Wirecutter staff writer Mel Plaut 

Additional Reading: 

• The 6 Best Travel Carriers for Cats and Small Dogs of 2024
• Flying With Your Cat or (Small) Dog
• The 7 Best Multi-Tools of 2024

Products We Recommend: 

• SturdiBag Pro 2.0
• Feliway Travel Spray
• Peepeego Non-Slip Dog Pad
• Mel loves: Leatherman Skeletool CX and Leatherman Signal

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast