
Free Daily Podcast Summary
by The New York Times
The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
Consumer tech is getting more expensive just as laptops and phones have become more essential than ever. In this episode, Rosie leads a roundtable discussion with Wirecutter’s senior editor Caitlin McGarry, supervising editor Arthur Gies and senior staff writer Kimber Streams, about why the era of truly cheap computers is ending. They discuss how AI is reshaping the hardware supply chain and what you can do if you need a new device right now. This episode covers: Why RAM and storage costs are spiking. AI companies are buying up much of the supply of RAM and storage, increasing the price for these tech essentials. Consumer tech companies that make our laptops and phones are struggling to compete. How price hikes are showing up across devices. From Chromebooks and Windows laptops to flagship phones, microSD cards, and video game consoles, 2026 has brought record price increases. What to prioritize in a new computer today. If you need a new computer, look for models with enough RAM and storage, even if that means refurbished models from manufacturers or third party retailers. Guidance on when it makes sense to buy. While the landscape of truly affordable computers is shrinking, there are great options like the MacBook Neo available now. We may see summer sales on other models, but consider purchasing your “back-to-school” tech early for the best prices. Products we recommend: A surprisingly great budget laptop: Apple MacBook Neo Additional reading: The Death of the Cheap Laptop Is Coming The Best Cheap Laptops Under $500 for 2026 MacBook Neo Review: A Surprisingly Great Budget MacBook The 6 Best Laptops for College Students in 2026 Tech Prices Are Skyrocketing. Nintendo’s Switch 2 Might Be Next. We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3ZQOHRqd1NoR19pZ0Q0ODl1MXl5Njl6UWlFQXxBQ3Jtc0ttd2ExXzFoVVRCaEw2dXR1NldCUE5EX0dYNUstbXNZR2xOMVAySzRfR
Father’s Day is Sunday, June 21, and if you're stuck for ideas, Wirecutter’s dads and gift experts are here to help. We asked the dads on our staff to share the gifts they actually loved receiving—including custom socks, a backyard fire pit, and sweet handmade crafts. Our experts also open up about the meaningful gifts they’ve given their own fathers that sparked deeper appreciation and a closer family connection. Products we recommend: Funny and comfortable custom socks: DivvyUp Custom Socks A lightweight smokeless fire pit: Solo Stove Classic Bonfire Fire Pit Additional reading: The 48 Best Gifts for Dads of 2026 The 41 Absolute Best, Wirecutter-Approved Father's Day Gifts Under $50 The Best Personalized Photo Gifts Why I Love (Safely) Using My Backyard Fire Pit We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: 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
If you've ever tried shopping for headphones, you know there’s an overwhelming selection to choose from. We asked listeners to send us their most pressing headphone questions and brought in Wirecutter audio expert Lauren Dragan to answer them. From earbuds that stay put in small ears to the best headphones for sleeping, Lauren shares practical advice from years of testing more than 2,000 pairs. She also addresses concerns about Bluetooth safety, hearing loss, and how to keep your headphones clean and working properly. We had too many great questions to address in the episode alone, so we’ve included an added selection of listener questions and Lauren’s answers on our website. Products Lauren recommend: The best built in microphone: Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro The best earbuds with a hook over the ear (for small ear canals): Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 The best earbuds with a stabilizing wing (for small ear canals): Sony LinkBuds Fit The best over-ear headphones for wearing with glasses: Sony WH-1000XM6 An example of a third party tether you can add to most earbuds The best bone-conduction headphones for running: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 The best bone-conduction headphones for swimming: H2O Audio Tri 2 Another option for non-bluetooth streaming while swimming is the Mighty Wave Great options for sensory issues: soft headband-style earmuffs and Quiet Sense hoodies The best headphones for sleeping, if you dislike wearing earplugs or earbuds: AcousticSheep SleepPhones Wireless The best earbuds for sleeping: Soundcore Sleep A20 The best earbuds that adapt to your hearing: Apple AirPods Pro 3 Better sounding open earbuds: EarFun OpenJump A tool for cleaning earbuds The best packable headphones for travel: Sony WH-1000XM5 or XM6 The best budget packable headphones: Soundcore Space One The best sounding wired earbuds: TinHiFi T3 Plus Retro-looking wired earbuds: Sivga M260 Earbuds with hearing protection: Elgin Rebel A more affordable earbud if you like the Apple A
Gone are the days when canned alcoholic drinks meant only hard seltzers and tailgate beverages. Today’s ready-to-drink cocktails include everything from espresso martinis and old-fashioneds to gin- and soju-based spritzes. Wirecutter kitchen writer, Antara Sinha, joins us to explain how she tested 40 canned cocktails, what separates a great canned drink from a mediocre one, and which ones are actually worth bringing to your next picnic, barbecue, or dinner party. Plus, we conduct a live taste test in the studio. This episode covers: Why canned cocktails have become a legitimate alternative to bar drinks. Antara explains how the category has evolved from hard seltzers and tailgate beverages into a market full of carefully crafted cocktails made with premium spirits, higher alcohol content, and recipes designed to mimic what you'd order at a cocktail bar. How to identify a great canned cocktail before you buy it. After tasting 40 different drinks, Antara found that the best brands are transparent about their ingredients and feature high quality spirits. How to choose the right canned cocktail for your tastes and occasion. Antara suggests using canned cocktails as a low-commitment way to explore drinks you might not otherwise make at home, whether that's a negroni, espresso martini, or old fashioned. Products we recommend: A citrusy, soju-based cocktail: Jumo Soju Cocktail (Mango, Yuja, Citrus Mint) Bold, rich, and complex: Tip Top Old Fashioned Botanical, light, and crushable: The Original Southside Indulgent, luxe, and seasonal: Cutwater White Russian Additional reading: The 9 Best Canned Cocktails of 2026 21 Best Nonalcoholic Drinks of 2026 Wirecutter’s Guide to Shopping at Trader Joe’s We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: <a href="htt
A retinoid is one of the best, scientifically-backed products you can use to keep your skin looking youthful. These vitamin A derivatives are among the very few skin-care products that can boost collagen, minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. In this episode, we’re bringing on two experts to help you determine the type of retinol product that’s best for you. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nikhil Dhingra, of Spring Street Dermatology, explains how retinoids work and how to decide between using over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-strength products. Wirecutter editor Rory Evans shares the top OTC products from Wirecutter’s extensive testing. This episode covers: What retinoids can do for your skin: Helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. They can also help with hyperpigmentation, protect the skin against sun damage, and thicken skin that’s starting to thin with age. The difference between prescription-strength and OTC retinoids: Prescription-strength retinoids are generally more powerful and can also be more irritating to the skin. Some, such as tretinoin, are already in their active form, retinoic acid, while others bind directly to retinoid receptors in the skin. OTC retinol products, by contrast, are generally less potent and often less irritating because they must be converted by the skin into active retinoic acid before exerting their effects. The difference between OTC ingredients: Although OTC products are often referred to as retinols, they feature a range of active ingredients. Retinal (short for retinaldehyde), requires one conversion step to become retinoic acid. Retinol needs two conversion steps, while retinyl palmitate requires three. Adapalene doesn't convert to retinoic acid and interacts differently with skin to limit oil production and minimize inflammation (which is why it’s mostly used in acne treatment). Tips for using retinol products: Dr. Dhingra recommends starting with a pea-sized amount only a few times a week. To reduce irritation, you can also use the sandwich method—apply moisturizer, layer your retinol product, and top it with moisturizer again to safely dilute the product. OTC retinol products, by skin type: Rory walks us through the top OTC products from Wirecutter’s extensive testing. Products we recommend: Best for mature skin: SkinMedica Retinol Complex 1.0 Best for adjustable potency: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Best for sensitive skin: Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum Best for dry skin: LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream Best adapalene for acne: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Best value: Trader Joe’s Retinol Night Serum Best drugstore retinol: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Pure Retinol Rory loves: Wander Sports Sun Visor Additional reading: The 7 Best Retinol Products of 2026 The Best Face Sunscreens and SPF Moisturizers <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-moisturizers/?utm_source=the_wirecutter_show&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=episode_number_95 " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferre
If you've ever bought a cell phone, an appliance, or any other high-value item, you've likely felt pressured to buy an extended warranty for peace of mind. However, these protection plans rarely pay off for most people. In this episode, Wirecutter senior writer Liam McCabe explains why extended warranties are generally a “terrible investment,” how incredibly profitable they are for warranty companies, and the very few instances when paying for extra coverage might actually be worth it. This episode covers: The difference between manufacturer and extended warranties: A manufacturer's warranty is automatically included for free as a promise against defects (usually for 30 days to a year). An extended warranty, on the other hand, is an optional, extra-cost protection plan that you have to actively choose to buy. Why you probably won’t use an extended warranty: People tend to overestimate the failure rate of most products. And the likelihood that the product will fail during the extended warranty period is quite low. How extended warranties mainly benefit warranty companies: Extended warranty companies generally only pay out around 25% of what they take in, keeping 75% of the money. By comparison, health insurance companies generally pay out 80% to 90% to policy holders. When it’s worth getting an extended warranty anyway: Sometimes it’s worth getting one of these warranties, even if you’ll likely lose money. It could make sense if it offers you peace of mind, the product has a bad reliability reputation, or you’re buying something for an accident-prone kid. Additional reading: That Extended Warranty Is Almost Never Worth the Money. This Is Why You Fall for It Anyway. Is That Extended Warranty Worth It? Take Our Quiz. We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: 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 P
Moving can be expensive, stressful, and time-consuming, but there are ways to make it easier. In this episode, Wirecutter travel writer Kit Dillon–who moonlights as a professional mover–shares insider tips on how to make the process less painful. From selecting the best packing supplies to hiring the right crew, Kit’s advice will help you save time, money, and hassle. If you’re in the weeds of an upcoming move and need even more guidance, check out Wiriecutter’s series on moving (including a moving checklist, the best supplies for moving, tips for packing a moving truck, and essentials for the first week of your move). This episode covers: Why you should get uniform boxes: Professional movers can stack brand-new, uniform boxes neatly on a hand truck and more efficiently inside a van, potentially saving you hours in labor costs. In contrast, a hodgepodge of different-sized boxes is harder to move, and used grocery store boxes can harbor bugs or break easily. Supplies that will actually protect your stuff: A heavy-duty mattress bag with handles offers far better protection than flimsy plastic versions. Light newsprint is the professional’s choice for packing kitchen gear and delicate items, and you should choose packing tape designed specifically for your storage conditions (such as cold or high-moisture environments). Why you should pack a “first night” box: Pack a single, clearly marked box with your immediate essentials—a bathrobe, toothbrush, chargers, and a favorite book—to make your first night in a new home bearable. Strategies for hiring movers: Kit advises getting at least a few quotes from different movers.A suspiciously low bid can be a red flag for cut corners. Always ensure a company is insured and dive deep into user reviews to see if specific movers are mentioned by name for their consistency. Tipping etiquette: While not strictly required, tipping is highly encouraged for such physically taxing work. If the move goes well, try to give cash directly to each individual mover at the end of the day. Products we recommend: Uniform medium boxes: uBoxes Medium Moving Boxes (pack of 20) or uBoxes Basic Moving Kit Light newsprint for packing: uBoxes Newsprint Packing Paper - 10 lbs Heavy-duty mattress bag: Belador Extra-Thick Queen Mattress Bag with Handles Great all-purpose moving tape: Scotch Tough Grip Moving Packaging Tape Packing tape for long-term storage: Scotch Long Lasting Storage Packaging Tape Packing tape for additional weather resistance: Gorilla Tough & Wide Shipping Tape (currently out of stock) An easy to use tape dispenser: Uline H-150 Tape Dispenser Kit loves: Blueair Blue Pure 211i Max Additional reading: Plan Your Move With These Tips from Wirecutter <a href="ht
Summer travel season is here, and you might be tempted to download a language-learning app before your next trip. But which ones actually help? Wirecutter writer Matthew Guay tested 15 different language apps to figure out how they can (and can’t) help you learn a foreign language. This episode covers: Why language learning apps are better for travel confidence than fluency. Matthew explains that most apps won’t make you conversational, but they can help you recognize words, order food, ask basic questions, and feel less intimidated traveling abroad. How to choose the right language app for your learning style. Rather than naming one universally “best” app, Matthew breaks down which apps work best for different types of learners—whether you prefer grammar explanations, TikTok-style video lessons, addictive streaks and rewards, or long-form audio lessons you can listen to during a commute. Why practicing with real people matters more than endless app lessons. Matthew says the sweet spot for language apps is learning enough to start trying small real-world interactions, like ordering at a restaurant or introducing yourself. That’s the point where language learning starts to feel rewarding and where you can decide whether you want to pursue it more seriously. Products we recommend: Best for learning theory alongside vocabulary practice: Babbel Best for visual learners: Speak Best for free vocabulary lessons: Duolingo Best for classroom-style lessons: Pimsleur Additional reading: The 4 Best Language Learning Apps The Best Gear for Travel in 2026 We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqazdXS3J1S1FOYTZfSmIzVFN3WVgweE5zVHZhUXxBQ3Jtc0ttRzdrQ2J4OGFSdDE4ZllBaXV5S0J4U3RFaUdzN1dYWG9WdzRMRlNZd3NXVkdjS
Free AI-powered daily recaps. Key takeaways, quotes, and mentions — in a 5-minute read.
Get Free Summaries →Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Listeners also like.

The Book Review
Top authors and critics discuss the week's most notable books and literary news with The New York Times Book Review.

Cannonball with Wesley Morris
A critic explores shifting cultural moments through intimate, unpredictable conversations with writers and artists.

Interesting Times with Ross Douthat
Analyzes global trends and geopolitical shifts through in-depth interviews and discussions.

Rabbit Hole
An exploration of how the internet shapes human behavior, society, and identity through investigative storytelling.

This Week in Tech (Audio)
Leo Laporte and a panel of experts discuss the week’s biggest technology stories, from AI and robotics to privacy and computing.

Hard Fork
A weekly exploration of the rapidly evolving tech world by journalists Kevin Roose and Casey Newton.

The Daily
A daily news podcast covering major global stories with in-depth reporting from New York Times journalists.

Serial
A true crime podcast that investigates a single case over multiple episodes, starting with the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee.

What's New
Explores how technology shapes culture and transforms everyday life.

Modern Love
Real people share personal stories of love, heartbreak, and relationships in all their forms.

The Intelligence from The Economist
Global news and analysis on politics, business, and culture from The Economist’s correspondents, with weekday stories and a weekend deep-dive.

Popcast
A pop music critic for The New York Times discusses the latest in popular music, including criticism, trends, and news.
The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Get key takeaways from The Wirecutter Show in a 5-minute read.
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of The Wirecutter Show as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by The New York Times.
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts. Upgrade to Pro for 15, or Premium for 50. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
The Wirecutter Show publishes 2x weekly. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
The Wirecutter Show covers topics including Leisure, Education, Culture, Society & Culture, Home & Garden. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.