The Wirecutter Show

Gift giving can be challenging when you're shopping for people who seem to already have everything they need (or who are just super hard to please). Hannah Morrill, Wirecutter’s gift editor, walks us through how to approach selecting presents for these trickiest recipients. 

Hannah also answers listener questions with dozens of specific gift recommendations.

If you’d like to receive hand-picked gift recommendations right to your inbox, subscribe to Wirecutter’s gifting newsletter, The Gift! 

Products we recommend:

For a professional sailor who loves to travel: 

• MyDaVinci Custom House Portraits
• Cadence Capsules
• Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Travel Bundle Del Día

For a sister who loves crafted and personalized things 

• AnnMariaJewelry Hammered Handwriting Cuff
• custom Funko Pop figurines

An upgrade to an everyday staple that anyone would love: 

• Zojirushi SM-KHE

Heritage Brand items for a couple who can afford the best

• Pendleton Block Plaid Organic Cotton Fringed Throw
• Falcon Enamelware 3-Pint Jug
• L.L.Bean Boat and Tote
• Shaker-Style Parlor Broom by Larry Antonuk
• Faribault Mill Monhegan Cotton Throw (formerly known as the Brahms Mount Monhegan throw)

For co-workers you want to impress without breaking the bank

• Standard Baggu Bag
• Baggu Go Pouch Set
• Stanley The IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler (20 ounces)
• TravelCard Plus travel charger
• Tusk Siam Passport Cover
• Luxardo Original Maraschino Cherries
• Fallot Dijon Mustard Pail
• Peregrino Anchovy Stuffed Olives

Hannah’s favorite new gift items 

• Block Design Reversible Glass Vase
• Sakura Cray-Pas 16 colors
• Tiny Vinyl

Additional reading:

• 54 Gifts for People Who Have Everything 2025
• My 16 Favorite Gifts for the Hard-to-Please
• You Asked, We Answered: 19 Gift Ideas for Older Adults
• 34 Best Gifts for Co-Workers of 2025
• The 61 Best Gifts Under $100 for 2025
• The Wirecutter Show: Gifts for the Hard to Please 

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The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Holiday baking season is here, and nobody knows how to bake a delicious cookie better than Vaughn Vreeland, host of NYT Cooking’s Bake Time and author of the book, Cookies. In this episode, Vaughn breaks down the gear you actually need, and shares clever fixes for common cookie problems—from his best advice to using browned butter in a recipe to reducing sugar without sacrificing flavor. He also walks us through his best tricks for better texture, picture-perfect tops, and the surprising savory ingredients that make sweet cookies even better.

This episode covers: 

• The essential gear every baker needs. Vaughn recommends a strong silicone spatula (“spoonula”), a cookie scoop, a rimmed baking sheet, a kitchen scale, and a cooling rack that fits inside the sheet pan are all key tools to make the baking process easier.
• Nice-to-have upgrades that actually make a difference. Vaughn says that offset spatulas, ring molds for perfectly round cookies, and oven thermometers improve consistency and confidence.
• How to troubleshoot flat or spreading cookies. Chilling the dough (always after scooping), adjusting sugar ratios, refreshing your baking soda/powder, and avoiding overcrowded pans can help with this common problem.
• How to reduce sugar without ruining texture. According to Vaughn, water is the secret ingredient in cookies. If you’re going to reduce the sugar, and possibly some of the fat, a splash of water can help rebalance the dough.
• Savory ingredients that level up cookies. Miso, olive oil, gochujang caramel, and other surprising add-ins create depth, balance sweetness, and make flavors pop.
• Lightning-round fixes for common cookie issues. Hard? Overbaked. Cakey? Too much flour. Burning on the bottom? Your oven might run hot.
• The best advice for any cookie baker. Mistakes happen—but baking should stay fun. And if all else fails, at least you’ll have a cookie at the end of the day.

Wirecutter picks for baking cookies: 

• Our favorite silicone baking mat: Silpat Nonstick Silicone Baking Mat
• Our favorite spatula: GIR Mini Flip Silicone Spatula
• Our favorite cookie scoops: Norpro Grip-EZ 2-Tablespoon Stainless Scoop
• Our favorite kitchen scale: Escali Primo Digital Scale
• Our favorite baking sheet: Nordic Ware Naturals Baker’s Half Sheet
• Our favorite offset spatula: Ateco 4.5-Inch Offset Spatula 1385
• Our favorite cooling rack: Sur La Table Stainless Steel Cooling Grid
• Our favorite hand mixer: KitchenAid 7-Speed Hand Mixer

Other products Vaughn recommends: 

• Cookie ring molds: Cookie Cutter Set
• An oven thermometer

NYT Cooking Cookie Recipes Vaughn mentioned: 

• Cookie Week 2025 Recipes (including Mortadella Cookies)
• Eggnog Snickerdoodles
• Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies
• Gingerbread Latte Cookies
• Chewy Brownie Cookies
• Adobo Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Gochujang Caramel Cookies

Additional reading:

• The 11 Best Spatulas of 2025
• The Best Holiday Cookie Baking Gear for 2025
• The 4 Best Kitchen Scales of 2025
• The 3 Best Baking Sheets of 2025
• The 11 Best Spatulas of 2025
• The 7 Best Butters of 2025

More Vaughn

• Vaugn’s new book: Cookies: The Best Recipes for a Perfect, Anytime Treat
• Bake Time Newsletter from NYT Cooking
• NYT Cooking on YouTube
• Vaughn’s Instagram
• Vaughn's Facebook

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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wirecutter’s staff tests thousands of products every year, and of that mountain of items a few always stick out as the best of the best. To close out 2025, we asked our experts to share the things they loved most–and what they think would make great holiday gifts. 

Whether you’re still finishing up your holiday shopping or you’re just here to soak up some end-of-year delight, this roundup is full of recommendations straight from the people who test stuff for a living. 

If you’d like to receive hand-picked gift recommendations right to your inbox, subscribe to Wirecutter’s gifting newsletter, The Gift!

Products we reccommend: 

• Annemarie Conte enjoys the Yummi 12” Handcrafted Taper Candles 
• Jackie Reeve used The Company Store Company Cotton Voile Quilt to keep cozy after surgery
• James Austin gave his groomsmen gemstone dice as a personalized gamer gift
• Amy Kravetz gave her kid the Swatch Flik Flak Watch for a dose of nostalgia
• Trey French takes the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System on every hike
• Brent Butterworth loves the Sangean WR-15 tabletop radio with a bluetooth receiver for everyday, ad-free audio at his desk
• Jennifer Hunter says the TWP Next Morning Shirt is a splurge-worthy wardrobe upgrade
• Jon Chase added an Amazon Echo Dot to his child’s room for on-demand music and hasn’t looked back
• Rachel Cericola thinks every nature lover deserves the Birdbuddy Pro bird feeder
• Catherine Kast enjoys the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Scraper & Chopper for making everyday kitchen tasks a little easier
• Thom Dunn’s kitchen renovation was postponed by loving the Cosori Original Air Fryer Toaster Oven
• Ellen Lee loves the OMY Hair Chalk for a fun dash of color in anyone’s hair
• Liam McCabe has found numerous uses for the handy Calculated Industries AirShim Inflatable Pry Bar & Leveling Tool
• Nicola Fumo says Prada lip balm in a metal tube is instantly giveable (and refillable!)
• Kaitlyn Wells uses the dracula-themed Ototo Gracula Garlic Crusher to help chop garlic without pain
• Mel Plaut is sharpening all their knives (utility & kitchen) with the Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker
• Kathleen Squires keeps every holiday roast perfectly cooked with the ThermoPro TP971 TempSpike Plus

Additional Reading: 

• This Tiny Airbag Has the Power to Lift an Entire Fridge
• These Candles Made Me a Candle Person. Now I Eat My Cheerios by Candlelight.
• The Best 53 Christmas Gifts for Everyone on Your List 
• I Test Kitchen Tools for a Living. This $12 Staple Is the One Item I’ll Never Give Up.

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

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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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

At Wirecutter, we have tons of advice about the practical side of the holiday season: giving gifts, preparing meals, hosting friends and family. But the emotional side of holiday gatherings can be even tougher. So, we invited Mel Robbins, host of The Mel Robbins Podcast, and author of The Let Them Theory, to walk us through her tools for keeping your cool through heated, holiday moments. 

With the holidays approaching, we ask Mel to help us navigate the harder parts of the season: tricky family dynamics, lingering childhood patterns, fraught conversations, and the pressure that comes with hosting and showing up for everyone else. Mel walks us through how to stay grounded, protect your energy, and hold firm to your boundaries—even when you’re sitting across the table from the people who test them most. 

This episode covers: 

• Breaking down The Let Them Theory. Mel walks through “let them” as a very literal tool—letting people have their opinions, their judgments, their disappointment, their expectations—and how the “let me” half shifts you back into control of your own reactions.
• Managing holiday expectations. She talks about how the holidays are about enjoying yourself and showing up as you are, not who you’re going to impress.
• Why family dynamics are hard to change—and why accepting that lowers your stress. She explains that people change when they are ready, and that wishing someone were different can entrench them further.
• What to do when someone crosses a line or won’t back down. Mel says that the best way to exit an escalating conflict is to become the most boring person in the world, or “gray rock”. Don’t fuel the fire, don’t become part of the scene that’s being caused.
• The difference between acceptance and enabling harmful behavior. Mel explains when “let them” no longer applies—specifically when someone’s views deny your identity or safety—and how boundaries shift accordingly.

Mel Loves:

• Her custom belt buckle with a photo of her children. You can see it in this photo of her for Time Magazine. She recommends finding a seller you like on etsy!

Additional reading:

• The 3 Best Meditation Apps of 2025 
• 5 Cheap(ish) Things to Improve Your Self-Care Routine 
• The Best Personalized Photo Gifts
• Samin Nosrat’s Tips for Hosting a Stress-Free Dinner Party

More Mel: 

• Instagram
• TikTok
• YouTube
• Website
• Podcast
• The Let Them Theory

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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Baking a show-stopping pie for Thanksgiving can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Wirecutter senior staff writer Lesley Stockton, who has baked hundreds of pies and spent years testing kitchen gear, joins us to share her hard-won wisdom—from the best pie plates and rolling pins to foolproof tips for flaky crusts.

Lesley explains how to overcome baking anxiety, what tools are worth investing in, and her favorite nontraditional pies to bring to Thanksgiving. She also troubleshoots common baking issues (like burnt edges and tough dough), and reveals her go-to pate pâte brisée crust recipe that never fails.

This episode covers: 

• How to become a more confident pie baker: Lesley breaks down the basics into manageable steps—practice a few test doughs, learn one reliable crust method, and accept that small imperfections (a cracked edge or a slightly uneven flute) won’t ruin the flavor.
• Why a tapered rolling pin naturally rolls the dough into a circle:  A tapered pin helps roll a perfect round of dough better than a traditional rolling in with handles. Lesley says it’s easier to start in the center and roll outward, which gives you a uniform thickness and a near-perfect circle with far less fuss.
• Always bake pies on a baking sheet: Put your pie plate on a rimmed sheet before it goes in the oven. That catches spills, makes handling safer, and prevents thermal shock for glass dishes. If you can, use a preheated baking stone under the sheet—the stone stores and radiates heat for a browner, crisper bottom crust.
• Which pie plates to choose for each job: Glass (like Pyrex) is ideal for custards because it’s shallow; a deeper glass  or stoneware dish works for deep-dish fruit pies; vintage metal tins conduct heat best, better crisping the crust, and reducing the chance of a soggy bottom (an undercooked crust). Lesley explains trade-offs—durability vs. browning vs. convenience—so you can pick the right plate for the pie you want.
• Essential tools for mixing the dough: Most bakers will appreciate using a Cuisinart to easily mix dough. However, Lesley prefers “analog” tools, including an old-fashioned pastry blender and dough whisk, because they’re easier to clean and give her more control over the texture of the dough.
• How to avoid (and fix) a soggy bottom: Options include par-baking when the filling bakes faster than the crust, dusting the shell with a mix of flour and sugar to absorb moisture, or brushing egg white on the shell to create a moisture barrier. She also stresses correct bake time—underbaking is often the real culprit.

Products we recommend:

• Our favorite rolling pin: Whetstone Woodenware French Rolling Pin
• Our favorite pie plate: OXO Good Grips Glass 9″ Pie Plate With Lid
• Our favorite shallow pie plate: Pyrex 9-Inch Pie Plate
• Our favorite pretty deep-dish pie plate: Emile Henry 9-Inch Pie Dish
• Our favorite baking stone: FibraMent Home Oven Baking Stone
• Our favorite food processor: Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor
• Our favorite pastry blender: Crate and Barrel Pastry Blender with Beechwood Handle
• Our favorite dough mixer: King Arthur Baking Company Dough Whisk
• Our favorite butter: Kerrygold Salted Butter
• The best gluten-free substitute for all-purpose flour: Cup4Cup 
• Lesley’s favorite pie-baking book: The Pie and Pastry Bible by Rose Levy Beranbaum

Additional reading:

• Our Favorite Pie Baking Tools
• The Best Rolling Pin
• The Best Pie Plate of 2025
• For 4 Best Food Processors of 2025
• The 7 Best Butters of 2025

Additional Listening:

• How to Ace Thanksgiving
• Let's Go to Butter School

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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Buying used can be a great way to save money and find  unique items—but it takes a sharp eye to find the real gems. And you need to be savvy to get a good price, as some vintage furniture and clothing can cost more than new items (and you can’t return them!).

In this episode, we talk with Wirecutter senior staff writer Ivy Elrod, who has spent years navigating secondhand marketplaces. Ivy walks us through her best strategies for finding high-quality used furniture, clothing, and other items–from scouring Facebook Marketplace to mastering the art of negotiation. 

Plus, she gives us her best tips for envisioning your space before you start buying, and what to look for in photos to give you clues as to the quality of the items you’re looking for. 

This episode covers: 

• Use visual tools to plan your space: Ivy recommends creating mood boards by creating a collage in Canva or Keynote, or even using the photo cut-out feature on your iPhone, to clip images of furniture you’re interested in and pasting them in pictures of your space to get a sense of how the pieces will look together. 
• Where to shop for the best deals (and how to stay safe): For in-person finds, Ivy recommends local options like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and estate sales. She also recommends always bringing a buddy to come with you.
• How to evaluate quality before you buy: Ivy says that simple photos showing wear and tear are a sign the seller is being honest. Buyers who are upfront about any damage, and who include reference photos to show the extent, are probably more trustworthy to engage with. 
• Negotiate politely on price: “Haggling” is out, “negotiating” is in. Keep your ideal price in mind, be kind and ask for what you want, and be willing to walk away.  Try language like “Would you consider X?” or “My budget is X, can we make that work?”
• Don’t be shy in inspecting the items in person: Ivy recommends asking questions and engaging with the item when you see it IRL. Flip up cushions, view it from every angle, check for signs of bedbugs and critters—make sure you’ve seen everything you need to see before you bring it home.
• Being late can actually get you a deal: At the end of estate sales, Ivy has found that sometimes sellers are more eager to give you a discount to avoid having to transport things back and forth.
• Be ready to act fast: When buying used, timing is arguably the most important factor. People more often than not just want things out of their space. If you’re able to be there immediately, chances are that they’ll want to sell to you. 

Additional Reading: 

• How Our Decor Experts Find Worth-It Furniture on a Budget
• 9 Things You Probably Shouldn’t Buy Secondhand
• How Our Entertaining Experts Set a Full Table for $250
• I Vowed to Buy (Almost) Nothing New for My Baby. Here’s How I Did It.
• The Perks and Perils of Buying Vintage Audio Gear

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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Holiday shopping this season may look different than years past, as tariffs gradually increase prices on everything from electronics to kids’ toys. If you usually wait until Black Friday to find deep discounts, you may want to update your strategy this year. 

Wirecutter’s deputy editor Annemarie Conte joins us to discuss how tariffs are impacting the prices on a range of goods, and how to plan for your holiday shopping accordingly. You can find more of her reporting in Wirecutter’s Guide to Navigating Tariffs This Holiday Season.

This episode covers:

• Price increases may sneak up on you this year: Wirecutter’s deals team has seen incremental price increases across many categories. “This is death by a thousand cuts,” Annemarie told us. “It may be a couple dollars here, a couple dollars there. As you're shopping, you may actually not notice, and then when you think about how much you've spent in the cumulative, you're like, ‘Where did all that go?’"
• Retailers are running out of existing inventory: Before the tariffs hit, many manufacturers and brands imported as much as possible to preempt extra costs. However, as they sell down this stock and need to import more, they will likely pass the increased costs on to customers. 
• Why you probably shouldn’t wait for Black Friday: Wirecutter’s deals team doesn’t anticipate seeing as many deep discounts as in years past. If you find a good deal now, Annemarie advises against waiting.
• Beware of artificially-inflated prices: Retailers often inflate prices right before a deals event, such as Black Friday, so that they can then drastically cut the price during the event. For Amazon shopping, use tools like Keepa and CamelCamelCamel to track an item’s price history and how the price compares to past deals. For other sites, you can use Google Shopping to track prices. 
• Shipping may be slower this year: There may be shipping delays, especially for international orders. If ordering online, make sure you’re giving yourself at least two weeks for delivery. 

Additional Listening:

• The Wirecutter Show Bonus Episode: Tariff Shopping Confusion 

Additional reading:

• Wirecutter’s Guide to Navigating Tariffs This Holiday Season
• We Tracked Prices on 40 Wirecutter Picks for 60 Days. Here’s What We Learned.
• How to Avoid a Huge Customs Bill on a Cheap Online Order

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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you’ve ever put off a home repair because you didn’t know where to start—or felt overwhelmed by the wall of tools at the hardware store—this episode is for you.

In this Wirecutter Show bonus episode, we chat with senior staff writer and tool expert Doug Mahoney, who’s spent years testing everything from screwdrivers to power drills. Doug breaks down exactly which tools you need to build your first toolbox, what’s worth spending extra on, and how to know when you’re ready to move from hand tools to power tools.

He also shares his favorite safety tips, the one tool every homeowner should have, and a few of his go-to picks for getting started.

This episode covers: 

• Why learning to use tools matters: Becoming handier saves money, gives you more control over your space, and makes your home feel like something you can shape—not just live in.
• Where to start if you have zero tools: Doug says the “trifecta” for beginners is simple: a screwdriver, a hammer, and a tape measure. Add a utility knife and pliers as you go, and you’ll be able to handle most small jobs in your home.
• Why pre-made toolkits aren’t worth it: Most ready-made toolsets are overpriced and filled with poor-quality gear. You’re better off buying a few solid, individual tools that last a lifetime.
• What to look for in quality tools: The cheapest hammer or screwdriver might technically work—but good tools are easier to use, feel better in your hand, and perform better under stress.
• When to level up to power tools: Once you’re ready to take on real repairs, a cordless drill should be your first power tool.

Products we recommend:

• The best hammer: Estwing E3-16C
• The best multi-bit screwdriver: Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Driver 211R2C36RD
• The best tape measure: Stanley PowerLock Tape Measure 25-Foot
• The best adjustable pliers: Irwin Vise-Grip GV10 10-Inch GrooveLock Pliers
• The best utility knife: Milwaukee 48-22-1502 Fastback Utility Knife with Blade Storage
• The best cordless drill: DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V Max Brushless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit
• The best safety glasses: Radians MR0111ID Mirage
• The best respirator mask: 3M 8511 N95 Cool Flow Valve Particulate Respirator
• The best multi-tool: Leatherman Skeletool CX

Additional listening:

• Nick Offerman’s Guide to Building Things That Last

Additional reading:

• Nick Offerman Told Me That Swinging a Hammer Might Change My Life
• The 5 Best Hammers of 2025 
• The Best Multi-Bit Screwdriver 
• The Best Tape Measure
• The 3 Best Adjustable Pliers of 2025
• The 4 Best Drills of 2025 

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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

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Long before Nick Offerman became the mustached, straight-faced Ron Swanson of Parks and Recreation, he was a woodworker. Growing up in Minooka, Illinois, he described his childhood home as “Little House on the Prairie”—a place where everyone made their own things, carefully crafting furniture, clothing, and tools by hand.

And as a skilled woodworker and general handy person, Nick appreciates good tools. This is fortuitous, because Wirecutter’s staff are similarly obsessed. For this episode, we sat down with Nick to talk about his new book Little Woodchucks, the joy of learning to build things, and the essential things he recommends that anyone should have in their toolbox. 

Our colleague Rose Lorre also sat down separately with Nick to discuss the foundational tool in his kit–a claw hammer–and documented her journey following his advice for buying a great hammer and learning to pound nails. 

Here are some of the conversation highlights: 

• Hands-on work builds confidence and independence: Doing things with your hands—whether it’s woodworking, sewing, or fixing something around the house—teaches problem-solving and self-reliance.
• A few quality tools and materials are worth the investment: Cutting corners might save money upfront, but investing in tools or materials that last saves frustration and disappointment in the long run—and often makes the work itself more enjoyable.
• Keep it simple when building a toolkit: A few versatile, high-quality essentials can get you started and teach you the fundamentals before you invest more.
• The Estwing claw hammer is still Nick’s favorite tool of all: Nick is a longtime fan of Estwing hammers. Back in 2019, he even tweeted his recommendation for an Estwing, and linked to Wirecutter’s hammer guide.
• Discipline in one area feeds success in others: Patience, planning, and attention to detail learned in one pursuit—like woodworking—translate to other areas of life.

Wirecutter Picks In Nick’s Workshop: 

• The best hammer: Estwing E3-16C

Nick says he also keeps a cordless drill, a multi-bit manual screwdriver, a set of wrenches, and a saw. Here are Wirecutter’s picks for these handy staples: 

• The Best Cordless Drill: DeWalt DCD701F2 Xtreme 12V Max Brushless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit
• The Best Multi-Bit Screwdriver: Megapro 13-in-1 Ratcheting Driver 211R2C36RD
• The Best Hex Wrenches: Amazon Basics Hex Key Allen Wrench Set with Ball End
• The Best Adjustable Wrench: Channellock 8WCB WideAzz 8-Inch Adjustable Wrench
• The Best Handsaw: Shark 10-2315 Carpentry Saw 15-Inch

Other products Nick loves:

• The unsung hero in Nick’s workshop: Lie Nielsen Hand Planes

Additional Reading

• Nick Offerman Told Me That Swinging a Hammer Might Change My Life
• The 5 Best Hammers of 2025 
• The Best Adjustable Wrench of 2025
• The 4 Best Hex Wrenches of 2025
• The Best Handsaw 
• The 4 Best Drills of 2025
• The Best Multi-Bit Screwdriver

More Nick Offerman:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Website
• Nick’s new book: Little Woodchucks

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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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

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If your computer has been slowing down or showing its age, you might not need to replace it just yet. Wirecutter senior staff writer Kimber Streams, who covers laptops and accessories, shares practical steps for reviving an old machine—and how to tell when it’s finally time for an upgrade.

Kimber explains what causes computers to slow down over time, the simplest DIY fixes that can make a big difference, and what to look for if you do end up needing to shop for a replacement. See more of Kimber’s tips in this article on reviving an old computer. 

This episode covers:

• Cleaning up storage and files: Freeing up storage is one of the simplest ways to make a computer feel faster. Check what’s taking up space and remove any and all unnecessary files.
• Tidying apps and removing unused apps: Kimber recommends uninstalling unused apps that come pre-installed on your laptop, plus any unused browser extensions, that may be slowing down your system.
• Why you should update your computer’s operating system: Kimber emphasizes the importance of software updates for both security and performance.
• When it’s time to consider buying a new computer: If you’ve completed all of the housekeeping steps and find that your computer still isn’t functioning the way it should, it’s time to look at your budget and what you need in a new computer.
• Guidance for buying refurbished and secondhand computers: Kimber recommends only buying from manufacturer refurbished programs, and to be wary of retailer refurbs if you can’t see the item in person and judge the condition yourself. Look for a refurbished computer with the longest warranty possible.

P.S. If you have a spill, we don’t recommend using rice to dry your tech. Here’s why!

Products we recommend:

• Our favorite refurbished laptop: Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4, 2025)
• Our favorite Windows laptop: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus
• Our favorite performance upgrade: Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020)
• Our favorite online backup service: IDrive
• Our favorite lap desk: LapGear Designer Lap Desk

Additional reading:

• How to Make Your Old Computer Feel New Again
• The 8 Best Laptops of 2025
• How to Shop for a Used Laptop or Desktop PC
• The Best Cheap Laptops Under $500 for 2025 
• The 5 Best Windows Laptops of 2025
• 4 Simple Tips to Keep Your Tech Safe and Dry This Summer 2025
• Windows 10 Is Dead. But You Might Not Need a New Laptop Yet.

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. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. 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

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.